The 100 Black Men Midwest District News April 2024 Issue

Spreading joy in our communities.

Honda is committed to empowering our associates to get involved in the communities where we live and work. To that end, we happily give our time and resources to support our families, neighbors and local communities. By spreading joy, we help to make a positive impact in our communities –and across America.

Honda supports the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis in their vision to positively impact the development of young people. Learn more at csr.honda.com

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2024 Midwest District Summit

This was the second Summit of the Midwest District, an event to remember, held in Indianapolis, Indiana, with great success. The Indianapolis Chapter of the 100 Black Men hosted the Summit from March 8th to 10th, 2024, and left no stone unturned to ensure it was an unforgettable experience for all attendees. The Summit took place at the JW Marriott hotel, which offered plush and comfortable accommodations for the guests. The hotel’s elegant decor and modern amenities provided a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere. PAGE 18

CONTENTS

“What truly set this summit apart was its practical approach, offering strategies and solutions that can be implemented at the chapter level.”

The Midwest District Summit, a unique and impactful event, was successfully hosted by the Indianapolis Chapter of the 100 Black Men from March 8 - 10, 2024. This event, unlike any other, significantly influenced our members. The participants were not just inspired and motivated, but they also contributed to the growth and development of our community. The Summit’s focus on Chapter Best Practices provided a rare opportunity for individuals to network, collaborate, and learn from each other, fostering a strong sense of belonging and unity. What truly set this summit apart was its practical approach, offering strategies and solutions that can be implemented at the chapter level, ensuring participants left with actionable takeaways.

The 100 Black Men of America, Inc. is more than just an organization; it’s a community that empowers young men and women to reach their full potential. Through its lifelong commitment to mentorship, the local chapters of 100 Black Men of America are actively addressing regional and national issues affecting African American communities. As a member of the Moses Gray Midwest District, I have had the honor of working with the youth in Cleveland and witnessing the profound impact of our collective efforts.

As we look forward to our 38th Annual Conference in Atlanta, GA, we invite you to join us. This year’s conference theme, ‘Future-Proofing Our Youth, Members, and Communities’, underscores our commitment to preparing for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. This is the conference for individuals and organizations working in youth mentoring, education, health and wellness, economic empowerment, leadership, and social equity spaces. If you’re eager to connect with leaders who are championing fair access to resources and opportunities, this conference is your destination. It offers an affordable opportunity to expand your skills, share best practices, network, and learn how to make a positive impact on youth and your community.

James W. Wade III Managing Editor

The Moses Gray Midwest District Moses W. Gray: A Life Well Lived

The Board of Directors, chapter presidents and all members of 100 Black Men of America, Inc. pay tribute to member Moses W. Gray. Although we are saddening at the passing of our brother, we salute the life he lived and the example he set for the next generation of leaders. His accomplishments were expansive, and he was the epitome of excellence throughout his life’s journey. He embodied leadership, advocacy, and distinction across many industries and community causes. It is impossible to encapsulate all the lives he touched, the people he influenced, and the exponential impact he made in society during his time among us.

A shining example of a principal belief the100 organization was founded on —- What They See Is What They’ll Be® —- Mr. Gray lived a life that was extremely useful and honorable while showing compassion to others. His service to his community made a lasting difference in the lives of young people. The accomplishments of Moses W. Gray are well documented and archived. From the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc. and the headquarters of 100 Black Men of America, Inc., at Indiana University and General Motors, and especially through the extensive collection housed at the Indiana Historical Society. His footprint and impact are surpassed by the smile he always displayed when entering a room or engaging with a young person.

His many awards bear testimony to the accomplishments made throughout his lifetime. As a founding member of 100 Black Men of America, Inc., where he served as the initial Secretary, we want to shed light on his impact within the 100 family. Gray was always an active member of the 100 Black Men movement and organization, at a national and local level. A founding member and president of 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc., his service was extensive and included working on numerous committees, programs, and community initiatives. Gray was instrumental in the development and success of the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc. Summer Reading Academy.

