Charles is a graphic designer and entrepreneur with a background in artist development and business marketing from Jackson, Mississippi. He became interested in farming as an adult living in Erie, Pennsylvania, where he had several friends with home gardens. Growing cucumbers, tomatoes, and watermelons in the backyard started his love of farming and now he is on a mission to get the tools of farming into schools and homes. Before joining Refugee and Immigrants Self Empowerment (RISE) as the Urban Agriculture Coordinator in Syracuse, New York, Charles participated in the Groundswell Center For Local Food and Farming pilot BIPOC Farmer Training program, which immersed him into Ithaca’s food system for six months. He looks forward to enhancing food security, educating others about agriculture, and connecting with the community. Charles spends his free time gardening, taking care of his plants, reading, or exploring the great outdoors.