01
Mentoring
Trusted relationships and positive role models that help young people see what is possible for their future.
Mentoring the next generation
What they see is what they'll be.
100 Black Men of Akron mentors and develops young people by strengthening education, health and wellness, economic opportunity and the relationships that help families and communities thrive.
MENTORSHIPLEADERSHIPCOMMUNITY
A legacy of leadershipAkron
Visible role models. Meaningful relationships. Lasting impact.
100 BLACK MEN OF AKRON
01
I’m a Parent
Learn about the Leadership Academy, eligibility, outcomes and how to enroll a student.
Enroll a student →02I Want to Mentor
Put your experience, leadership and time to work for the next generation in Akron.
Become a member →03I Want to Support
Help expand opportunity through donations, sponsorships and community partnerships.
Support the mission →2004Akron chapter established
5–12Leadership Academy grades served
4Four For The Future focus areas
UACollegiate 100 at University of Akron
Who we are
Presence creates possibility.
Through the Leadership Academy, Collegiate 100, community partnerships and hands-on mentoring, members help young people build confidence, character, academic focus and a clearer path toward college, careers and leadership.
Our mission and history →Four For The Future
Four goals working together for long-term growth.
Mentoring, education, health and wellness, and economic empowerment give young people support for today and pathways for tomorrow.
↗
02
Education
Academic support, exposure and opportunity designed to strengthen confidence and long-term achievement.
03
Health & Wellness
Whole-person development that encourages healthy choices, resilience and stronger families.
04
Economic Empowerment
Financial knowledge, career readiness, entrepreneurship and pathways to self-sufficiency.
The mission in action
What progress looks like across Akron.
Every photo represents a part of the chapter's goal: surround young people with strong examples, practical experiences and a community invested in their future.
Trusted relationships
Consistent mentors help young people build confidence, character, stronger communication and a clearer sense of what is possible.
Learning with purpose
Tutoring, group learning and exposure to new opportunities strengthen academic focus and prepare students for college, careers and leadership.
Strong minds and families
Programs encourage healthy choices, resilience, self-respect and the family support young people need to grow into thriving adults.
Pathways to opportunity
Career exposure, financial knowledge and entrepreneurship help young people imagine—and prepare for—a more independent future.
More people at the table
Schools, families, nonprofits and businesses work alongside the chapter to connect young people with broader networks of support.
Examples worth following
Members lead through service so young people can see integrity, responsibility, brotherhood and community commitment in action.
Hear the mission
See why consistent mentoring matters.
The chapter's own story and independent local reporting show what it means when men step forward, stay present and invest in young people.
Watch Our Why
Mentoring changes what young people can imagine.
Hear how the chapter builds relationships, raises expectations and creates opportunities for Akron's next generation.
In the news · Akron Beacon Journal
Black men mentor youth in Akron Public Schools.
Read local coverage of mentors answering the call to support students, strengthen relationships and help prevent violence.
Read the story ↗Programs
Mentoring that meets young people where they are.
From middle and high school mentoring to collegiate leadership, the chapter creates a continuum of positive influence.
Grades 5–12
01
Leadership Academy
Mentoring designed to improve education, health, character and confidence through collaboration with parents, teachers, affiliates and corporate partners.
Explore program →University of Akron02
Collegiate 100
University students who share the mission of improving quality of life for young African Americans through volunteering, group mentoring and tutoring.
Explore program →Community in action
Showing up is where change begins.
Mentors work beside young people, listen to their goals, teach practical skills and connect families with the people and opportunities that help progress last.
See our impact
2004
Akron history
A local chapter built around showing up.
100 Black Men of Akron became a chapter of 100 Black Men of America in 2004. Its founding members were Tony Grimes, Gary Wyatt, Greg Partridge and Michael J. Irby, with youth mentoring as the primary focus from the beginning.
Explore the timeline →Events
Gathering Akron around young people.
Leadership Academy sessions, community programs, fundraisers and partner events create places for young people to learn, connect and be supported.
Be part of the work