Women’s Fund of Rhode Island (WFRI), a statewide, non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for women and girls throughout the state, will be hosting its annual Women Leading Change (WLC) event to acknowledge and celebrate the work and contributions of those who are advocating for advancements in gender equity.
WLC will take place on Thursday evening, September 25th, from 5:00 PM until 7:30 PM, at Bally’s Twin River in Lincoln. Attendees will be treated to food, networking, guest speakers, and raffle prizes. WFRI will also bestow three awards: two to individuals for their work in the field and a local business that has gone above and beyond in promoting this cause.
Cathy Andreozzi of The Tori Lynn Andreozzi Foundation will be presented with the Simone Joyeaux Leadership Award. State Representative Karen Alzate will be awarded the Susan Farmer Advocacy Award for her efforts at the state level. Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island will receive the Organizational Equity Award for its institutional commitment to equity in workplace practice.
WFRI’s CEO Kelly Nevins said the event will honor those who have risen to the challenge of facing these important issues at a time where uncertainty reigns.
“This year’s honorees are leading the way toward a more just and equitable Rhode Island,” said Nevins. “We’re proud to celebrate individuals and organizations who are taking bold action to close gender and racial gaps—in leadership, in the workplace, and in our communities. Their work reminds us that lasting change happens when people stand up, speak out, and invest in a future where everyone can thrive.”
Cathy Andreozzi is the founder and president of The Tori Lynn Andreozzi Foundation, established in loving memory of her daughter, Tori, who was struck by an impaired driver in 2003 while walking home from school. Tori survived with severe injuries and lived with profound challenges until her passing in 2022.
In the face of unimaginable loss, Cathy transformed personal tragedy into a mission of service. Today, she leads the Foundation’s efforts to support individuals and families in crisis—offering resources, education, and advocacy that promote equity, dignity, and choice.
Whether through public policy, community partnerships, or direct support, Cathy works to level the playing field for those navigating adversity, and to ensure that all people, regardless of their circumstances, have a chance to thrive.
“There is a choice in every moment. When we have both the courage and the opportunity to act, we create the possibility for change — and that sustains hope for the future, for all.”
Representative Alzate is considered a trailblazer in state politics. From her upbringing with an immigrant family, she helped form alliances to educate and advocate for those in difficult situations. Her work has included advancing equity-focused legislation, championing underserved communities, and creating spaces for diverse voices to be heard and valued.
“Representative Alzate has been a steadfast advocate for policies that support the economic security of women and families—especially in communities that have historically been marginalized,” said Nevins. “From championing fair wages to expanding access to affordable housing, she brings both lived experience and legislative skill to the fight for equity. We’re honored to recognize her leadership with the Susan Farmer Advocacy Award.”
Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island is the recipient of the Organizational Equity Award. This distinction is given to a company that devotes itself to diversity, equity and inclusion, both internally and externally.
Neighborhood is committed to making equity a cornerstone within the healthcare industry and their workplace. The organization, along with its Community Health Center founders, have been working together to address the myriad of nonmedical and age-old issues that influence health outcomes.
Nevins feels the company has even more to offer.
“Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island is proof that equity isn’t just a value—it’s a practice,” she said. “From the way they care for patients to how they shape their workplace culture, they are modeling what it looks like to embed justice and inclusion into the core of an organization. We’re proud to lift them up as a model for others.”
Women’s Fund of Rhode Island thanks their numerous sponsors for their financial and in-kind support for Women Leading Change. Among the businesses stepping up include Transformational Sponsors Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island and Landmark Medical Center. Dozens of other local companies have also shared their support.
WFRI’s annual gala to celebrate, connect, fundraise, and honor local businesses and community leaders is open to everyone interested in leveling the playing field for women and girls in Rhode Island!
WFRI’s Development Director Deb Honor said, “It is truly one of the greatest joys of my career to produce Women Leading Change from start to finish. As the Development Director and head of the Development Committee, I’m proud to lead this powerful effort—one that brings together so many incredible allies who believe in gender equity. Watching the room fill with changemakers, advocates, and supporters is nothing short of magical. This event is more than a celebration—it’s a movement, and I’m honored to be a part of it.”
Tickets start at $150 and sponsorships are still available.
For additional information regarding Women Leading Change, please visit the event website at: https://tinyurl.com/yc63amjh or email Deb Honor at dhonor@wfri.org.
For more information about WFRI, visit their website at www.wfri.org.
