Intent Magazine_Spring_v5

LEADING WITH INTENTION

LEADING WITH INTENTION

Greetings from Southern Area Director

Greetings,

As we enter the second half of our fiscal year, we can look back with pride and look forward with anticipation. As a premier service organization, we set the example that other organizations follow. Our programmatic thrusts focus on serving the underserved and being a voice for the voiceless while simultaneously cultivating friendships within our organization. In the Southern Area, we practice intentionality through the work of our five (5) facets. Additionally, our initiatives align with the national priorities of The Links, Incorporated, and embody our commitment to service, culture, and community. From education to empowerment, each program reflects our mission to make transformative impacts.

The Services to Youth programs empower Black youths to use their intellect and spirit of achievement to become successful and productive citizens. Our efforts to close the achievement gap in reading among children of color are evident through the Services to Youth program, I Read, You Read, We Read.

Through the Arts Facet initiative: LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION: OUR STORIES, OUR LENS, our chapters are supporting and elevating stories told by Black filmmakers, expanding the pipeline of filmmakers, and uplifting African American storytelling and our rich cultural history through hosted watch parties featuring works of these filmmakers, and provoking robust and thoughtful conversations.

Through the National Trends and Services Facet, our chapters are using their collective power to transform communities through advocacy, education, and training. This work is helping communities reduce barriers to resources and thereby improving the quality of life for citizens.

I can proudly boast that our impact is national and international. For example, chapters are supporting the renovation and operations of a new dormitory in The Bahamas. Under the direction of the Nassau (Bahamas) Chapter, this structure will house up to eighteen young women who are pursuing their higher education goals. Also, I am pleased the Southern Area chapters remain committed to efforts at Watford Elementary School in Jamacia.

In the Southern Area, we are deeply committed to helping eradicate chronic health disparities that decrease the life expectancy of African Americans and other people of African ancestry. This means we must focus on the needs of the whole person by incorporating mental and physical health into our outreach efforts.

My sisters, we have work to do! The world needs our organization of extraordinary women who are committed to enriching, sustaining, and ensuring the culture and economic survival of African Americans and other persons of African ancestry. I know our work will be effective, impactful, and transformative because we are leading with intentional friendship and service.

Sisterly,

Vanessa Falls Southern Area Director

In Loving Memory

Our beloved Eighth National President Dolly Desselle Adams, Ed.D. peacefully slipped away as she took flight to her eternal rest on Saturday, February 3, 2024. Link Dolly was a visionary leader who solidified the strength of this organization and exemplified our core tenets of friendship and service. Her commitment to serve was unwavering, and her convictions unshakeable.

She was welcomed into Linkdom through the Seattle (WA) Chapter. A dedicated educator, she taught at the elementary school level and later worked as a college dean and professor. A woman of faith and action, Link Dolly also served as an Episcopal District Supervisor of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. As the devoted wife of the late Bishop John Hurst Adams, African Methodist Episcopal Church, her membership in Linkdom traversed this country with her family. She established the Waco (TX) Chapter and has been a member of the Angel City (CA), Columbia (SC), Jacksonville (FL) and Arlington (VA) Chapters before her current membership in the Atlanta (GA) Chapter.

Link Dolly attained Platinum status in 2020. As a servant leader, Link Dolly served our organization well wherever she resided. She served as National Director of International Trends and Services and International Trends and Services Facet Director, Western Area.

As National President, (1982–1986), Link Dolly left an indelible imprint upon our organization by purchasing our National Headquarters in Washington, DC and completing the establishment of The Links Foundation, two acts that firmly cemented our organization’s place in philanthropy and history. Her impact extended across the diaspora through the partnership she formed with Africare that led to the creation of water wells in 75 rural African villages.

Link Dolly also proudly led the Links delegation to the Women’s Decade Conference in Nairobi, Kenya and obtained NGO status for the organization from the United Nations. In every instance, she was clear on her sense of purpose. “Our cherished past has put us in a place with all of the resources to respond to the hope of

our sisters and our people,” Link Dolly once said.

Throughout her nearly 60 years as a member, Link Dolly was the very embodiment of friendship, service and leadership. Her faith and dedication were evident in her continued participation in Links events, her participation at National Assemblies and Area Conferences, and her support of members, leaders and her chapter. We will forever treasure her eloquent and heartfelt words on what friendship meant to her which she recently shared with the membership during our Virtual Founders Day Celebration on November 9, 2023.

