The Indianapolis Commission on African-American males (ICAAM) believes that the problems facing African-American Males in Indianapolis can be resolved with available community resources; but only if those resources can be brought to the table to collectively contribute toward creating solutions. By combining in-depth research and accurate documentation of the problem; vigorously inviting inspired and dedicated groups and individuals to the process and continually disseminating information and encouraging active collaboration; ICAAM is a potent community convener whose goal is, "action now," to achieve a better way of life for African-American males and their families in our community. We do not believe that this is a role that is being fulfilled by any other group at the present time.
"Creating a Community of Heroes," is the ICAAM byline, which motivates and energizes citizens Of Indianapolis to rise to the call for measurable success, beyond mere survival of the African-American community. This success must begin with insuring that the educational and economic opportunities available to some are available to African-American males as well.
ICAAM in its unique operating capacity needs a strong administrative and research base to support its committed volunteer effort. ICAAM must be able to offer various modes of support to mobilize implementing partners who accept our invitation to be an integral component of a collaborative action toward problem resolution. ICAAM must be in a position to recognize and honor those who have acknowledged the problems, accepted the call to action and whose actions contribute to solutions.
During the process of developing a new strategic plan, in 2001, ICAAM also developed new vision and mission statements. They read as follows:
Vision Statement
The African American male will be undaunted by adversity, be developed physically, spiritually, and emotionally, and be a hero in his family and in his community.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Indianapolis Commission On African American Males (ICAAM) is to convene and facilitate committed and knowledgeable partners (organizations and individuals) in the community, identify core issues as they impact the African American male and his family, and forward these findings for action throughout the community.
The role of the Indianapolis Commission On African-American Males is to act as a catalyst in identifying issues affecting local African-American males, organizations currently providing services to this group, as well as organizations that should be, and facilitating the coordination of services and resources to collectively provide remedies to the problems affecting African-American males in Indianapolis. By its design, ICAAM is not a direct service provider, but a "convener."
Over the next five years, ICAAM will focus on strengthening its organizational structure by developing measures to maximize the effectiveness of its volunteer members and thereby improving ICAAM's effectiveness on issues facing African-American males through its Key Stakeholder Taskforce Initiative.
In order for ICAAM to implement its charge, it has become obvious due to dwindling resources from other agencies in our community that we will need continued financial support. We are still an emerging organization facing the same challenges as other community service organizations. However, we are making a positive difference for African-American males in this community and will continue to grow and meet the challenge.