12/31/2019
It is with mixed emotions that I announce The Des Moines Fighting Burrito location is permanently closed. I have a lot of pride in what we have built here, so it is, of course, sad to see this place I created go away. I understand you may share a twinge of this sadness as well with me - such is the natural response to losing things we love. I will miss you all as customers, be you a burrito bowl lover or a late-night krispie treat purchaser. However, I want to leave on a happier note and focus on the things we were able to do together in our 14 years in Ames!
With our adorable electric vehicles, we saved 100s of thousands of pounds of CO2. We bought local whenever we could, further reducing our carbon-footprint and supporting local producers. Through all-inclusive employment and service practices, we bettered our community by hiring and promoting women, people of color, and members of the LGBTQIA community. Through many giveback efforts, we were able to raise money for and draw attention to local fighters and fights we support: like Tim Jenks, bicycle awareness, preschools, elementary schools and the Middle School. We were able to be an initial sponsor of Maximum Ames Music Festival to support cultural growth and radness in Ames. The support of The Fighting Burrito allowed me personally to be actively engaged in the community on the Ames City Council and in several community groups. I was able to work tirelessly with others to build a better community for everyone in and outside of the walls of The Fighting Burrito.
Entrepreneurs have an opportunity that many may never have: to bring together their capital, their labor, their passion and their drive to create a space to do amazing things. I see my role as an entrepreneur to carve out a space that leaves the world better than I found it. This has been my driving force in all of my entrepreneurial ventures: I want to empower my employees to embrace all who enter our doors. The Fighting Burrito was not just a burrito shop: it was a collection of interesting and loving souls fighting for good through hard work, respect, kindness.. and burritos. We wanted to build a home for everyone: we're glad you came to visit.
The Fighting Burrito in Des Moines, will be closing, but this makes room for others to change the world through their vision and efforts. What are you fighting for?
Thanks for all the support, Rizo forever!
Eat and live well,
Matthew Goodman
