100 Mentee
Chandler and Cleveland Cavs Guard Darius Garland
Real Men Magazine
Gregory Lockhart. Chairman
James W. Wade III Vice - Chairman
Robert L. Bankston Secretary
Lucien Blackwell Treasurer
Grady Burrows Director of Programs
Anthony Peebles Director of Development
Milton H. Jones Jr. National Chairman
Andre Givens Midwest District Representative
James W. Wade III Communications/PR
James W. Wade III
Managing Editor
Layout & Design
JWW Media
Entertainment Co.
Photography
James W. Wade III
Brian K. Smith Photography
MESSAGE from THE EDITOR
The 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc. would like to extend heartfelt wishes for a Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible mothers in our community and beyond. Today, we celebrate the unique role that mothers play in shaping our community, with their love, strength, and sacrifices that have shaped generations.
May is always an extra special month. It carries with it a sense of renewal, growth, and gratitude — and our mothers are at the center of that spirit. Whether by birth, adoption, or love, mothers are the foundation upon which our families and communities are built. Their nurturing hearts, tireless efforts, and unwavering belief in us fuel our ability to dream, rise, and lead.
In our journey, each of us carries the imprint of a mother’s touch — the whispered prayers, the late-night talks, the lessons in resilience, and the encouragement to keep going even when the road seemed uncertain. Because of mothers, we have learned how to be men of integrity, purpose, and compassion.
At 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, we honor the mothers who stand behind our mentees, members, and leaders. Their support and influence are evident in every success story we help create. They are the first mentors, the original teachers, and often the unsung heroes working behind the scenes. We are deeply grateful for their guidance, inspiration, and unwavering support.
We also pause to remember and honor the mothers who are no longer with us physically but whose spirits continue to live on in our actions and values. Their legacy is carried in our work, the young people we uplift, and the example we strive to set daily.
So to all mothers — young and old, grandmothers, aunties, godmothers, and mother figures — thank you. Thank you for believing in, guiding, and loving us unconditionally. Your strength is unmatched, and your role in our lives is irreplaceable. We also recognize that motherhood comes in many forms, and we celebrate all the unique experiences and contributions.
Happy Mother’s Day from all of us at the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc.. We encourage you to share your own stories and messages of appreciation for the mothers in your life. Let’s make this a day of collective gratitude and celebration. May your day be filled with the same love and joy you so freely give every day.
REAL MEN GIVING REAL
REAL TIME
WHO WE ARE
The 100 Black Men of America, Inc., is not just a leading African-American-led mentoring organization, but a beacon of hope for the African American community. We believe that every African American should have the ability to create the life they’ve always wanted, and that’s what The 100 Black Men of America, Inc. is making possible.
Our commitment is unwavering. We strive to personify the type of people our children will look up to and emulate, embracing our immense responsibility to our mentees and our communities. We provide these children another choice by being around like-minded individuals with similar aspirations and goals, ensuring a brighter future for African American youth.
As The Network of 100 Black Men of America, Inc. has expanded, we have welcomed more companies and developed new programs to better serve our mission. Our focus areas, known as the 100’s Four For The Future, include mentoring, education, health and wellness, and economic empowerment. These areas guide our efforts to provide the education and empowerment necessary to transform the lives of the children we serve.
Through the expansion, we’ve created 100 Black Men Chapters that deliver unique programs that address specific needs in local communities. Through 57 years of testing, we’ve created the 100’s successful model—a proven blueprint for mentoring and developing young people into future leaders by surrounding them with a positive network and giving them the opportunity that they may not have thought was possible.
Letter from the Chairman
The 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland believe in the power of generational wisdom, unity, and leadership. But in today’s fast pace world, each generation faces its own set of struggles and sometimes, misunderstandings arise between age groups. Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z all deal with different realities and challenges, while sharing a common goal. We all want the opportunity for a better life and the best for our community.
In our work with Black youth and families, we know that every generation matters. We all bring something valuable to the table and we’re at our best when we sit at that table together. We don’t have to agree on everything but we must have an open dialogue. That’s one of the ways understanding grows.
Older generations may sometimes struggle with new ideas and concepts, have a tendency to over-mentor without listening, and feel their message is on the verge of being outdated. But their wisdom developed over the years is invaluable. Experience is still the best teacher.
