Midwest District News August 2023 Issue

Midwest District News

THE POWER

TO strengthen our community

At the Midwest District Regional Summit, we congratulate 100 Black Men of America for community outreach that’s making a lasting difference in people’s lives.

In Indianapolis, 100 Black Men of America is known for being the nation’s top African American led mentoring organization.. We’re proud to share our goal of improving lives with you.

What would you like the power to do?

THANK YOU MIDWEST DISTRICT SPONSORS

Remembering the 100 Black Men of America

Chairman Thomas W. Dortch Jr.

Thomas W. Dortch Jr., the influential Atlanta businessman, and civic leader who rose to become Chairman of 100 Black Men of America, died in February at age 72. 100 Black Men of America Midwest District Representative James Duke and the entire Midwest District of the 100 Black Men of America would like to remember our great leader during the 2023 Midwest District Summit held in Indianapolis, IN.

Tommy W. Dortch, Jr. was born on April 12, 1950, in Toccoa, Georgia to Lizzie Mae Dortch and Thomas W. Dortch, Sr. He inherited his father’s skills at negotiating, a gift of communication, and a deep concern for his community. Tommy was the youngest of six children, exhibiting his leadership qualities at an early age. He excelled academically (especially in mathematics) and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. Tommy attended Whitman Street High School. He was a National Science Foundation Scholar, student council president, and basketball team member.

His graduating class of 1968 was the first to be integrated with Toccoa. Tommy enrolled as a student leader and activist at Fort Valley State University in Fort Valley, Georgia. He served as Student Body President and was elected by a landslide. He pledged Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and was a life member. Tommy earned a B.A. Degree in Sociology and Pre-Professional Social Work from Fort Valley State University in 1972 and a Master of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Clark Atlanta University in 1986. He also attended Georgia State University as a Ford Fellow in the Urban Administration Program. Tommy received Honorary Doctorates from Fayetteville State University, Jarvis Christian College, Fort Valley State University, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and Livingstone College.

Upon graduating college in 1972, Tommy commenced his career as an activist by seeking aid for disenfranchised people and proposing projects to the State of Georgia. In 1974, Tommy became the associate director of the Georgia Democratic Party, propelling and fueling his passion for politics. In 1978, Tommy began working for U.S. Senator Sam Nunn and eventually became the first African-American State Director to serve in this capacity for any U.S. Senator. Tommy’s civic activism grew during these years, and in 1986, he joined 100 Black Men of America, Inc., a mentoring organization focused on leadership, education, health and wellness, and mentoring.

He served as Chairman of 100 Black Men of Atlanta and was twice elected the Chairman of 100 Black Men of America’s National Board of Directors. Tommy helped shape ‘The 100 and developed it into an international force for Black youth empowerment. In 1986, he founded the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame Foundation, Inc., awarding over $1.1 million in scholarships to HBCU students. In 1994, after more than 16 years of government service, Tommy left his position to pursue his business interests, including minority and small business development, transportation, and non-profit organizations. Tommy W. Dortch, Jr. served as CEO of the consulting firm TWD, Inc. and Atlanta Transportation Systems, Inc., Chairman and CEO of Cornerstone Parking, and Managing Partner of FAD Consulting, LLC. He co-founded the Georgia Association of Minority Entrepreneurs (GAME) to fill a void as an advocacy organization for minority business development. He also co-founded the Greater Atlanta Economic Alliance as a capacity-building and business development organization for the construction and transportation industries.

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 MOSES W. GRAY

FEATURES

Midwest District Wins Big at 37th National Conference and Highlights from Midwest District Summit

I am proud to be a member of the Greater Cleveland Chapter, which makes me a part of the Midwest District. I was part of the Midwest District Summit and the 37th Annual National Conference in Vegas. I had a great time networking with members from other chapters.

Often, our mentality at business events and conferences are that we’re there to take away something, whether it is information, education, or free samples while overlooking the potential for making connections that will further your career. Conferences and events offer prime networking opportunities; if you’re not intentional about it, you might miss many ways to make new contacts and get the word out about your business.

Now, I am not saying walk in the room with a bullhorn, brag to everyone who you are, and make it all about you. You always want to be sure to network with three people at an event: the speaker, the event host/organizer, and the person doing registration and sign-in. The person at the front door sees everybody, including their name, and is usually aware of where the host is and can point you in their direction. Plus, it starts you off positively as you enter the room. You’re not a movie star hitting the red carpet. Your goal isn’t to make a grand entrance but to leave a wake of happy people behind you.

All successful business people need to be skilled at networking if they want to establish new business relationships. If you’ve been to conferences, seminars, and other types of business events, you’ll undoubtedly have encountered numerous people who have been able to work a room.

For some, it just comes naturally. They have that type of personality to work in a room. In other words, they can introduce themselves and strike up a conversation with strangers seemingly effortlessly, which, in turn, can open up business opportunities for them down the track. I thank James Duke for all he has done for the Indianapolis Chapter and the Midwest District. If you know James Duke, he is a person that doesn’t mind helping you.

James W. Wade III Editor

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

Lee Fields - President Greater Cleveland Chapter

Charles Felton, IV - President Greater Detroit Chapter

Dr. Floyd Rose - President Madison Chapter

Reggie Gresham - President Louisville Chapter

Rev. Dr. Kenneth Harris Jr.President Greater Milwaukee Chapter

Marvin Curtis - President Greater South Bend

Kentale Morris,Sr. - President Twinn Cities

Andre Givens - President Indianapolis Chapter

Moses Gray Midwest District Did Well

This year, the 37th Annual National Conference of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. occurred in Las Vegas. The conference hosted the largest attendance for both adults and youths. The Midwest District had outstanding representation at the meeting. Indianapolis Chapter won the Small Chapter of the Year.

The Midwest District also had the opportunity to elect three to our National Board, James Duke (Indy) - VP of Operations, LaRese Purnell (Cleveland)- Treasurer, and Andre Givens (Indy) as Midwest District Representative. Also from the Midwest District, James W. Wade III (Cleveland) served as the Communications and Marketing for the elections of the slate that won.