Link Dolly's capacity for service was boundless as she was also a dedicated member and leader in other organizations, including the Black Women’s Agenda where she served as president and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. With all of her accomplishments in The Links, Incorporated, her civic involvement, her steadfast work in the body of Christian faith and her passion for serving others throughout the world, Link Dolly always made her family a priority. As a leader’s leader, she was the quintessential portrait of a wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, auntie and friend! Our “great tree” has fallen but will always be remembered.

Let us keep her family lifted in prayer and surrounded by love and friendship, especially her devoted daughters, Link Gaye Adams Massey of the MinneapolisSt. Paul (MN) Chapter, Dr. Jann Adams and Link Madelyn Adams of the Dogwood City (GA) Chapter and National Chair of Organization and Effectiveness Committee, 8 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, her

nieces, Link Leigh Adams Slaughter of the Potomac (VA) Chapter, Link Gina Ferguson Adams, Affiliate member, Eastern Area, as well as her Sister-Past National Presidents of The Links, Incorporated along with many dear friends across the globe.

After a beautiful and fruitful life of 92 years, Link Dolly has now received her crown of life alongside her husband and the angels. Still, she leaves with us a lasting and unforgettable legacy of love, leadership and friendship which shall remain a part of our organization and in our hearts forever.

Our Ninth National President, Link Regina Jollivette Frazier, answered God’s call to leave this earthly plane to dwell in her heavenly home on the morning of February 15, 2024. Link Regina leaves an exceptional legacy of accomplishments within our organization and a focus on friendship that urges us always to be “instruments of good will, of love, of tolerance to all.”

The first Heir-O-Link and the youngest Link to ever serve as National President, Link Regina began her journey with induction into the Greater Miami (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated in 1970. She remained a faithful, active, and influential member there until the end of her life. Following in her mother's footsteps, the late Link Frances Reeves Jollivette Chambers, a Platinum member, Link Regina also a Platinum member quickly went to work on behalf of her community, chapter and the organization. She served as chapter journalist and secretary in her first years of membership. Link Regina went on to be elected as National Member-at-Large (1976–1980), Southern Area Director (1981–1984), and National Vice President (1986–1990).

As our organization’s Ninth National President, Link Regina’s programmatic initiatives for service were amplified through her focus on strengthening the Black family and the organization exemplified through her theme, “Enhancing The Legacy, Fulfilling The Dream.” She instituted “Project LEAD: High Expectations,” our first national umbrella project. The effort was designed to prevent substance abuse, adolescent pregnancy, and sexually transmitted diseases among highrisk Black youth. This continued her earlier work on the executive council to establish “The Black Family Institute of The Links, Incorporated,” keeping the needs of Black children and families at the forefront of our efforts.

Link Regina expanded our organization, establishing 15 new chapters during her administration as National President, including chartering the first chapter in the state of New Mexico. In addition to the growth, she was mindful that this organization founded on friendship should always “let kindness begin at home.” Link Regina’s expansion also increased our footprint overseas. Seeing The Links as a global entity and wanting to bring to life

the literal manifestation of the organization’s logo to her, it was not just a virtual chain of service but an actual one that encircled the globe, doing good for those who needed aid she established the organization’s first two international chapters during her administration, Nassau (Bahamas) Chapter in 1989 and another chapter in Frankfurt, Germany in 1990. Link Regina turned an invitation from the president of Zambia into a collaboration between The Links and Zambian female entrepreneurs supporting their cottage industries. She also worked to address health problems faced by those on the African continent.

In 1988, Link Regina also had the privilege of conducting the memorial for her dear friend and our beloved Link sister, First National President and Co-Founder Sarah Strickland Scott.

The Links, Incorporated was just one point of her impact. Link Regina was a registered pharmacist and consultant pharmacist in Florida and Washington, D.C. She served as Director of Pharmacy at the University of Miami Hospital and Clinics for more than 30 years until she retired in 2007. She also held membership in a number of professionally affiliated organizations. Her community service included life membership in the YWCA, Girl Scouts of the United States of America, and the Orange Bowl Committee, and she was a Golden Soror and Life Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Her experience led to other leadership positions, including service on the UNCF Board of Directors, as national parliamentarian for the Association of Black Hospital Pharmacists, on the executive committee of the Greater Miami

United Way, on the AAUW Council of Presidents, in Leadership Miami, among others.

