Pamela Smith-Payton
Pamela Smith-Payton is a highly accomplished community service advocate and nonprofit leader, known for her dedication to empowering individuals and strengthening communities. As the Founder and Program Director of Open Arms Against Abuse Services, she built a nonprofit organization providing shelter, advocacy, and resources for survivors of domestic violence. Under her leadership, the organization expanded to operate two facilities with a committed staff and over 30 volunteers, securing nearly $70K in annual contributions and forming partnerships with local government officials, corporate sponsors, and major sports organizations such as the Philadelphia 76ers and Philadelphia Phillies. She also serves as CEO of Gospeloduim Music and COO of MAAT Transportation and contributes to initiatives like Diva Style and Queens Magazine, inspiring young girls toward independence and a brighter future.
Pamela’s experience extends across social services and nonprofit management. She has served as a Community Support Manager at Community Options, Inc., supervising staff, managing financial operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and developing individualized support plans for people with disabilities. Her background also includes working as a Transition Specialist, helping incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society through counseling, career development, and essential resources.
Her commitment to community service has earned her numerous awards and recognitions, including proclamations from the City of Philadelphia, commendations from Pennsylvania governors, and acknowledgments from the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus. She has been honored by national and local organizations for over 25 years of public service and advocacy in areas such as domestic violence prevention and community development.
Pamela actively participates in a wide range of civic and community organizations. She serves on boards, participates in local task forces, and engages in community safety and violence prevention initiatives. She is affiliated with the NAACP, Democratic Women’s Group, Gospel Music Hall of Fame, and numerous neighborhood associations.
Beyond her professional achievements, Pamela is a devoted wife of 25 years, mother of 12, grandmother of 25, and great-grandmother of six. She is currently running for city council and completing her studies at Harvard, with graduation expected next month, continuing her lifelong commitment to leadership, advocacy, and positive social change.
• Strayer University
• Stop the Violence Community Task Force
• Open Arms Against Abuse Services
• PA Domestic Violence Task Force
• 12th District Police Department, Philadelphia, PA
• Philadelphia Town Watch
• Southwest CDC NAC
• School District of Philadelphia
• Mitchell Home & School
• Marion Oaks Civic Association
• Gospel Music Hall of Fame
• NAACP, Democratic Women's Group
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my determination, even in the face of those who didn’t believe in my dreams. When I started, I was the only Black organization focused on domestic services, and that challenge shaped my perseverance and commitment.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was simple: never give up on your dream. Those words have guided me through the toughest moments and inspired me to keep moving forward.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
To young women entering this field, I always say: go for it. Follow your passion, trust your instincts, and don’t let anyone tell you that your goals are too ambitious.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my business right now is funding. Securing the resources needed to sustain and grow programs is a constant effort, but it fuels my creativity and problem-solving skills.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me, both professionally and personally, center around being able to help someone who couldn’t help themselves. Making a tangible difference in someone’s life is the true reward of my work.