100 Black Men of Eastern New York and Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce Receive Legacy Award

BRENTWOOD, NY — March 2026 — The 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. and the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. were among several distinguished organizations honored with the Legacy Award during the New York State Senate Black History Month Celebration hosted by New York State Senator Monica R. Martinez.

The annual event, held in Brentwood within New York State Senate District 4, recognized individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and dedication have strengthened communities across Suffolk County.

Senator Martinez’s district includes communities such as Brentwood, Central Islip, Bay Shore, North Bay Shore, and surrounding areas.

The Legacy Award presented to the 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. and the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. recognized the organizations’ longstanding commitment to mentorship, economic empowerment, business development, and community leadership throughout Long Island and New York State.

The two organizations have collaborated on numerous initiatives focused on strengthening communities through mentoring programs, youth leadership development, small business advocacy, economic empowerment initiatives, and educational programming that prepares the next generation of leaders.

The 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc., an affiliate of 100 Black Men of America, Inc., is dedicated to improving the quality of life in underserved communities through its core pillars of mentoring, education, economic empowerment, and health and wellness. Through mentorship programs, scholarships, leadership initiatives, and community partnerships, the organization continues to guide young people toward academic achievement, career readiness, and civic engagement.

The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. serves as a leading advocate for African American entrepreneurs and minority-owned businesses throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. The chamber works to expand economic opportunity through networking, business development support, policy advocacy, and strategic partnerships that strengthen the region’s small business ecosystem.

Several other individuals and organizations were also honored during the Senate’s Black History Month celebration for their leadership and contributions to public service, education, entrepreneurship, and community development.

Among the honorees, Black Momma Vodka received the Entrepreneur Award for its business leadership and entrepreneurial success, while Charles Goodman was recognized with the First Responder Award for his service and dedication to public safety.

The Student Leadership Award was presented to Marcellus Bradford, recognizing his commitment to leadership and academic achievement. Gerri Coleman-Odom received the Community Leadership Award for her longstanding service and advocacy within the community.

Several educators were honored for their impact on education and student development, including Kenneth McCloud, Dr. Nathaniel Marner, Jonathan Morgan, and Dr. Maria Cox-Vineyard, who were all recognized with the Educator Award.

Public safety leadership was also acknowledged, with Michael St. Lewis Jr. receiving the Law Enforcement Award. Zorina Costello was honored with the Religious Leader Award for her spiritual leadership and community service.

Military and service leadership were recognized through the Veteran Award, presented to Gizzryl Cook and Reverend Leonard M. Davis, honoring their service to the nation and continued commitment to the community.

The Not-for-Profit Leadership Award was presented to Vanda Bordies for her work strengthening nonprofit initiatives and supporting community development efforts.

Additional Legacy Award recipients included the Islip-Smithtown NAACP Branch, Bethel A.M.E. Church of Copiague, and the Belmont Lake Civic Association, organizations recognized for their longstanding contributions to civic leadership, advocacy, and community engagement.

The Black History Month celebration also featured cultural entertainment and performances from local student organizations and theatre groups, highlighting the rich cultural heritage and artistic talent within the community.

The event brought together elected officials, educators, clergy, nonprofit leaders, business owners, and residents to celebrate the achievements of African American leaders and organizations whose work continues to strengthen communities across Suffolk County.

About 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. - The 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. is a nonprofit mentoring and leadership organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in communities through mentoring, education, economic empowerment, and health initiatives.

About the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. - The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. advocates for the growth and sustainability of African American-owned businesses and entrepreneurs while promoting economic opportunity and development across Long Island.