What if we were to try something different and move beyond one-way mentorship. Instead, foster mutual mentorship where those of us with some life experience share wisdom, and young people teach tech, trends, and share their modern challenges.
So what role can you play? Reach out to a younger brother and offer your guidance.. Ask an elder to share a story or his experiences. Volunteer for a mentoring event. Share your skills and explore new ones.
Too often, generational frustration within the Black community leads us to critique and criticize one another instead of collaborating. But our ancestors survived by sticking together, so let’s honor them not by staying in our lane, but by building a whole new road together.
Remember our rich history and know that when Black men of all ages unite, positive change happens.
Gregory Lockhart Chairman,
100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc.
2024 - 2025 Executive Board
Gregory Lockhart Chairman
James W. Wade III Vice - Chairman
Robert L. Bankston Secretary
Lucien Blackwell Treasurer
Grady Burrows Programs Director
Anthony Peebles Director of Development
2024 - 2025 Board of Directors
Mayor Michael Booker
Brandon Curry
Chris Howse
Glen Shumate
David Taylor
Darian Johnson
100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland Leadership Team
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Gregory Lockhart Chairman
James W. Wade III Vice - Chairman
Robert Bankston Secretary
Lucien Blackwell Director of Finance
Grady Burrows Director of Programs
Anthony Peebles Director of Development
BOARD OF DIRECTORS COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Mayor Michael Booker
Brandon Curry
Christopher Howse
Darian Johnson
Glen Shumate
David Taylor
National Chairman
Milton H. Jones Jr.
Midwest District Rep Andre Givens
Director of Communications
James W. Wade III
Economic Empowerment
David Taylor - Chair
James Ferguson - Co Chair
Education
Brett Horton
Health & Wellness
Robert Bankston - Chair
Lloyd Totty - Co Chair
Mentoring
Darian Johnson - Chair
Dr. Ernest Smoot - Co Chair
Membership
Brandon Curry - Chair
James W. Wade III - Co Chair
Scholarship
Tyson Mitchell
The History of the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc.
The history of the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland is rooted in a pivotal moment when Michael Nelson, a visionary leader, decided to convene a historic meeting. This gathering brought together individuals who represented powerful political factions, including Congressman Louis Stokes, former City Council President George Forbes, and the man who defeated George for Mayor, Michael R. White. The location of this momentous meeting was kept a secret until the day of the event, adding to its intrigue and significance.
A date was set, and Nelson invited a number of his friends, including Larry Hines, Gregory Clifford, Curtis Griggs, Tony Smith, Luther Towers, and Julius Singleton, along with Stokes’ rep, Ron Adrine, Forbes’ rep, Daryl Fields, and White rep, Nate Gray to meet with Chairman Dortch and Roosevelt Adams. The meeting was held at the now-closed Eloise’s Restaurant on East 79th and Carnegie. The National Headquarters approved Cleveland to be established in 1997 and recognized as an entire fledge chapter.
These guys were familiar with the 100 through business, political, or family connections. After listening to the very impressive Thomas Dortch and about an hour or so of discussion, the decision was made to incorporate formally, set a dues structure of $250 annually, and begin recruiting members. So in 1997, The 100 Black Men in Cleveland was established.
The first significant event was a rollout at the Cleveland Clinic, where over 90 men made a commitment to join the cause, with about 70 of them paying their dues. Mayor Michael R. White, a staunch supporter, pledged to buy 100 copies of the renowned motivational speaker George Frazer’s book, ‘Success Runs in
Our Race ‘, for each member. George Frazer, who graced the opening event with his presence, generously autographed each member’s copy, symbolizing the dedication and support of the early members.
The next major event was a fundraising gala featuring the late Phylis Hyman, a nationally known recording artist. The event was orchestrated by the dynamic Richard Johnson, a significant internet influencer in today’s social media world. Held at the prestigious Marriott Hotel in Cleveland, the gala was not just a success, but a resounding triumph, underscoring the impact of the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland in the community.
The funds raised by that first gala supported the Cleveland chapter’s version of the National 100’s Four For The Future programs of Health/Wellness, economic development, Education, and Mentoring. Larry Hines was our first Program Director, assisted by Curtis (Griggs). The parentheses are intentional; that’s how Curtis spelled his last name.
