Conexión Latina Newport has received the Rhode Island Foundation’s 2026 Community Leadership Award, the foundation’s highest honor for community leadership. The award was presented at a recent Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra performance.
The award recognizes an individual or organization demonstrating innovation, impact, commitment and leadership in one of the foundation’s priority areas.
Conexión Latina runs cultural programming including Mujeres Poderosas and the Latino Parent Advisory Committee, connecting parents with schools, guiding families to healthcare and preparing community members for civic involvement.
“Many Rhode Islanders are surprised to learn that Aquidneck Island has such a substantial Latino community,” said Executive Director Rebekah Gomez. “Receiving the Community Leadership Award helps put our work and our community on the map statewide, which is crucial to helping us fulfill our goals.”
Gomez said the organization’s aim is longer-term than any single program. “By advocating for education and healthcare equity, creating spaces for cultural exchange and investing deeply in preserving heritage for future generations, we will begin to see shifts in career choices, civic involvement and community investment, ultimately leading to leadership that truly reflects the community it serves,” she said. “Conexión Latina is committed to helping our community navigate and disrupt systemic barriers and provide opportunities for community members to ultimately become the community leaders themselves.”
“We are inspired by their work and dedication to improving the circumstances of those around them,” said David N. Cicilline, the foundation’s president and CEO.
The Rhode Island Foundation has awarded $14.3 million to Newport County nonprofits since 2023.
