What started as a simple idea around a conference table in Downtown Providence has grown into one of Rhode Island’s most buzzed-about networking events — consistently selling out and creating space for authentic, people-first connections.
When Heart of Rhode Island launched in March 2022, founder and organizer Debra Honor envisioned a welcoming space where professionals could connect authentically, share stories, and grow their impact. With no shortage of networking groups across the state, few could have predicted just how quickly this one would take flight.
Turns out—it had legs…and wings.
“We started with just 12 to 15 people in that conference room,” said Honor. “We just wanted to create a space for real, meaningful connection. Four years later, we’re watching something truly special unfold—something far bigger than we ever imagined.”
For its first several years, Heart of Rhode Island found its home at Plant City in Providence, a centrally- located space that allowed the event to grow steadily while
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“As the room kept filling up month after month, I knew it was time to find a new home,” Honor shared. “That moment came through a conversation with J.R. Pagliarini, who suggested the CIC Building at 225 Dyer Street. “It was the perfect full-circle moment—a conversation turned into action, and that action became our new home.”
Now officially hosted at CIC Providence, Heart of Rhode Island welcomes up to 150 attendees each month in a bright, open space designed to encourage movement, conversation, and connection. The second-floor venue also offers access to CIC tenant businesses—creating even more organic networking opportunities—with future plans for outdoor gatherings during warmer months.
“We love seeing new faces every month,” said Honor. “At the same time, it’s incredible to watch friendships and professional relationships deepen. If someone can’t attend, there’s always someone ready to step in—our waitlist proves just how special this community has become.”
A Stronger Team, a Bigger Vision.
As the event has grown, so has the team behind it. This year, Honor proudly built a 14-member committee made up of committed attendees and community builders who help guide the event’s energy and logistics. The Heart of Rhode Island Committee consists of:
Cathy Andreozzi, Dawn Apajee, Mark Berger, Aaron Bishop, Michael Cabral, Elizabeth Hamilton, Xander Honor, Lisa Jones, Sarah McCooey, Stephanie McNamara, J.R. Pagliarini, Stacey Silva, Bridget VanDemark, and Debra Honor.
Sponsorships continue to be a cornerstone of the event’s success. Monthly sponsors receive podium time, social media visibility before and after the event, and high-impact exposure to a packed room of engaged professionals. Beginning in 2026, sponsorship increased from $500 to $600 to reflect rising costs, enhanced offerings, and the continued expansion of the Heart of Rhode Island experience.
“Despite the increase, demand remains stronger than ever. All 2025 and 2026 sponsorships are sold out—and several months into 2027 (until May as of press time) are already spoken for,” Debra said.
Honor said it has been exciting to see what has become of that first meeting in Providence that long ago.
“I cannot put into words how grateful I am that so many people have come out to support this idea,” she said. “There was no telling when this idea took shape what it would or could morph into. There are so many people that had a hand in creating this event that captures networking at its core.
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“So many partnerships have begun at this event. It is amazing to see what happens next,” Debra added.
A Community That Sells Out—Every Month.
Attendance tickets are now $10 plus Eventbrite fees, and events sell out at 150 guests every single month. Registration is required, and regulars know to move fast when tickets are released.
Heart of Rhode Island’s online presence continues to grow as well, with nearly 250 followers on LinkedIn and 136 on Facebook, and a new website currently in development.
Honor puts the event’s success thusly:
“This isn’t just a networking event—it’s a community. As long as people keep showing up for one another, sharing their stories, and supporting each other’s growth, Heart of Rhode Island will continue to thrive—one connection at a time.
“It’s more than what we built—it’s what we’ve all built together. That’s what makes this so special,” she added.
Cheers to FOUR years—and the many connections still to come.
To learn more about Heart of Rhode Island and/or becoming a future sponsor, please email Debra at dhonor@wfri.org.