The 100 would continue to grow its brand in Cleveland. The group coordinated mentoring programs in numerous schools, including Daniel E. Morgan Elementary School, Cleveland East Senior High School, John F. Kennedy Senior High School, East Cleveland Shaw Senior High School, Mound, and Warrensville Heights Senior High School. The 100 also held a Saturday morning mentoring program at its offices in Cleveland’s Shaker Square complex. The numerous programs included a reading program at Daniel E Morgan and a stock market competition at East High School. One of the highlights of our plan was the success of our East High Stock Market Challenge team, which traveled to Atlanta and took on some of the nation’s most prominent schools, finishing a highly respectable 3rd out of the scores of schools that competed.
In 2022, a class of 22 new members came in, and in 2023, the chapter is still thriving, celebrating twenty-five years; after seven chairpersons and numerous galas, the chapter you can still find the men mentoring in such schools as Wade Park and Kenneth Clement Boys Leadership Academy, to name a few.
2024 Under new Leadership Gregory Lockhart as the Chairman & James W. Wade III serving as Vice Chairman, the 100 re-instated the Saturday Academy at Cuyahoga Community College, Eastern Campus. Various new programs and activities were also added.
CLEVELAND CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP FOUNDING MEMBERS
Judge Ronald Adrine
Chief Magistrate Gregory Clifford,Retired
Darrell A. Fields
Nate Gray
Curtis (Griggs)
Larry Hines*
Robert L. Bankston
Dr. Michael Baston
Lucien Blackwell
Mayor Michael Booker
Anthony Brown
Grady Burrows
Honorable Gregory Clifford
Lonnie Coleman
Raphael Collins
Dr. Michael Copeland
Brandon Curry
Pastor Robert Dix
Lamont Dodson
Dr. Ronnie Dunn
Judge Michael Nelson
Julius Singleton
Anthony (Tony) Smith*
Luther Towers
MEMBERS
James Ferguson
Darrell Fields
Duane Griffin
Curtis (Griggs)
Jeevon Harris
Brett Horton
Chris Howse
Larry Jewett
Darian Johnson
Roz Kennon
Gregory Lockhart
Terry Maynard
Terry McWhorter
Tyson Mitchell
Judge Michael Nelson - Retired
Anthony Peebles
LaRese Purnell
Rev. Randy Reed
Steven Robertson
Glen Shumate
Jermaine Smith
Ernest Smoot
Robert Solomon
David L. Taylor
Lloyd Totty
James W.Wade III
Empowering Our youth: The April Saturday Illuminates the Path to Financial Literacy
On Saturday, April 19, 2025, the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc. hosted its April Saturday Academy at Tri-C Eastern Campus, delivering yet another impactful session. This success was made possible by the active participation and support of our community stakeholders, members, and supporters, who continue to build the foundation for excellence among Cleveland’s youth.
This month’s session was led by David L. Taylor, Economic Empowerment Chair and Assistant Vice President at the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, who is renowned for his dedication to financial literacy and youth empowerment. But what made this session truly special was the spotlight on youth
leadership. Two mentees, Byron Harris and Amyis Glover, took center stage as presenters for the day, guiding their peers through a dynamic and informative session on Financial Literacy. Their performance was nothing short of impressive— showcasing the maturity, knowledge, and confidence that exemplify the mission of the 100 Black Men movement: “What They See Is What They’ll Be.”
Under Mr. Taylor’s dedicated guidance, the Economic Empowerment pillar of the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland has steadily grown in strength and scope. His diligent work ensures that young men in the program are not just learning the basics of financial literacy but mastering the subject in
Saturday Academy
Literacy
ways that empower them to become educators and leaders themselves. This Commitment is a testament to the respect and value we place on our mentors.
Byron and Amyis rose to that challenge with poise and professionalism. Their PowerPoint presentation was well-structured and visually engaging, covering core topics such as budgeting, saving, credit management, and investing. More than just reading slides, both young men demonstrated a clear command of the subject, making eye contact with the audience, sharing personal insights, and responding thoughtfully to questions from peers and mentors alike.
The atmosphere during the session was vibrant and interactive. Byron Harris began the presentation with a breakdown of “needs vs. wants,” prompting open dialogue about how young people often spend money and how to build smarter habits early on. He encouraged attendees to start small, perhaps with weekly budgeting or tracking spending on food and entertainment.
