Looking to be more engaged with your neighbors? Or have recent changes to receive government aid made it a necessity to get involved?

Either way, the Warren Health Equity Zone and the East Bay Community Action Program are offering up the opportunity for residents to assist their fellow citizens by hosting a volunteer fair Wednesday, Oct. 28, from 5-7 p.m. at The Guild Brewing Co. located at 99 Water St.

Over 20 non-profit organizations operating in and serving the Warren community will be present to recruit for various volunteer positions. The event is open to the public.

The goal of this event is to promote opportunities for local residents to impact their own community. Non-profit and community-based entities address community needs, and these organizations are seeking volunteer support to expand their reach and/or efforts.

“When the HEZ first began in 2021, we heard from residents and non-profit groups that civic engagement needed to be a focus of our work,” says Kristin Read, director of Warren HEZ. “Getting people more involved in town was good for everyone and would strengthen connections to our new neighbors at American Tourister. In 2026, providing local places to volunteer is essential for our residents due to changes in Medicaid and SNAP requirements. Income eligible residents must now work or volunteer a minimum of 80 hours per month to continue to qualify for health insurance and nutrition supplement. Our HEZ and its collaborative members want to do all we can to prevent loss of coverage.”

The fair is open to the public and residents of Warren are strongly encouraged to attend, especially new residents who want to become involved locally, retirees who wish to share time and experience for the greater good, and all people looking for connection and a sense of belonging in the community. Additionally, a new federal law will change Medicaid and SNAP rules for some Rhode Island adults starting in 2027, requiring work or volunteer hours.

Brian Sullivan, Warren’s Town Manager, said of the event, “This is an opportunity for us all to think outside the box, to engage people who bring new expertise and experience to the table. Small communities not only rely on volunteers but have a unique opportunity to collaborate among organizations that larger cities lack.”

For more information about the event, email warrenhez@ebcap.org.