"A Better Tomorrow"

Meeting location: Frankie's Chicago Style Bar & Restaurant - 3556 Winnetka Ave N, New Hope Minnesota 55427

Michelle Ness is the Executive Director of PRISM, a nonprofit social service agency located in Golden Valley, MN. The mission of PRISM is to provide social services and connections that empower people in our community to build healthy, stable lives. Michelle received her Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Minnesota in 2005 and her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Western Michigan University in 1997. She has held leadership roles in the past two decades with Tubman and Neighborhood House, and volunteered on the board of directors with CEAP and Tech Dump, in addition to being a consultant with the University of Minnesota School of Social Work, and in her own practice. As a licensed independent social worker, Michelle has led lead PRISM to greater community impact with a profitable social enterprise, Shop for Change. Michelle enjoys being a part of, and leading efforts with local nonprofits, individuals, and businesses to collaborate and find mutually beneficial partnerships. PRISM has worked alongside Jewish Family & Children’s Service of Minneapolis to create an impactful new space for social services. Remaining in Golden Valley, PRISM will be in a newly renovated building and growing the partnership with JFCS. This new location and uniquely exceptional partnership will increase access to more services for local community members in need.

PRISM is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 1970 by community members responding to the basic needs of individuals and families who were struggling to make ends meet. What started as a small community effort has since transformed into a strong organization that has a significant impact and an enduring commitment to its mission. PRISM meets the basic needs of food, clothing, and housing for 5,000+ low-income children, adults, and seniors each year. They primarily serve residents of Golden Valley, Robbinsdale, New Hope, Crystal, and Plymouth.