Membership Organization

The 504 Democratic Club is a New York City-based coalition of Democrats working towards inclusion of people with disabilities in the political and social fabric of society. Club members hail from all five boroughs. “The members of the 504 Democratic Club were blown away by Ben's knowledge of the intricacies of disability issues. While many stalwarts expected to endorse his opponent due to having a disability himself, it was clear that Ben was far and away the best candidate to represent the disability community. Sometimes, understanding and experience trumps identity politics, and it was clear that the club almost unanimously changed their preconceived support upon hearing Ben's presentation,” said Dodge Landesman of the 504 Democratic Club. Kallos has been an advocate for special needs while supporting his mother in her battle against Parkinson's disease, and social services and public health are priorities in his campaign platform.

The Progressive Caucus Alliance announced its endorsement of Ben Kallos for the 5th Council District in Manhattan. Kallos is the tenth candidate the members of the New York City Council Progressive Caucus have endorsed as a part of their effort to support progressives running for open City Council seats in 2013.

Ben Kallos is a third generation Upper East Sider. Born and raised in the neighborhood, he attended New York public schools and went on to become Executive Director of a leading good government group, a public interest lawyer, an entrepreneur and former Chief of Staff to a local Assembly Member. His focus on progressive policy solutions, combined with his depth of experience in the public sector, makes him a natural choice for the endorsement of the Progressive Caucus Alliance.

"Ben Kallos has the ability to help tackle the major environmental challenges that New York City faces. He has innovative ideas to preserve our green spaces and improve our city’s sustainability,” said Irene Van Slyke, Political Chair.  “We’ll proudly support Ben Kallos with our successful and time-tested organizing efforts,” continued Ken Baer Chair of the Executive Committee of the NYC Group.