CHICAGO, IL – April 19, 2010 -- On Saturday, May 1, 2010 the 100 Black Men of Chicago, Inc., (100 BMC)  in support of its mission, will host its 13th Annual Benefit Gala “An Evening with the 100 – Mentoring In The New Decade” to be held at the Hyatt Regency Chicago’s Crystal Ballroom – West Tower from 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM.

Over the past few years 100 BMC have been instrumental in being a leading voice for mentoring, especially for disenfranchised youth of which Chicago, among other major cities seemed plagued. A number of studies have shown that mentoring relationships are instrumental in developing productive careers. 100 BMC conducts weekly mentoring sessions with young students in school-based and weekend in the South and West sides of Chicago, the western suburbs and a variety of targeted and specialized programs throughout the year open to all children.

The 100 BMC Gala benefit is the organization’s biggest fundraiser of the year. This year’s theme, “Mentoring in the New Decade” gives 100 BMC the opportunity to showcase their mentoring efforts over the past decade. During a time when school grades are declining and school systems struggle to operate, 100 BMC will show how they are clearly a part of the solution. The event will include successful mentees, many of whom will be wearing a tux for the first time and participating in their first formal event.

Honorary Chairs include Mayor Richard M. Daley and Wayne D. Watson, Ph.D, President of Chicago State University. There will also be a live music performance by Terisa Griffin and dance music by DJ Terry Hunter.

Honorees for this year’s event, whose significant contributions have made a difference in the African American Community, include George Brooks UPS Central Region President, Brandon Smith Sam's Club Senior Marking Manager, Quintin E. Primo III, Chairman andCEO of Capri Capital Partners, and V103 radio personality Herb “The Kool Gent” Kent.
                      
Individual Tickets can be purchased at [http://www.100bmc.org] for $150.00 plus a $5.00 processing fee. Tickets can also be purchased at the door for $200.00. A percentage of the proceeds will support the 100 BMC programs.

The mission of the 100 Black Men of Chicago, Inc., is to help improve the quality of life and enhance educational opportunities for all young people throughout the Chicagoland area. They accomplish this by mentoring at-risk youth and delivering programs which focus on education, health and wellness, leadership, and economic development.

For further information visit the 100 Black Men of Chicago, Inc. website at www.100bmc.org.