At the conference, they recognized and celebrated the legacy of the Gentle Giant Moses Gray as a force in the Midwest, and the first national secretary of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. The district is named in his honor; the video memorial video tribute to him. To view the video, click here. Gray, who passed this year in February, was a founding member of the Indianapolis Chapter. James Duke, current Midwest District Representative for 100 Black Men, said Moses Gray was a supportive mentor to him.

The organization created the Moses Gray Scholarship in 2022 to honor the leader. “It’s for any of our prior program participants who are going to any college or technical and trade school,” said Duke, “We also have an internal 100 Black Men of Indianapolis Award called the ‘Moses Gray Man of the Year.’ It’s been around for years and honors our outstanding members for their volunteerism, mentoring, and community engagement.”

Well at the 37th Annual Conference

With Mentoring at the core of our Four for the Future programs, this year’s conference was about the youth. Congratulations to 100 Black Men of America, Inc. 2023 Scholarship recipients. We will award 76 deserving Students with Scholarships totaling over $185,000.00. Thank you to our generous sponsors for supporting our youth. Also, Herman Pride was the year’s mentee out of Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

100 Black Men of America, Inc. Delivered Mentoring Training, Scholarships, Networking, Leadership Development, and Youth Empowerment. During the 37th Annual Conference, Partners, sponsors, members, mentees, panelists, celebrity guests, and youth advocates rated the 100 Black Men Conference a success.

100 Black Men of America, Inc. was joined by their Las Vegas chapter to educate and empower adults and youth of all ages during the 37th Annual Conference on June 14-18, 2023. A record-breaking number of attendees participated in free health screenings and workshops that provided education on entrepreneurship, finance, wellness, and investing, along with numerous celebrations of past, present, and future leaders and supporters. Mentors and students from chapters across the 100 Black Men network met at Caesars Palace Hotel and Conference Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. Youth from middle school to college remained the focus daily, as they were infused in apparent ways. From the opening session to the Report From Our Youth Breakfast, which has become the highlight of the conference, students played significant leadership roles in each plenary session, such as ambassadors, emcees, panelists, musicians, and actor Ashton Elijah serving as the 100’s youth reporter, said National Vice Chairman Albert Dotson.

Congratulations to our Collegiate 100 Chapters of the Year, Southern University, Florida A & M, and Harvey Johnson of Jackson, Mississippi, who was the year’s mentor.

The 100 Black Men of America, Inc. is recognized as the nation’s top African-American-led mentoring organization. Not all youth are born with privilege, opportunities, or a positive network. Some are raised throughout their lives thinking they’ll never be able to live the life they want. This is because of the environment and the people they surround themselves with daily. Every African-American person should be able to create the life they’ve always wanted, and that’s what The 100 Black Men of America, Inc. provides. Committing to personifying the type of people our children will look up to and emulate, we embrace our immense responsibility to our mentees and communities. They give these children another choice by being around like-minded individuals with similar aspirations and goals.

As we have grown The Network of 100 Black Men of America, Inc., more companies and programs have been formed to deliver the education and empowerment needed to change these children’s lives. This is done through the 100’s Four For The Future focus areas; Mentoring, Education, Health & Wellness, and Economic Empowerment. 00 Black Men of America continues to prepare youth and young adults who can lead the way and become the next generation of global leaders. The future of our organization and our country lies in the ability to develop a pipeline of talented, courageous, and influential leaders who can take up the mantle and take on the challenges that lie ahead.

Many of the members in our 100 Black Men Chapters network are leaders of other organizations on local, regional, and national levels. These men serve as trailblazers and role models for today’s youth who will assume their positions tomorrow. Through example and leadership training, our members work tirelessly to help empower mentees to build character and create hope, aspirations, plans, and futures. Our motto, “What They See Is What They’ll Be®,” is epitomized in the servant leadership of our members.

CONGRATULATIONS

THREE SERVING ON

James Duke VP of Operations

LaRese Treasurer

MIDWEST DISTRICT

ON NATIONAL BOARD

Andre Givens

Midwest District Rep

Purnell Treasurer

Indianapolis Wins Chapter

Chapter of the Year (Small)

Madison Chapter won the Wells Fargo Junior

Junior Investment Banking Competition!!!

Indianapolis Second Place Winner for Dollars

And Sense Youth Investment Competition

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DISTRICT SUMMIT

Thank You Bank of America

Bank of America was a proud sponsor at the Midwest District Summit and provided significant input during both days. At Bank of America, they ask this question daily of all those we serve. It is at the core of living our values, delivering our purpose, and achieving responsible growth. By asking this question, we continue learning what matters most to our clients, employees, and shareholders. It helps us start a conversation centered on our commitment to using our capabilities to help those we serve to succeed because we recognize that we can only be successful when the individuals, companies, communities, and employees we do can reach their vision of success.

Responsible growth

We are delivering on our purpose to help improve financial lives by focusing on responsible growth.

Our commitment to responsible growth is relentless and has four tenets: We have to grow — no excuses. We have to be client focused. We have to grow within our risk framework. And our growth must be sustainable, which has three elements: driving operational excellence, being a great place to work for our teammates, and sharing our success with our communities. By driving responsible growth, we deliver returns to our clients and shareholders and help address society’s biggest challenges.

Delivering responsible growth

At Bank of America, we are guided by a common purpose to help make financial lives better through the power of every connection. We’ve transformed Bank of America into a more straightforward, efficient company that combines

two crucial areas: growing the economy while creating tangible value for our business, clients, and communities. We’re helping create jobs, develop communities, foster economic mobility, and address society’s biggest challenges worldwide.

Racial equality and economic opportunity are among our nation’s most enduring challenges. At Bank of America, we’re committed to addressing the root causes of inequality through a company-wide commitment to advancing racial equality and economic opportunity across diverse communities. It’s critical to how we drive Responsible Growth by delivering for our teammates, clients, and shareholders and addressing society’s biggest challenges. We have worked broadly in these areas for many years. Internally, this is core to being a great workplace, hiring and recruiting diverse talent to ensure strong representation in our workforce and aligned policies and accountabilities. Externally, this is core to our client-driven approach, delivering products and services that meet the diverse needs of our clients and investing our resources to support our communities and the issues affecting them.

