Rhode Island Community & Conversation Celebrates Five Years of the Fish Pillar

July 30, 2026 | Narragansett, Rhode Island

The High Fives Foundation community gathered on the Rhode Island coast for an unforgettable evening of connection, storytelling, and impact during the 2026 Rhode Island Community & Conversation. Friends, supporters, athletes, veterans, and partners came together to celebrate five years of the Foundation’s Fish Pillar while raising critical funds to expand adaptive fishing opportunities for individuals living with life-changing injuries.

Hosted on the waterfront in Narragansett, the evening welcomed 72 attendees, including 10 High Fives Athletes, who shared stories of resilience, recovery, and the life-changing role adaptive sports continue to play in their journeys. Guests enjoyed fresh seafood, oysters, drinks, and meaningful conversations overlooking the ocean while learning how the High Fives Foundation is helping athletes and veterans reconnect with the outdoors through adaptive fishing experiences on Block Island Sound.

The generosity of everyone in attendance made an immediate impact, with the event raising more than $28,000 to support future adaptive fishing programs and empower more athletes to experience the freedom, confidence, and healing that comes from time on the water.

“Our Rhode Island Community & Conversation brought together an incredible community of supporters to celebrate five years of High Fives’ Fish Pillar and the life-changing impact of adaptive fishing. Through inspiring stories and generous giving, the evening honored the community that has made the program possible while raising critical funds to help more athletes experience healing, confidence, and connection on the water.”

— Emma Ugrin, High Fives Foundation Events Manager

Community & Conversation events continue to be a powerful reminder that recovery extends far beyond physical rehabilitation. They create opportunities for meaningful relationships, inspire new supporters to become part of the mission, and showcase the resilience of the High Fives community.

As the High Fives Foundation continues expanding adaptive fishing opportunities across the country, the support shown in Rhode Island demonstrates what is possible when a community comes together with a shared purpose. Every story shared, every donation made, and every new connection formed helps create more opportunities for athletes to return to the activities they love.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, and helped make the evening such a tremendous success. Your support ensures that more individuals living with life-changing injuries will have the opportunity to experience healing, confidence, and adventure through adaptive recreation.

Look through the full photo album HERE.