James Earl Caldwell

James’ nickname is “Jokèmon”. He is best known for selling jokes on Telegraph Avenue. Funny man James has a contagious smile and a joy for life. Breaking all the rules, he has overcome a 40 year addiction to drugs and alcohol. He still sees people on the street who are amazed at how well he is doing. The turning point for him was when someone murdered his adult son on the Oakland streets. “Once something tragic happens, there’s no more running. Drinking and drugs stop working,” James said.

James also realized that there were no positive male role models in his family. He decided to be that role model for his young grandchildren. “I got my first 30 day chip on my son’s birthday.” James recalled. James is celebrating his third year in recovery. “When I was using, I had given up my hopes and my dreams. Now my life in recovery is opening doors for me.” James attends Merritt College where he is continuing his education in counseling. He is working at the San Francisco Haight Ashbury Free Clinic. “I have gone from one side of the desk to the other,” he said.

One day before Mother’s day in 2007 James and fourteen others were burned out of their West Oakland apartment. The news report says James ran through the building with a fire extinguisher telling people to get out. He praises the BOSS Transitions Project for helping him. James says having his own place gives him serenity. James is also an entrepreneur with his own T-shirt making business called “Gotcha”. He is teaching his grandsons how to start a business.

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