What is 100 Black Men?
A voluntary self-funded mentoring organisation working in England through chapters in Birmingham and London. Our prime focus is African-Caribbean boys aged from 10-16 and young adults, but we also work with young African-Caribbean girls in the same age-range. 100 Black Men of Birmingham is a private company limited by guarantee.
What is the history of 100 Black Men?
The overall concept of 100 Black Men began in New York in 1963 when a group of concerned African-American men started to meet to explore ways of improving conditions in their community. These men envisaged an organisation that would implement programmes designed to improve the quality of life of African-Americans and other minorities. They also wished to ensure the future of their communities by aiming an intense number of resources towards youth development. These members were successful black men from all walks of life. Today the organisation has grown to over 10,000 members in 103 chapters who continue to strive to improve the quality of life in our communities and enhance the educational and economic opportunities for young people. 100 Black Men of Birmingham was the first international chapter of the organisation.
What does 100 Black Men do?
We provide mentoring services in schools primarily in Birmingham. We run a monthly two hour community programme at the Drum in Aston, Birmingham on the last Sunday of every month. In addition we host or participate in various one-off mentoring and awareness events.
Are women allowed to join the organisation?
Women work with men throughout the organisation but a cornerstone of 100 Black Men is the recognition that young black males have particular challenges that need specific attention and a special need for role models.
We also believe it is important for black men to be more involved in the development of the wider community. Only men can become full members but women can and do join as Friends of 100. Men and women work together on all the activities of 100 Black Men.
How can I join?
By contacting our office on 0121 523 6100 or via the website. Usually every third Wednesday of the month we hold an open meeting for potential new members to come along and find out more about the organisation.
What is Friends of 100?
Friends of 100 is a sub-group of 100 Black Men for those who wish to support the work of the organisation without becoming full members. It is open to men and women who share a commitment to mentoring our young people. Friends of 100 participate fully in the running of the community programme and the special events throughout the year such as our Father’s Day event and our annual sponsored walk. Friends of 100 meet at least once a month. In keeping with the spirit of self-funding the organisation, Friends are asked to make an annual donation of £50 towards the running costs of the organisation.
How can I support 100 Black Men?
We always welcome donations be they in the form of personal time, perhaps to help at or share experiences at a community programme, or through the work of Friends of 100. Monetary donations or kind gifts are always gladly received and they will be used for the benefit of the children we mentor.
What are the criteria for joining 100 Black Men?
To be a full member you should be an adult male of African-Caribbean descent who want to mentor young people. You do not need professional qualifications but enthusiasm and belief in giving back to the community is a must. We are self-funding and members are asked to pay a membership fee of £250 per annum to help with the running expenses of the organisation. If you are unable to pay the membership fee, we would look at other ways in which “in kind” services could be a substitute. We will not decline membership on financial grounds only.
