Patricia O’Donnell Saracino, the vice president of community relations at BankRI, was recently honored by The Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute as an Angel in Adoption. She was nominated by U.S. Rep. James R. Langevin. Through BankRI, Saracino has helped children in foster care attend sporting and cultural events, as well as other fun childhood activities that they otherwise would not have had the opportunity to participate in. Outside of the office, Saracino has been a dedicated volunteer at Adoption Rhode Island for nearly 10 years. She is also a proud member of a “forever family,” after adopting her daughter nine years ago.
PBN: Can you describe your volunteer work with Adoption Rhode Island?
SARACINO: For nearly 10 years, I’ve supported Darlene Allen and her team at Adoption Rhode Island with fundraising efforts as well as child-enrichment opportunities through BankRI. It’s important for me to serve as a voice for children in state care; I always make it a point to introduce community partners to the organization so they can get involved. Not everyone can adopt a child; however, individuals and businesses can support Adoption Rhode Island and foster children. With the holidays approaching, people often want to give to younger children, but teens also look forward to the season. Consider donating gift cards to stores that carry merchandise for teens so they can shop for their favorite items. Businesses can also host their Heart Gallery, a traveling exhibit of professional portraits of children still looking for their forever homes. Have a special talent? Consider donating your time with children who will really appreciate it.
PBN: What are some of the initiatives you have been involved in through BankRI that are offered to children living in foster care? Are there any that come to mind as being particularly exciting or meaningful for these children?
SARACINO: Bank Rhode Island supports and coordinates numerous activities for children across the state, particularly those from diverse and sometimes challenging situations. A program that stands out is the First Star URI Academy – one of only four such programs nationwide that provides education and mentoring to high school students in foster care, exposing them to college through a summer academy and specialized services throughout the school year. Only 3 percent of foster youth graduate from college, and First Star URI Academy is working to reverse that trend and increase the number of foster children accessing higher education.
PBN: On a personal level, what types of philanthropic efforts are particularly important to you?
SARACINO: Children are truly my passion and I find myself drawn to initiatives that support their needs, especially those from low-income households. BankRI has strong relationships with organizations that empower children, teach and mentor, open the doors to arts and culture, and help children embrace their talents and passion, which can often lead to new educational opportunities and future careers. •
