About our founders
Lori Ristow and Diedre (DD) Zelin have been friends for several years, collaborating on various events, as they both share a passion for ministering and serving the community. They are both homeschool veterans living in Central Minnesota and manage 17 kids between their two families.
Lori comes from the corporate management world and has organized several large community events in the areas of the state she managed. She also worked alongside New Pathways in some communities under her supervision.
DD has a rich history of working with several charities, and leading or assisting with numerous events. In addition to running an extremely successful home bakery, she has been a tremendous asset to various charities and ministries.
Unbeknownst to Lori, DD has wanted to organize a homeschool prom for a few years. After Lori helped as Chaperone Manager at another homeschool prom in 2025, she recognized the need to expand the experience for other homeschoolers. In a conversation that followed that event, God inspired the creation of the Northwoods Homeschool Prom.
Our mission
At Northwoods Homeschool Prom, we are a 501(c)(3) non-profit whose mission is to create a magical evening for students while giving back to the community. We donate our proceeds to charity, ensuring that every ticket purchased helps those in need.
The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Matthew 25:40
This year, we have chosen Renew Hope. Their mission is to inspire a culture against the evils of sex trafficking and renew the lives of women who have survived it.
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Contact info@northwoodshomeschoolprom.com if you're interested in sponsoring a vendor or a teen in need of assistance in their ticket purchase, or simply want to make a donation.