At the national level, Gray served as secretary of 100 Black Men of America, Inc. for eight years. He was acknowledged for his commitment, work, and dedication to the 100 Black Men with the following awards and recognitions: the national Midwest District named in his honor, Indianapolis’ Centurion Club Award in 2022, and The Moses Gray Man of the Year Award also in his honor.

Gray was historically involved in causes to address racial justice and inequities including police brutality, racism in schools, health disparities, and other issues directly impacting the lives of children. That passion for youth extended to his many affiliations including the Wilma Rudolph Foundation, the State Council on Adoptable Children, where he served as president in 1972, the Black Adoption Committee, serving as president in 1973, the Indiana Association for the Rights of Children, where he was the inaugural president in 1974.

His accomplishments at General Motors and business leadership within the automotive industry spanned 30 years. He was known to sports fans because he played football at Indiana University and professionally for the Indianapolis Warriors and the New York Titans. Mr. Moses W. Gray is a proven leader, a 100 Black Men Statesmen, he was a friend to many, and will forever remain an example of a life well lived. We will update members on the celebration of life for Brother Gray as information becomes available.

REMEMBERING

Message From The District Representative

Brothers of the 100

We are pleased to present the highlights and key takeaways from the 2nd annual Moses Gray Midwest District Summit, held from March 8 to 10 at the JW Marriott Downtown Indianapolis, IN.

The summit was an extraordinary success, owing to the exceptional caliber of chapter representation, enriching workshops, invaluable fellowships, and extensive networking opportunities.

Throughout the event, attendees engaged in insightful discussions on various pertinent topics, including the Chapters’ Playbook/Mandatory Report, Effective Chapter Finance and Fund Development, Collegiate 100 Past, Present and Future President Panel Discussion, Youth Mental Health Training, Chapter Best Practices, and Stop the Bleed® Training and Certification.

Undoubtedly, one of the most significant highlights was the certification in Stop the Bleed®. Equipping ourselves with the skills to save lives potentially underscores the tangible impact of our collective efforts.

We extend our sincere gratitude to our sponsors, whose unwavering support made this event possible. Special appreciation is reserved for our esteemed panelists and speakers, whose expertise and insights enriched our discussions and left a lasting impression on all attendees. We commend the Collegiate 100 President’s panelists for their outstanding contributions.

As we reflect on the summit’s success, we are confident that our collective impact will continue to resonate in the communities we serve. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to effecting positive change and making a difference.

We extend a heartfelt thank you to all our chapter presidents for their unwavering support, dedication, and active participation. Your contributions were instrumental in ensuring the success of the 2nd Moses Gray Midwest District Summit. We eagerly anticipate our continued collaboration and the transformative impact we will undoubtedly achieve together.

Sincerely,

Andre Givens

100 Black Men of America, Inc. Moses Gray Midwest District Representative

MIDWEST DISTRICT

James Duke At - Large VP of Operations

LaRese Purnell Treasurer

DISTRICT NATIONAL BOARD MEMBERS

Andre Givens

Midwest District Representative

James W. Wade III Communication/Public Relations

MIDWEST DISTRICT CHAPTERS

100 Black Men of Akron Inc.

100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc.

100 Black Men of Greater Detroit, Inc.

100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc.

100 Black Men of Louisville, Inc.

100 Black Men of Madison, Inc.

100 Black Men Milwaukee, Inc.

100 Black Men of South Bend, Inc.

100 Black Men of Twin Cities, Inc.

Michael J. Irby - President Akron Chapter

Gregory Lockhart - President Greater Cleveland Chapter

Charles Felton, IV - President Greater Detroit Chapter

Dr. Floyd Rose - President Madison Chapter

Reggie Gresham - President Louisville Chapter

Joseph Addison. - President Greater Milwaukee Chapter

Marvin Curtis - President Greater South Bend

Kentale Morris,Sr. - President Twinn Cities

Andre Givens - President Indianapolis Chapter

THE 100 BLACK MEN OF GREATER CLEVELAND, INC. IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THE MOSES GRAY MIDWEST DISTRICT SUMMIT

“What

The mission of the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc. is to improve the quality of life within our communities and enhance educational and economic opportunities for all African Americans. OUR MISSION Visit

THE MIDWEST DISTRICT SUMMIT

Two Days of Engagement

By James W. Wade III Managing Editor

The second Summit of the Midwest District was an event to remember, held in Indianapolis, Indiana, with great success. The Indianapolis Chapter of the 100 Black Men hosted the Summit from March 8th to 10th, 2024, and left no stone unturned to ensure it was an unforgettable experience for all attendees. The Summit took place at the JW Marriott hotel, which offered plush and comfortable accommodations for the guests. The hotel’s elegant decor and modern amenities provided a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere.

