Taste of the ‘Burbs 2026: Uplifting and Connecting Community with PRISM

If there is one takeaway from this year’s 13th Annual Taste of the ‘Burbs gala, it is this: we are stronger when we come together as a community. 

After months of planning and coordination, PRISM staff gathered at the Metropolitan Clubroom & Ballroom at 5:00 PM for a pre-event huddle. Amid last-minute details and a shared moment of energy and focus, excitement for the evening ahead filled the room. 

Each year, Taste of the ‘Burbs brings our community together to celebrate the impact we create side by side. It is an evening of fundraising and partnership building that supports a year of strong social services and meaningful connections that help people build healthy, stable lives.

Guests Bob and Colleen Porter assist Auctioneer Kurt Johnson with a demonstration during the Fund-A-Need portion of the program.

Looking Back at the 13th Annual Taste of the ‘Burbs 

On May 7, 2026, PRISM hosted the 13th Annual Taste of the ‘Burbs at the Metropolitan Ballroom & Clubroom. Guests enjoyed a lively cocktail hour featuring fundraising activities, interactive photo booth, and delicious appetizers. One standout, the smoked fig grilled cheese, continues to be a favorite topic of conversation. 

Together, we raised approximately $275,000 to support PRISM’s food, housing, and children’s programs. These funds ensure our work can continue without interruption and allow us to meet the growing needs of our community. 

Throughout the evening, guests participated in activities that reflected the spirit of generosity and care that defines PRISM:

PRISM debuts a new mini golf hole for the Putt-a-Hole in Hunger fundraising game.

• • The Food Wall
    A returning favorite, this interactive experience allowed guests to “shop” for food shelf items and reveal a corresponding prize, highlighting the variety and abundance PRISM strives to offer. This year’s wall featured 350 items, our highest ever and it sold out!
  • Putt-a-Hole in Hunger
    This mini-golf challenge brought energy and excitement, with participants competing for a special cash prize while drawing plenty of cheers during cocktail hour.
  • Online Auction
    Open to the entire community, the auction featured generous donations from local businesses and supporters. This year, it remained open for several extra days in response to popular demand, helping raise even more for PRISM’s programs.

• Golden Ticket Getaway Raffle
  Sponsored by the Plymouth Lions Club, one lucky winner received a dream vacation for two and a $1,000 travel gift card. This year’s winner plans to travel to San Francisco.
• Shop for Change Pop-Up
  Guests explored a curated collection of high-end thrift items, offering a glimpse into the impact of sustainable, community-driven shopping. The pop-up also highlighted the importance of donating quality items.

Celebrating Light of PRISM Award Winners 

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Light of PRISM Awards. Launched in 2023, these awards recognize individuals and organizations whose dedication strengthens our community. 

This year’s honorees included: 

• Crystal, New Hope, Robbinsdale Rotary Club 
  Recognized for their consistent and meaningful support, embodying the spirit of service through their ongoing commitment to PRISM.
• Holy Nativity Lutheran Church 
  Honored for their long-standing partnership, from hosting PRISM’s early food shelf to providing volunteers, leadership, and continued support.
• Culver’s of Golden Valley 
  Celebrated for their enthusiasm and creative approach to supporting PRISM and engaging the community in joyful ways.
• Nancy Darnall
  Recognized for her warmth, dedication, and the welcoming spirit she brings to PRISM every day. 
  

  Light of PRISM Award Winners.
  Top Left: Holy Nativity Lutheran Church; Top Right: Ben Sparks and Julie Anderson of Culver’s Golden Valley; Bottom Left: Nancy Darnall and family; Bottom Right: Crystal, New Hope, Robbinsdale Rotary Club

Stories, Recognition, and Community Impact 

Board Chair Anne Roedel opened the formal program and welcomed Golden Valley City Council Member Christ Queitzsch, who shared a special proclamation on behalf of the city. 

Following the awards, attendees heard a video message from United States Senator Amy Klobuchar. She spoke about her connection to PRISM, the strength of the community, and the importance of showing up for one another during times of need. 

Executive Director Michelle Ness closed the program with a powerful reflection on compassion, resilience, and the importance of supporting one another, especially in uncertain times. 

Taste of the ‘Burbs is a celebration, but it is also a reflection of our shared commitment to stand alongside neighbors facing hardship. It represents our dedication to equity, dignity, and meaningful action. 

Looking Ahead 

We are incredibly grateful to every sponsor, volunteer, donor, and guest who made this event possible. Your support truly makes a difference. 

Save the date: Taste of the ‘Burbs 2027 will take place on May 6. We hope you will join us again for an evening of connection, generosity, and continued impact in our community.

City of Golden Valley’s Proclamation of recognizing PRISM.