Last Sunday, we gathered for BrightSide’s first-ever fundraising gala. What a joyful and energizing morning! Nearly 50 guests joined us for brunch, conversation, and storytelling, making the event feel like a true celebration of the community that makes BrightSide possible.
Stories That Root Us
One of the most powerful moments of the morning came from BrightSide co-founder Deedee Fuller, who shared her story of growing up as one of 12 children in North Minneapolis. She spoke about longing for healthier options in her neighborhood corner store, a wish that ultimately sparked BrightSide’s founding. Today, we can see how this simple idea grew into an entire movement to bring fresh, affordable produce directly to neighborhoods and families where it’s needed most.
Deedee’s reflections on the early days of BrightSide, the challenges of food access, and the importance of dignity in food systems reminded all of us why this work matters so deeply.
We also heard from Carter, a longtime Pay What You Can volunteer, who spoke meaningfully about how BrightSide has shaped his life. As a transplant to the Twin Cities, Carter found friendship with fellow volunteers, gained a new perspective on life, and a sense of community through his weekly deliveries to residents at Franklin Towers in Minneapolis. Listening to him name each resident and speak to the relationships formed over time made it clear that Pay What You Can is about so much more than a bag of produce.
A Brunch Made Possible by Community Generosity
The brunch itself was a testament to the power of our community. Trustone Financial and the Linden Hills Farmers Market gave generously as Community Sponsors, helping ensure the success of our first gala.
And, of course, the food!
BrightSide co-founder–and professional chef!–Deedee prepared the quiches, frittatas, and roast veggies. In addition, many local partners across the BrightSide network donated food in support of the event.
Donated Food:
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Salmon from Sockeyed Seafood Co.
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Bagels from Jersey Girls
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Honey from Masterman Apiaries
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Coffee and Pastries from Jeweltown Roastery
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Sausage from ForageScape Farm
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Bloody Mary and Mimosa Mixes from Lovejoy’s
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Champagne and Vodka from Bridgewater Bank
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Beer from Pryes Brewing
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Meat Sticks from Jirik’s Family Farm
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Peanut Butter from HardCore Peanut Butter
Raffle Baskets were donated by Adornwell Cocktail Co., Bridgewater Bank and various vendors at the Linden Hills Farmers Market–Slow Burn Candles, Katrina’s Caramels, At Home by Trisha and Masterman Apiaries.
The space itself looked stunning thanks to gorgeous floral arrangements from A. Johnson Florist, thoughtfully arranged by longtime BrightSide volunteer and former corner store delivery driver, Brittney.
Our venue was generously sponsored by MidCity Kitchen and Soundcart Media captured fantastic photos to help us remember this morning for a long time to come.
We’re deeply grateful to each of these partners for nourishing our guests and helping create such a special morning.
The Music That Set the Tone
Throughout the event, live music by Matt Jennings created an inviting, celebratory atmosphere. His guitar paired beautifully with the gathering, making the morning feel intimate and full of heart.
A Community Effort — And a Powerful Result
Together, we raised $9,600 to support our Pay What You Can produce delivery program. That’s more than 900 bags of fresh produce going directly to families across the Twin Cities.
It was a powerful reminder that when people come together to support food access, real change happens.
Let’s Keep the Momentum Going — Give to the Max Starts Now
The gala may be over, but our work is just beginning. The need for affordable fresh produce is rising, especially with recent disruptions to SNAP support.
That’s why BrightSide is dedicating every dollar from Give to the Max to expand Pay What You Can.
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Every $15 = one more bag of produce
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The first $1,000 in donations will be matched, doubling your impact
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Small donations help us qualify for bonus prizes — truly, every gift counts
If the gala inspired you — the stories, the connections, the community — we hope you’ll help carry that momentum forward.
👉 Donate here: https://www.givemn.org/organization/Brightside-Produce
👉 Share with a friend: Every person reached helps us grow the impact.
Thank you again to everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, and supported this beautiful first gala. We couldn’t do this without you — and we can’t wait to see what comes next.