The food served during the Summit was nothing short of exceptional. Delicious and expertly prepared dishes left many attendees craving for more. The culinary team paid great attention to detail and catered to all dietary requirements, ensuring everyone was well-fed and satisfied.

The participants were greatly inspired and motivated by the unique insights and perspectives of industry experts who shared their knowledge and experience. With its strong emphasis on Chapter Best Practices, the event provided an invaluable opportunity for individuals to network, collaborate, and learn from one another, fostering a strong sense of belonging and unity. What set this Summit apart was its focus on practical strategies and solutions that can be implemented at the chapter

level, ensuring participants left with actionable takeaways. “The Summit was a resounding success, thanks to the high-quality workshops, invaluable fellowships, and fruitful networking opportunities. One of the significant takeaways for all of us was undoubtedly the certification in Stop the BleedÒ. Knowing that we now possess the skills to save someone’s life potentially is a tangible outcome of our time together,” said Andre Givens, Midwest District Representative.

This two-day Summit, expertly led by Midwest District Representative Andre Givens, who plays

a crucial role in guiding the district’s operations, was packed with workshops and discussions that enhanced the performance of district chapters. Summits create spaces where leaders can discuss critical issues or trends that affect an industry or region. Most summits have two goals: sharing and debating ideas with fellow experts and developing solutions and action plans to address these issues.

Friday night was the Welcome to Indianapolis Reception, aka a Meet & Greet type of setting where everyone received welcomes from:

•Laith Hicks, Colligate 100/Past Program Participate

•Andre Givens, Moses Gray, Midwest District Director

•Invocation- Rev. Dr. Wallace McLaughlin, Chaplain

•Kraig Kinchen, Executive Director, 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc

•Lonnie Jordan, Store Director at Meijer

Saturday morning started at 8:15 a.m. with Breakfast and the State of the 100 from a National Office Representative who stated the 100 is strong and growing under the new leadership of Chairman Milton H. Jones Jr. Next, you had a choice to attend Chapters’ Playbook/Mandatory Reporting with James Duke, At-Large Director of Operations, 100 Black Men of America, Inc., and Dr. Charles Gibbs, CEO -100 Black Men of

America, Inc. or Adequate Chapter Finance and Fund Development with Mark Gaines, Vice President of Development at Indiana University Foundation, Lonnie Jordan, Store Director at Meijer and Cliff Hunt, Assistant Treasurer, 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc. as the Moderator.

James Duke discussed the new way the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. has set up for the chapters to do Mandatory Reporting. These reports are needed to track our membership and mentees successfully so that the 100 can tell our story and have accurate information. This is done once a year, capturing all the data from your chapter, like 990s and Membership Rosters, to name a few.

During lunch the Indiana University Indianapolis Collegiate 100 (C100) Panel Discussion with Chelsie Kupa – Past President – Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), London Okowa – Indiana University Indianapolis (formerly IUPUI) President, Laith Hicks – Ball State University (pending chapter) – President-Elect, and Nate Turnipseed Immediate Past President, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) as Moderator, these young people were excellent, well prepared well spoken.

The Best Practices workshop comprised many outstanding discussions around Membership Intake and Membership Engagement. So many chapters have the same issue of members disappearing after they are pinned. Then, they show up everywhere they can, promoting themselves as 100 members and using it to their advantage to promote themselves and their businesses. The panel is made up of Chapter Best Practices

•Charles Felton, President of 100 Black Men of Detroit, Inc

•Kentale Morris, President of 100 Black Men of Twin Cities, Inc

•James W. Wade III, National Communications/Public Relations, Chair

•Kraig Kinchen, Executive Director, 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc. - served as the Moderator. The panelist all shared their struggles with membership and spoke about how they operate in their chapter.

