The overall concept of the 100 Black Men of America 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. These men envisioned an organization that would implement programs designed to improve quality of life for African Americans and other minorities. They also wished to ensure the future of their communities by devoting a large number of resources toward youth development. These members were successful black men from various occupations. These visionaries included business and industry leaders such as David Dinkins, Robert Mangum, Dr. William Hayling, Nathaniel Goldston III, Livingston Wingate, Andrew Hatcher, and Jackie Robinson.
Men across the country began to form 100 Black Men organizations to leverage their collective talents and resources. Chapters were formed in Los Angeles, Indianapolis, St. Louis, Pittsburg, Atlanta, San Francisco/Oakland Bay Area, Nassau/Suffolk, Alton, and Sacramento.
In 1986, a national organization was formed from the local chapters. The national organization was named 100 Black Men of America, Inc.
In 1994, 100 Black Men of America (100 BMOA) decided to focus its resources on programs that supported four key areas: Mentoring, Education, Health & Wellness, and Economic Development.
Today, the organization has grown to over 116 chapters internationally with more than 10,000 members who continue to strive to improve the quality of life in our communities and enhance the education and economic opportunities for African Americans. 100 Black Men of America, Inc. has more than 100,000 youth participating 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 continue to serve as a strong force in the world by overcoming the cultural and financial obstacles that have limited the achievements of some African Americans, particularly young African American males. Members of the 100 BMOA have made outstanding progress by proving that African Americans can, and do, excel as corporate leaders, community leaders and as independent business owners.
Notable current members of 100 Black Men of America include Earl Graves, Chairman, Black Enterprise Magazine; General Colin Powell, former Secretary of State and Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff; Blair Underwood, Actor; Andrew Young, former Ambassador to the United Nations; Magic Johnson, member of National Basketball Association (NBA) Hall of Fame; and Bill Cosby, Philanthropist and Entertainer.