International Institute of Cleangreens

International Institute of Cleangreens – The Designers & Makers of Detroit's Collard Green Cook-Off (Detroit is DIfferent)

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

The Collard Green Cook-Off is back! Welcome back as Detroit is Different hosts the follow up to Detroit’s premier cookoff event. This exciting competition brings together Detroit’s urban farmers and chefs to showcase their growing and culinary skills.

The Playoff (preliminary) Cook-off Round will take place on Saturday, June 15, 2024 from 4-6pm at the Joseph Walker Williams Recreation Center (8431 Rosa Parks Blvd.) It will be part of Detroit’s Official Juneteenth Jubilee Celebration.

The final cook-off round will take place on Saturday, August 15, 2024, from 4-8pm Location will be Announced at the Collard Green Cook-Off Play-Offs.

Collard Green Cook Off Playoffs 8431 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206 Saturday, June 15 4pm - 6pm

"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.

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.

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