The 100 Black Men is a mentoring organization, not a social club. When you join the 100, you should focus on mentoring our youth. A few members from the Divine Nine shared what they go through before they cross and become members and asked why the 100 can’t get the same commitment.

The last workshop was Stop the Bleed® Training and Certification. Shardae Hoskins, Lead Program Manager, The Indy Peace Fellowship’s gun violence reduction strategy, and Laith Hicks – Colligate 100, President-Elect as Moderator. The Summit ended with Midwest District Representative Andre Givens sharing our next steps. After many discussions and comments, the group voted to hold the Summit in person every other year. “Thank you again, everyone, for your support, dedication, and participation in making the 2nd Moses Gray Midwest District Summit a resounding success. I look forward to our continued collaboration and the positive impact we will undoubtedly create together,” said Givens.

The 100 Black Men is not just a network but a movement. We are the largest network of African American male mentors in the nation. Our unwavering focus on African American youth is a mission and a commitment to influence and transform the lives of underrepresented and disenfranchised youth, making a significant difference in their futures.

Through our platform of Mentoring The 100 Way®, we provide a wide range of programmatic services. In education, we offer tutoring, college preparation, and scholarship opportunities. In health and wellness, we promote physical fitness and mental health awareness. In economic empowerment, we provide financial literacy education and entrepreneurship support. In leadership development, we offer mentorship and leadership training across a lifetime, making a fundamental difference in the lives of the youth we touch and the communities we serve.

INDIANAPOLIS CHAPTER

TWIN CITIES CHAPTER

CLEVELAND CHAPTER

DETROIT CHAPTER

CHAPTER PRESIDENTS

My Experience at the Midwest District Summit

How did you enjoy the first Midwest District Summit?

The Summit was fantastic! I had the opportunity to meet brothers from various cities. Despite our diverse backgrounds, we were all united by a common goal— personal and chapter growth. It was incredibly inspiring.

What workshops did you enjoy?

The Collegiate 100 Panel Discussion was interesting and very thought-provoking. I always enjoy listening to young people’s perspectives and understanding their aspirations and challenges. I was so proud to listen to the students articulate their experiences.

The session entitled Effective Chapter Finance and Fund Development was highly informative. I serve on the board of a few non-profit organizations. Many of us were able to share our experiences and successes. It was a powerful session. The panel was insightful and left us with some valuable nuggets. We discussed how important it is for all our members to understand the 100’s mission and elevator speech. We all should be ambassadors and assist with the organization’s fundraising efforts.

The Stop The Bleed session and training/certification was an excellent opportunity to learn and understand some positive steps when encountering a violent incident that you may experience.

How long have you been a 100 Black Man?

I was pinned at our December 2021 Gala, so I’ve been a member for 2 1/2 years.

Who inspired you to join the 100, and why did you want to join?

The late Franklin H. Martin was my sponsor. He was a successful business owner, a civic leader, an early champion, and one of the first members behind the founders of our local Cleveland Chapter of the 100.

Can you summarize the experience you had at the Summit?

My experience at the Summit was spectacular. I was able to engage with some like-minded brothers with similar goals and aspirations. We shared some best practices and common mistakes and misconceptions about chapter growth. We had a chance to patronize a Black-owned restaurant. We also visited a few cigar bars. The camaraderie was terrific. The Cleveland Cavaliers and The Minnesota Timberwolves were playing and caused some friendly banter between the Twin Cities and Cleveland 100. A few brothers from the Minnesota chapter will always remember that OT game and the Cavs win. We couldn’t have planned it any better. What I love about these meetings is that they foster friendship, respect, and trust.

Do you have any suggestions for the next Summit?

Yes, a hybrid approach to our meetings would be great. Some brothers have family and work obligations preventing them from participating in the fellowship. A hybrid summit would allow them to participate.

Would you go to another Midwest Summit?

