About EmpowerLit
Empowering children to thrive through the power of literacy and belonging!
Embedded Files
Mission Statement:
To inspire a love for reading, foster self-esteem, and instill a sense of belonging in underserved communities through impactful literacy programs.
Vision Statement:
A world where every child feels valued, connected, and equipped with the literacy skills to overcome life’s challenges.
How It All Began
EmpowerLit was born from a passion to bridge gaps in education and create opportunities for children to thrive. When I moved to South Carolina, I was struck by how different the education system was compared to what I experienced growing up in the North. Schools here rarely hosted guest speakers or authors, and creative programs were often overlooked. Yet, South Carolina is consistently ranked among the states with the lowest test scores.
Growing up, I had the privilege of experiencing impactful moments that shaped my confidence and creativity. I’ll never forget when Shel Silverstein visited my school—I still treasure my signed copy of A Light in the Attic. In 4th grade, my teacher had us write and bind our own books, and I still proudly hold onto mine today. These experiences weren’t just fun—they inspired me to think bigger, take risks, and believe in myself.
When I realized many kids here lacked those same opportunities, I couldn’t ignore the question: What if budget wasn’t a barrier? What if every school could see the real impact of bringing in authors and speakers?
Belonging is another critical issue—one in three kids feels like they don’t belong. I know what that feels like. My mission with EmpowerLit isn’t just to increase literacy or get kids excited about sharing and reading stories. It’s about helping children build self-esteem, develop confidence, and discover their own sense of belonging. Through these programs, we’re not just shaping better readers—we’re shaping resilient, inspired individuals ready to take on the world.
At EmpowerLit, we believe every child deserves to feel valued, heard, and capable of achieving their dreams. By fostering creativity, literacy, and belonging, we’re empowering the next generation to embrace challenges, celebrate their uniqueness, and become confident contributors to their communities. This is more than a program—it’s a movement to create brighter futures for children everywhere.
Founder
Gina Casazza
Gina Casazza
Founder
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
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
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
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.
Kylie Montigney
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.
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.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse