Community Engagement
Empowering Providence through recreation, education, health, and community engagement. Building trust, inclusion and shared leadership for a thriving future.
About
The Providence Department of Recreation has long been a vital part of the South Providence community, working to provide spaces for recreation, health, and engagement.
In January 2023, the Department of Recreation began efforts to expand its community engagement initiatives. With the support of the Capital Project Fund (CPF)—a federal grant program aimed at funding local governments to support public infrastructure projects that address critical needs in underserved communities—the Department has been able to enhance its services and renovate facilities.
This program focuses on creating and improving Community Learning Centers. These centers act as hubs for workforce development, education, health services, and community-based programs. The grants have supported capital improvements like facility renovations, technology upgrades, and the creation of flexible, publicly accessible spaces that accommodate a wide range of programs and services. These improvements are designed to support long-term community engagement, economic recovery, and access to essential resources, particularly in response to challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Elmwood Community Center
Mission
Our mission is to create a dynamic space where workforce development, education, and health come together to empower individuals and foster a resilient community. We are committed to nurturing future leaders through comprehensive support and engagement, improving overall well-being, and building a connected, thriving community.
Vision
Our vision is to be a cornerstone of connection, where trust, inclusion, participation, and communication are at the forefront. We aim to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where individuals and organizations collaborate to shape our collective future, ensuring that all voices are heard, respected, and valued.
Our 5 Pillars of Community Engagement
Trust
Building strong relationships through consistent, reliable actions and mutual respect.
Communication
Maintaining open, transparent dialogue to keep the community informed and connected.
Inclusion
Embracing diversity by ensuring all community members have access to opportunities and representation in decision-making.
Participation
Encouraging active involvement and shared responsibility in community initiatives and activities.
Shared Leadership
Empowering community members to take on leadership roles and work collaboratively toward common goals.
Who We Serve
Our community engagement efforts aim to serve individuals and families from all walks of life across Providence. We welcome everyone—from youth to adults—who seeks to improve their health, education, and career prospects. Whether you’re looking to gain new skills, enhance your well-being, or advance your career, our programs are here to support you. We proudly serve a diverse population, offering inclusive and accessible resources to empower all residents of Providence.
Get Involved
- Volunteer
- Internships
- Donate
- Membership
- Attendance Intervention
- Contact
You can volunteer with our programs by filling out this Volunteer Form or visiting our location at 75 Atlantic Ave, Providence, RI. Bring friends along for the experience, and for large group volunteering, please contact us in advance.
As an intern, you’ll assist with planning community events, supporting programs such as educational workshops or health initiatives, and helping with administrative tasks. Candidates should have strong communication skills and an interest in community service, social work, or public administration. If you’re interested, please contact Cecy Granados at cgranados@providenceri.gov.
We accept donations online or by check. You can also donate services to help us better serve the community.
Community Partners Membership
Partner with us to empower the community! As a valued partner, you’ll play a vital role in supporting and expanding our initiatives, helping individuals and families reach their full potential.
If you’re interested in partnering with us, please fill out this Membership Form. A member of our team will follow up with more details on how we can collaborate.
Be an Attendance Hero!
Providence Recreation Department & Providence Public School District
We are excited to invite families, community-based organizations (CBOs), and small businesses to partner with us in addressing school attendance concerns in Providence. This initiative is part of a larger effort to ensure every child has the support and resources needed to thrive academically and socially.
Why Attendance Matters:
Attendance is critical to student success. When students miss school, they miss valuable opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. By working together as a community, we can help families overcome barriers to attendance and create a culture where education is valued and prioritized.
Your Role as a Partner:
As a community-based organization or small business, your involvement is vital to this effort. We encourage you to:
- Host Community Meetings: Engage families and residents to discuss strategies and share resources that promote consistent school attendance.
- Support Local Events: Collaborate with us by co-hosting or participating in events designed to spread awareness of the importance of attendance.
- Spread the Word: Use your networks to amplify messaging about this initiative through social media, newsletters, or other communication channels.
- Table at Events: Share information about your organization and how you support students and families during designated events.
Your participation will help foster a community-wide effort to keep kids in school and on the path to success. Encourage your friends, family members, and community partners to step up as Attendance Heroes and help spread the message. Together, we can inspire students to show up, thrive, and succeed.
How to Get Involved: (FORM)
Please complete the registration form below to indicate your interest in participating in this initiative. The form will capture details about your organization, areas of interest, and ways you would like to contribute to this cause.
Together, we can make a difference for our students and community.
Community Engagement Registration Form
Department of Recreation & Providence Public School District
Thank you for your interest in supporting our school attendance initiative. Please complete the form below to indicate how your organization or business would like to contribute to this important cause.
Director of Community Engagement Efforts
Cecy J. Granados, MPH
Director of Community Engagement | Department of Recreation
cgranados@providenceri.gov
401-743-6635
Recreation Main Office
11 West Drive
Providence, RI 02904
recreation@providenceri.gov
401-680-7300
Hours of Operation
8:30 am – 4:30 pm