Charlotte’s Charles Thomas: From Candy Man to Changemaker
In the vibrant city of Charlotte, there’s a remarkable story unfolding – a tale of resilience, transformation, and a heart dedicated to service. Meet Charles Thomas, a man whose journey from a young entrepreneur to a community champion is nothing short of inspiring.
Early Days: The Candy Entrepreneur
Like many kids with a dream, Thomas started his entrepreneurial journey in middle school as the “candy man.” With a keen eye for opportunities, he bought candy from a local store to sell at school, quickly realizing that he had a knack for making money. Growing up in a household where resources were often tight, he learned early on the value of hard work and financial independence. He says, “I wanted to make sure my mom didn’t have to work as hard.”
A Mother’s Love
Thomas credits his single mother for instilling in him the values of perseverance and creativity. He fondly recalls a Christmas when they couldn’t afford gifts, and she found clever ways to fill their home with surprise presents, making what he thought would be a disappointing day into a joyful adventure. “She bought off-brand Transformers and hid them around the house. It ended up being a really fun day,” Thomas reminisces.
Education and Self-Discovery
As a student, Thomas thrived in school, particularly in the fourth grade when he earned straight A’s. This achievement sparked a belief in his own academic abilities, leading him to eventually pursue a degree at Duke University. With the support of a wonderful guidance counselor, he navigated the complex process of college admission and financial aid. “Duke seemed like a distant dream, but with the right support, it became a reality,” he reflects.
Shifting Focus: From Profit to Purpose
After landing a job at a prestigious consulting firm, Thomas had an epiphany during a summer spent working at a camp for people with disabilities. The experience shifted his perspective from a sole focus on making money to understanding the power of service. “That summer opened my heart to think of life as being about more than money,” he shares. He realized he wanted to make a difference in the world, not just for himself but for others.
Creating Opportunities
Following a stint in consulting, Thomas took a leap of faith, quitting his job to dedicate himself to volunteer work and education. He became a teacher’s assistant, working with kids from his own neighborhood and immersing himself in photography—his true passion. He started Sankofa Photography, named after an African term that encourages people to understand their history and roots.
A New Chapter: Philanthropy and Leadership
Today, as the Charlotte Director for a prominent philanthropic foundation, Thomas is on a mission to drive change in the community. He understands the importance of proper funding and knowledge within underserved communities when it comes to grant opportunities. “Those who have information have an advantage,” he emphasizes. Under his leadership, the focus is on not just providing charity but ensuring that the resources distributed create a real impact.
Charlotte’s Unique Landscape
In a city known for its growth and opportunity, Thomas acknowledges the challenges that still exist concerning economic mobility. “Charlotte is filled with opportunities, but we also face significant struggles,” he states. He believes that collaboration between the public and private sectors can create solutions to address housing and economic disparities, helping to uplift those in need.
A Vision for the Future
Charles Thomas dreams of a Charlotte where community members understand and empathize with each other’s struggles. He envisions a city where everyone has the chance to grow their wealth and where resources are accessible to all. “We all deserve to be able to grow our wealth,” he reiterates, highlighting the importance of individual contributions, whether through time or resources.
In every step of his journey, Thomas demonstrates that sometimes, success is not just about accumulating wealth—it’s about using one’s experiences to help others and foster a community that supports every individual. The story of Charles Thomas is a reminder that we each have the potential to make a difference, one heartfelt action at a time.
