Caribbean Organization of Tallahassee
Welcome
Home.
For more than 25 years, COTI has brought the warmth of the islands to Tallahassee — connecting Caribbean nationals and friends of the Caribbean through culture, fellowship, and community service.
Our Story
Rooted in the Islands,
Grown in Tallahassee
The Caribbean Organization of Tallahassee (COTI) was founded more than 25 years ago by a small group of neighbors who wanted Tallahassee’s Caribbean community to have a home of its own. COTI’s earliest meetings were held at the medical offices of Dr. Wayne Sampson, a Guyanese physician — and from those first conversations, an organization built on culture, fellowship, and mutual support was born.
Today, COTI carries that founding spirit forward — bringing together Caribbean nationals and friends of the Caribbean across Tallahassee through cultural celebration, community outreach, and support for one another, island by island.
Founding Members
— and other founding members of Tallahassee’s Caribbean community.
Get Involved
Join the
COTI Family
A voice and a vote at membership meetings
Invitations to COTI cultural events, galas, and socials
Opportunities to volunteer and serve on committees
A lasting network of fellow islanders, right here in Tallahassee
Ready to join?
Membership is open to Caribbean nationals, descendants, and friends of the Caribbean who call the Tallahassee area home. Reach out and we’ll walk you through current dues and how to get started.
Contact Us to JoinVision & Mission
Culture Celebrated.
Community Served.
Mission: To preserve and celebrate Caribbean culture and heritage in Tallahassee, to foster fellowship among Caribbean nationals and friends of the Caribbean, and to serve our broader community through outreach, education, and mutual support.
Vision: A Tallahassee where Caribbean culture is celebrated, Caribbean voices are heard, and Caribbean neighbors look out for one another — today, and for the next 25 years.
Support & Sponsorship
Partner With COTI
COTI’s events and programs are made possible by members, local businesses, and community partners. Sponsors help fund cultural celebrations, scholarships, and outreach across Tallahassee — and are recognized at COTI events and in event materials.
Events
Past & Upcoming
Caribbean Independence Celebration
Flags, food, and music honoring the independence days of the islands we call home.
Scholarship & Awards Gala
COTI’s signature evening honoring students and community leaders.
Community Cookout & Social
Good food and fellowship for members, families, and friends of COTI.
Past events: For more than 25 years, COTI has hosted cultural festivals, independence celebrations, scholarship galas, and community cookouts across Tallahassee. Photos and highlights from recent gatherings are on our Facebook page — check back here soon as we add our own gallery.
Contact Us
Let’s Connect
Have a question about membership, sponsorship, or an upcoming event? We’d love to hear from you.