Marines and 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Aim to Inspire American Youth

13 Jun 2014 | Lance Corporal Jessica Quezada Marine Corps Recruiting Command

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. – Thousands of members gathered for this year’s 100 Black Men National Convention in pursuit of similar goals aimed towards the success of African-American youth.

Key leaders among the organization network with over 4,000 members to establish important relationships to support educational opportunities and produce an environment in which youth are motivated to thrive throughout their lifetime.

Entangled between the socialization of members and influencers, Marines contributed in the many discussions throughout the week. They highlighted the profound purpose of educational success, growth in leadership, mentorship and what this means for those struggling in African-American communities.

100 Black Men of America, Inc. was established in 1986, and in honor of it’s 28th year, “Education in an Era of Change: Ensuring Excellence for African-American Youth” became this year’s overall theme.

“The members come together as well to re-energize themselves, with respect to their commitment to young people, and the energy to our focus,” said Curly Dossman Jr., National Chairman for 100 Black Men of America. “The partnership with the U.S. Marines is very critical to the lives of our young people … [it gives] an opportunity for kids to understand what discipline is all about, what leadership is about, and how those qualities and those characteristics can help them be successful, as they venture towards their college careers as well as their secondary education. “

Marines excel in coveted, highly marketable traits in the corporate world such as leadership, discipline and teamwork. The partnership with 100 Black Men and other like professional development organizations connects community leaders, influencers and highly qualified individuals that may develop future leads for applicants or even become future Marine leaders.

“I hope to be able to leverage our shared values between 100 Black Men and the Marine Corps in returning quality citizens to their communities,” said Lt. Col. Larry Parker, Marine Corps Recruiting Command proof source at the 100 Black Men National Convention and head of Enlisted Plans section of Manpower Plans and Policy Branch, Headquarters Marine Corps. “I come from a small town in Texas where I had a single mother, with not many influential men in my life until later … through mentorship at the Naval Academy, I grew through the ranks and became a leader myself. 100 Black Men believes in fostering leadership and making leaders of tomorrow ... as the Marine Corps does.”

As a staple for African-American youth, this week will remind, foster and honor the excellence of those who have continued to set forth a mission of success in all aspects of life. Members of the organization stand as remarkable examples to youth who aspire to excel as multifaceted leaders and Marines who contribute to the like-minded goals aid in the accomplishment for the future generation.

Read more: http://www.dvidshub.net/news/132952/marines-and-100-black-men-america-inc-aim-inspire-american-youth#ixzz34Y8ubMLD
Marine Corps Recruiting Command