International Institute of Cleangreens
Welcome to our virtual garden!
The home page greets visitors with a vibrant display of collard greens and a warm invitation to explore our institute's offerings. We highlight our mission, values, and the transformative impact of urban gardening in promoting healthy lifestyles and fostering community connections.
Collard Green Cook Off
Join us for an unforgettable evening at the 2024 Collard Green Cook-Off Championship, a celebration of culinary excellence and community spirit! This free event, produced by Detroit is Different, promises a blend of culture and creativity as Detroit's finest chefs compete for the coveted title of Best Collard Green Chef.
Last Year's Champion: Chef Buddah, who captivated taste buds with his Vegan Gumbo Spiced Collard Greens, returns to defend his title. Will he emerge victorious again, or will one of this year's challengers take the crown?
This Year's Contestants: Our five playoff winners are ready to bring their A-game:
Tolani Anthony of Zella's Bakery (Vegan)
Chef Bee of Sisters on a Roll (Vegan)
Sean Brumfield (Smoked Turkey)
Jasmine Jones of The Favor Initiative (Vegan)
Chef Moe Vito of A Thoughtful Plate LLC (Vegan)
The Collard Green Cook-Off Championship will take place on Thursday, August 15, 2024, from 5-8pm Location will be at the Joseph Walker Williams Recreation Center (8431 Rosa Parks Blvd.).
Collard Green Cook Off Championship 8431 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206 Thursday, August 15 4pm - 7pm
"We are excited to bring the Detroit community together for this incredible celebration of culture and culinary excellence," said Khary Frazier's of Detroit is Different.
This event is proudly sponsored by Build Institute and the Detroit Black Farmer Land Fund, organizations dedicated to supporting local entrepreneurs and sustainable agriculture.
Event Highlights:
Locally Sourced Ingredients: All the delicious dishes are crafted using ingredients from Detroit Black Farmer Land Fund growers. Audience Participation: While expert and celebrity judges will be present, the ultimate decision rests with you, our valued audience. Your vote will determine the winner!
Cultural Experience: Enjoy cornbread muffins provided by Good Cakes and Bakes, adding a delightful touch to this cultural celebration.
Attendees can look forward to experiencing a diverse array of collard green dishes prepared by talented local chefs, engaging with community members, and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Detroit. For further information and updates, please e-mail detroitisdifferent@gmail.com
"The Collard Green Cookoff is expanding to remains a shining example of what community, creativity, culture, and fun is for Legacy Detroiters,” said Khary Frazier, founder of Detroit is Different. "This competition not only celebrates the cultural culinary diversity of collard greens but also promotes healthy eating and encourages people to explore new ways of cooking and enjoying this delicious and nutritious vegetable that can be, and is, grown right here in Detroit."
"We are proud to support this event and encourage everyone to come out and experience the culinary creativity & Detroit community," said Regina Ann-Campbell President & CEO of Build Institute, the official sponsor for the event. "Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine, but they are also a versatile and healthy ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes."
Build Institute empowers people to launch ideas and grow businesses. With a primary focus on Blacks, Latinx, under-represented, and under-resourced community businesses.
Programs & Workshops
Discover the variety of programs and workshops we offer to empower individuals, families, and communities in cultivating urban gardens. From beginner gardening classes to advanced sustainable agriculture workshops, we cultivate knowledge and practical skills for a greener tomorrow.
Community Gardens
Explore the locations of our community growers and gardens, who are transforming urban spaces into green oases of life and nourishment. The Collard Green Cookoff showcases the positive impact these gardens have on neighborhoods, community engagement and access to fresh, nutritious produce.
Get Involved
Become active participants in the Institute of Collard Greens' mission. Here, they can explore volunteer opportunities, make donations, and learn about upcoming events and collaboration possibilities.
