Enjoy the Blaq Ice Experience: King of Spoken Word Poetry and Father of the Chicago Poet Laureate
THE INTERNATIONAL P.O.E.T ORGANIZATION
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Our Mission Statement
Our mission is to use the power of the arts—poetry, rap, and performance—to engage, educate, and inspire communities, particularly youth. We are dedicated to giving back through mentorship, educational support, and community programs, knowing that every bit of guidance and encouragement we provide helps cultivate the success of tomorrow’s leaders. Through creativity and service, P.O.E.T. is committed to making a lasting impact, one life at a time.
THE P.O.E.T MOVEMENT CLOTHES THE POOR
TURNING WORDS INTO ACTION
In 1990, De'Andre Hawthorne, also known as Blaq Ice, had a vision—straight from the heart of Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood. Fueled by his gift for poetry, rap, and the arts, he founded the P.O.E.T organization with a mission to do more than just perform; he aimed to change lives. For over 30 years, P.O.E.T has been a powerful force for activism, reaching into schools, juvenile detention centers, people experiencing homelessness and the community to mentor and inspire youth. Through creativity and passion, the organization has left a lasting impact, transforming countless lives with every verse, every word, and every act of service.
P.O.E.T TURKEY GIVEAWAY
Each Thanksgiving season, the P.O.E.T organization hits the streets, bringing more than just poetry to the community—they deliver hope. With a heart full of compassion, they hand out turkeys to families in need, ensuring that everyone can share in the joy of the holiday. It's more than a meal; it’s a symbol of unity and giving back, a tradition of making sure no one is left behind during the season of gratitude.
P.O.E.T PASS OUT SCHOOL SUPPLIES
P.O.E.T is deeply committed to giving back, especially when it comes to children. By supporting their education, we’re not just helping one child—we’re investing in the success of future generations. Every bit of encouragement, guidance, and opportunity we provide can shape a brighter future, creating leaders, dreamers, and changemakers for years to come.
meet our p.o.e.t leadership
Our International President De'Andre Hawthorne
Once in a generation, society is graced with a visionary spirit that ignites cultural change, redefines greatness, and paves the way for future generations. Blaq Ice is undeniably one of the greatest Spoken Word entertainers of his era. His influence reaches far beyond the realms of arts and entertainment; through his artist-activist movement, P.O.E.T., Blaq Ice has touched communities across America, empowering thousands to use their talents to make extraordinary contributions in their neighborhoods.
A legend in Chicago's Hip Hop community and a tireless activist, Blaq Ice transforms words into action. His commitment to uplifting others led him to establish the Legends of Chicago Hip Hop in 2013 and the National Spoken Word Awards in 2016, both of which continue to inspire and honor the legacy of those who shape our culture.
Our International Vice President Toy Ann McCray
Toy Ann McCray, born and raised on Chicago's South Side, has dedicated her life to serving her community with passion and zeal. As a Community Leader, Activist, Mentor, and Physical Fitness Instructor, she strives to make a difference wherever she can. With 25 years of experience at UPS, Toy Ann has held various leadership roles, including Operations Manager, HR Manager, and Corporate School Instructor. Her commitment to giving back aligns perfectly with UPS’s community-focused values.
Outside her UPS duties, Toy Ann has led impactful initiatives such as food and clothing drives, adopted homeless shelters, and developed mentorship programs for schools and juvenile centers. Her dedication has earned her prestigious awards, including the UPS Jim Casey Community Service Award and the U.S. President’s Community Service Award.
MENTORING THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS
MEET STEVEN WILLIS
Steven Antoine Willis joined the youth division of P.O.E.T. as a high school student, where he began honing his craft. Today, he blends his poetic and theatrical talents to creatively articulate African American culture, drawing from urban life, religion, hip hop, anthropology, and political theory to craft a powerful and unique narrative. A three-time Individual World Poetry Slam finalist, Willis has contributed to The BreakBeat Poets Anthology and NYU’s National Council for Teachers of English Journal. He earned an MFA in acting from the University of Iowa in 2021 and completed the Iowa Writers’ Workshop for poetry in 2023. His debut poetry collection, A Peculiar People, was published in 2022 through Button Poetry.
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