Editor’s note: Two Democrats — Reginald Crossley and incumbent Horacena Tate — are running for the District 38 State Senate seat in the July 31 primary election. The district includes part of Buckhead. Click here for the profile article on Tate.

Though this is his first run at political office, Reginald Crossley has served behind the scenes on four political campaigns since 2000.

The 28-year-old is a youth commissioner with the Fulton County Department of Human Services, where he has lobbied for youth-related legislation since 2008. In that role he also is a certified gang prevention specialist and certified violence prevention specialist.

In addition, Crossley volunteered for the winning campaigns of Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed in 2009, District 5 U.S. Rep. John Lewis, D-Atlanta, in 2010, President Barack Obama in 2008 and State Sen. Bill Finch of Bridgeport, Conn., in 2000. Finch is now mayor of Bridgeport. Crossley said his “over a decade of experience in the human service sector” helps set him apart as a candidate.

“Having worked in many facets of the community (i.e. public schools, nonprofit, state/local government), [I] understand first-hand the needs of his constituency. [I have] lived in District 38 for more than 10 years and [have] a proven track record of organizing community initiatives. [I] specialize in school programming and curriculum development that directly impacts a diverse population of all ages. As a gang prevention specialist and professional trainer, [I] work tirelessly facilitating works shops to empower teachers, youth and human services providers. [I am] a well-rounded candidate who brings expertise in both the service and policy functions of community.”

He and his wife, the former Angel Tatum, live in southwest Atlanta’s Cascade community. Crossley said his top issues are the three E’s.

“E3 (education, employment, environment) is a solution-based action plan created by Reginald Crossley for District 38 residents, community stakeholders and local leaders who seek to transform the overall condition of society,” he said. “This approach incorporates best practices that will help all generations address problems of underserved communities, safety, social barriers and more. The following three focus areas incorporate the needs and voices of our youth, families, and seasoned elders.”

According to the Georgia Government Transparency and Campaign Finance Commission (formerly the State Ethics Commission), Crossley had $4,660 in contributions and $1,377.71 net cash on hand through June 30.

Information: visit www.ReginaldCrossley.com.