Vote Peggy Banaszek, Democrat State Representative

I am a Philadelphian, born and bred. I’ve tried, briefly, to live in other places, but quickly returned to the city that I love. Throughout my adult life I have been looking for ways to make a positive difference in the lives of my family, friends, and neighbors here in Philadelphia. For almost a decade, I have been an active and participating member of the 182nd district, as well as a number of community organizations.

I earned my Masters degree in Government at the University of Pennsylvania to obtain a full academic understanding of our legislative process. I gained practical, day-to-day experience by working with my local ward, winning my seat as a Democratic Committee member, and volunteering as a budget aide in Philadelphia City Council. In addition, I served as chair of various local professional committees, as a co-founder of a philanthropic organization, as a non-profit board member, and as a participating member of community groups such as the Wash West Town Watch and the Center City Residents Association.

I have seen how Philadelphia governance really works. From budgeting on the highest level to patrolling the streets on foot at night—my experiences have taught me how neighborhood voices can be translated into useful public policy. I have practiced the skills needed to plan, build, and most importantly, to lead and motivate others.

Government and Community Experience

Democratic Committee Member 5th Ward, 8th Division
May 2006 – Present
- Challenged two incumbents and one newcomer, winning with twice as many votes as the next candidate
- Serving a four-year term responsible for: communicating neighborhood concerns to Democratic party leadership, motivating neighbors to vote, sharing and explaining Party platforms, and assisting in management of the polling place on election day
- Subsequently elected First Vice Chair of the 5th Ward in June 2006

Organizer and Patroller for Washington Square West Town Watch
Winter 2006 – Present

Member of the Casino-Free Philadelphia Media Team
Fall 2006 – Present
- Wrote and published editorials, letters, and articles under director of Casino-Free Philadelphia in support of casino site changes

Member of Center City Residents Association and Wash West Civic Association
Fall 2006 – Present

Board Member of Philadelphia Society for Services to Children (PSSC)
Fall 2002 – Present
- Provide feedback on new programs and budgets for non-profit whose mission is to prevent abuse and neglect of children in Philadelphia
- Support fundraising efforts and assist with publicity events

Member of Washington Mews Condo Board
Secretary, Spring 2000 – Winter 2002
Vice-President, Spring 2007 - Present
- Elected to a volunteer position on Board whose goal is to manage the common condo property according to by-laws and within budget
- Promoted participation in the Board through public relations and communications

Budget Aide for Councilman-at-Large
Spring 2004
- Served over 150 hours as an unpaid Budget Aide during City of Philadelphia budget sessions for fiscal year 2005
- Prepared the Councilman for budget hearings by providing topic summaries and potential questions, highlighting issues, and keeping minutes; attended most budget sessions with the Councilman

Chair of Pyramid Club Young Executives Fall 2004 – Fall 2005
Member, Pyramid Club Young Executives, 2001 – present
Founding Member, Pinnacle Group (Philanthropic Incubator), 2002 – present
Event Chair, Young Executives of Distinction Recognition Reception and Dinner, 2004, 2005 (Co-Chair)

President of Mount Holyoke College Democrats
Fall 1993 – Spring 1994

Education

Masters in Government Administration, Certificate in Politics
Fels School of Government at the University of Pennsylvania
Spring 2006
- Completed coursework in areas such as: public finance, public policy, evidence- based government, local elective politics, municipal government
- Received service award from Dean
- Studied under prominent elected Philadelphians

Bachelors in Mathematics
Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA
Spring 1994

EMILY’s List Political Opportunity Program
September 2005 & August 2007
- Graduate of program on campaign development and fundraising with other local candidates and current elected politicians

The Winning Edge
January 2007
- Graduate of Pennsylvania-specific campaign training school sponsored by the PA Women’s Campaign Fund

United Way Young Leaders Board Orientation Program
Summer 2002
- Graduate of program on how to be a vital resource for non-profit board

 Additional experience

Poll Watcher for Committee of Seventy
Attendee of campaign and cause fundraisers
Published author of letters on local and national issues to local newspapers
Donor to local and national candidates