DISTRICT SUMMIT SPONSOR

Thank You Meijer

Thanks to Kelly Doucet, Regional Community Partnership Specialist Meijer and Meijer for being a significant sponsor of the Midwest District Summit. Meijer is a Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer that operates more than 265 supercenters, Meijer Grocery, neighborhood markets, and Express locations throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. A privately-owned and familyoperated company since 1934, Meijer pioneered the “one-stop shopping” concept and has evolved through the years to include expanded fresh produce and meat departments, as well as pharmacies, comprehensive apparel departments, pet departments, garden centers, toys, and electronics.

Meijer is a privately-owned and family-run company that follows a simple philosophy established by our founder, Hendrik Meijer, and his son, Fred, 85 years ago: “Take care of your customers, team members, and community … and all of them will take care of you, just like a family.” With the help of our team members and customers, we can make the community a better place to live, work and play. Brothers Hank and Doug Meijer together own Michigan-based supermarket chain Meijer, which has 230 stores in the Midwest. The brothers took over the company from their father Frederik, in 1990; they stepped down as co-CEOs in 2017.

Meijer wants to be a good neighbor in the communities we serve because it’s the right thing to do and because it’s who we are. We invite you to visit this site often to learn how our efforts impact your community and those across the Midwest.

The first Meijer supercenter, identified internally as Store 011, was created when an 80,000-square-foot addition was made to a supermarket at the corner of 28th Street and Kalamazoo Ave in Grand Rapids. 70% of employees at Meijer, Inc. say it is a great place to work compared to 57% of employees at a typical U.S.-based company.

Meijer provides charitable support to organizations that align with our values and commitment to diversity & inclusion. If you are part of a nonprofit organization, please feel free to reach out with existing partnership opportunities.

MIDWEST DISTRICT SUMMIT SPONSOR

Lilly Endowment seeks to improve public understanding of religion with grant opportunities for museums and other cultural organizations.

Lilly Endowment Inc. is inviting museums, historical sites, and other cultural organizations through its Religion and Cultural Institutions Initiative to consider how they could develop exhibitions, educational programs, or other activities to provide fair, accurate, and balanced portrayals of the role religion has played and continues to play in the United States and around the world.

The initiative’s primary aim is to improve the public understanding of religion and thus foster more significant knowledge of and respect for people of diverse religious traditions. Through this open and competitive round of the initiative, the Endowment is making up to $78 million in grants available. Eligible organizations can participate by submitting concept papers that detail their ideas about activities focused on religion that align with their missions. Selected organizations will receive planning grants of up to $100,000 and be invited to submit implementation proposals for grants of up to $2.5 million.

“The United States is widely considered to be one of the most religiously diverse nations today,” said Christopher L. Coble, the Endowment’s vice president for religion. “Religious beliefs and practices play critical roles in the lives of many individuals and families and influence aspects of public life. With this initiative, we are encouraging museums and cultural organizations to imagine and undertake projects that help their visitors understand and appreciate the diverse religious beliefs, practices, and perspectives of their neighbors and others in communities around the world.”

Through the initiative, the Endowment seeks to help organizations engage in efforts that inform

individuals and families about the beliefs and practices of particular religious traditions, provide insights into the spiritual dimensions of historical and contemporary events, and explore a wide variety of religious topics and themes relevant to their contexts and missions.

“Today, museums and other cultural organizations are among the most trusted institutions in the United States. As such, they play an essential role in informing visitors about the world,” Coble said. “We are eager to support efforts that can assist these important organizations in strengthening their abilities to incorporate religion more fully into their interpretive activities.”

This grant opportunity builds on earlier Endowment-funded efforts to enhance public understanding of religion, including grants to support religion projects at more than three dozen organizations made through invitational rounds of the Religion and Cultural Institutions Initiative and other related grants. Examples of these organizations and their Endowmentfunded projects include:

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, which is mounting Sacred Places, is an immersive exhibition that invites children and families to learn about the beliefs and practices of five religious traditions by exploring places that these traditions consider sacred.

The Heard Museum in Phoenix, which created Substance of the Stars, is a permanent exhibition that explores the origin stories and spiritual practices of four indigenous communities.

The International African American Museum in Charleston, S.C., opened this summer and has incorporated African American religious traditions and practices into its exhibitions, programs, and community collaborations.

MFA Boston in Boston, which established an

endowment for an assistant curator of Islamic art.

The National WWI Museum and Memorial in Kansas City, MO, incorporated religious themes into its exhibitions and hired a curator to focus on faith and religion.

The Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington established the Center for the Public Understanding of Religion in American History and is creating a new gallery on religion in American history.

The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia is renovating its exhibitions to improve its understanding of Judaism and its varied traditions in the United States.

About Lilly Endowment

Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly, Sr. and his sons Eli and J.K. Jr. through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli

Lilly and Company. Although the advantages of stock remain a financial bedrock of the Endowment, it is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff, and location. In keeping with the founder’s wishes, the Endowment supports the causes of community development, education, and religion. Although the Endowment maintains a particular commitment to its founders’ hometown, Indianapolis, and home state, Indiana, it also funds programs throughout the United States, especially in religion. While the primary aim of its religion grantmaking focuses on strengthening the leadership and vitality of Christian congregations in the United States, the Endowment also seeks to foster public understanding about religion and lift in fair, accurate, and balanced ways the contributions that people of all faiths and diverse religious communities make to our greater civic wellbeing.

SPEAKERS

100 BMOA 2023 Midwestern Conference Wrap Up

Pluses and Opportunities:

Collaborations with other chapters in the region to

•Create joint initiatives.

•Opportunities to share & grow by tapping into other chapter’s resources.

Opportunities to Connect the Region for best practices.

•Potential GroupMe or Social Media groups by role (i.e., Secretary groups to share best practices | Treasure/ Finance Committee Groups, etc.)

