It’s Giving Tuesday! Across the country and around the world, this day inspires more charitable giving than any other. Last year, more than 36 million Americans made a donation to their favorite nonprofits.
That shared spirit of generosity is what helped turn WaterFire’s 2025 from a year of deep uncertainty into one defined by stability, momentum, and renewed hope. Seeing our volunteers, community, and staff in action, we’ve witnessed firsthand that WaterFire is more than an event, it’s a belief in what community can create when we come together.
As we approach the 2026 season, ignited by our 500th lighting, we’re not just planning a season; we’re building a future where art continues to bring our city together and where light and community remain at the heart of everything we do.
On a day built around collective impact, we’re reminded of something powerful: 97% of gifts made to WaterFire are between $5 and $1,000. That means thousands of people giving what they can, just like today, is what keeps WaterFire burning.
If you’re able, we hope you’ll consider making a year-end gift of $100, $50, or $25. Every donation, no matter the size, is a vote of confidence in our shared future and a signal that this community wants WaterFire to continue inspiring and connecting people for generations to come.
Your gift helps build our future.
Your support is a critical investment in WaterFire Providence and the meaningful creative, cultural and economic impacts created annually for the past 30 years.
About the author
Caitlin McDonough, Brand Strategy Coordinator, has been a force at WaterFire since starting over four years ago. Being a life-long Rhode Islander has shaped her view on all things Providence and the growth of the arts community which brought her to WaterFire. Focusing on social media, videography, marketing and merchandise - her expertise in these areas has helped strengthened WaterFire's voice and brand across platforms.
