Approximately 30 years ago, Charles moved from Buffalo, NY when he was called to Mt. Sinai Baptist Church in Spartanburg. His first challenge was to help build a new sanctuary, and amazingly was able to implement paying off the mortgage in only five years.

Charles saw the need to reach out to the community in various ways. He implemented a prison ministry with Cross Anchor, Dutchman, and Northside Correctional Facilities.

Charles spearheaded the building of one of the first (if not the first) family life centers in the African American community in Spartanburg. Community and church groups often use the family life center to hold community meetings. The church also partnered with School District Seven and its TIPS program to house that program in the family life center.

Charles now has the dream of establishing an assisted living facility that would meet the needs of low to middle income senior citizens in the community. Under his leadership, the church formed the Mt. Sinai Development Company and is now partnering with the Spartanburg Housing Authority in an effort to make this dream a reality. Charles has led classes for young adults to teach them fiscal responsibility and public speaking. He has been a strong advocate of education and has been a driving force to encourage many young people to obtain Masters and doctoral degrees. Charles loves literature and learning. He and his wife Jessie live in Simpsonville, SC.

For his constant contributions to his church and community, 107.3 JAMZ is proud to salute Pastor Charles Locke as a 2008 Upstate Black History Maker.