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CocoRootz
About Our Initiative
The CocoRootz Initiative is a Culturally Grounded, Multi-Generational Wellness, Arts, and Education Program Powered by the Center for Urban Resource and Empowerment (CURE) in Collaboration with Star Lab School, All Faiths Food Bank, the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition (SAACC), the Sarasota Housing Authority, and the City of Sarasota Parks and Recreation Department.
Designed for ALL ages—from toddlers to seniors—CocoRootz combines coconuts, drumming, breathwork, mindfulness, storytelling, and social-emotional learning (SEL) to create powerful commUNITY experiences rooted in wellness, culture, and connection.
At its heart is the coconut—a symbol of nourishment, resilience, and rootedness. Through free coconut distribution, mobile rhythm workshops, and wellness education, CocoRootz invites individuals and families to explore hydration, plant-based nutrition, emotional regulation, and cultural identity in joyful, accessible ways.
Originally launched as an early childhood curriculum, CocoRootz has evolved into a citywide movement—one that brings education, healing, and celebration to parks, schools, senior centers, housing communities, and cultural spaces across Sarasota.
Core Program Features:
- Free Coconut Pop-Up Cart with education on hydration, nutrition, and sustainability
- Drumming & Rhythm Circles for self-expression, self-regulation, and community building
- Breathwork & Meditation to support emotional balance and stress relief
- SEL-Aligned Curriculum for early learners, afterschool programs, and enrichment camps
- STEAM Activities using coconuts for science, math, geography, and art
- Cultural Storytelling, Music & Movement grounded in African and diasporic traditions
- Monthly AfroVerse Market featuring food, wellness vendors, arts, and live performances
- Community Garden at Orange Avenue Park, developed in partnership with the Sarasota Housing Authority and the City of Sarasota Parks & Recreation Department, as a living classroom for youth and families to learn gardening, rhythm, and wellness
Partners
Key Community Partnerships:
- Star Lab School – Lead education partner and pilot implementation site
- All Faiths Food Bank – Provides nutrition support and access to fresh food
- Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition – Cultural partner and AfroVerse Market co-producer
- Sarasota Housing Authority – Supports garden-based learning and community outreach at Orange Avenue Park