Celebrating 40 Years of Impact
A legacy of mentorship, leadership, and community.
As 100 Black Men of Indianapolis celebrates 40 years of impact, I am filled with immense gratitude for all we have achieved together in our community. Over the past four decades, we have mentored and empowered countless young men and women, helping them unlock their full potential and build brighter futures. From educational support to leadership development, our programs have touched lives in ways that continue to ripple through our community.
But our work is far from over. As we look toward the future, we remain steadfast in our mission to uplift the next generation of leaders. With outstanding enrollment in our core programs, the development of new initiatives, and a growing network of committed mentors and supporters, we are poised to make an even greater difference in the years ahead.
I look forward to seeing our impact in Central Indiana over the next 40 years.
Sincerely,
Kraig Kinchen MD, MSc
Executive Director, 100 Black Men Indianapolis, Inc.
From Student to Teacher
In 2004, Rick Anderson was a high school senior when his mother discovered 100 Black Men Indianapolis and encouraged him to join the Beautillion program. The program opened his eyes to new possibilities and paths beyond what he had seen for Black men, inspiring him to pursue business at Florida A&M University. Throughout his career—spanning business management roles and a transition to education through Teach for America—Rick has remained connected to 100 Black Men. Today, Rick continues to give back by mentoring the next generation of young men, just as the program did for him.
Mentorship That Matters
From her first days in the Summer Academy to competing in a national financial literacy competition, Jendayi Oliver’s journey with 100 Black Men Indianapolis has been transformative. Starting in first grade, the Summer Academy program provided her with skills, confidence, and a supportive community of mentors who looked like her and understood her experiences. Her mother, Gyamfua Gyamerah, credits the program with keeping her daughters academically ahead and instilling a sense of pride and purpose. Now a senior in high school, Jendayi plans to attend Howard University and continue her connection with 100 Black Men through Collegiate 100.
A Legacy of Giving Back
Laurie Henry Bradley and her husband, Morris, are carrying forward a family legacy through their McDonald’s franchises across Indiana, using their business to uplift their community and empower Black youth. For eight years, they’ve partnered with 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, providing scholarships, breakfasts, and financial literacy support to young people preparing for the future. Their commitment goes beyond donations; it’s about showing up, honoring family, and building a lasting impact, one student at a time.
We would like to thank all of our sponsors and the approximately 500 attendees for helping to make the 40th Anniversary Gala possible, enabling us to share stories of the impact that our organization continues to make with youth in the community in collaboration with outstanding partners. We invite you to view event images at the link above!
Explore Our Programs
At 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc., we strive to nurture and enhance academic achievement and personal growth by supplementing the mentoring, tutoring, and other programs. We strive to serve as role models to African American youth and to enhance the opportunity for African American college students to serve the community.
In 2024, we served over 200 students to prevent learning loss during the Summer Academy, a six-week program offered to youth.
In the 39th year, 40 high school seniors will participate in the Beautillion Militaire program to prepare students for life after high school.
Following a sixth national championship in 21 years, 40 high school students are registered for the Financial Literacy Program.
As we approach the holiday season, we invite you to join us in making an impact on the lives of young men in our community. Your support—whether through donations, volunteering, or participating in our holiday events—directly benefits our youth programs, helping us continue our mission of mentorship and empowerment.