As we look back on 2024, we remember a year of growth, community, and exciting new beginnings for Fork Real Community Café. From announcing the new downtown location to hosting incredible events and expanding our impact–last year truly embodied our mission to build up community using food and conversation.
A New Home in Downtown Rapid City
One of our biggest milestones in 2024 was announcing our move to a brand-new location in the heart of Downtown Rapid City! Construction began at 507 Main Street in the spring, marking a major step forward in our journey to better serve our community. We’re thrilled to see our vision take shape, and we are closer than ever to completing this BIG move. We can’t wait to welcome you all through our doors. You can support our move by giving here.
By the Numbers: A Year of Growth
2024 was a year of remarkable growth, and the numbers speak for themselves:
64% increase in donations, highlighting our community’s unwavering support.
48% increase in charitable contributions, allowing us to expand our impact.
9% increase in café meals served, bringing more people to our table.
44% increase in meals served outside of the café, bringing joy to, and reaching more people in need beyond our doors.
11% increase in food truck meals served, further extending our presence in the community.
Unforgettable Events that Brought People Together
Throughout 2024, we had the joy of hosting multiple amazing events that fostered connection, fun, and, of course, delicious food. Some of our standout events included:
A romantic Valentine’s Dinner that brought love and laughter to the café.
The Pampered Passport event, offering a delightful experience of self-care and indulgence for the mothers in our lives.
A creative mug painting event with Prouty Pottery, where community members bonded over a love for community (and coffee).
A thrilling cooking competition featuring the Rapid City Rush Hockey Team and student-athletes from SD Mines—showcasing teamwork and unique culinary skills in action.
A fun-filled week cooking in the German Tent at the Central States Fair, celebrating international flavors and traditions with our friends from the German Club.
The 3rd Annual Chef’s Dinner Auction, where guests sampled exquisite dishes, bid on exciting chef experiences, and supported our mission through their generosity.
The Fork Real Food Truck Hits the Streets Again
For a second successful summer, the Fork Real Food Truck was out and about, serving up fresh and wholesome meals across Rapid City. Bringing our food and mission directly to the streets has allowed us to reach even more people, spreading kindness and nourishment wherever we go.
Looking Ahead
As we are gearing up for all 2025 holds in store, we are filled with gratitude for the generosity, support, and love shown by our community. With our new location nearly ready to open, we’re excited about what the future holds and can’t wait to continue serving and growing with you.
Fork Real is moving to 507 Main Street this month! Join our Open House Walk-Thru on Thursday, Feb. 13, from 4–6 PM. Bring a friend new to Fork Real for a chance to win a FREE cheesecake and sample our new menu items!
Your support is vital to us as we cross the finish line of this immense transition! Donate today by selecting the button below, and help feed dreams, and build a stronger community at Fork Real.