100 Black Men of Kansas City holds fifth annual gala at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The goal is to help improve the quality of life for African Americans in the community and Tuesday night, the 100 Black Men of Kansas City hope that is exactly what they did with 25 young adults.

The group held its fifth annual gala at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.

The students were comprised of black males ranging from 12 to 18 years old.

To make it to the gala, they had to master one of the group's eight principals including learning that they can overcome anything.

"It’s the power of positive influence. Basically what they see is what they be, give them a way to learn other than what they see on the street or on TV,” said Jeffrey J. Davis, co-Vice President of 100 Black Men.

The gala also recognized several teachers for their achievements in helping the students.