TODD STEIN

UPPER EAST SIDE COMMUNITY ADVOCATE THROWS HIS HAT IN THE RING

MEET TODD "TJ" STEIN

By Adam Kluger

On a recent summer evening, a fundraiser was held for Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney in Todd "TJ" Stein's UES apartment. Stein has lived in this same apartment building since he was a child. It’s a rent-stabilized unit he now shares with his Mother (88) and father (91) (who fought in Madison Square Garden’s Golden Gloves in the 1940’s). You might call this situation unique and last year it became the cover story of The New York Times Sunday edition. The apartment, a convertible 3 bedroom, was buzzing with over 60 guests. The guest list included Brady

Dalton Richards, a star of Broadway’s Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, who took the night off to attend the event. Richards, a graduate of Syracuse

University, was introduced to Stein through the alumni program set up by former alum, Aaron Sorkin. And, Richards wasn’t the only performer who attended. Since Stein attended the elite Professional Children’s School and has many famous friends, other folks who attended were Trini Alvarado, a schoolmate who appeared in numerous films, an opera singer, who appeared at the White House, as well as neighbors, childhood and college friends, and a few members of a local Democratic Club.

Stein was born, raised, and resides on the UES. He started in public school, later pursued acting in high school, and, while he was not as famous as some of his classmates like Sarah Jessica Parker, he was working in the industry. The party was beautifully catered by local small businesses. The Congresswoman greeted guests and stayed for photographs with many. Stein introduced Maloney and talked about how they first met at a UES rally. He said he was most impressed that “when Maloney meets someone, she always remembers them and that she will never quit fighting”. His speech lasted a few minutes and then the Congresswoman spoke and mingled. At the event, Stein handed Maloney a hat that she wore as they were photographed, that read Todd “TJ” Stein, Community Advocate. Todd is exactly that. His passion to help elders began soon after Thanksgiving 2018, when he returned from a business trip concerned about his father’s well-being. He devoted the next year to help his father, Marvin who was wrongfully placed into guardianship, have his rights restored. Today, Todd’s goal is to help others in need navigate the complex programs available, especially for seniors on limited income. Todd’s parents are now good friends and are living together because of Stein’s efforts - after 25 years of marriage and 30 years of divorce. He takes great care of his parents who both have 24-hour home health aides. Their story brought Todd’s passion to a new level. He’s a true advocate and leads by example!

Stein’s goal is to run for District Leader in 2023 in AD 76. In addition to elder issues, his platform includes helping small business, affordable housing and advocating for cleaner and safer streets.After suffering a traumatic bicycle accident in 2020, he became a passionate advocate for safer streets for pedestrians and bicycle riders. For additional information, please visit ToddJStein.com

At the end of the evening, the fundraiser was a huge success. Stein is ready to help the community and bring solutions to the issues that are paramount to him.