Link Regina’s experience and excellence resulted in many honors over her lifetime, including the Bronze Medallion from the National Conference of Christians and Jews, the Leadership Award from the Anti-Defamation League, the Women Who Make a Difference Award from the Junior League of Miami, a citation as Ebony magazine’s One Hundred Most Influential Black Americans from 1987 to 1990, and Dollars and Sense magazine’s Top 100 Black Business and Professional Women honors to name just a few.

Throughout her nearly 55 years as an active member, Link Regina proved the perfect balance between a strong leader and a loyal friend. Always eager to share her knowledge of the organization so The Links would be better friends who serve, she often noted that “…service is the price we pay for the space we occupy.” She inspired a new generation of younger members to reach for higher ground in and outside of Linkdom. We will sorely miss her presence, her wise counsel, and her grace, and deeply cherish the legacy she leaves behind. We are because she was the ultimate example.

Members of the Southern Area Traveled to Jamaica for 6th National Mission Trip

More than 230 members of The Links, Incorporated, traveled to Montego Bay, Jamaica on January 24, 2024, for the sixth national mission trip to this country. Over 41 members from the Southern Area made this journey including seven members of the Executive Board. The Education Across the Miles: Mission Trip to Jamaica provided a custom curriculum which incorporated health and wellness along with STEAM into the lesson plan, educating and caring for the whole child. Members from across the organization volunteered at four schools (Mt. Zion Primary School Watford Hill Primary School, Mt Carey Baptist Basic School, and St. Mary’s). Additionally, our partners at Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures worked alongside us providing dental exams for students. Members, who are dentists, performed dental screenings, and others served as recorders.

Our hands-on involvement with students and teachers allowed us to give to those who may benefit from our resources. It also enabled us to live out the mission of our organization in real time. We are happy to make a difference in the lives of our children, who are our future, on the beautiful island nation of Jamaica.

The Links, Incorporated National President, Ethel Isaacs Williams is pictured (left to right) with Eastern Area Director Lisa Loury Lomas, our Southern Area Director Vanessa Falls, Central Area Director Sheila R. Brown, and Western Area Director Karen Ragland Cole.

The Links, Incorporated National President, Ethel Isaacs Williams is pictured at the podium.

Dearest Link Sisters,

Repeat this …

Greetings from Southern Area Vice Director

To be a good member, I will take care of me. To be a good friend, I must take care of me. To help my chapter and my community, I must pay attention to me.

To be kind to me, I will not neglect me. To be the best version of me, I promise to practice self-care.

As we kick off the first quarter of 2024, promise yourself to be amazingly good to yourself. A longtime friend of mine used to tell me “Take care of yourself, so you can take care of others.” Another friend tells me “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

As much as we know that there is a list of things we have to do – ought to do – and feel we are the only ones to do, it is vital that we burn the midnight oil only after we have stopped to smell the roses. Our chapters need us. Our families need us. Our friends need us.

Self-care is a must …

In order for our members to be able to contribute to our communities, we have to be intentional about caring for ourselves. We wear a lot of hats, Many of the hats that we wear are continuous and if you are like many of our sisters, you have a superhero cape for every day of the week. To kickstart your selfcare regime, here are five tips:

1. Eat healthy, regular meals and stay hydrated.

2. Try a relaxing activity (meditate, walk, watch a movie, destress, etc.).

3. Get enough sleep – learn how much your body needs.

4. Practice gratitude and positivity.

5. Put self-care on your schedule � � � �

In January 2024, chapters were given an opportunity to meet at each other’s homes (like our Co-Founders used to do). They collaborated and bonded while being educated on the importance of self-care while creating a self-care vision board during the Membership GEM: Vision Boards with Friends.

Many of our members shared the positive impact of creating a self-care vision board and loved being able to learn about the hopes and desires of their friends. Peruse the following pages for a look at what our friends created.

Graciously Elevating Our Members

The Joys of Being a Daughter of a Link

Shia Hendricks, Area Chair, Next-Gen

Happy Women’s History Month Link Sisters!

It brings me great joy to greet you as the Southern Area Next-Gen Chair. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we also honor the brilliance and excellence that lives within our legacy, I also have the privilege of highlighting the joys of a special designation in The Links Incorporated, Daughter of a Link (DOL). This designation extends to both daughters and granddaughters of Links and honors the familial connections, legacy, and shared commitment to service leadership and friendship.

As a proud DOL, I've served alongside my mother, sister, and other family members, which has been both an honor and a privilege. Together, we've woven a tapestry of love, dedication, and service that both enriches our lives and uplifts our community. In my mother, I've not only found a mentor but a cherished friend. Together, we inspire

and empower each other.

