About Us
The overall concept of the 100 began in New York in 1963 when a group of concerned African American men began to meet to explore ways of improving conditions in their community. The group eventually adopted the name, “100 Black Men, Inc.” as a sign of solidarity. They also wished to ensure the future of their communities by aiming an intense number of resources toward youth development. These members were successful black men from various walks of life. These visionaries were business and industry leaders such as David Dinkins, Robert Mangum, Dr. William Hayling, Nathaniel Goldston III, Livingston Wingate, Andrew Hatcher, and Jackie Robinson.
Dr. William Hayling, a member of the NY organization, had relocated to Newark, NJ and sought to replicate the 100’s impact in that area, forming the 100 Black Men of New Jersey. A movement had been born. Men across the country began to form 100 Black Men chapters to leverage their collective talents and resources. On October 2, 1986 the individual chapters decided that the collective name of the organization would be: “100 Black Men of America, Inc.”
Today the organization has grown to over 116 chapters with more than 25,000 men who continue to strive to improve the quality of life in our communities and enhance the educational and economic opportunities for African Americans. 100 Black Men of America, Inc. has more than 125,000 youth participants annually in its mentoring and youth development programs. With a mission to improve the quality of life and enhance educational opportunities for African Americans, members of the 100 have made outstanding progress, proving that Blacks can, and do, excel as corporate leaders, community leaders and as independent business owners.
The Chicago chapter was formed in November of 1994 and subsequently incorporated in December of 1995 by a group of men who shared a common goal of providing youth with educational and mentoring opportunities, with particular emphasis on young African American males. We are comprised of a dynamic, diverse, and dedicated 100% volunteer group of men who share a common desire to improve the chances of success for young people. Over the years, our members have touched the lives of thousands of young people and the broader community by establishing robust programs addressing four fundamental topics: Mentoring, Education, Health and Wellness, and Economic Empowerment. A key objective of our outreach is closing the achievement gap between African American youth and their peers academically, health wise, and with wealth accumulation.