Viola Davis raising cash for RI schools

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) -- Actress Viola Davis is helping to raise money for two schools in the struggling Rhode Island city where she grew up.

Officials with the Rhode Island Film and TV Office say Davis will attend an event at Veterans Memorial Auditorium in Providence on Sunday evening to raise money for the Central Falls High School drama club and the Segue Institute for Learning. Two of her dresses are being auctioned off.

The Oscar-nominated actress from the film "The Help" spoke in May to the graduating class at Central Falls High, her alma mater.

Sunday's event will include a screening of Davis' new film, "Won't Back Down."

The founder of the Segue Institute for Learning, who grew up with Davis, says he's "beyond excited" that she's attending the fundraiser.