Origin and
Mission Statement

"How we came to be..."

While Marupo ACTS is legally completely separate from Bennett Lai's personal food establishment, Marupo Eats, ACTS was born from the community's ongoing requests to experience different flavors of cultural nostalgia (Malaysian, Thai, Northern vs Southern Indian, Philippines food etc.), a common theme he experienced while interacting with many Ann Arborites at its Kerry Town farmer's market.

Bennett (i.e. Marupo), along with founding board members Jessica Trombley and Tina Lin, have seen the powerful effect that food-centric events have in bringing people together, nurturing not only their stomachs but also a stronger desire for members to get involved and contribute to the well-being and safety (both physical and mental) of each other.

"Today we EAT... Tomorrow we ACT"

The founders also realize that thriving environments for AAPI communities (e.g. reducing racism, creating safe spaces for immigrants) are created by small but consistent "small wins" from numerous aspiring individuals striving to better society in their own ways (think of minority small business owners, civil right advocates etc.) much alike a never-ending marathon.

So while there are several existing AAPI Non-profits out there (such as ACJ, ACA, Rising Voices among many others), Marupo ACTS was founded with an emphasis on culinary traditions and experiences so we can both fuel (through food) and celebrate the broader AAPI communities, thus empowering everyone to continue the impactful work they've been doing and will continue to do for many years to come.