Rhode Island Supreme Court Historical Society Fund Grants 2024

The Rhode Island Supreme Court Historical Society Fund, managed by the Rhode Island Foundation, is dedicated to preserving and perpetuating the history of the Supreme Court and the broader judicial system within Rhode Island. This initiative aligns directly with the foundation's mission to support programs that enhance public understanding of the state's legal heritage. The fund serves as a direct continuation of the work previously undertaken by the Rhode Island Supreme Court Historical Society, utilizing its remaining assets to ensure the ongoing documentation and appreciation of judicial history. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are nonprofit organizations operating within Rhode Island. The fund aims to support these organizations in providing programs that achieve several impact goals: preserving the history of the Rhode Island Supreme Court and the Rhode Island judicial system, maintaining artifacts and records related to the courts, publishing works focused on Rhode Island legal history, and organizing public forums to discuss the state's legal and constitutional history. The fund prioritizes projects that actively contribute to the preservation and dissemination of Rhode Island's legal past. Expected outcomes include a more robust collection of historical records and artifacts, increased scholarly and public engagement with legal history, and a greater understanding among the public of the state's judicial evolution. Measurable results could include the number of historical items preserved, publications produced, and attendees at public forums, all contributing to the overarching goal of safeguarding judicial heritage. Organizations applying for grants are expected to demonstrate matching resources, either through additional funding or in-kind services, highlighting a collaborative approach to historical preservation. It is important to note that funds cannot be used for the purchase of equipment, focusing resources directly on program delivery and historical initiatives. This strategic approach ensures that the grants directly support the core objectives of historical preservation and public education, reflecting a theory of change that sees direct program funding and collaborative efforts as key drivers for achieving its preservation goals.