Welcome to the biography of a (hopefully, soon to be) single gay Jewish dad, with unwavering determination and love for adventure, who is embarking on a unique path to fatherhood.

For as long as I could remember, I have nurtured a deep desire to be a father. This idea has fueled my ambition and guided many of my life choices. In fact, it was the only question my parents asked when I came out, as they knew I wanted to be a dad. I am lucky to have an immediate family filled with love and support, and I will work hard to have this with my future children.

I’ve always considered myself a nerd, which has invited me to study abroad in Israel, Spain, China, Thailand, and Greece, expanding my horizons and embracing the rich tapestry of global cultures. Travel has become a passion, allowing me to circumnavigate the globe, though I still dream of traversing the equator. As a nerd, I have a solid educational foundation. I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan, followed by an MBA from Loyola University Chicago. My pursuit of knowledge led me to the Harvard Graduate School of Education, where I obtained a master’s degree in education.

I like to maintain a fitness regimen, purely so I can indulge in the simple pleasures of cheese, dessert and meals with friends. Other hobbies include reading, walks by Lake Michigan, hiking through nature’s beauty, experimenting with cooking and baking (see above), exploring museums, and attending live events. It’s all about having a zest for life.

I’m immensely excited to be a father. My heart is open, and I am actively seeking a surrogate to help with this next chapter of my life. My ultimate goal is to create a curious and empathetic human who is a good person.

Thank you Chicago Coalition for Family Building for your support!

Ben is the recipient of the Path to Parenthood Grant from the Jewish United Fund – Chicago.