Taste of the ‘Burbs 2025: A Night of Celebration, Community, and Commitment

There’s always a flurry of preparations that go into planning a large-scale event like PRISM’s annual Taste of the ‘Burbs. From months of behind-the-scenes coordination to building community excitement, it’s a labor of love and dedication that brings together sponsors, vendors, staff, and supporters with one shared goal: to uplift and empower the community.  

PRISM’s 12th Annual Taste of the ‘Burbs

While fundraising is the central aim, Taste of the ‘Burbs is about more than just the dollars raised. At its heart, Taste of the ‘Burbs is about building and fortifying a community of action- a network of individuals who don’t just believe in PRISM’s mission but embody it. Every guest, every donor, and every supporter help champion dignity-centered resources for food, housing, and stability.  

Looking Back at the 12th Annual Taste of the ‘Burbs 

On May 8, 2025, PRISM hosted the 12th annual Taste of the ‘Burbs fundraising event. Taking place in two separate locations, guests chose between a glamorous gala held at the Metropolitan Clubroom & Ballroom or a more casual, community dinner at Frankie’s Chicago Style in New Hope.  

Both venues buzzed with energy as community members mingled, connected, and celebrated the shared goal of creating a healthier, more equitable Twin Cities community.  

The Community Showed Up in Big Ways 

Together, we raised approximately $280,000 in support of PRISM’s food, housing, and children’s programs. These funds fuel the work PRISM does every day and the generosity shown by community members this year was nothing short of inspiring.  

Guests took part in a variety of creative and engaging fundraising activities including: 

Taste of the ‘Burbs Food Wall

• The Food Wall: a popular game that comes back annually. Attendees “shopped” for real items from the food shelf and revealed a corresponding prize, highlighting the variety and abundance PRISM strives to offer on our shelves.  

• Putt-a-Hole in Hunger: A mini-golf challenge in partnership with Can Can Wonderland, with a shot at winning a special cash prize for our “top” golfers.  

• Online Auction: Open to the entire community – the online auction featured generous donations from local businesses and supporters – and brought some healthy competition in the name of a good cause!  

• Golden Ticket Getaway Raffle: Sponsored by the Plymouth Lions Club, on lucky winner gets a dream vacation for two and a $1,000 gift card for travel expenses such as airfare. This year’s lucky winner is choosing to go on the Western American Glamping Adventure.  

• Shop for Change Pop Up: Guests at the Metropolitan were treated to a special, curated selection of unique thrift store finds that gave guests an exclusive peek into the impact of sustainable, community-driven shopping.  

• Event Exclusive Raffles: Attendees had changes to win incredible items including a custom watercolor painting from artist Dan Mondloch. 

• Suprise Live Auction: Although not in the original plan, a few last-minute, incredible donations—including a fully stocked suite experience for a Minnesota Lynx game from Allianz—sparked a spontaneous live auction moment.
  

  Shop for Change table at the Metropolitan Clubroom & Ballroom

Putt-a-Hole in Hunger Game

Celebrating Champions of our Community 

One of the most meaningful moments of the night came during the program, when PRISM honored this year’s recipients of the Light of PRISM award. This award, launched in 2023, recognizes the individuals and partners who go above and beyond in supporting our mission.  

• St. Joseph’s Catholic Community – A founding partner of PRISM and a long-time source of support through volunteers, holiday drives, and monthly donations. 

• Hopkins’ Transitions Plus – A Hopkins School District based program supporting young adults with disabilities, whose students bring energy, dedication, and purpose to PRISM’s food shelf each week. 

• Allianz Life – A business partner for over 20 years, whose financial support, volunteerism, and leadership have strengthened PRISM’s work in countless ways. 

• Keith Olson & Timmy Reckinger – This dynamic volunteer duo has been with PRISM since 2015. Whether it’s chilling in the cooler, spreading joy with a playlist, their impact is unmistakable. This year, we honored them together as our Volunteer Award recipients. 

2025 Light of PRISM Winners

Stories That Inspire:  

Guests attending the event heard from Rick Kocourek, a valued PRISM logistics team member, who shared his personal story about experiencing food insecurity and homelessness. His journey is a testament to the life-changing impacts of a supportive community, and the services PRISM provides.  

Our Executive Director, Michelle Ness, closed the evening with a powerful speech about the importance of hope, unity, and showing up for one another—especially during times of uncertainty. 

Rick Kocourek, logistics staff at PRISM. Michelle Ness, Executive Director at PRISM.

More Than a Fundraiser

2025 Taste of the ‘Burbs Sponsors and Supporters

Taste of the ‘Burbs may look like a celebration—and it is. But at its core, it’s a declaration. A declaration that this community will not sit on the sidelines while our neighbors struggle to make ends meet. It’s a commitment to equity, dignity, and action. 

We are beyond grateful to every sponsor, volunteer, donor, and guest who made the event possible. Your support means everything. 

Mark your calendars now: Taste of the ‘Burbs 2026 will take place on May 7! We hope you’ll join us again—for the fun, the fundraising, and the community we’re building together.