•100 BMOA LinkedIn Group

•Opportunity to reproduce the Midwest regional conference across the region (in various host cities and regions)

Programs and potential partnerships

•Stop the Bleed: emergency violence and trauma response training for youth affected by violence.

100 BMOA Leadership Cohort

•Training

•Succession Plans

•Cohort II is currently going.

•Cohort III signup begins in June/July.

•Hosted on a Saturday 8 am - 4 pm | Virtually.

•The cohort includes training for soft skills.

•Developing mentors

•Building a pipeline of leaders

•The Quality of Speakers includes seasoned professionals that share relatable, high-value information. Leadership best practices are interwoven through the four pillars of 100BMOA. Brothers also indicated that they enjoyed the flow of sessions.

Programming/ Strategic Planning

Portal for monitoring

Others included feeling inspired, having high energy, having others identify struggles, and telling their story. Brothers found hearing stories of shared experiences was encouraging. The Midwest Regional

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Conference allowed brothers to share best practices for new member intake and onboarding processes.

Concepts of using our customers and stakeholders to tell our story to rely on students, parents, teachers, and others uplift 100BMOA. Strategically standing with donors and funders during PR tough spots can create opportunities. Collaboration across chapters is paramount to encouraging youth.

Frequency of Conferences:

•Opportunity to reproduce the Midwest regional conference across the region (cities and region)

•Time and budget dependent

•Contingent on National conferences and leadership retreats

•Fundraising

Donor Engagement Cultivation

•Federal funds are managed through various law enforcement agencies.

Deltas and Learning Opportunities:

Contacting Brothers

•A list of attendees & contact information needed.

•District roster of officers from each chapter

•Sharing best practices for officers

Future Conferences

•Incentivizing the first registrant(s) and attendee(s)

The first 100 days as the 100 should include:

•Accountability in the form of personal KPI’s

•Tracking among members

•Branding/ Marketing using our internal brand.

•Membership opportunities/ Funding Development Opportunities/ Fundraising

•Grant Writing/ Managing/ RFP (Program Management).

•Retention/ Engagement/ Recruitment Age/ Profession/ Time/ Vision of Potential Members

Combined Narrative

Brothers were told Best Practice concepts that other chapters practiced throughout the conference. However, hard things or tools to implement weren’t given. The brothers would have liked to receive hands-on models of Best Practices. Furthermore, sharing new member orientation practices included things that other chapters do for each new member class. Press Releases, public celebrations, private receptions, mentor training before 100BMOA pinning, and 60 days of volunteer hours before pinning are among the suggestions. Accountability after pinning includes a notion of partnering around accountability.

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Lorenzo Russell, a Network Support Leader/Area Superintendent for High School Network 2 with the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. He manages and supervises 14 new and innovative high schools within the District.

How did you enjoy being at the Midwest District Summit?

I truly enjoyed attending the Midwest District Summit this year. Being a new member of the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, this Summit allowed me to learn about the organization, meet new brothers, and network with other chapters from the Midwest.

What was helpful information from this Summit?

The most critical information I gathered from the Summit was the need to collaborate. Because

everyone has a variety of programs happening across the country, it is essential to learn from each other and collaborate in our efforts. Ultimately, we are all striving for the same goals: to serve our community, mentor our youth and strengthen our overall communities. We must put our heads together collectively to reach our goals.

Tell us which break-out session did you like and why?

The break-out session I wanted the most was the Chapter Best Practices/Program Development. This session was an excellent opportunity to listen and learn about their chapters’ outstanding programs. Members shared concrete examples of their programming: Mentoring, Education, Health/Wellness, and Economic Empowerment. Members were vulnerable enough to share the good and the bad, which made the session authentic. The session focused on being solution oriented to allow members to gain from the challenges and strengths of past practice. The panelists were knowledgeable and had much to offer new and veteran members of the organization.

How long have you been a 100 Black Man?

I joined The 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc on December 10, 2022.

Lorenzo Russell Greater Cleveland, Inc. Chapter

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

Several friends and fraternity members encouraged me to join the 100 in a few chapters. Being an African American male, in general, is hard. Our youth need to see more positive role models to help them navigate their life pathways. This organization is designed to offer programs to help make a difference in their lives. It’s about mentorship, and it’s also about providing service and experiences that will have a lasting impact on our youth.

Were there any topics you wish could have been talked about?

While we discussed Strategic Planning in one of the sessions, I wished there was more time to dive deeper into the details of effectively creating and developing a Strategic Plan for the chapter. I believe in having clear goals and expectations for an organization to function correctly. This planning will help ground us in our work to be successful as a team.

Can you summarize the experience you had during the Midwest Summit?

My overall experience was excellent. This was an opportunity to visit a new city with an active and impressive chapter. This experience also allowed me to learn local, regional, and national things. The speakers were very knowledgeable and passionate about the great things happening in their chapters and futuristic plans for making the organization better across the country.

Andre Givens President of Indiapolis Chapter

Andre Givens is a native of Chicago, IL (Westside-Garfield Park area). Growing up in non-traditional circumstances, he was determined to break generational curses. Upon completing his undergraduate studies with a BS in Management Information Systems at Indiana State University, he became the first black man in his family to graduate from college. Andre relocated to Indianapolis, IN, in 2003 to pursue a career in financial services and earn a Business Administration (MBA) graduate degree. He is happily married to his beautiful wife of 12 years with our 8-year-old son Andre Jr!

Andre has worked in higher education administration for over 15 years. By day, I serve as the Director of Undergraduate & Adult Enterprise and the Program Director for the Strategic Leadership and Design graduate

program in the School of Business at the University of Indianapolis. Givens oversees all aspects of undergraduate and adult learning program operations. His responsibilities include but are not limited to instructor management, scheduling/contract management, curriculum management, student engagement management, performance evaluations management, forecasting analysis, shared governance, external partnership engagement, accreditation, and instructor recruitment.

Given’s professional career spans private and public sectors in operations, higher-ed leadership administration, management, real estate, financial services, and information technology. I am also the co-founder of Edge Enterprise, LLC.

