• Posted: February 20, 2024
• 100 Black Men of Chicago, 100BMC, Black History Month, Charles Walton, Chicago, IBEW Local 134, IBEW-NECA Technical Institute, IN-TECH, Maurice King, powering chicago

For over three decades, the 100 Black Men of Chicago (100BMC) have served as a pillar of support for African American communities throughout Chicago. With a commitment to education, health, wellness, and empowerment, the organization mentors young men from sixth through 12th grade, providing them with resources for a successful future.

While the organization’s focus for the past 28 years was the transition from high school to college, Executive Director Charles Walton and the 100BMC leadership recognized that college is not the only path to success. The 100BMC  is  working  to bring to light the importance of providing these young individuals with a variety of opportunities. 

“The reality is, not everyone can afford college, nor is college suited for everyone,”  said Walton. “But they are built for success. They are built for doing something that is both character-building, profitable, and personally uplifting.”

Recently, the 100 Black Men of Chicago broadened its outreach by collaborating with IBEW Local 134 

and hosting an event at the IBEW-NECA Technical Institute (IN-Tech) in Alsip. This partnership provided 30 mentees with an introduction to the diverse career paths available in the electrical industry.

The mentees engaged in hands-on workshops, where they explored conduit bending and basic circuitry.

“We guided them through wiring a transformer, a switch, and a doorbell chime. The highlight was witnessing their excitement when they successfully completed the circuit and heard the doorbell ring,” said Maurice King, Vice President of Local 134. 

Additionally, they heard firsthand accounts from professionals in the field, gaining insights into hands-on training, the value of living wages, and the advantage of avoiding college tuition debt.

“You know, they need to see someone close to their age, progressing and excelling. They can relate to them easier than to someone like their parents. And you could see it—their eyes widened, mouths dropped open, they were genuinely engaged,” said Walton. “The speaker at the event shared something profound, saying, ‘Do you know the difference between you and me? The only difference is that I was presented with an opportunity, and I took it.’ It was a powerful moment of realization and inspiration for them.”

Grounded in the belief that sometimes all someone needs to succeed is the right support system, the 100 Black Men of Chicago provide young adults with the essential tools for informed decision-making. Through ongoing collaborations, such as with IBEW Local 134, they ensure that these vital resources continue to reach those in need. This message of support extends beyond the present, hoping that those who benefit will one day pay it forward. 

“Choosing an option isn’t just about exposure, it’s about knowing there’s support behind your choice.  This message is crucial because those we are helping now will serve as role models for others in need, demonstrating that there are alternatives beyond conventional paths,” said Walton. “And they will be able to proudly say, ‘Hey, I just completed my apprenticeship. I’m a union electrician and want you to have the same opportunity.'”This cycle of support and empowerment serves as a guide, encouraging future generations to assist others. By embracing the strength of community, Powering Chicago aims to ensure opportunities are not limited but expanded for all, fostering a more inclusive future in the electrical industry.