Bio

Tave Padilla is a lifelong resident of Newark who has dedicated his life to public service and helping children. He currently serves as Assistant Recreation Director for one of the largest youth leadership and recreation programs in the state.

Padilla also worked as a legislative aide to Assemblywoman Nellie Pou of Paterson, who was at the time the chair of Assembly Appropriations Committee, and served as chief of staff to former Assemblyman Wilfredo Caraballo, who was the speaker pro tempore of the New Jersey Assembly.

Padilla also ran a successful business in Newark for more than 20 years on Broad Street and later on Halsey Street. He is an experienced manager, recruiter and marketing executive. He is actively involved with youth as a fundraiser and board member for Roberto Clemente and North Ward baseball leagues and the Newark Small Fry Basketball League.

He is a graduate of Essex Catholic High School. His children both graduated from Rutgers University.