This August, the Washington community gathers to celebrate a true servant-leader. Chet A. Bennett, CEO and founder of Bennett Career Institute, is now a premier destination specializing in cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, braiding, makeup and related beauty arts education since its founding in 1996. With a remarkable 34 years in the industry and 30 years at the helm of Bennett Career Institute, Mr. Bennett’s journey is a testament to what faith and hard work can achieve. The institute is located in the Brookland community near Catholic University, in a building it owns at 700 Monroe St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20017.
This exciting celebration honors the anniversary of the Bennett Career Institute; the Kidney Kafe, started as a result of the thankful spirit of Chet Bennett as he marked the anniversary of his kidney transplant earlier this month; and the C. Alan Foundation, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit arm. Mr. Bennett once said, “Your dreams may be deferred, but not denied. If God can do it for me, He can surely do it for you too!”
At the heart of this celebration is the Bennett Career Institute, the licensed and accredited institution where Mr. Bennett, his board and staff have spent three decades empowering students with professional excellence and spiritual integrity. Mr. Bennett’s commitment to transformation was highlighted in a full-page feature in The Washington Post, which lauded his profound work within the prison system. For years, he has taught incarcerated men and women the art of cutting and styling hair, ensuring they return to society ready to work for themselves.
A highlight of the institute’s mission is its long-standing contract with the D.C. Department of Corrections, where instructors teach incarcerated men and women the skills needed to gain licensure and immediate employment upon release.
This commitment to “training today for a successful tomorrow” has transformed thousands of lives by providing a path to financial independence and professional excellence.
Colossians 3:23-24 says: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters … It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” This reflects the high standards at Bennett Career Institute, where work is viewed as a form of worship.
Chet Bennett’s tireless dedication has earned him prestigious honors, including the 2024 Hero of Hope Award from the American Kidney Fund and a $30,000 grant from the BeyGOOD Foundation to further support his students’ dreams.
To mark this milestone leading up to the big anniversary on Aug. 29, 2026, the public is invited to participate in these upcoming events:
• Scaling Your Beauty Brand (The Remix): May 18, 2026 (Tickets: $600 early bird / $700 regular).
• Anniversary Boat Ride: A celebration of faith and fellowship on the water.
• 30th Anniversary Awards Gala: An evening honoring three decades of community impact.
• Bennett Tree of Life: Purchase an engraved leaf for $30 per leaf, $300 per branch, $3,000 per trunk or $30,000 per base. Each will be permanently displayed at headquarters.
• Souvenir Booklet: To purchase an ad and share your tributes, call 240-602-6295 and speak with Lyndia Grant.
The Kidney Kafe — often referred to as “From the Ground to the Gut” — is a specialized nutrition program and food service system founded by Chet Bennett to support the kidney disease and diabetic communities. Operating out of the Brookland community, the Kafe focuses on educating patients on healthy lifestyle choices through delicious, low-sodium, kidney-conscious meals.
Kidney Kafe features a community garden that provides fresh herbs and sustainable foods, which “Chef Benne” uses to create healthy seasoning alternatives. Beyond its pop-up brunch series and catering services, the Kidney Kafe partners with local organizations like Access Housing to provide nutritious meals to veterans and the homeless, proving that healthy eating can be both accessible and full of flavor.
The C. Alan Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established by Chet Bennett following his own successful kidney transplant, which occurred several years ago this month. The foundation was established to improve educational prevention and nutritional management of kidney disease. Its core mission is to assist those living with chronic kidney disease by providing essential counseling, toiletries, education, housing and transportation support. By focusing on mindset changes and environmental improvements, the foundation strives to eliminate the stigma and isolation associated with the disease while preparing patients for successful transplantation.
Community Testimonies
Hope for a New Start: Angelina Millner, a graduate who was once incarcerated, shared with The Washington Post that the program not only improved her skills but gave her a “second chance” at life. Today, she is a licensed stylist and salon owner who returns to the jail to teach others the same craft that saved her.
Confidence in the Craft: Recent graduates like Scarlet Angelo express immense pride in their journey at Bennett Career Institute. “It was a huge challenge, a lot of hard work, but it was so worth it,” she noted, highlighting how the institute builds confidence alongside technical skills.
A “God-sent Miracle”: Vaughn Reynolds, a close friend and kidney warrior, described Chet as a mentor and friend who has been a “miracle” for those navigating the difficult journey of kidney disease.
Heartfelt Gratitude: Beneficiaries of the C. Alan Foundation have shared life-changing stories, with one recipient expressing tearful thanks after the foundation paid their rent for six months following a medical ordeal, calling Mr. Bennett an “angel.”
“Chef Day” Anticipation: At local veterans’ centers, residents began calling meal delivery days “Chef Day,” eagerly anticipating the healthy, flavorful meals provided by the Kidney Kafe.
In closing: “For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the Lord.” — Jeremiah 30:17. A central promise for the C. Alan Foundation and its mission for kidney warriors.
To participate in this year’s 30th anniversary celebration, call 202-526-1400.
Lyndia Grant is a speaker/writer living in the D.C. area. Her radio show, “Think on These Things,” airs Fridays at 6 p.m. on 1340 AM (WYCB), a Radio One station. To reach Grant, go to her website, www.lyndiagrant.com, email lyndiagrantshowdc@gmail.com or call 240-602-6295. Follow her on X @LyndiaGrant and on Facebook.
