Links Inc

HEALTH and HUMAN SERVICES/RED DAY DRESS EVENT: The Links, Incorporated established this facet in response to the chronic health disparities that persist in Black communities and which result in a decreased life expectancy of African-Americans. Health and Human Services programs bring greater focus, resources and coordination to health initiatives already in existence. Our signature Red Dress Health Links to Heart Health Program was established in partnership with The Links, Incorporated, federal agencies, local hospitals and community groups to increase awareness of the number one killer of women, heart disease. With ongoing forums, panels, workshops and health fairs, we provide Community Partnership Grants, educational awareness and prevention programs to high risk minority women. Our chapter also engages our community with Walk for Health Living, a walking campaign to improve heart health. In addition to our heart health programs, we plan to increase cancer prevention and awareness through our Health Equity Ambassador Links program.

SERVICES TO YOUTH/HOLIDAY SPECIAL: The Services to Youth facet led our chapter-wide program to inspire students, especially middle and high school girls of color experiencing socioeconomic challenges by solving three problems: (1) undervaluing self-worth; (2) lack of career awareness, especially in STEAM related fields; and (3) continued logistical obstacles due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Under the leadership of our STY facet, we once again designed and implemented an expansion program, STEAM PLUS: Pathways to a Lifetime of Unlimited Success, using virtual learning tools to fulfill our goals. We secured robot kits and scheduled Professional Shadowing opportunities for participants to explore related STEAM studies and careers.

THE ARTS: The Links Incorporated have a strong and rich record of support for the performing visual arts with special focus on the presentation of artists of color. You are exposed to multi-cultural experiences, art appreciation and competition. The Classics through the Ages initiative lends support to African-Americans in the arts. The engagement provides sponsorship and mentoring to promising students through 4 years of high school