How did you enjoy hosting the first Midwest District Summit

We enjoyed hosting the first Midwest District Summit last weekend was a great success! 100 brothers from various industries and backgrounds gathered to learn, collaborate, network, build relationships, and share best practices for our National Leaders, Local Chapters, and partners of the 100,

One of the highlights of the Midwest District Summit was the networking opportunities.

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The 100 brothers had the chance to connect, fellowship, and enjoy some of Indy’s nightlife after sessions. We enjoyed a lovely welcome reception dinner, which provided a relaxed atmosphere for networking and socializing.

What was helpful information from this Summit

The speakers delivered inspiring talks on topics ranging from best practices and effective chapter fund development to membership recruitment/ engagement and strategic planning. We heard from a few Bank of America and Meijer corporate sponsors in panel discussions around fund development strategies to serve our youth and programs.

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Cordell Martin Vice President South Bend Chapter

Cordell Martin is a native of South Bend, Indiana. He received his Bachelor’s from Indiana University-Bloomington in 2008 and his Master’s from Syracuse University in 2014. He works at Burrell Communications as an Account Supervisor, managing the McDonald’s account for the African-American Consumer Market.

How did you enjoy the first Midwest District Summit

I thoroughly enjoyed the Summit. It was great to meet my fellow brothers at other chapters and discuss some of our chapters’ successes and challenges.

What helpful information did you receive from this Summit

Membership recruitment & retention, strategic

planning, and the importance of community partnerships.

Tell us a little bit about some of the programs you are doing in South Bend

•Freedman Academy - Our flagship initiative targets AA males in grades 2 through 12.

•High School Initiative Program - Monthly session with AA males at the High School level. Topics focus on life and soft skills (dressing for success, budgeting, college experience, etc.) to help prepare our students for the journey to manhood.

•African-American History Challenge

•Mentoring programs with the South Bend Community School Corporation

•Indiana Black Barbershop Health Initiative (Free Health Screenings - Blood Pressure, Blood Glucose, Body Mass Index) - Apr 29

•Dining with Diabetes - May 2, 9 & 16th

•Conquer Cancer (Free Digital Prostate Exam)Jun 17

How long have you been a 100 Black Man?

A year and a half.

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

I was inspired to become a member by the late David Taylor Sr., one of my chapter’s founding members. I wanted to join the 100 to help pay it forward to the younger generation (particularly Black Males) by making myself available to support them.

Were there any topics you wish they could have talked about?

I could only think of a little. The planning committee did a great job selecting relevant topics for each chapter.

Can you summarize the experience you had during that weekend?

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Conference. It was well organized, I felt the topics and sessions were relevant, and I enjoyed the camaraderie between the different chapters.

Are you an officer or a committee chair in your chapter?

Yes, I’m currently the VP of Operations.

Would you go to another Midwest Conference in the future

Yes.

When do you do your pinning ceremony?

At our annual Gala event in the fall.

Do you have a new members class/ orientation?

Yes.

Kentale Morris Sr. is from Chicago, IL, now living in St Paul, MN, with his wife and four children. During the day, He works for Land O’Lakes, Inc. as Director of Commercial Sales, where he helps lead the Foodservice sales team in achieving growth goals focused on market share, sales volume, and overall profits. He is the President of the Twin Cities chapter with the support of a fantastic group of members.

How did you enjoy the first Midwest District Summit

I had a great time at the Midwest Summit. It was my first Summit and allowed me to meet many members and discuss topics vital to our chapter and its growth.

What helpful information did you receive from this Summit

Each breakout session was excellent. Finance and Programming were beneficial. Even as a

panelist for the Recruitment and Engagement session, our discussion enabled me to learn much from other panelists and the audience.

Tell us a little bit about some of the programs you are doing in the Twin Cities

One of our essential programs is ManCode Mentoring. This program is a multi-day session where participating males, ages 12 - 17, gain exposure to future career pathways. This initiative was born out of the need to ensure our youth connect the STEM-based classes they take in school with potential careers. We have taken that original model and broadened the scope to include personal development via personality assessments, financial health speakers and facilitators, hands-on activities, and a community lunch during the graduation ceremony so everyone can celebrate their program completion.

How long have you been a 100 Black Man?

The Twin Cities Chapter was chartered in 2020. I became a member in 2021.

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

I’ve always been involved in community building via my family and fraternity (Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated). However, one day one of my best friends mentioned he was a “The 100” member in Chicago and heard a new chapter in

Kentale Morris Sr. President of Twin Cities Chapter

Minnesota. I was then connected with Dwayne Dixon, who did a fantastic job conveying the organization’s purpose and goals, which aligned with mine.

Were there any topics you wish they could have talked about?

The topics covered were beneficial. As our chapter continues to develop local partnerships, I would appreciate additional discussions and best practice sharing with current partners (national or from other regional markets).

Can you summarize the experience you had this weekend?

In one word... “inspiring.” Seeing some initiatives, focus programs, and impact within the Midwest District is outstanding!

Are you an officer or a committee chair in your chapter?

I am the Chapter President

Would you go to another one in the future

Absolutely! I’m looking forward to attending the next Midwest district summit and bringing more chapter members so they can meet some of the incredible men in our district.

When do you do your pinning

ceremony?

We are planning a Gala this Fall and will have our pinning ceremony for new members during that event.

Do you have a new members class/ orientation?

We conduct our new member orientation at the beginning of the calendar year, where we review our org’s History, Mission, Vision, 4 for the Future, Member Expectations, Working Committees, Programs, and Q&A.

DISTRICT SUMMIT

TWIN CITIES CHAPTER MIDWEST DISTRICT

Todd Western III Vice President of Twin Cities Chapter

Todd Western is a Sr. Donor Advisor for Greater Twin Cities United Way and a sixth-generation Farmer in Iowa. We grow corn and soybeans. We are the oldest black farmers in Iowa, also he is a High School Football Coach.

How did you enjoy the first Midwest District Summit?

Overall, It was an outstanding meeting this weekend. As a new member and chapter to the organization, this meeting helped connect the dots on several questions we had as a chapter.

