Smiles lit up the faces of approximately 200 Miami children who received $100 each to spend on whatever they wanted at a local Walmart in Miami Gardens.
This follows a partnership between CBS News Miami and the 100 Black Men of South Florida to teach kids the value of shopping while promoting camaraderie and the need to support one another.
For the past 25 years, the 100 Black Men of South Florida have organized an annual shopping spree, ensuring that the spirit of giving is alive and thriving while bringing happiness and excitement to young lives.
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Every year, over 200 children take part in the event. Rolling Out reports that since the initiative’s start, an estimated 5,000 children have benefited from it, receiving gifts and toys that make them happy.
A network of neighborhood-based groups chooses participants for the shopping spree, guaranteeing that this unique opportunity is provided to those who need it the most.
The festival has evolved, with its original corporate sponsor, ZMart, being replaced by Walmart, which now plays an important role in sponsoring this cherished event.
The 100 Black Men of South Florida, whose mission is “to improve the quality of life for citizens and enhance educational opportunities for Black Americans” emphasize the importance of community involvement and partnerships, which have grown significantly since the event’s inception.
In 2022, the organization expanded its reach by partnering with the Florida Power & Light Company, continuing the tradition of collaboration to enhance the experience for participants. This partnership highlights the importance of corporate responsibility and community support in fostering positive change.
The organization, founded in 1989, is made up of a group of men in business, industry, public affairs, government and the professions who share a common goal of improving the quality of life for African Americans and other minorities through mentorship.
According to their website, “the founding members of the 100 believed that they needed to take a leadership role in combating the plagues of illiteracy, professional stagnation, and political and economic disenfranchisement in our community. The 100 was formed to provide its members with a vehicle through which the requisite action could be taken to improve conditions within our community.”
To this end, the 100 have introduced several programs, such as the Dr. Harold Guinyard Leadership Academy (DHGLA), Positive Youth Development (PYD), Collegiate 100, the Middle School Summer Law Program, the High School Summer Nursing & Health Sciences Academy, the Thanksgiving Food Drive, the Christmas Shopping Spree, and the Law Enforcement & Emergency Services Career Fair.
