The Empowerment Factory

★★★★★Paulo Arriaza

I a really good place and the have a lot different activities for the Kids can enjoy and learn about different things they can do and a really good place for do community service too I enjoy help here.

★★★★★Marisol Lagos

I highly recommend the empowerment factory. They do a lot of activities for our communities. Over the summer my son was in a camp that Gail went to every week to do art activities with the children. My son always came home excited to show us what he did.

★Chanelle Mulan

I want to share an unfortunate experience I had today that left me disappointed, given what your organization represents. My autistic son and I had been at the Central Falls splash pad for about an hour when your staff arrived and began setting up. I was mindful to keep my child away from the equipment. While I briefly turned away to pay for an Icee, one of your staff members approached me holding my son’s hand, stating he had urinated on the equipment. I immediately apologized, put his pants back on, and offered to clean the area. My son has autism and ADHD, and when overstimulated, he sometimes removes his clothing—though urination like this is unusual for him. I explained his diagnosis and behavior, yet the staff member continued to complain in front of me, gave instructions with an attitude, and then discussed the situation with other staff in a condescending tone, even referring to my child as “that little boy.” While I understand the frustration of the situation, the lack of professionalism and compassion from your staff member was deeply hurtful. It’s especially disappointing because your organization focuses on empowerment and positive experiences for youth. As a parent of a neurodivergent child, this kind of reaction is exactly why I hesitate to seek support services. I hope you will address this situation internally to ensure staff are trained on professionalism, sensitivity, and inclusion for children with disabilities Because yeah these types of children are in underserved neighborhoods to.

★★★★★Anuli Love

Gail and her crew of volunteers are always delightful and keep the crowd engaged. The activities are well organized and all inclusive. The Empowerment Factory is aptly named because I always leave there feeling encouraged, inspired and motivated. I’ve been attending Art in the Park for several weeks. Between myself and my four kids (who range from six to nineteen years old), I don’t know who enjoys the festivities more. 💝

★★★★★Suzanne McDonald

The Empowerment Factory does amazing work with Rhode Island's at-risk students. My daughter took a virtual Nature Drawing class via a RI Dept of Ed program. It was amazing, not just the drawings, but the engagement between the other students and the teachers. It was 100% a positive experience. I highly recommend families explore getting their students involved. And if you are looking for a nonprofit that helps kids be kind, creative, and positive, consider donating what you can. This small, lean organization is based in Pawtucket and primarily serves students in the state's urban core areas. Do what you can to be a positive force in kids' lives to build a better Rhode Island.