100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. Stands “Ten Toes Down” for Community Empowerment and Leadership

New York, New York — 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. proudly declares that it is “Ten Toes Down” in its unwavering commitment to uplifting communities, empowering youth, and building a stronger future through mentorship, education, economic development, and leadership.

The phrase “Ten Toes Down” represents dedication, resilience, accountability, and standing firmly on principles. For 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc., it reflects the organization’s steadfast mission to serve as role models and change agents within the community.

Being “Ten Toes Down” means showing up consistently, leading with integrity, and investing in the next generation without compromise.

Through impactful programming focused on mentoring, academic excellence, financial literacy, health and wellness, and leadership development, the organization continues to create measurable change. Members dedicate their time, resources, and expertise to ensure that young people are equipped with the tools they need to succeed personally and professionally.

“Ten Toes Down” is more than a slogan; it is a mindset. It represents a promise to remain grounded in service, rooted in community values, and committed to long-term progress. At a time when strong leadership and positive role models are more important than ever, 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. stands firm in its responsibility to lead by example.

By strengthening families, mentoring youth, and promoting economic empowerment, the organization continues to make a lasting impact throughout Eastern New York. Its work reflects a belief that when individuals are empowered, entire communities rise.

100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. remains Ten Toes Down dedicated, determined, and driven to create meaningful change today and for generations to come.

On March 14, 2026 the African American Small Business Foundation, Inc., 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc., and the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. will be coming together to showcase an event Ten Toes Down for Homegrown Heroes on Long Island at Adephi University Performing Arts Center at Adelphi in Garden City, New York.

The upcoming Homegrown Heroes of Long Island event, held in partnership with the 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. and the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc., is more than a fundraiser. It is a strategic acknowledgment of the entrepreneurs and leaders who stayed, built, and thrived in their own backyards.

Acknowledging "homegrown" talent is vital for the current generation, as it provides visible proof that success does not require an exit from one's community. For future generations, it establishes a lineage of leadership, ensuring that the next wave of founders has a floor of support rather than a ceiling of systemic barriers.

The Case for Continued Support

While national headlines provide visibility, local donor support provides the "fuel." Every dollar raised at the Homegrown Heroes event directly funds:

• Generational Wealth programs and events: Business education and micro-grants for emerging founders.
• The Advocacy Pipeline: Ensuring minority-owned firms are at the table for multi-million-dollar state and regional contracts.
• Youth Entrepreneurship: Investing in the high school and college students who will be the "Heroes" in the future.”

“Homegrown Heroes is about recognizing that our community’s greatest assets are the people already standing next to us,” added Rose Ward, Vice President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce. “Investing in this foundation is an investment in the families, neighborhoods, and regional stability of Long Island for decades to come.”

Event Details

To register today for the upcoming Ten Toes Down for "Homegrown Heroes" on long Island event today visit: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ti...

• What: Ten Toes Down for "Homegrown Heroes" on Long Island Fundraising Celebration
• Where: Adelphi University, 1 South Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530
• When: Saturday, March 14, 2026, | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Levels of Support: Visionary ($100), Benefactor ($75), Champion ($50), Supporter ($25), Friend of the Cause ($20).

Join the movement and secure your tickets today at: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ti...

• HOMEGROWN HEROES OF LONG ISLAND
• Adelphi University
• Performing Arts Center
• 1 South Avenue
• Garden City, NY
• 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Registration & Networking
• 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Opening Remarks & Performances
• 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM Exhibit Debut in the Gallery
• 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Refreshments & Networking
• 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Closing Remarks & Book Showcase

100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. Stands “Ten Toes Down” for Community Empowerment and Leadership

For more information on Ten Toes Down, visit: https://tentoesdown.com/pages/news

About: 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. After many years of being affiliated with a local chapter of 100 Black Men of America, Inc., a conversation was held. We came to the conclusion that perhaps a new chapter of the “100” should be developed.

We began conversations with 100 Black Men of America, Inc. to begin to take the necessary steps to seek a new chapter membership into the 100 Black Men of America, Inc.

On October 3, 2021, the initial founders of 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc, which was compromised of Phil Andrews, President, John Nedd, Secretary, and Desmond Horsham-Braithwaite, treasurer met to begin taking steps to incorporate the 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. as a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization.

100 Black Men of Eastern New York’s mission is to serve the African American Community in Eastern New York in the areas of Education, Health and Wellness, Advocacy, Mentoring, Community Development, Leadership Development, and Economic Empowerment.