Get ready for a taste of paradise!
Northwoods Homeschool Prom is headed to the islands for Aloha, From Hawaii With Love — an unforgettable evening inspired by the beauty, warmth, and spirit of Hawaii.
On April 23rd, 2027, homeschool teens will trade the Minnesota spring for a tropical escape filled with island-inspired décor, incredible food, music, dancing, photo opportunities, and plenty of surprises along the way.
But aloha means so much more than hello or goodbye. It represents love, kindness, compassion, and connection — values that fit beautifully with the heart behind Northwoods Homeschool Prom.
So dust off your dancing shoes, grab your friends, and get ready.
Paradise is calling...
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 in their church and 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.
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 served 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 a large portion of 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 Lex Pregnancy Resource Center. Lex Specialty Clinic provides a variety of free pregnancy services, so you can make an informed and empowered choice for your unplanned pregnancy.
. https://lexspecialtyclinic.com/
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.