Awesome Foundation Rhode Island (AFRI) is a local chapter of Awesome Foundation, a kind of decentralized giving circle that’s proven to be extremely successful on a global scale.

The current instance of AFRI was established in late 2023 and issues a monthly $1,000 gift to support people and ideas of benefit to the Ocean State. As of October 2025, about $20,000 has gone out the door.

AFRI is organized by Ben Sisto, who also operates OPEN and as such, OPEN is kind of its default home now. OPEN, as an entity, does not oversee AFRI, and Ben does not vote on applications—just listing it on the OPEN site for visibility / as a program OPEN supports with physical space.

Awesome Foundation Rhode Island is always looking for additional funders, guest trustees (folks who both donate and vote on applications), partners for event, and other fun things. If you’d like to learn more or get involved please:

  1. Visit awesomeisland.org and sign up for the mailing list

  2. Email Ben at rhodeisland@awesomefoundation.org

Photo: “Youth-led Know Your Rights Conference,” funded Nov ‘2024