Amyis Glover took the discussion further by introducing concepts like compound interest, credit scores, and even the basics of investing. Using relatable examples and engaging analogies, he helped demystify terms often considered intimidating—even for adults.
What made the session particularly powerful was that the message wasn’t from a textbook or a distant financial expert—it was from two of their own. Their peers listened, engaged, and walked away with new insights about money and the power of preparation, presentation, and peer leadership.
Saturday Academies like this are at the core of the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland’s mission. These monthly gatherings provide mentees with essential life skills, academic support, cultural awareness, and—most importantly—a space where they are seen, heard, and valued. The 100 members who were there praised the session and the leadership shown by Byron and Amyis. “This is exactly what we strive for. Our young men are not just participants—they are contributors, educators, and future leaders.
Watching Byron and Amyis take command of the room today made every mentor in here proud,” said Communications Director James W. Wade III.
The April Academy is yet another example of the chapter’s intentional approach to youth development. Through consistent mentorship and leadership opportunities, young men are equipped with the knowledge, the tools, and the confidence to apply that knowledge in real-life settings.
As the spring season continues, the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc. remains committed to developing programs that elevate the minds
and spirits of young Black men throughout the region. With upcoming events focusing on STEM, college readiness, and career development, the momentum is strong, and the vision is clear.
The success of Byron Harris and Amyis Glover’s presentation is a testament to what happens when young people are empowered with education, mentorship, and opportunity. Their example inspires others to speak up, speak out, and lead. As always, with leaders like David L. Taylor helping guide the way, the future looks financially bright and bold for the next generation.
“What They See Is What They’ll Be®”
100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland,
On a cool spring afternoon in Cleveland, the energy inside Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse was electric. But for the young men of the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland’s mentoring program, this day was about more than just basketball — it was about inspiration, connection, and unforgettable memories. For the third consecutive year, the organization treated its mentees to an extraordinary experience: attending the Cavaliers’ final home game of the regular season.
Since 2022, this annual event has become a beloved tradition. It’s more than just seats to a game — it’s a behind-the-scenes look at what makes a professional team and franchise tick. From the moment they arrived, the mentees were welcomed like VIPs. They had the rare opportunity to meet many dedicated staff who keep the Cavaliers organization running smoothly — from those working in security and guest services to the team’s community engagement representatives and event managers. These behind-the-scenes interactions were a revelation for the mentees, opening their eyes to careers they might never have considered. Many were surprised to learn that putting on a game night requires hundreds of hardworking individuals—not just players. It was an eye-opening reminder that success is built by teamwork on and off the court.
The highlight, however, came when the mentees were invited to participate in the fan-favorite Cavaliers Cheer Tunnel. Lined up along the tunnel, hearts pounding with excitement, the young men raised their hands as the Cavaliers players ran past, exchanging high fives and words of encouragement. They stood shoulder-to-shoulder with their heroes for a few unforgettable seconds — a decisive moment of connection and inspiration.
“It’s always amazing to see the joy on our mentees’ faces,” said one of the mentors. “This isn’t just about watching a game — it’s about showing them what’s possible, surrounding them with positivity, and reinforcing that they belong in every space they enter.”
For many of the young men, this experience will stay with them for a lifetime. Whether it was a simple high-five, a conversation with an arena worker,
or just the feeling of being valued and included, the night offered more than entertainment — it gave them a glimpse of a bigger world.
The 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland remains steadfast in its commitment to expanding the horizons of its youth. Events like this reinforce the organization’s mission: to educate, empower, and expose young Black men to opportunities that build character and confidence.
As the Cavaliers wrapped up their season, the mentees left the arena smiling, inspired, and proud. The cheers may have faded, but the impact of that night, filled with inspiration and connection, will echo for years to come.
From South Africa to the States: Reviving the Spirit of Black Economic Empowerment
By Robert L. Bankston, MBA
The aim is urgent: to bridge Black communities’ economic disparities in the United States and globally. Yet, a significant challenge lies in the lack of understanding of basic financial principles among many individuals. Research indicates that Black consumers purchase the top three categories: salty snacks, soft drinks, vegetables, and herbs. The purchasing power of African Americans is on a rapid ascent, projected to reach an impressive $1.8 trillion by 2024. With a population of 47.8 million, African Americans represent the secondlargest consumer group, offering businesses a substantial opportunity worth $300 billion within this demographic. Despite constituting 13.4% of the U.S. population, Black households accounted for nearly 10% of the nation’s total expenditure on goods and services in 2019, as reported by McKinsey.
Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) in South Africa is a beacon of hope, a compelling framework that, if thoughtfully adapted, could yield substantial benefits for Black communities in the United States. The core principle of BEE revolves around rectifying historical injustices by ensuring equitable access to resources, opportunities, and economic participation for marginalized groups. By implementing similar initiatives in the U.S., there is potential to create pathways for Black Americans to engage more fully in the economy, thereby fostering entrepreneurship, job creation, and wealth accumulation. Such a model could enhance individual economic standing and stimulate broader community development, leading to improved educational outcomes, health services, and overall quality of life. Ultimately, successfully adapting BEE principles could empower Black
Americans to build sustainable economic futures, bridging the gap created by systemic inequalities and promoting a more inclusive society.
Adapting BEE principles in the U.S. would require a multifaceted approach, focusing on policy reforms, community engagement, and investment in education and training programs. Policymakers could introduce incentives for businesses that prioritize hiring and supporting Black entrepreneurs while ensuring that financial institutions provide equitable access to capital. Community organizations could play a vital role in facilitating mentorship programs and networking opportunities, helping to cultivate a new generation of leaders and innovators. Furthermore, educational institutions could partner with local businesses to create curricula that align with market needs, equipping students with the skills necessary for success in a rapidly evolving economy. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, the U.S. could create a robust ecosystem that not only uplifts Black communities but also contributes to the overall economic vitality of the nation.
Collaboration is not just a key, but the heart of realizing our aspirations; black economics also holds this principle. By uniting our resources and seizing opportunities while prioritizing education and maintaining humility, we can create a sustainable initiative for financial freedom that truly flourishes. Your involvement, as policymakers, community leaders, and individuals interested in economic equity, is crucial to the success of this initiative.
July 16 @ 5:30-7:30 p.m.
State of the Urban League Address by CEO Marc Morial Cleveland Church of Christ 1035 East 105th Street Cleveland, OH 44108
"We are excited to serve as the host affiliate for the National Urban League Conference. This is our chance to showcase the work of the Urban League of Greater Cleveland affiliate and the significant contributions we make to the community."
Marsha A. Mockabee President & CEO, Urban League of Greater Cleveland
How can my organization, my family, and I participate? Register now and save!
July 16 @ 6:00-11:30 p.m. Rocket Arena Sponsorships Available
Saturday, July 19
10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Huntington Convention Center
Join us for a FREE day of fun, entertainment, and valuable resources for all ages! Bring your family and friends to enjoy exciting activities, interactive experiences, and community connections. There’s something for everyone—don’t miss out!
Back To School Zone
FEATURING:
FREE Backpacks & School Supplies (while supplies last)
FREE Health Screenings
FREE Legal Clinic
LIVE Entertainment, Games, Prizes & more!
PLUS! PROJECT READY COLLEGE FAIR:
60+ colleges & universities
Information on scholarships, financial aid, resources & more!
Urban League Now Experience
FEATURING:
Brilliant & Black-Owned Marketplace
Business Experts Corner
Community Give-Back Corner
Music & Entertainment Stage
Makers Market
Fashion Show
Content Creators Mixer
HER Space
Kings Corner
GenZone
LIVINGHealthy
Health & Wellness
Gentle Bites of Spring: Nourish Your Soul Without Breaking the Bank
This vibrant spring mix salad is a fresh and healthy option. It features a blend of baby spring mix greens, edible flowers, cherry tomatoes, avocado, cucumber, beets, artichoke hearts, red onion, and olives, all topped with a homemade dressing.
The ingredients include a 10-ounce package of spring mix, halved cherry or grape tomatoes, a medium avocado sliced, a medium cucumber sliced, half a cup of sliced beets, a handful of basil and cilantro, roughly chopped artichoke hearts, sliced red onion, and black olives. For the dressing, you'll need a cup of soaked cashews, 1¼ cups of water, two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, two tablespoons of tahini paste, one tablespoon of nutritional yeast flakes, a clove of garlic, and half a teaspoon of salt.
Soak the cashews for about an hour or overnight using a standard blender; a highspeed blender does not require soaking.
