About EmpowerLit

Empowering children to thrive through the power of literacy and belonging.

Our Story:

EmpowerLit was born from a passion to bridge gaps in education and give children the tools to thrive. When founder Gina Casazza moved to South Carolina, she noticed a need: schools rarely hosted authors or guest speakers, and creative programs were often overlooked—yet the state consistently ranked among the lowest in test scores.

Gina’s own childhood was shaped by powerful literacy experiences. She vividly remembers the day Shel Silverstein visited her school and signed her treasured copy of A Light in the Attic. In fourth grade, her teacher encouraged students to write and bind their own books, an experience she still holds dear. These moments weren’t just fun—they built her confidence, sparked creativity, and inspired her to dream bigger.

Seeing that many children in South Carolina lacked these same opportunities, Gina began to ask: What if budget wasn’t a barrier? What if every school could witness the impact of bringing in authors and speakers?

Belonging soon became a central part of the mission. With one in three children reporting they don’t feel like they belong, Gina knew the importance of helping kids feel seen, valued, and capable. EmpowerLit isn’t just about improving literacy—it’s about fostering self-esteem, building confidence, and showing every child that they matter.

Today, EmpowerLit has grown into more than a program—it’s a movement dedicated to shaping resilient, inspired readers and leaders who are ready to take on the world.

Founder

Gina Casazza

Founder

Gina Casazza founded EmpowerLit to help children build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging through the power of storytelling. Her debut children’s book, You Really, Truly Do Belong, introduces Cosmo the Alien, a lovable character learning what it means to fit in. Her upcoming book, You Really, Truly Are Enough, continues Cosmo’s journey, teaching kids self-worth and inner strength.

Through EmpowerLit, Gina creates programs that bring these stories to life, helping children see themselves in books and believe in their own potential. Her vision is to make literacy a tool for empowerment, ensuring every child feels valued, capable, and enough.

Board Members

John Chiesa

John Chiesa, originally from Orono, Maine, and raised in Medford, MA, began his Kiwanis journey in high school as a Key Club Vice President. He studied education at Boston University but shifted to retail management with Stop & Shop before returning to teaching. As a physical education and health teacher, he coached multiple varsity sports, excelling in baseball and soccer. Later, he earned a master’s in school administration and served as a vice principal before returning to the classroom.

After retiring 12 years ago, John moved to Murrells Inlet, SC, with his partner Pegge. He has three children, a stepdaughter, and nine grandchildren. A Kiwanian for 26 years, he served in leadership roles in both the Medford and Pawleys Island clubs, including President and Distinguished Lt. Governor. He also helped establish the Georgetown Club.

MaryAlice Koch

MaryAlice Koch is a registered nurse with a deep passion for supporting children and education. A former school nurse, she now works in the psychiatric ward at Stony Brook, caring for both kids and adults with compassion.

As a mother of two and grandmother, MaryAlice has been a fierce advocate for her daughter who is special needs and helping her achieve her dream of becoming a teacher's aide. Her dedication to inclusive education and child development makes her a powerful voice on our board.

Angela Casazza

Angela Casazza has a lifelong passion for learning, storytelling, and creativity. As a mother of three, she navigated both public and private education, gaining valuable insight into different schooling systems. An active PTA mom throughout her children’s school years, she played a key role in fundraising, event planning, and community engagement.

Now, with her children in their 30s, Angela continues to bring her expertise in organizing successful events to support literacy and education initiatives. She is passionate about fostering a love for reading and empowering children through the magic of stories.

Tara Ostrander

Tara Ostrander is a passionate advocate for healing, empowerment & community well-being. With a background in massage therapy and energy work, she brings a holistic perspective to her work, particularly in supporting survivors of domestic violence. As a volunteer and active member of the North Myrtle Beach Woman's Club, she is deeply committed to creating safe, supportive spaces for women and families.

A devoted mother of three, Tara balances family life with her dedication to service and personal growth. She believes in the power of compassion, education and connection to create meaningful change in the lives of others.

Kylie Montigney

Kylie Montigney is a youth advocate, podcast host, and founder of Roots of Hope, an initiative focused on mentorship, leadership, and inclusion for young women.

She also hosts The Mentor Movement and Talk of Fame podcasts, where she uplifts inspiring voices across industries. Kylie is passionate about community service, storytelling, and creating positive change through media.

Kylie is head of our Media and Marketing team with her background in digital storytelling, youth leadership, and strategic communications, bringing a powerful voice and vision to everything she creates.

Tony Zito

Tony Zito was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, where he spent the first part of his life. During his time in Ohio, he held two professional roles, including a 20-year career assisting a private orthopedic surgeon in surgical procedures. He later joined a Florida-based company, where he trained individuals on how to engage with hospitals and orthopedic surgeons across the country, and contributed to the development of a groundbreaking DME brace that had not previously existed.

After relocating to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Tony served for 12 years as the marketing director of a nonprofit organization supporting individuals with Down syndrome. He currently serves as the marketing director for both the Rotary Club and the Optimist Club, is a trustee for a Catholic men’s group, and has been a dedicated Red Cross volunteer for over 20 years. He is also an active member of a service group called Go Givers.

Tony and his wife have been happily married for 55 years. Together, they have four daughters and nine grandchildren.

EmpowerLit is more than a literacy program—it’s a movement to inspire, uplift, and empower the next generation. Together, we’re building a world where every child feels they belong and has the tools to succeed.

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