What helpful information did you receive from this Summit

•The warm greetings that everyone extended. This was important as a new person/chapter because we came to the meeting a little nervous, thinking we needed to know everything.

•Our understanding of the difference between board vs members was cleared up. We were still determining.

•We learned that we could have delegated to the board.

• It was important to hear about all the different programs and strategies other chapters were doing. i.e., Stop the bleeding,

•The Strategic Planning session was vital because we learned how to search for free consultants. We also realized we could use at least five critical points in our strategic plan. We currently have about 8

•Having the banks, there was great. Continue that and increase their presence.

Tell us a little bit about some of the programs you are doing in the Twin Cities

ManCode-a partnership with Microsoft

How long have you been a 100 Black Man?

One year

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

DISTRICT SUMMIT

The Executive Team at Greater Twin Cities United Way

7) Were there any topics you wish they could have talked about?

1. Highlight the new chapters at the beginning of the meeting

2. dedicate time to key people to meet with the new chapters to check in to see how things are and address questions from the new chapters. i.e., 1-hour “Onboarding check-in.”

3. Add a how-to for grant writing

4. Reward the chapter that brings the most delegate(something small)

5. Reward the chapter that is the first to fill out the survey (something small and silly)

Are you an officer or a committee chair in your chapter?

I am the VP.

Would you go to another one in the future

Absolutely

Thanks to Diamonds Men’s Store Sure Cleveland Chapter Mentees 100 Black Men of America,Inc. 37th

Every organization eventually looks to spread its wings and expand further. The 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc.(BMOGC) leadership has been working diligently to secure funding for our programs and to build capacity. Thanks to an introduction by member Lamont Dodson to Randy Diamond of Diamond’s Men’s Store, the door was opened for the 100 to discuss a sponsorship-focused partnership to benefit their mentoring programs targeted at African American youth. Our 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.

These partnerships are mutually beneficial as they give the sponsor a way to give back to the community that has supported their business through a trusted collaborator, like the 100 BMOGC, Inc. What better to enhance educational and economic opportunities for all African Americans? Mentoring is the essence of the Greater Cleveland 100. Through our signature mentoring programs, which are education, health & wellness, and leadership development, we aim to be Cleveland’s premier mentoring organization.

The Diamond brothers pledged an ongoing financial commitment through 2022, and in 2023, they are still committed to supporting the 100. Vice Chairman Greg Lockhart has been serving as the liaison for their organization and has done a fantastic job. The 100 BMOGC, Inc. is proud to partner with a company like Diamond’s Men’s Store. This longtime community member shares common goals based on solid values,

the enrichment of our youth, and opportunities for all. Our partners are at the forefront of every industry, solving challenges and assisting in finding new ways to help positively change the future of youth.

One such commitment Diamond’s made was to provide the mentees with outfits to wear at the 100 Black Men 37th Annual Conference in Las Vegas. The complete outfit included pants, a shirt, a tie, and a blue blazer.

The 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc. also would like to thank Alan Groedel, Founder, President, and CEO of Provide A Ride, for their financial contribution in supporting some of our mentees during the Las Vegas. It was an irreplaceable experience that our young men will cherish for a long time.

Operating in Ohio since 1989 with statewide coverage, Provide A Ride has a strong reputation within healthcare and non-emergency medical

& Provide A Ride for Making

traveled to Las Vegas for the 37th National Conference

transportation communities. With over 30 years of experience providing transportation and managing transportation benefit programs, Provide A Ride is uniquely capable of delivering the highest quality services as safely and efficiently as possible at the highest potential value. The Cleveland Chapter thanks Mr. Groedel for his generous donation to the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc. In addition, Provide A Ride owns and operates the largest fleet of privately owned vehicles in Ohio

Rick and Randy Diamond

and has employees throughout the state. This capability to leverage asset-based transportation against brokered transportation yields the best results both in terms of service delivery as well as cost control.

The 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland Chapter provides various educational, informative, and uplifting programs for the whole family. Our programs teach leadership and development skills to assist our mentees and their families realize and maximize their full potential. We are a 501c3 non-profit organization.

The 100 Black Men of Greater Greater Cleveland Inc. is one of over 100 Chapters with our National Headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. Our chapter is part of an international fellowship

of 10,000+ committed volunteers who have impacted the lives of over 110,000 youth through mentoring and other programs designed to improve their quality of life. Mentees benefit from educational enhancement programs and life skills training by organization members, community volunteers, and partners.

What They See Is What They’ll Be®”

It is more than a motto. It is a source of motivation for all members of our 100 Black Men chapter network. Additionally, our motto serves as a constant reminder that we must consistently commit ourselves to personifying the type of people our children will look up to and emulate. We fully embrace our immense responsibility for our mentees and communities.

& PEOPLE EVENTS

Congratulations to 100 Black Men Robert L. Bankston appointed to the Friendly Inn Settlement House (FISH) Board President. Friendly Inn, a nonprofit in the heart of Cleveland, Ohio, is the oldest settlement house in the United States, celebrating its 150th Anniversary in 2024.

This organization is a pillar in Ward 5, offering multiple services within this community and beyond. Friend Inn is hiring and recruiting new board members to enhance and rebrand for current and future generations to benefit.

Friendly Inn was founded in 1874 by members of the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) to provide a liquor-free gathering place for the residents of poor neighborhoods. Its founders were Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, Mrs. Horatio Ford, Mrs. Flora Stone Mather, and Mrs. George Worthington. They were members of the WCTU, a movement that was active in establishing settlement houses during that era. Originally called the “Temperance Coffee House and Lunchroom,” Friendly Inn was one of the city’s first settlement houses. Today is the longest continuously serving settlement house in the United States.

