Dream on Purpose invites girls to ‘Feed Their Future’ at Cupcakes & Conversations on March 28

Press release from Dream on Purpose

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Dream on Purpose, Inc., a Gainesville-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth to actualize their dreams, will host Cupcakes & Conversations: Culinary Creations on Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Girls Place, Inc. (2101 NW 39 Avenue).

Designed for girls ages 11–18, this free workshop will provide a hands-on cooking experience that blends culinary instruction with conversations about health, nutrition, and future well-being.

Participants will learn practical kitchen skills from a professional chef (Jason Woodroof, Chefs of the Row, LLC), engage in a candid discussion led by a nurse practitioner (Dr. Reathea “Reese” Felder, DNP, APRN, University of Florida College of Nursing) about the connection between food and overall health, and receive a free take-home resource kit to continue building their culinary skills at home.

“Cupcakes & Conversations is about creating spaces where young people can learn real-life skills while also having honest conversations about their future,” said JoAnne Karagnara, vice president and cofounder of Dream on Purpose. “Through experiences like Culinary Creations, participants not only gain confidence in the kitchen but also develop a deeper understanding of how food, health, and personal choices shape their lives.”

The event is part of Dream on Purpose’s ongoing Cupcakes & Conversations series, which provides youth with a supportive environment to explore important topics, build confidence, and connect with mentors and professionals in the community.

Activities include:

• Hands-on cooking instruction with a professional chef
• “Real Talk” discussion on food, health, and future choices
• A free take-home resource kit for continued learning

Space is limited and advance registration is required. To register for the free event, visit dreamonpurpose.org/events.

This workshop is made possible through the support of Chefs of the Row, Girls Place, the University of Florida College of Nursing, the Community Foundation of North Central Florida, and The Wagmore Foundation.