100blackmensyr.org

Sometime around February 2007, I sat in a coffee shop with about 25 – 30 black men discussing the plight of the Syracuse community and the need for black men to step up and reclaim our neighborhoods. There were a number of ideas and opinions expressed on that day, but one basic theme stood out. It was time for us to take care of our own and not depend on others to do it for us.

We realized that if our community was going to grow and sustain itself, then we needed to provide some nurturing and guidance to our greatest assets, which are our young people. Therefore 100 Black Men of Syracuse began our efforts by providing a presence in some of our local schools, talking with young men, providing them with new experiences and helping them to see how the choices they make today, can shape their tomorrow. Mentoring and education are two of the key components of the programs we use to serve the community. In addition we are also developing programs in the area of Health/Wellness and Economic Development. Our organization is committed to the physical, intellectual and spiritual well being of our youth and providing a positive environment where this development can take place.

For too long African American men have existed as a silent partner in this community. While there have been great accomplishments made on an individual level, it is time for black men to project a unified presence in this community. It is our responsibility to provide guidance for our youth, support to our women and protection of our neighborhoods.

Without a doubt our nation and in fact, the world we live in, is about to enter a historical period of transition. These times are filled with challenges on every front, from nations at war and the fall of economic institutions, to the devastation of natural disasters. As the effect of these global events begin to move into our communities people are beginning to speak up and look to our leaders for new solutions. The voice of the American people was heard loud and clear, in the results of our recent elections. It is time for a change. But this change does not stop with our elected officials. Change must also happen at the grassroots level. Change must take place in our homes, in our schools, in our places of worship and in us.

100 Black Men of Syracuse Inc. pledges to do all it can to be an agent of change for this community. We appreciate the support you have shown us to date and we look forward to working together with you, as we continue on this journey.



Thank you.



Vincent B. Love,
President