WaterFire volunteering means something different to each of our volunteers; their reasons for being a part of this organization are as unique and special as they are.

WaterFire volunteers come from all over to help; from right here in Providence or from cities up to 150 miles away—they are extraordinary people, doing extraordinary things for our community.  They are your neighbors; including teachers, artists, bankers, musicians, nurses, city workers, researchers, entrepreneurs, students, designers, homemakers, writers, and stay-at-home parents, among many others.  Our volunteer team makes everything possible and has great fun doing it.  We think of them as a big, happy family—everyone contributing in their own way to make WaterFire possible and that much richer.

   Beyond joining together to produce WaterFire, our volunteers are a wonderful community who gather together to be a part of something that benefits the entire community.   In their own words, here are some of the reasons this means so much to them: 

What Does WaterFire Volunteering Mean to You?

"Supporting a major art event that supports the tourism in Rhode Island.  Meeting with other people who give their time to make the event successful.  Making great friends." -Donna DeBiasio. Cranston, RI

-Helena Peixoto. North Providence, RI 

"I have been a Rhode Islander all my life and I remember what the city of Providence once looked like.  WaterFire has put RI on the map and is known in Europe as well.  My years of volunteering for WaterFire have given me a sense of pride in my city and I have met so many wonderful people.  I am proud to say I am a WaterFire volunteer!" -Mary Walker. Rumford, RI

"It is an opportunity to spend time with a very special group of people in a peaceful place."

-Laurie Tierno. North Providence, RI

"it means seeing the smiling faces on the people and knowing that I am a part of a great organization that brings such joy and peace to their own little world." 

-Joanne Coro. Johnston, RI

"1. WaterFire creates an environment of peace in this crazy, chaotic world.  Visitors experience this and take this home to their families, neighborhoods, cities, and countries.  It’s a joy to share this moment of peace with people. 2. To see the bliss and joy on people’s face during trips on the pontoon boats. 3. It’s the only place I can play with fire, putting my hands into it over and over—and they let me do it!" -Adrian Hamblin. Riverside, RI

"Provides me with an opportunity to apply a skill (operating a boat) to an organization that provides fun, excitement, [and] charm through art."

-Mary & Bruce Wilde. Bristol, RI

"Great opportunity to be involved in an event that has become an important part of the Providence culture."

-Ed & Joan McAdams. Attleboro, MA

"Playing with my friends on the river and driving the boats." -Kathie Glausman. Philadelphia, PA

"Meeting people and sharing the magic of WaterFire with the community."

-Frances Tinkham. Riverside, RI

"As a new transplant to Providence (1 year) it has been an uplifting experience.  I have met some fantastic people.  With a theater background (always working behind the scenes) this has been an emergence of my actor self." -Lucia Huntley. Providence, RI

"Fun, beauty, friendship, bonds, community."

-Catherine Hill. Woonsocket, RI

"It means everything to me, and then some."

-Melissa Wahlers. Woonsocket, RI