Yes, I would. The information that we glean from each other is invaluable. The saying, iron sharpens iron is a biblical scripture. Proverbs 27:17 states: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

I left that Summit more thoughtful, armed with much more information and strategies than when I arrived. I had fun. Visiting a different city and meeting new people. What’s not to like? I can’t wait for the next Midwest Summit. I hope to see you there!

Christopher Howse Greater Cleveland Chapter

By Chelsie M. Kupa, Director of Human Resources Former Collegiate 100 President

Chelsie M. Kupa is a distinguished Human Resources Management professional with a specialized focus on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) consultancy. Her career spans significant roles, including the Director of Human Resources at Ivy Tech Community College, where she spearheaded comprehensive recruiting, payroll auditing, and organizational development initiatives. Chelsie has a proven track record in enhancing employee engagement, leadership training, and DEIB strategies. Her educational background is robust, holding a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Supervision from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, a Certification in Digital Marketing from Ivy Tech Community College, and a Certification in Diversity Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace from the University of South Florida.

Navigating Professional Growth: Three Essential Tips for Advancing Your Career

In today’s competitive professional landscape, success is not merely about what you know, but how you present yourself and engage with opportunities. This article aims to provide valuable insights into fostering professional development and growth. Through three key tips, we’ll explore the importance of cultivating a professional mindset, embracing diversity in the workplace, and mastering the art of follow-up and expectation clarification.

Tip One: Cultivate Your Professional Mindset

Professionalism extends beyond mere skills; it encompasses a mindset rooted in dedication, organization, and authenticity. By maintaining a professional mindset, individuals can navigate the complexities of the business world with confidence and grace. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, here are some essential steps to cultivate your professional mindset:

Plan for success: Set clear goals, organize your actions, and communicate effectively to achieve your objectives.

Manage your time effectively: Prioritize tasks, delegate when necessary, and maintain a proactive approach to time management.

Build confidence in networking: Embrace opportunities to connect with others, share your talents and experiences, and foster meaningful professional relationships.

Be authentic: Stay true to yourself while embodying professionalism, embracing your unique strengths and qualities.

Remember, professionalism is not just about adhering to external standards; it’s about embodying your best self in every professional endeavor.

Tip Two: Embrace Diversity in the Workplace

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are crucial pillars of a thriving workplace culture. As Black professionals, it’s essential to recognize the importance of supporting one another and advocating for inclusivity in all professional settings. Here are some key considerations:

Embrace your uniqueness: Celebrate your individuality and contribute your diverse perspectives to the workplace.

Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with anti-discrimination laws and advocate for fair treatment and equal opportunities.

Hold yourself and others accountable: Create and maintain an inclusive environment by challenging discriminatory behavior and fostering a culture of respect and acceptance.

Seek support and solidarity: Remember that you’re not alone in your journey. Lean on your peers, mentors, and allies for guidance and encouragement.

By championing diversity and inclusion, we can create workplaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.

Tip Three: Master the Art of Follow-Up and Expectation Clarification

Effective communication is essential for success in any professional setting. Clarifying expectations and following up on commitments

ensures that tasks are completed accurately and efficiently. Here are some strategies to enhance your communication skills:

Summarize key points: After meetings or discussions, recap important details, action items, and deadlines to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Specify expectations: Clearly outline your expectations for deliverables, timelines, and outcomes to avoid misunderstandings or discrepancies.

Seek clarification when needed: Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification if you’re unsure about any aspect of a task or project.

Follow up promptly: After assigning or receiving tasks, follow up periodically to check progress, address any issues, and provide additional support if necessary. By mastering the art of follow-up and expectation clarification, you can foster transparency, accountability, and productivity in your professional interactions.

In conclusion, cultivating a professional mindset, embracing diversity, and mastering effective communication are essential components of professional growth and success. By incorporating these tips into your career journey, you can elevate your professional skills, foster inclusive workplace cultures, and unlock new opportunities for advancement. Remember, your journey to success is unique, but by embracing professionalism, diversity, and effective communication, you can navigate any challenges and achieve your goals with confidence and determination.

“

TALKING ABOUT MONEY IS IN POOR TASTE.”

EDCHOICE IS PROUD TO BE THIS YEAR’S PRESENTING SPONSOR OF THE 100 DALA

At EdChoice, we believe that all families should be empowered to choose the schooling environment that fits their children’s needs best.

