MIAMI — The 100 Black Men of South Florida and the Miami-Dade County Public Schools will host a college and career fair that is expected to draw more than 5,000 students who can learn about career and post-secondary education options.

The Fourth Annual College & Career Expo starts 10 a.m. today at the Miami Dade County Fair & Exposition Center, 10901 Coral Way in Miami. The expo is for high school students under 19 years old. A parent or chaperone must accompany each student.

 The 100 Black Men of South Florida, Inc. has been at the forefront of mentoring and providing innovative programs for young black males in South Florida. Some of their signature initiatives include Positive Youth Development, Dr. Harold Guinyard Leadership Academy and Collegiate 100. Members say these programs have made a significant impact on the young men of the South Florida community.

“We are committed to providing resources and options to help our young people navigate their life and career choices,” said Jonathan Dotson, the organization’s vice president of operations.

According to the U.S. Department of Education statistics from 2012, Florida is currently tied with four states, having the fifth-lowest graduation rate. Researchers say nationwide progress means the national graduation rate could reach 90 percent by 2020.

Over 5,000 students from Miami-Dade County are confirmed to attend the Expo. The 100 Black Men hope to get students excited about education and provides the pathways and resources for making positive career choices. Representatives from over 100 colleges and universities will be onsite to provide information about applying for college. There is an opportunity for some students to get accepted on the spot, with application fees waived and scholarships on the spot.

Students will have an opportunity to attend workshops, discuss admissions requirements along with applying for scholarships. Seniors must bring high school transcripts, ACT/SAT scores and two letters of recommendation.

Members say they recognize that not all students are going to college. They have curated a career expo to provide valuable platforms to connect students with careers and vocational opportunities.

“We are excited by the outpour of support from our college and vocational partnerships that have signed on to help students navigate a plan for their future,” states the 100 Black Men of South Florida President, Ellis A. Adger.

At the event, the men will unveil their social media lounge, which serves as the hub for attendees to share their experience at the expo through social media.

Students are encouraged to register at http://100blackmensf.org/event/college-career-fair/