CocoRootz

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 the Sarasota Housing Authority and All Faiths Food Bank.

Designed for ALL ages—from toddlers to seniors—CocoRootz combines coconuts, drumming, and CommUNITY fellowship at Orange Blossom Community Garden to create power filled 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

• Mental Health Awareness-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

• Community Garden at Orange Avenue Park, developed in partnership with the Sarasota Housing Authority, as a living classroom for youth and families to naturally and organically connect to Nature Through intuitive grounding experiences, drumming, and mindfulness.