A2Y Chamber: Ben & Jerry's - Business Built on Putting People First

In partnership with People First Economy, Good for Michigan, and other partners across the state of Michigan, the Ann Arbor / Ypsilanti Regional Chamber welcomes Dave Rapaport, Global Social Mission Officer of Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream.


This virtual discussion will detail the growth of this globally-recognized brand and the emphasis that the business has placed on taking care of their workforce, addressing social inequities, and inspiring their stakeholders to act.
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Ben & Jerry’s has become one of the most recognizable brands in the food industry. As the leading brand of packaged super-premium ice cream, Ben & Jerry’s has scaled because of its goal to positively impact the lives of people all over the world.

From the first day in operation, Ben & Jerry’s has implemented policies and made purchasing decisions in order to address community inequities and these values have strengthened alongside the growth of the company.

In this dialogue, Milinda Ysasi, Grand Rapids City Commissioner and President of the Source will speak with Mr. Rapaport about the role of business in addressing social inequities, dismantling systems of oppression, and fostering initiatives that create economic opportunity.

Rapaport joined Ben & Jerry’s in 2017 and has been a mission-driven activist for more than 30 years in the business, non-profit and government sectors. In his role, he is tasked with upholding the company’s commitment as a certified B Corp to being a force for good. Through the day-to-day impacts of their operations and value chain, using their influence to promote racial equity, and participating in campaigns to activate social change, Ben & Jerry’s is creating an economy that puts people first.

Continue the conversation at 4:00pm with the People First Economy team! A zoom link will be sent after you register. 

Scholarship applications available!