Born in Long Island, NY, moved to Palos Verdes, CA for three short years (age 7-10), where he met the Kingston Trio and was introduced to cultural diversity, including our vintage American West. He began singing and playing acoustic guitars…as soloist and with his own trio at age eight.  After moving to CT, his life journey expanded to include the following:

·        As a photographer, Chuck enjoys capturing the “Spirit of our American West”, which he shares with audiences and readers.  His photography of ghost towns, trains and steamboats began a collaboration with PBS for a series pilot with the Kingston Trio.  You might see his photographs in restaurants, magazines and in malls. 

·        As a singer and entertainer, Chuck began in Los Angeles at the age of 8 where he formed his own trio.  Over the years he’s shared the stage with The Kingston Trio and continues performing today as soloist and playing banjo with a bluegrass trio. (Chuck Oakes & the Acorns)

·        As consultant/author, Chuck worked in the human resources field specializing in job search/outplacement services.  His two books on job search helped many “displaced workers”.  He was instrumental at recruiting workers with disabilities for a grocery chain and was asked to write for and become a resource for The President’s Council on Hiring Workers with Disabilities.

·        As an actor and model, he started early and has appeared in many publications, on billboards and commercials.  He made appearance as “The Stetson Man” for Coty Cosmetics.

·        As an advocate, Chuck’s books, articles and programs on aging matters have helped many people face challenges of caregiving and aging.  He was invited to join two committees at the United Nations as a result of his efforts. 

·        Commissioned Stephen Minister, Chuck has been trained in areas pertaining to grief and loss.  This commissioning is international and non-denominational.