That’s why we support organizations like 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc. and the work they do in the community to make sure families are aware of the many educational options that are available to them.

100 BLACK MEN OF AMERICA, INC. LAUNCHES ITS “REAL RALLYING BLACK MEN AROUND THE IMPORTANCE OF Greater Cleveland Chapter

By James W. Wade III Managing Editor

The nation’s largest prominent African American-led mentoring organization, The 100 Black Men of America, Inc., launched its “Real Men Vote” campaign with a 14-city tour. The tour kicked off in Cleveland, Ohio, on April 1st at Premier Barbershop. This effort is focused on delivering critical voter education and engagement ahead of the 2024 Presidential election.

Milton H. Jones Jr., Chairman of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc., said, “We are an organization with more than 4,000 members, all of whom are registered to vote in the upcoming national and local elections. Further, all of these men are committed to helping men and women in their communities register to vote, learn about the election issues, and see the importance of casting their ballots at every opportunity to vote.”

In addition to a critical Presidential election, 435 seats in the House of Representatives and over 30 Senate seats are up for election this year. Ahead of one of the nation’s most consequential election seasons, the “Real Men Vote” campaign is dedicated to combating an onslaught of misinformation and voting dissuasion campaigns. The tour aims to equip Black men across the country with accurate information about issues and policies at the federal, state, and local levels.

Dr. Wes Bellamy, Chair of the Public Policy Committee of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Board, emphasized the increasing national

recognition of Black men and their potential to shape future elections. However, this attention has also brought about a surge of misinformation tactics explicitly targeting them. The ‘Real Men Vote’ campaign was designed to equip Black men with the necessary information and tools to make informed civic decisions, leveraging their voting power to enhance our communities and safeguard our vision for the future.

“REAL MEN VOTE” CAMPAIGN AND NATIONAL TOUR OF VOTING KICKED OFF IN CLEVELAND, OH

Real Men Vote Cleveland Chapter Panelist

“The 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc. was proud to be the first stop on a fourteen-city tour of the Real Men Vote Townhall Initiative, spearheaded by the 100 Black Men of America. Our local chapter and community partners showed up by engaging in a robust discussion on the importance of voting. Last night’s event

set the bar high and got the tour off to a great start,” said Gregory Lockhart, Chairman of the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc. Chapter.

The multi-city tour will feature town halls curated by 100 Black Men, Inc. chapters in each respective city to discuss the importance

of voting and how voting builds power. In cities noted below, the Town Halls will be jointly hosted by the Coalition of 100 Black Women and the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. The 100 Black Men of America will also work with the Collective Education Fund, Black Voters Matter, and others to ensure that this is a collaborative approach to engaging Black men from many backgrounds.

The 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland and Dr. Wes Bellamy had a fascinating dialogue as the event kicked off with close to 100 Black Men, both young and seasoned, in attendance. Fox 8 Cleveland morning anchor Waynes Dawson served as the Master of Ceremonies before introducing local chapter Chairman Gregory Lockhart, who thanked everyone for coming out and recognized our partners,

which included Premier Barbaer Lounge, The Cleveland NAACP, The Presidents Council, The Real Black Friday, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. - Delta Alpha Lambda Chapter, Black Vote Matters Urban League of Greater Cleveland Young Professionals and two founders of the Cleveland Chapter, retired Judge Ron Adrine and retired Judge Michael Nelson, participated on the panel.

We were happy to see many elected officials turn out for this Town Hall about voting, especially Black Men who often wonder if their vote matters. Congresswoman Shontel Monique Brown stopped to hear some of the men’s concerns. Brown has been the U.S. representative for Ohio’s 11th congressional district since 2021. A member of the Democratic Party, Brown previously served as a member of

the Cuyahoga County Council, representing the 9th district.

During this time, you should consider voting as a job you have as a citizen. Like you’re responsible for paying taxes or obeying laws, you should vote because you must help decide who runs the country and makes critical decisions. Imagine you’re picking a team for a game. When you vote, you choose the people representing you in the government. These folks make laws and decisions that affect things like schools, roads, and taxes. If you don’t vote, you’re letting others choose for you, and they might not pick what’s best for you.

