An opportunity for current volunteers and community members to learn about upcoming ways to get involved with WaterFire!
Join us on Wednesday, February 4, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Main Hall of the WaterFire Arts Center as WaterFire leadership hosts a public gathering and offers an opportunity to connect with WaterFire staff and hear about upcoming projects, plans, and exciting opportunities for folks to get involved. Following the meeting, everyone is encouraged to stay after to meet long-time volunteers and staff members.
“Come be part of something great! This gathering is a chance to share and explore what we’re currently planning for WaterFire and to learn where we’re headed next. There are a wide range of opportunities, chances to learn, people to meet, and ways to get involved — at the event, in the shop, or working at home. Our needs range from research and logistics to fabrication, painting, and sewing, to helping on-site with the exciting events before and during the show. WaterFire is a celebration of how a community can rebuild itself, and foregrounding community-engaged volunteerism is our foundation. We value our volunteers for their great ideas, feedback, and constructive input,” says Barnaby Evans, Artistic Director and Founder of WaterFire Providence.
Attendees will hear from WaterFire Providence leadership, including Executive Director Mark Allan, Director of Events and Operations Alicia Rota, Director of Creative Services Laura Duclos, and Artistic Director and Founder Barnaby Evans. Presentations will include updates on major changes from 2025, new additions to the art installation on the river, upcoming exhibitions and programming at the WaterFire Arts Center, sponsorship opportunities, and key initiatives.
This gathering is open to all volunteers and anyone interested in volunteering and becoming involved with an iconic arts organization in the City of Providence.
Photograph by WaterFire Volunteer Laura Paton.
Photograph by WaterFire Volunteer Margo Zdravkovic.
Photograph by WaterFire Volunteer Laura Paton.
“This meeting is a chance to connect, learn, and explore the many ways volunteers play a vital role in bringing WaterFire to life. We look forward to welcoming community members who are eager to get involved and help shape the future of WaterFire, says Gary Saint Laurent, Manager of Volunteers at WaterFire Providence.
Saint Laurent will highlight volunteer opportunities for 2026 and welcomes both individuals and organizations. Opportunities include Captain-in-Training programs, project teams, ambassador roles, photography, and gallery docent and installation support, among others.
All are welcome to attend this community event; no RSVP required.
Photograph by WaterFire Volunteer Tom Backman
Photograph by WaterFire Volunteer Laura Paton.
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.
