Western Iowa Dishes It Out During Farm-to-Table Fundraisers

Imagine taking a seat at a long, wooden table, where string lights illuminate the sky with a warm glow. Where freshly picked flowers stand tall and bright in vases, surrounded by tall glasses of sweet tea and freshly squeezed juices.

To the right and left, you’re surrounded by neighbors and strangers who are about to become friends as a custom-made menu is dished out, fresh from the farm and straight to your table.

For Rural Revival founder Danna Larson, this is more than a delicious dinner. And if you want to host a Rural Revival Farm Dinner as a fundraiser for your community, Larson’s your girl.

“Rural America is rooted in agriculture, and what better way to celebrate our farming roots and the agriculture that is still such an important part of the fabric of our small towns,” she said. “It's also a great way to showcase plans and inspire our communities to see what a bright future could look like here. Our small towns are full of opportunities—we just have to find ways to make them happen—and a farm-to-table experience is a great way to do that!”

Although Western Iowa Advantage (WIAD) celebrated National Volunteer Month in April, discovering unique opportunities for volunteer-led fundraising efforts, like these dinners, is something they encourage all of their community members to consider year-round.

“There are so many different ways to support your region through volunteering and farm-to-table dinners are just one of them,” said WIAD’s Rita Frahm, Executive Director of Ida County Economic Development  “Not only are they tasty, but they call attention to our agricultural community and remind us that buying local is a key way for you to support the future of Western Iowa.”

Once in a Lifetime Experience

“Our first dinner in Odebolt was in July of 2022, and we were able to raise over $76,000 for the Odebolt Community Foundation, which I started the same year. The dinner was a sold-out event with 240 in attendance, and included live music, an amazing five-course meal from The Bowling Alley (that was the best steak I've ever had!), and signature drinks to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our community,” said Larson. “That night, people saw our town in a way they maybe haven't for a while—or maybe ever. We had alumni who live out of town returning for the experience, and maybe the best part is that it was enjoyed by all generations. On a more personal level, getting to do this in my hometown was a dream of mine and a night I will never forget!”

The event proved to be an inspiration.

“We watched with great interest as our neighbors to the east in Odebolt, Iowa, hosted their farm-to-table dinner. We loved the concept and felt this would be a great way to host a bigger event that would join our rural and town folk together,” said Terri Schimmer of the Holstein Betterment Alliance. “We were fortunate to have a great response from the community, especially from the point of highlighting our local businesses and vendors to provide a great meal.”

Support poured in from the Ida County Cattleman for the steaks, the local fire station for tables and chairs, local businesses for the appetizers, beverages, sides for the meal, and dessert.  Fresh flowers and photos came from a local photographer who also has a fresh flower business, and a greenhouse vendor provided fresh vegetables for the salad.  

“Our Ridgeview High School football boys came from camp and helped with table set up, and our FFA youth waited on tables,” said Schimmer. “We also had donations for auction items at the end of the evening. We were blessed to have a beautiful night with great live music throughout the evening. In our first year, we hosted about 200 people. In 2024, we had 250 tickets for sale and sold out.”  

Savor the Tradition

“We’re going after our dreams to bring life back to our small towns and see our rural communities prosper and thrive. Come join us!”

That invitation on the Rural Revival website is an RSVP to reinvigorate your community by embracing the idea of a slow and leisurely supper, whether it's on the farm or Main Street.

The goal?

Shine a light on the amazing farmers, ranchers, and local businesses whose credo epitomizes the preservation of the farm-to-table tradition.

“More than anything, these events create amazing momentum for your community—and all of our small towns need that! By creating an unforgettable experience for those who get to attend, it inspires them to keep doing more in their local communities to ensure a thriving future,” said Larson. “Volunteering is huge! We have limited resources in rural communities, so we have to make the most of what we have. Oftentimes, the projects that better our communities cannot be done without volunteers. Farm-to-table dinners are a lot of work, but when we all come together for a great cause, it makes such a huge impact.”

“I think what we have loved most about the Farm to Table event is the gathering of both our rural and town folks as we honor our heritage as a small town rural Iowa community,” said Schimmer. “Sometimes it's the little things, but what a joy it was seeing a long, long table set with fancy dishes and fresh flowers, with Holstein folks of all ages enjoying an outdoor meal and sweet music. It's a wonderful event!”

WIAD is ready to take on 2025, keeping an eye on education, support, and business tours while tackling workforce attraction and housing. We are committed to facilitating ongoing improvements in our region’s economy, quality of life, and tourism. Contact us today at 712.792.9914 or info@westerniowaadvantage.com and see how easy it can be!  
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