Local families, Community Pathways supporters gather for annual fundraiser

Community Pathways of Steele has forged many strong relationships in the community, with individuals, businesses and other nonprofits.

One night out of the year offers Community Pathways staff and volunteers the opportunity to join with some of their most committed supporters for food, drinks and good times.

The nonprofit hosted Pathways Palooza, its annual fundraiser, Friday evening at the Steele County Fairgrounds Beer Garden, with proceeds going to provide food and clothing for local families.

Amanda Floy, who leads an event committee of staff and volunteers, stressed that Palooza is a night for everyone in the community, including the families they serve.

Dom Korbel, executive director of Community Pathways, said it was “humbling” to see so many of the organization’s supporters under one roof.

“We tell the story, and we hope people hear it and believe in us. All I can do is try to share what we see and hope that people trust us enough to be a part of what we do. When you have a night like this, it’s like, it’s working,” he said.

While there’s plenty of work to be done on Palooza night, Floy said it’s a moment of relief for her and the other organizers. After planning for months, they get to mingle with guests and enjoy the fruits of their labor. In addition to raising funds for Community Pathways, Floy said showing people a good time at Palooza helps them recruit more volunteers.

To make the event a welcoming place for families to spend time together, organizers included outdoor activities, board games and a scavenger hunt for kids.

Brittany Wencl attended the event for the first time, bringing her two year old daughter Nora along for the fun. They were joined by Wencl’s mother and brother, Vicky and Rylee Muhr. All of them have supported Community Pathways in the past in one way or another. Rylee has previously joined Palooza festivities.

“It’s a great organization and just a great time,” he said. “Good beer too.”

Pathways Pilsner, a brew created in partnership between Mineral Springs Brewery and Foremost Brewing Cooperative, has become a signature part of the annual fundraiser.

Organizers ensure a variety of nonalcoholic offerings as well, from ice cream to root beer, to preserve the family-friendly nature of Palooza.

“We were working out ways of making it so that kids have something to do, families have something. We don’t want it to be a drinking event. Yes, we serve beer, but it’s a family event,” said Floy.

“We serve families, so to have families be a part of supporting us is really important,” added Korbel.

Waseca-based solo artist Melissa Schulz provided music for the evening, playing hit songs from a range of eras and genres. Floy and Korbel were excited to have her back following her performance at last year’s event.

This is the fourth year Community Pathways has hosted a fundraiser at the beer garden. Floy said it’s a common space that’s widely loved in the community, and extended her gratitude to their hosts.

“We love working with the fair board. They’re easy to work with,” she said.

Korbel stressed how essential Floy and the committee are to making the event happen year after year.

“A lot of nonprofits, this falls on the executive director. I’ve got a team of people that make this less stressful for me that I can count on,” said Korbel. “Our team allows me to do what I’m good at while they’re doing what they’re good at.”