June 24: The 100 Black Men of Atlanta Return with the Honors Gala in support of their Mentoring Programs in Atlanta

Published June 10, 2023 at 6:30 AM EDT

The 100 Black Men of Metro Atlanta greet sixth graders on their first day of school. The organization mentors young people in our community with a lifetime commitment.

The 100 Black Men of Metro Atlanta is a major force in youth mentoring in our community. There are multiple chapters throughout the metro area. Clark Atlanta’s own Thomas Dortch is the President Emeritus for theAtlanta chapter. He leaves a rich legacy. The new Executive Director is Louis Enrique Negron. This year’s Honors Gala will take place on Saturday, June 24th. A new award named after Thomas Dortch, Jr. will honor “Civic Leadership.” The members of the 100 Black Men are committed to motivating and enabling youth to achieve intellectual excellence, economic responsibility, self-sufficiency, and contributing members of our society. Louis Negron, the executive director, and COO, speaks with us today.

I asked Negron how he came to lead the Atlanta Chapter of 100 Black Men. He explains that his first experience with the organization was as a student at Morehouse College. He volunteered and worked with the leaders as well as the students. At that time, In 1990, the organization worked with students at Archer High School.

Negron speaks about their Saturday School Project Success which prepares young people for college prep testing and more. He shares that the organization is always looking for volunteers. Some share their time, and some with financing, but all support goes toward the young people.

When asked about the importance of mentorship, Negron shares the organization’s motto “What they see is what they will be.” The organization has adopted the BEST Academy and the Coretta Scott King Leadership Academy. Both are single-gender schools. Negron mentions they will also work with Frederick Douglas High School in the coming school year.

Negron shares information about the upcoming Honors Gala taking place on June 24th. This will be the first gathering since 2019, and the honorees include a diverse group from Jermaine Dupri to Dr. Kevin James. Ambassador Andrew Young will deliver an address, and Will Downing will entertain.

#ListenLearnAct

For more information about the 100 Black Men of Atlanta

For more information on the Honors Gala

To Volunteer with 100 Black Men of Atlanta