Meet Chuck Baldwin of Urbean Cafe
In November of 2021, Chuck Baldwin’s life changed for the better.
Six months before, business manager John Wiseman had visited the bank where Chuck’s sister works and talked with her about Urbean Café.
She immediately talked with John about her brother, Chuck, who was being released from prison in South Carolina after seven years and needed a fresh start.
When Chuck came to stay with his sister that Thanksgiving, he met with John and was hired to work at Urbean Café before the holiday. He assumed the role of general manager upon John’s retirement.
How Support Leads to Success
Originally from Ohio, Chuck had relocated to South Carolina in 2001 to work for Federal Express. During his prison stay, he worked as a cook at the Criminal Justice Academy for three and a half years. Prior to that, Chuck was a certified mechanic.
“Working at Urbean Café is much better than working under cars,” Chuck said. “There has been a lot to learn about being a general manager, and it’s been a challenge to get acclimated. Crystal, Dennis, and Tamela have provided ongoing help and support for me in this role.”
How a Job Makes a Difference
“This is more than a job to me, it’s a way to give back,” Chuck said “I like making a positive impact, and this is a great way to do it.”
“I believe in this ministry,” Chuck continued. “The people of this ministry have shown that they truly care and want to help people coming out of prison, and I think that’s amazing. I can’t imagine working for better people. They keep us on track and do everything they can to help.”
Putting Down Roots
Since 2021, Chuck has moved out of his sister’s home and bought his own home, car, and motorcycle after being approved for a bank loan.
“The ministry also helped me furnish my home,” Chuck explained. “I was blessed to have all the furnishings of my home donated to me through a member of John’s network who needed to find a place for them. I have watched the ministry help a number of other people in similar ways.”
Positive Changes at the Cafe
Recently, the café introduced a new menu, which is the first of many positive changes. The Café has become a staple for the Metro Transit Center and the local community. New tables and chairs and freshly waxed floors make the space more appealing and inviting. More new menu changes are coming soon.
“People think we are here to run a café and serve food,” Chuck said. “We are here for more than that. We help every staff member make positive changes while serving the community, and that’s amazing.”
Learn more and download the menu on our Urbean Cafe page.