Across cities nationwide, the African American Male Wellness Agency (AAMWA) is working to close persistent gaps in preventive care, chronic disease awareness, and mental wellness by bringing health services directly into communities.

Through large-scale screenings, culturally responsive programming, and partnerships with healthcare professionals, AAMWA is helping individuals understand their health risks and take steps toward long-term wellbeing. Their approach recently received national recognition with a 2025 SB100 Award, presented as part of the Best of Small Business Awards by Small Business Expo

“This national recognition reflects the dedication of our team and partners, but our real measure of success is the lives we touch,” said Kenny Hampton, president of AAMWA. “Black men and women are dying from preventable conditions, and by bringing the clinic to the community, we’re simply saying–not on our watch.”

One of AAMWA’s most visible initiatives, Black Men’s Wellness Day, reflects both the scale and urgency of this work. In 2025, events were held in nearly 20 cities nationwide, engaging more than 100,000 participants. Across those cities, over 10,000 men received health screenings, with results underscoring the need for early intervention.

Nearly 90 percent of men screened had elevated blood pressure. In addition, more than 20,000 biometric screenings were conducted, helping participants identify health risks and connect with follow-up care.

Public officials have also taken note of the AAMWA’s work. During Black Men’s Wellness Day in Atlanta event, Fulton County Chairman, Robb Pitts, encouraged community members to prioritize preventive care and highlighted AAMWA’s approach to meeting people where they are.

“Black men are dying because we shy away from the doctor and getting our checkups,” said Pitts. “The African American Male Wellness Agency is bringing the clinic to the community so Black men can know their numbers and live longer.”

The importance of early detection is often clearest at the individual level. At Black Men’s Wellness Day in Dallas, Malik, a first-time participant, encouraged his father, Brian, to attend. During onsite screenings, Brian’s blood pressure readings were found to be alarmingly high. Health professionals at the event immediately emphasized the urgency of the situation and connected him with a healthcare provider. What began as a routine visit quickly became a life-changing moment.

“My son’s invitation may have saved my life,” said Brian.

Mental wellness is another pillar of AAMWA’s work. Through Real Men Real Talk, the organization reached more than 6,500 attendees in 2025, hosting five national mental wellness summits and delivering sessions in 20 cities. The initiative facilitated over 1,000 mental health screenings, supported by more than 300 mental health professionals, helping to reduce stigma while expanding access to culturally competent care.

AAMWA’s commitment to whole-family health is reflected in Uplift Her, the organization’s women’s wellness initiative. In Columbus and Houston, nearly 10,000 women participated in Women’s Wellness Day. Of those participants, 895 women received more than 4,000 health screenings, including biometric screenings, Pap tests, mammograms, and thyroid cancer screenings. Approximately 67.5 percent of women screened were classified as having high blood pressure, indicating a need for prescribed medication and lifestyle changes.

In 2026, the organization’s Black Men’s Wellness Day initiative will expand into Baltimore, Boston, St. Louis, Tampa Bay, and Las Vegas. Cities nationwide are taking interest in the organization’s community-based approach to care. In support of this work, public figures including Marlon Wayans, Meagan Good, and David Banner have joined AAMWA in encouraging the Black community to prioritize their health and take proactive steps toward preventive care.