DAYTON — Some say Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama is an exception to a stereotype about black male success.

But Parity Inc. co-chairwoman Helen Jones-Kelly said the senator from Illinois is just one example of a strong African American male leader.

"We have outstanding African American men – men of color – throughout this country," she said.

Ten Dayton area men were honored Thursday, Feb. 28, for their contributions to the community during Parity Inc.'s The Top Ten African American Male Luncheon.

Parity Inc., an organization dedicated to fostering racial equality, hosted the 17th annual program at Sinclair Community College's David H. Ponitz Center.

The luncheon and event, which was attended by more than 500 people, is a way to honor men who exhibit traits that should be emulated by youth, said John E. Moore Sr., co-founder of Parity Inc., noting that many times only negativity is shown to the public.

"We feel that the young people needed to know that there are success stories in this community," he said.

The luncheon is the major fundraiser for Parity's mentoring program, which served 300 at-risk Dayton students. Several of them attended the event.

Marvalene Dixon-Raglin of Dayton was recognized as the mentor program's volunteer of the year.

Constance Lucas-Melson, chairwoman of Parity's education committee, applauded the program's mentors and said more role models are needed to help Dayton youth.

"We still have a waiting list," she said. "We still have children who need mentors."

For more about Parity Inc., call (937) 775-4360.

This year's honorees:

• Eric Bradley, Ohio Youth Sports Association executive director and president;

• The Rev. Paul Marshall, University of Dayton rector;

• Keith A. Perkins, manager of residential living for Management Training Center Dayton Job Corps Center;

• Charles R. Meadows, Homeless Solution Policy Board co-chairman;

• David R. Ricks, Montgomery County Public Works director;

• Anthony Long, Sr., LEAP II and Step Up Apprenticeship Program director for the Dayton Urban League;

• The Rev. Perry Henderson, Jr., pastor of Corinthian Baptist Church;

• The Rev. Chad White, Sr., pastor of Mount Carmel M.B. Church;

• Stanford Baddley, academic support programs director for minority students at Wright State University; and

• Clayton R. Luckie, Ohio General Assembly state representative.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2384 or arobinson@DaytonDailyNews.com.