Get Lit Cookoff Connects Kids to Their Community – The Bay State Banner

These cupcakes were included in the Cupcake Bake-Off. PHOTO: OME SPE COURTESY OF THE WITHERSPOON INSTITUTE

In the days leading up to Thanksgiving, Alda Witherspoon, founder of the Witherspoon Institute (WIN), hosted the 2nd Annual GET LIT Thanksgiving Cook-Off at Florian Hall in Dorchester.

“Like ‘Get Lit.’ Through our shared commitment to literacy, empowerment and community engagement, we not only empower readers; We develop leaders who will shape the future of our city and beyond,” said Boston City Councilwoman Julia Mejia.

Ceremony co-moderators, City Councilor Julia Mejia, GET LIT Literacy Chair Dr. Joseph Feaster, Esq. and Britt Johnson of Boss Lady News brought the event to life. Activities included, of course, a WiNKids fashion show, financial literacy workshops hosted by Talk2EM founder James Laveque, and a cupcake contest also hosted by WINKids.

Boston police and fire department first responders also took part in the Christmas celebration.

“As WIN Literary Chairman, I am thrilled to see the convergence of literature and culinary arts at the upcoming GET LIT Thanksgiving Cook-Off. This event embodies the fusion of creativity, taste and storytelling and I am confident it will inspire a passion for literature and cuisine. I believe that in this celebration we will not only enjoy delicious dishes but also nourish our souls with the power of words and stories. “I am honored to be part of this harmonious cultural mix and look forward to the inspiration it will undoubtedly inspire in our community,” said Dr. Joseph D. Feaster Jr. Esq, Chairman of WIN Literacy.

The non-profit community think tank supports young people in the arts. Founded in 2006 by Alda Witherspoon, the Witherspoon Institute’s mission is to inspire and encourage young artists to think outside the box and develop the next generation of artists in all media.

The event featured works by visual artist Jeff Grantz, whose vibrant collection titled “Illuminations of Boston” thrilled attendees. In addition to the art, the event featured a comedy show performed by veteran comedians Stephen Donovan and Touch 106.5 FM radio host and three-time Emmy nominated television host Jonathan Gates.

“With heartfelt gratitude for Boston’s unwavering support, we stand on the verge of transformation as we launch the 2nd Annual GET LIT Thanksgiving Cook-Off and introduce the innovative 5-week course, the WINK SMART GET LIT Financial Literacy Game. Together with the community, we strengthen minds, ignite passions and brighten the future. We are grateful for the support that furthers our mission to educate, inspire and empower our community,” said Alda Witherspoon, Founder and CEO of WIN.