“I was ecstatic to kick off the 100 Black Men of America’s Real Men Vote campaign in Cleveland, Ohio on April 1st. A room packed with nearly 100 Black Men talking about the importance of voting, why we need to vote, and lively discussion about what is needed on both the local and national level is exactly the kind of intergenerational conversation we were looking to bring forth with this agenda. Cleveland has shown itself as the model, and I look forward to continuing these discussions nationwide. At the same time, on this tour,” said Dr. Wes Bellamy, National Chair for Public Policy.

Black Voters Matter attended and shared how important voting is to the Black community. Black Voters Matter aims to increase power in marginalized, predominantly Black communities. Effective voting allows a community to determine its destiny. We agree with the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. when he said, “Power at its best is love implementing the demands of justice, and justice at its best is power correcting everything that stands against love.”

It was great to be in battleground Ohio, particularly in Cleveland and Cuyahoga County, where we know that winning is a must, not just a plus, the barbershop has always been a sacred space for Black men, where we share information, build partnerships, and engage in honest dialogue. Last night’s event was a significant milestone in this tradition. It was a platform where leaders could listen more than they spoke and where Black men were heard. This event was a testament to the value and importance of our voices in shaping the future. I do not doubt that Black men will be the most consequential voting bloc in 2024 and for years to come because we will be casting a survival vote. So, we must be fully informed and engaged before casting that vote. We deserve to be treated as an investment instead of an expense because the simple truth is that while you might not win with us, you will lose without us. Last night was about recognizing and sticking with that truth,” said panelist Antjuan Seawright.

“What They See Is What They’ll Be®”

My Experience at the Midwest District Summit

How did you enjoy your first Midwest District Summit?

- This was my first time attending the Midwest District Summit, so I was pleased to experience a wellplanned and executed event. I enjoyed meeting and engaging with members from other chapters and learning about their accomplishments and challenges.

Please let us know what workshops you enjoyed.

-I am trying to remember the specific workshop; however, I enjoyed discussing the chapter playbook and successful initiatives from other chapters.

How long have you been a 100 Black Man?

-8 years

Who inspired you to join the 100, and why did you want to join?

-My dear friend Franklin Martin (emeritus), a man I greatly respect and admire, introduced me to the “100”. I joined with the desire to impact our community, especially youth positively. We all have something to give, no matter how great or small it may seem, but impactful to the communities we serve.

Can you summarize the experience you had at the Summit?

-I had an enjoyable and informative experience. It is motivating to be in the presence of so many brothers dedicated to making positive changes for our people. The focus on developing a platform to manage data collection, analytics, processes, information database, etc., can significantly improve business processes, operations, grants & funding etc., especially if chapters have access to these tools. It was also pleasing to see the work of the 100 come full circle by engaging with youth who have benefitted from our programs and giving back to them.

Do you have any suggestions for the next Summit?

-It would benefit the chapters to have a moderated forum to discuss organizational challenges we face and share and develop solutions/alternatives to overcome them.

Would you go to another Midwest Summit? -Yes.

Brandon Curry

Greater

Cleveland Chapter

My Experience at the Midwest District Summit

How did you enjoy your first Midwest District Summit? I enjoyed the Summit. It was an excellent opportunity for me to meet several of the other brothers in the organization. The sessions were very beneficial, and I wished that I had not had to choose between them, though I recognize that a number of them had to run concurrently in order to fit them in during the available time.

Please let us know what workshops you enjoyed. Best practices AND fundraising were the two that I enjoyed the most. I also enjoyed the Collegiate 100 discussion.

How long have you been a 100 Black Man? About four years

Who inspired you to join the 100, and why did you want to join?

My father is a member of The 100 in Louisiana, and the men in his chapter are very active in their work with youth. I joined because I also wanted the opportunity to impact youth in an organization that has youth-related programs as its primary focus. Other organizations include community service as an aspect of their work. Still, I have yet to come across many other organizations with such a laser-like focus on serving the youth in our community.