The charitable work of members of the WCTU resulted in the establishment of multiple locations of the Friendly Inn within Cleveland at 634 St. Clair Street, 34 River (W. 11th) Street, and 71 Central Place. These affluent women reportedly left their coachmen and drivers, setting out on their own to mingle with the poor, pass out food, and read passages from the Bible. Friendly Inn, and other settlement houses, encouraged those who spent time there to read and learn different skills. Groups like the WCTU would eventually become the spokespeople for the Prohibition era and evolved to become the Women’s Philanthropic Union. An endowment from the W.P.U. has been a continual source of revenue for Friendly Inn, supplemented by program grants and private donations.

In its earliest days, donations from early supporters such as John D. Rockefeller and Stephen V. Harkness, The Standard Oil Co. co-founders, allowed Friendly Inn to move into a three-story building at Broadway and Ohio Street. By 1880, there were five locations throughout Cleveland. In 1888, managers consolidated services in a new building at the corner of Broadway and Ohio streets (522

Central Ave.) In 1894, the organization faced a financial crisis. Administrators engineered a plan to raise the necessary funds to provide its services to people experiencing poverty: the creation of the Woman’s Edition of the Plain Dealer. Through negotiations with the managing editor, 200 women contributed to writing and distributing the first edition of the fundraising newspaper on January 24, 1895.

In contrast to many other settlement houses in Cleveland and the United States, Friendly Inn refrained from segregation practices and kept its doors open to African-Americans. Friendly Inn was the first settlement house in Cleveland to operate with an interracial staff, and by 1942 the organization was celebrating “Negro Health Week.”

Between 1950 and 1970, the neighborhood demographics in which the Friendly Inn operated switched from a primarily European immigrant to a predominantly African-American population. In response to this change, Friendly Inn created programs that specifically addressed issues faced by African-Americans. It provided employment training and housing assistance and hosted G.E.D. classes to combat the increased rates of high school dropouts.

Over the years, Friendly Inn further consolidated operations into a building on Unwin Road. In the early 2000s, the organization undertook an ambitious fundraising effort and built a new stateof-the-art headquarters close to its long-time location. This allowed Friendly Inn to enhance its service offerings and build toward the future. Today, at 145 years young, Friendly Inn serves the people of Central and Fairfax communities with programs that include a 5-Star Early Childhood Enrichment Center; numerous individual and family support programs; afterschool youth programs; and a food bank. Committed to helping improve people’s lives one person at a time, Friendly Inn also provides college excursion opportunities to inspire young people to do well in school and be motivated to attend college.

Grady Burrows did it again in his professional career, he was very fortunate to receive a HIMSS23 Change Maker Award at their International Conference in Chicago. The award recognized his STEM work leading HITintheCLE and the education of Black and Brown populations in the middle, high school, and college students in computer and data science. Grady was honored to be in the company of phenomenal award recipients and have the opportunity to network with Health IT professionals worldwide.

&PEOPLE EVENTS

The Cleveland Branch of the NAACP has named Edwin Hubbard Jr. as the new Executive Director for the organization. He will replace Crystal Bryant, who has served in the role since February 2021. He will officially begin his tenure on May 1, 2023. Hubbard joins other prestigious persons who have served in this role, including Sheila Wright and Stanley Miller. ”We appreciate the great work Crystal has done; now, I look forward to working with Edwin to achieve the goals of the Cleveland Branch of the NAACP,” said Kayla Griffin, Cleveland NAACP President.

“I am beyond humbled and eager for the opportunity to serve as the NAACP’s next Executive Director. An organization whose mission and work have been vital in advancing the lives of people of color through grassroots activism for civil rights and social justice now over a century! I am proud to play an essential role in work that will advocate, inspire, and create a legacy all can celebrate.

It is my goal to continue advancing the infrastructure that has been put in place by my predecessor for the business of the NAACP that allows its President and members to thrive in the work that the organization is committed to advancing.

As we move into 2023, you can expect to see more coordinated community efforts, continually increasing resources, and louder voices advocating for those who need to be heard most.

As the NAACP continues its mission to achieve equity, political rights, and social inclusion by advancing policies and practices that expand human and civil rights, eliminate discrimination, and accelerate the well-being, education, and economic security of Black people and all persons of color,

Edwin Hubbard Jr. is a Cleveland native and graduate of the Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University. His passion for his community and commitment to giving back led Edwin to the world of non-profit work early in his career. Edwin has a long history of serving his community and is passionate about improving the lives of underserved and underrepresented populations, mainly African Americans, through workforce development initiatives. Edwin serves on the board of directors for numerous local organizations, including 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland Inc., Peel Dem Layers Back, The Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation, and YMCA (Hillcrest). He is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc.

In Edwin’s most recent role, he served as the Vice President of Development for New Bridge. He oversaw the growth and sustainability of the organization by cultivating critical relationships among corporate and individual donors. Edwin’s work has been recognized by 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland Inc.Real Men Magazine (Cover Oct 2022), BPACF Black Professional Magazine Profile (Sept 2022), Code M Magazine Movers & Shakers(Feb 2022), Allstate Foundation’s Executive Leadership Program- Selectee (Class of 2023), National Sales & Marketing ExecutivesAchievement In Excellence Award 2021, Cleveland Professionals 20/30 Club- Top 25 under 35 Movers & Shakers Award 2020, Crain’s Cleveland- 40 Under 40 2019, National Urban League Emerging Leader- Selectee, Greater Akron Chamber- 30 for the Future Award 2018.

I am here to ensure ALL of its members have the tools and resources needed to create the changes we wish to see!”

&PEOPLE EVENTS

In his new role, Tony Peebles will be primarily responsible for soliciting major gifts with a particular focus on providing support for diversity initiatives. He is responsible for the development and implementation of strategies to drive the significant giving fundraising efforts of national development and major gifts.

Anthony Peebles joined CWRU as Director of Corporate Relations in 2018. He was responsible for identifying, cultivating, and soliciting gifts, grants, and contracts from alums, community partners, and local and national corporations with a focus on supporting the University’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives.

Tony has 30 years of experience in financial services, civic and not-for-profit leadership. He began his career with Ameritrust Corporation as a retail and small business banking manager. He then joined Fifth Third Bank and served as Vice President & NE Ohio Regional Manager of Public Finance. He focused on significant commercial financing for the public, not-for-profit, municipal, and higher education sectors.

