Ben Zimmer is an entrepreneur and employer in Valparaiso, being very active in his industry as an agent and founder of Ethos alongside being involved in the community directly. Most of Zimmer’s family were involved in education as teachers and coaches, so this inspired him to be involved with the community and do something meaningful. Zimmer is enthusiastic about what he does and enjoys how he can engage with others in the business industry and other community leaders. He believes that we live in such a unique community for growth and opportunity here.
“The whole vibe of our downtown here has just been a wonderful opportunity with all of these small businesses that we’ve been able to engage with and kind of connect with people, too,” said Zimmer.
The way the city of Valparaiso has grown over the years has been a really fun and unique experience for Zimmer, and one he has enjoyed. There are constantly things happening to engage in and work on.
“Every year there is something, whether it be a festival or a project or an amenity, whatever it is. The community is getting better and better and we’re so fortunate to be able to see a small business owner there and know people that are doing such cool things and asking straight up how we can help,” said Zimmer.
Outside of work, Zimmer finds himself spending time swimming, golfing, hanging out with his three sons, or just going out to do things outside. Golfing is one of the hobbies that Zimmer finds very fascinating with and how the course changes every time and how much goes into playing the sport even after so many years of it.
Zimmer starts his day off very early to balance everything with work, family, and outside hobbies. Zimmer finds he needs that time in the morning to get his stuff done and all together before the day formally starts. He believes that the key to a productive life, with a strong balance, is starting the day off early.
“I get up at about 4:15 or 4:30 every morning, that’s the only way I can get stuff done and have free time or time to spend with my wife,” said Zimmer.
Zimmer moved to Valparaiso in December of 2002 and is in awe of how much the city has changed and evolved over the years. He is excited to continue working his part in helping individuals over the years. Zimmer has hope for the years to come and how much the city will change in that time.
“We are so fortunate to live in this community and I just want to thank everybody in this community and all the big leaders that continue to make good choices and bring the kind of amenities to the areas that make it a wonderful place to raise a family,” said Zimmer.