What is the Million Dollar Challenge?

Providence Mayor David Cicilline and Sally Lapides are the co-chairs of Equity Action's Million Dollar Challenge Campaign.

In March 2005, The Rhode Island Foundation issued the "Million Dollar Challenge" -- a promise to match dollar for dollar the next $500,000 raised by Equity Action.

A committed group of community leaders -- gay and straight, men and women, representing a wide range of sectors, communities, and backgrounds -- has stepped forward to create the Equity Action Campaign Committee. Between 2008 and 2011, this group is working hard to cultivate individual and corporate support for the Million Dollar Challenge.

Every dollar raised will be matched by The Rhode Island Foundation, up to a total of $500,000. This translates to an endowment of over $1 million. And because this is a permanent fund at the Foundation, it will continue to grow in perpetuity, ensuring that each gift made today truly impacts tomorrow.