Can you summarize the experience you had at the Summit?

It was a great opportunity to learn. I wish I had had more time. It makes me think that I would benefit from virtual meetings with people from other chapters.

Do you have any suggestions for the next Summit?

We are keeping up with the latest ideas on how to best mentor our youth.

Would you go to another Midwest Summit?

I would attend another summit, though, to save on cost and travel, and I would be happy to try a virtual approach in a few years.

Kraig Kinchen Indianapolis Chapter

My name is Laith Hicks, and I am honored to serve as the President-elect of the Collegiate 100 at Ball State University. I am currently a sophomore studying Graphic Design and entrepreneurship.

In March 2024, I hosted and participated as a panelist at the Moses Gray Midwest District Summit. This experience was truly transformative for me, providing a platform for diverse perspectives and invaluable advice from successful Black male figures. I firmly believe in the power of listening and learning, and the summit reaffirmed my commitment to both.

Since my first year of high school, I have been involved with the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc., participating in the Financial Literacy Program and the Beautillion Militaire Program. These experiences have equipped me with essential life skills and instilled in me a profound sense of duty to give back to our community.

Navigating adulthood can be daunting, and I am deeply grateful for the support and mentorship I have received. From exposure to different organizations like the Red Cross to opportunities for travel and professional development, I am continually inspired to pay it forward with respect and gratitude.

The summit was more than just an event—it was a lifeline. Witnessing people invested in my growth and hearing from those who have traversed similar paths allowed me to appreciate my progress since my introduction to financial literacy. Moreover, being able to dress up and engage in meaningful conversations with respected men further bolstered my pride in my journey.

As we progress, I am dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and empowerment within our organization and beyond.

Laith Hicks President-Elect Collegiate 100 – Ball State University

Indianapolis Chapter

The Beautillion Militaire Scholarship Celebration

100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) youth development organization founded in 1984 and serves several hundred Indianapolis youth each year through mentoring-based educational programs. The Indianapolis Chapter is comprised of members and volunteers from diverse backgrounds and with diverse experiences who are committed to helping children. Our members exemplify our motto, “What They See is What They’ll Be,” by volunteering as role models and mentors for youth involved in The 100’s programs.

The Beautillion Militaire Scholarship Program, a unique initiative, was established in 1986 through a partnership between 100 Black Men of Indianapolis and the Indianapolis chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. It has since evolved into a 26-session rite of passage program, specifically designed for young men in grade 12 in central Indiana public and private schools. The program’s mission is to foster critical thinking skills in young African American men while instilling cultural grounding and a purpose-driven approach to productive relationships.

During the Beautillion experience, the young men (Beaus) are immersed in a comprehensive curriculum. They delve into self-improvement topics such as wealth creation, personal financial management, post-secondary educational opportunities, college preparation, and multinational awareness. They participate in cultural activities, foster peer relationships, and engage in career development activities guided by mentors from the 100 Black Men and other professionals. The Beaus gain knowledge and skills about health, religion, dating and relationships, and other topics to enhance their preparedness for adulthood. They also learn a precision military drill that promotes teamwork and discipline. All these experiences culminate in the completion of Beau’s “Man Plan,” a written guide to how Beau envisions his future and the steps he plans to take to reach his goals. This year, the Beautillion program, with a cohort of 32 Beaus, culminated in the Beautillion Celebration Event on April 7th at the Indiana Roof Ballroom.

CELEBRATING 38 YEARS OF ENRICHING THE LIVES OF AFRICAN AMERICAN

100 Black Men of Indianapolis Financial Litercy Event

Sunday, March 17, 2024, The Indianapolis Chapter held a McDonald’s Financial Literacy Event – 100 Black Men of Indianapolis partnered with McDonald’s this year to provide a financial education session for students and parents from several The 100’s programs. Three different groups of African American owner operators met at the McDonald’s of Gary Eley, member of The 100, to discuss financial and other considerations when running a McDonald’s restaurant. This took place at the McDonalds located at 9851 E Washington St

AMERICAN YOUNG MEN

Chapter of the Year (Small)

Madison Chapter won the 2023 Wells Fargo CONGRATULATIONS