Hi, I'm Jason Benell 

Born into a military family and having lived on two continents, I've proudly called the Southside of Des Moines home for over a decade with my wife and two children (3 if you count my cat, Niko). I chose to put down roots on the Southside because of the diversity, great neighbors, and access to great family attractions like Easter Lake. I have dedicated my time to volunteering in local organizations including Polk County Democrats, where I efficiently ran my caucus site for the 2020 presidential election. In addition, I volunteer at Hispanic Educational Resources as treasurer and board member for the non-profit early childhood education center, at Des Moines Soccer Club as a highly sought-after volunteer coach, and as President of the largest secular group in Iowa, Iowa Atheists and Freethinkers. I am also a combat veteran having served in Al Anbar province during Operation Iraqi Freedom III in 2005, earning the Combat Action Badge alongside other expeditionary medals for good conduct.