Real People. Real Stories. Real Connections.

Gather with us for Beyond the Bio, a free speaker series featuring women and gender expansive people from Rhode Island and beyond. Each event offers space for deep listening and meaningful conversation. Expect powerful storytelling, audience Q+A, and a chance to meet speakers in an intimate, community-centered setting.

This month, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Chanda Womack—organizer, educator, mom of two, and Founding Executive Director of ARISE. Born in a refugee camp in Thailand and raised in Providence, Chanda’s story spans generations, geographies, and deep community-rooted work. She shows up with heart and unapologetic power, and her work on identity as a tool for liberation is as inspiring as it is urgent. Come listen, ask questions, and stick around afterwards to chat in a cozy, intimate setting. 

This is a free, ticketed event. Suggested donations of $5-10 per ticket helps support free public programs for women and gender expansive people.

The Alcove is grateful to our community of members and supporters whose generosity makes free, public programs like this one possible. Together, we create space to thrive.

Join us for a special Artist’s Reception on January 15 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at The Alcove!

Join us for a special Artist Reception celebrating our inaugural Portrait Gallery exhibition, Founders and Inventors Who Shaped Our World. Meet the artists behind the work, hear directly about their creative process, and celebrate the visionaries featured in our inaugural exhibition.

Light refreshments will be served, and all are welcome.

The Alcove (formerly Gather RI) opens its doors—Saturday, January 10, 2026!

Don't miss this historic moment as The Alcove officially opens its doors to our community—help us plan by registering your interest on Eventbrite today.

Event Highlights:

• 12 p.m. Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

• 2 p.m. Live Performance by the Raging Grannies of Rhode Island, who will share the history of their group and perform uplifting songs about community and the importance of gathering together

• 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Guided tours of the Portrait Gallery exhibition Founders and Inventors Who Shaped Our World and the Biographical Library with our Inaugural Curator & Program Manager

Ongoing throughout The Alcove:

• Bring gently used winter items (coats, scarves, gloves, hats) to support the lifesaving work of Sojourner House

• Create a commemorative bookmark to take home in the Biographical Library

• Share words of wisdom and inspiration for other women and gender expansive people

• Enjoy cookies and a hot cocoa bar in our second-floor Haven

Parking

Free neighborhood and street parking is available near The Alcove but may be limited. Parking in the neighboring lot at 201 Broadway is prohibited and may result in towing.