Philadelphia native and Democratic State Representative candidate Tony John Payton, Jr. has made considerable strides in his young life. Best known for his advocacy of positive youth development and affordable housing, the 25-year old is a born leader in his own right. Tony’s guiding philosophy on young people stems from the premise that every young person has strengths and capabilities that can be developed. He champions this philosophy through various speaking engagements where he offers insight into the importance of youth empowerment initiatives through comprehensive and proactive strategies that engage youth in constructive ways.

Many of these initiatives that Tony has been engaged focus of service projects that support healthy families, and safe environments where young people can grow and mature into productive adults. His nieces, Deja and Laila, are confirmation of his belief that with the proper encouragement and support, positive youth development can be realized. Tony credits his parents Debra and Tony Sr. for instilling the principle that service to mankind is a personal responsibility. Tony’s other efforts in the Philadelphia community center on affordable housing. As an advocate, he has worked directly with families struggling to find housing within their budgets. He has personally witnessed families and individuals living in sub-standard housing, and over-crowded conditions. Through housing education programs, Tony continues to work tirelessly to help families obtain affordable homes and protect others from losing their homes to foreclosure. He also works with other organizations to help eliminate unfair housing regulations that drive up costs that are passed on to the consumer.

All of Tony’s efforts are aimed at creating project partnerships that build stronger communities, and positively shape and impact the lives of those in the greatest need. His other community contributions include: The 2005 formation of Icon Community Corporation, a non-profit organization that assists in bridging the gap in reading disparities among school-aged youth 2005 Deputy Campaign Manager for Philadelphia District Attorney Candidate Seth Williams 2005 Field Coordinator for former Democratic Congressional Candidate Bryan Lentz Treasurer of PA Pac for Progress Additionally, Tony was awarded a 2005 fellowship by the Center for Progressive Leadership, and holds active memberships in the Philadelphia’s Young Nonprofit Leaders (PYNL), the Philly Young Democrats, the Young America PAC, and the Social Action Committee. He is a contributor to the Young Philly Politics Web site, and co-chair of Students for Progressive Ethics Amendments and Reform (S.P.E.A.R). Tony will complete partial undergraduate studies at Community College of Philadelphia this fall. Committed to a better Philadelphia, Tony’s background and professional experiences have provided him applicable lessons in community service, and a firm foundation for presenting his ideas at the legislative level.