Group to give $1,000 to Alpha

The organization ‘adopted’ Alpha nearly two years ago, providing various services.

STAFF REPORT

YOUNGSTOWN — Representatives of 100 Black Men of Greater Youngstown/Warren have been regular visitors and contributors at the city’s Alpha School of Excellence for nearly two years, and they will be back Tuesday with a special gift.

The local chapter of 100 Black Men of America Inc. will present Jerome Harrell, the school principal, with a $1,000 check during the school’s morning “launch” session at 7:30 a.m.

The money is to be used for pupil supplies and related material, said Shareef Ali, chapter president.

Alpha, which serves seventh- and eighth-grade boys and girls, has drawn both state and national recognition for its morning launches, all-school assemblies focusing on good news and getting the day off on the right foot.

100 Black Men “adopted” the school in January 2007, just a month after receiving its national charter.

Its members provide regular mentoring, education services and more to the pupils, and the organization intends to adopt a Warren school soon as well.

The group’s mission is to improve the quality of life of its communities and enhance education and economic opportunities.

“We are committed to the vision of the Alpha School and are pleased to come alongside of them in mentoring and training of the young men and the young women,” Ali said.

That mentoring is expected to follow the young people through their high school and, hopefully, college careers.

“What They See Is What They’ll Be” is the group’s motto, and the idea is to have the young people see real men giving real time to the school program and the pupils in order to make a real difference, said Mike McNair, chapter vice president.