Before joining Case Western Reserve University, Tony was a Skylight Financial Group financial planner, advising entrepreneurs and family-owned businesses on retirement, business succession planning, wealth management, and philanthropy. He also served as Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer of the Pinkney-Perry Insurance Agency and was Interim Chief Executive Officer of the Ohio Minority Supplier Development Council. Tony was also a Financial Advisor with New York Life, where he achieved the Million Dollar Roundtable designation.

Tony is currently a Member of the Board of Trustees of the University School and Past President of the School’s Alumni Association, where he has also chaired the University School Annual Fund. Additionally, Tony is Chair of the Finance & Audit Committee for the Shaker Heights Board of Education. He was formerly Vice Chair of Gateway Economic Development Corporation and has served as President of The City Club and The City Club Forum Foundation.

Tony holds a BA in Public Policy from Duke University and a Master of Business Administration from Baldwin Wallace University.

Juhan Taylor, a native of South Bend, Indiana, receives the $40,000 2023 Gurley-Leep Scholarship.

Juhan Taylor, 18 years old and a native of South Bend, Indiana, receives the $40,000 2023 GurleyLeep Scholarship awarded by the Gurley-Leep Automotive Group based in South Bend. The scholarship, worth $10,000 annually for four years, is given to an African-American youth who, in the words of donor Mike Leep Jr., has been “touched” by the 100 Black Men of Greater South Bend programs. The scholarship was established through a partnership with Gurley-Leep and The 100 Black Men of Greater South Bend.

The Leep Family Foundation invests in the health and well-being of families and communities. It does so by funding programs and organizations that foster self-reliance and provide access to opportunities for disadvantaged children and families with a particular focus on education (including arts and culture) and youth development. Mr. Leep, president of the Gurley Leep Automotive Group, announced the Leep family’s commitment to ten scholarships over ten years at the 100’s tenth-anniversary gala in 2019. Gurley Leep has long been the 100s leading corporate sponsor.

Juhan is a 2023 graduate of Riley High School and will be attending Indiana University South Bend in the fall, studying graphic design. He began his association with 100 Black Men in junior high school and has been mentored by member Don Wycliff.

Juhan is heavily involved with the South Bend community. He helps with the 100 Black Men of Greater South Bend, the National Association of Community & Restorative Justice, the South Bend Civic Theatre, and the nine great clubs at Riley

High School. In his free time, he enjoys hanging out with friends and working on art pieces for this upcoming school year. When not doing those things, he enjoys time with his family.

ABOUT GREATER SOUTH BEND

In the fall of 2008, several African American community leaders met to discuss how to address problems facing African American males in South Bend, including our community’s graduation rate and overall condition. Led by Arnold Sallie and Barrett Berry, the group expanded to include Linwood Bailey, Howard Buchanon, Phil Byrd, and Alfred Guillaume.

In the spring of 2009, a meeting of interested African American men was held. With over 30 men from various occupations in attendance, a discussion ensued about the possibility of forming a chapter of 100 Black Men in the Greater South Bend area. In June 2009, an application was developed and submitted to the national organization. The 100 Black Men of America, Board of Directors, granted a charter to the 100 Black Men of Greater South Bend, Inc. in July 2009.

MOVING ON UP: 100 MEMBERS ADVANCE

Three members of the 100 have recently made news with professional honors or advancements.

Shanon Buari, an attorney with the Anderson, Agostino & Keller, P.C. firm, was named one of this year’s 40 “brightest talents” under 40 in the Michiana region by the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce. Shanon, 34, and his wife, Raquel, have four children. Shanon is a director at large of the 100.

Tracy Graham, founder and managing principal of the private equity investment firm Graham Allen Partners, was elected to the University of Notre Dame board of trustees at the June board’s meeting. Tracy, who played football at Notre Dame and graduated in 1995 with a degree in sociology, began his business in South Bend and continues to base it here.

Anthony Dennie was appointed quality manager for Corning Bendable Glass. In his new role, Anthony leads a global team and is responsible for creating and promoting “a consistent culture of quality” across Corning Bendable Glass’s platforms and supply chains.

The C.O.R.E. (Career Orientations, Resources & Exploration) Program is a seven-week program for young people of color that aims to provide career exploration, job coaching skills and business writing portfolio development. This program also offers networking opportunities with professionals and businesses around the country.

Louisville Service Programs

Education

Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world. We aim to work with parents, families, community partners, and schools to teach African American youth the tools needed to make the world a better place. The 100 provides annual scholarship awards to deserving matriculating students who will be full-time students at accredited post-secondary institutions based on 100 Black Men of America, Inc. eligibility criteria. Scholarship dollars assist youth in completing educational goals by providing resources to offset tuition, books, and housing expenses. The scholarship program allows the 100 to identify potential youth leaders in our local communities and motivates them to achieve academic and community service excellence.

Economic Empowerment

100 Black Men of Louisville promotes and fosters the ability of its mentees and members to be self-determined in creating dreams, pursuing them, and ultimately perpetuating those dreams and aspirations by establishing the mechanisms to sustain generational wealth. We offer various programs throughout the year, including Pathway to Success, a 9-week program for young people of color that provides job shadowing opportunities, entrepreneurship skills, financial literacy skills, and career exploration to foster future corporate and career success. This program also offers networking and employment opportunities with local businesses.

Health and Wellness

The 100 Black Men of Louisville’s health and wellness goals are to raise awareness, provide access to health care and give health information that will ultimately promote behavior change resulting in a healthier lifestyle. We work with other synergistic organizations to develop strategic partnerships to raise a collective voice to help increase awareness and provide health education to mitigate chronic conditions and diseases that plague the African American community.

Mentoring

Mentoring the 100 Way®

100 Black Men of Louisville offers a holistic mentoring program that addresses the social, emotional, and cultural needs of children (mainly boys but also girls) ages 8-18. Through chapter-operated one-on-one and group mentoring efforts, our members forge relationships that positively impact our greatest resource: our youth. The program focuses on building essential skills to become a productive, contributing citizen.