Brothers,

It is with great pride that I’m taking over the reigns of the 100 Black Men of Metro New Orleans. Although I have been associated with several different organizations over the years none comes closer to what I believe is my goal in life; mentoring youth. The 100 offers me the opportunity to pass on some of the “wisdom” I have acquired. I fervently believe it is our duty and obligation to help young people achieve their full potential. I also believe we can only do that by example.

The 100 has chosen as our motto “they will be what they see”. Nothing is truer.

In these trying times we are all looking for answers. School drop-out rates are skyrocketing. Youth violence is increasing. Teen pregnancies are at an all time high. The answer is not in bigger and better locks on our doors. The answer is not in moving into gated communities or forgetting our roots. No, the answer is getting more involved. Doing all that you can do to make a difference. Mentoring.  Making youth and the elderly aware of the health and wellness opportunities that are available to them. Indeed providing health and wellness opportunities where you can. Providing financial assistance to create educational opportunities where none may exist. These are all things that being a part of an organization like the 100 can allow you to achieve.

We have accomplished a lot over the history of our organization. But there is still much to be done.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be a part of helping to move the 100 Black Men of Metro New Orleans to the next level.

Nathaniel L. Jones

President

100BMMNO

“Rebuilding our community and our chapter one step at a time”