The Rhode Island Foundation is inviting Cranston residents to share their thoughts about the issues that are important to them at a free community dinner Oct. 26.

 “Now more than ever Rhode Islanders need a place for listening, reconnecting and inspiring constructive, civic and civil dialogue,” said Neil D. Steinberg, the Foundation’s president and CEO. “Every voice in Rhode Island deserves to be heard. Grab a friend and join other engaged folks in your area for a free meal and positive discussion to highlight opportunities in your community and our state.”

The event will be held at the Cranston Portuguese Social Club, 20 2nd Ave., on Wed., Oct. 26, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Check-in will begin at 5:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public, but seating is limited. Register at rifoundation.org/togetherri.

 “We’ll offer people the chance to talk face-to-face with each other over family-style meals. Bring your ideas for improving your community and the local challenges you’d like to see addressed,” said Steinberg.

Additional community get-togethers are scheduled in Pawtucket and East Providence through Nov. 15. The events will take place at restaurants and community gathering spaces that are well known locally. The public can attend any of the sessions regardless of where they live. The complete schedule is posted at rifoundation.org/togetherri.

The Foundation will provide moderators to help guide the conversations, but participants will drive the topics and discussions. The findings will be shared with participants and the public after the final session.

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. Working with generous and visionary donors, the Foundation raised $98 million and awarded $76 million in grants to organizations addressing the state’s most pressing issues and needs of diverse communities in 2021. Through leadership, fundraising and grant-making activities, often in partnership with individuals and organizations, the Foundation is helping Rhode Island reach its true potential. For more information, visit rifoundation.org.