Fundraising for Our Communities

My story begins in a small neighborhood in Rhode Island. A curious child with a strong connection to nature, but without access to clean and safe parks. The Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council (WRWC) changed that narrative.

The Woonasquatucket River endured decades of industrial abuse. Wastewater and chemical runoff from factories spilled into the river, causing severe pollution.

WRWC began its work in one of the most marginalized and impacted neighborhoods in the state—my neighborhood! As part of the organization’s vision, they set out to restore the river and its surrounding habitat, develop youth and community programs, provide environmental and climate education, create recreational opportunities, and most importantly, foster a sense of awareness, belonging, and stewardship.

Although the river itself is only 19 miles long, the Woonasquatucket Watershed spans 50 square miles across the cities of North Smithfield, Smithfield, Glocester, Johnston, North Providence, Cranston, and Providence, serving more than 25% of the state’s population. Over the years, the work has expanded far beyond my little neighborhood.

Support this organization to continue improving our river, parks, and communities.
Thank you.

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About our Board Member

Elder González Trejo, who hails from Guatemala, grew up immersed in the rich and diverse culture of Providence. Elder was an inquisitive child with a strong connection to nature. His growing interest led him to earn a B.S. in Environmental Science with a focus in Wildlife Conservation and was awarded the Coastal and Environmental Fellowship for his research on the effects of habitat loss and its impact on the declining Eastern Towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus) population.  In 2014 he traveled to rural Guatemala and participated in a humanitarian mission to reduce disease transmission by the feral canine population. When granted the opportunity to continue his work as a Wildlife Biologist, Elder relocated across the country and settled in California. He credits his time spent in the Bay Area for his decision to integrate his environmental work with his growing passion for social justice. Since his return, he’s been active in serving his community through his work as a member of the Human Relations Commission, Director of Community Programs for the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council, Sustainability Policy Associate for the City of Providence, and most recently Grant Program Specialist for the Commonwealth of Massachusett’s  Climate Team.