Charles Thomas, an East Meck High alum, has lived in Charlotte since he was 6 years old, when he moved from Spartanburg, S.C., in 1980.
He serves as the Charlotte program director of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, a Miami-based foundation that fosters more informed and engaged communities across the nation.
Since Thomas joined the Knight Foundation in 2016, he has been focused on developing and preserving the Historic West End neighborhood, also known as the Beatties Ford Road Corridor, that surrounds Johnson C. Smith University in west Charlotte. The Knight Foundation supports residents’ participation in the development of their district to advance economic mobility.
In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Thomas discusses:
His observations of how Charlotte has changed over the past 40 years.
The Knight Foundation’s past, present and upcoming projects and investments in West End.
Why encouraging residents to participate in development decisions is important to preserving the West End community.
Plans to revive the historic Excelsior Club, a Black-founded jazz club that was the center of social and political life in the Historic West End.
How transportation and development intersect in Charlotte.
Advice he would give to someone following in his footsteps.
Thomas received The Ledger’s 40 Over 40 Award in 2020 for his work with the Knight Foundation to support equitable development in the city’s Historic West End and local arts and cultural organizations.
This podcast episode is part of a series highlighting winners of The Ledger’s 40 Over 40 awards, which honor and celebrate often unheralded people over the age of 40 who are making impactful contributions to Charlotte. It’s hosted by Steve Dunn of Miles Mediation and Arbitration.
Find out more about the 40 Over 40 awards by going to ledger40over40.com.
Nominations are now open for the 2023 40 Over 40 Awards. The deadline is Friday, Feb. 10, 2023. Our panel of independent and wise under-40 judges will get to work soon, and we’ll honor the winners in a fun celebration in person on April 27.
We hope you enjoy the conversation with Charles Thomas.
The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks.
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Investing in Charlotte's Historic West End, with Charles Thomas