Fred Smith (D-IL-1)

Fred Smith (D-IL-1)

Frederick “Fred” Smith

Fred Smith Congressional Candidate Illinois District 1

 

Biography of Fred Smith from Fred Smith for Congress

 

Raised by a single mother in the Robert Taylor Homes housing projects, Fred Smith grew up in a tough environment. Gun violence, drug dealing, and gang banging were just some of the obstacles Fred had to overcome.

Fred’s mother taught him that education was the key to a better life. Fred graduated from Du Sable High School and joined the United States Army. After serving his country in the 325th Airborne Infantry Paratrooper Unit during Desert Storm, he returned to Chicago where he served his community working at a chemical dependency agency. He helped drug and alcohol addicts recover from their addictions. Fred continues his mission as an agent for social justice. He is currently a Program Director at a youth care agency. Fred understands the importance of dedication, hard work, and commitment. He has proven that through perseverance coupled with determination, individuals can help create healthy, strong, and viable communities.

Fred earned B.A. in communications from Northeastern Illinois University and Master degrees in Business Administration (MBA) and in Public Health (MPH) from Saint Xavier University. In addition to his academic endeavors, Fred devotes time to community service projects in partnership with community groups and organizations: Grand Boulevard Federation Safety Net, Balance and Restorative of Justice, the PROMISE Task Force, Fatherhood Initiative, and Veteran of Foreign Wars (VFW).

Fred lives in Evergreen Park with his wife Pamela of 16 years and their three children. Fred has an older son who lives and attends college in Ohio.