Renaissance

James Harold Adams came to Renaissance's Bayview Business Resource Center after he completed 16 years in prison. While incarcerated, James picked up literacy as well as culinary skills. In his own words, James previously "hustled" through business. However, his inability to read (which he did not admit to others) prevented him from succeeding.

Adams Smoked Meats, where he cooks for groups of 20 to 300 people. His clients include Charles Drew Elementary School, Providence Baptist Church and Southeast Electrical Contractors. According to James, "BBRC has helped me with my business every step of the way - from the ABCs of running a business to getting funding, they do it all. I could not have done it without you all." James came to Ren/BBRC at the suggestion of a local business owner who was also formerly incarcerated and serves as an informal mentor to him. James took several business and technology classes. He was awarded a Techquity grant and is receiving ongoing individual consulting and support services. James is now operating his own catering company.