As DOLs, we each have our own unique perspective, but what we share in common is an appreciation for the ability to share a special relationship with our mothers as friends who serve together. A few highlights of other DOLs across the Southern Area sharing their own joys and fond memories follow.

“As a little girl, I always looked up to my mother, admiring her professional and social prowess. Now, as her work colleague and a DOL, it brings me immense joy to collaborate with her, serving and educating others while sharing a sense of pride that comes from belonging to something greater than ourselves.”

“To me, being a DOL means that I am able to carry on a legacy that one day I hope to continue with my future daughter. It is amazing to share this sisterhood with my mom. Each conference and meeting becomes more special as we both become more seasoned ”

Daughter - Shia Hendricks, Area Next-Gen Chair (2019), inducted in Music City (TN) Chapter, transferred to the Birmingham (AL) Chapter; Daughter/Sister - Daagye Hendricks (2000); and, MotherGaynell Hendricks (1994), Birmingham (AL) Chapter

Daughter - Courtnie Harris Anderson (2019); and Mother- Connie S. Harris, Charter Member (1993), Magic City (AL) Chapter.

Daughter - Heather Hill (2020); and, Mother- Betty C. Hill (1999), Fort Valley (GA) Chapter

“My journey as a Link member has given me the opportunity to make lifelong friendships and it all began with my very first best friend.“

“Being part of this organization with my mother is a cherished experience, creating a unique and special bond that belongs to just the two of us. From shared travels to nightly conversations, our exclusive, meaningful time together has truly enriched my connection to my mother.”

“It was a joy when my mother became a member of the LeFleur's Bluff (MS) Chapter in 2004. It was also distinct honor to join the same chapter in 2020. Being a DOL is quite rewarding, and I know that I have a great legacy to uphold. Though I watched my mother prepare for chapter meetings and committee meetings and travel to events and conferences for 20 years, I still enjoy witnessing her work in this organization. I challenge myself to remain steadfast, make a difference, and keep my service commitment.”

"Links is about friendship and sisterhood, you will meet some of your best friends and lifelong sisters in this organization - so show your best self and keep sisterhood in your heart. This is what my mom said to me about Links that encouraged me to want to join the organization and what still encourages me to continue on in her legacy. My mother passed away in October 2023. She became part of the Alexandria (LA) Chapter in 1978 and she was a Platinum Member. I am honored to have joined the Charleston (SC) chapter as my mother.”

Daughter - Junoesque (Juno) Leggette Jacobs, Area Links Love HBCUs Co-Chair (2020); and, Mother - Evelyn Jean Thompson Leggette (2004), LeFleur's Bluff (MS) Chapter

Daughter - Terri Stepter (2002); and, Mother- Patricia Bivins, Platinum Member (1982), Jacksonville (FL) Chapter

Daughter - Tamika Jackson, Area Secretary, Atlanta (GA) Chapter (2012); and, Mother- Emma Jackson (1994), Wilmington (NC) Chapter.

“I have fond memories as a child helping my mother polish silverware, bring out the chinaware, and prepare for the fancy ladies to come to our house when it was my mom's turn to host the monthly meeting. To me, chapter members were my mom's good friends who gave me hugs and brought me nice gifts. I am honored to be a 3rd generation DOL, joining my mother and both of my grandmothers It is a very special feeling when you are linked to your mom and working together to make the world a better place as a DOL.”

“As a DOL, among my fondest memories are, first, the fact that my mother and I were the first mother/daughter pair in the Birmingham (AL) Chapter to join at the same time. Secondly, I experienced attending area and assembly meetings and various chapter events with my mother. I often reflect on those treasured times when the roles reversed a bit in that I served as the caretaker and organizer all the while enjoying the growing bond of our love and friendship. It is a wonderful treasure to think of your Mom as your first best friend, source of wisdom, and life confidant.

It has been a profound joy to have my Mother as a supporter and encouraging voice in ways that cannot be articulated. Her joy was witnessing my success, and my reward was having her by my side until her life’s end.

Not only do I treasure the experiences that I have had with my birth mother, but I am also fortunate to have been able to wear more than just one DOL hat because of so many other family members and elders that I have known since my childhood. The recognition that The Links, Incorporated has bestowed on mother/daughter bonds is praiseworthy.”

Daughter - Monique McCarthy (2004), Dual Member, Jacksonville (FL) and Magic City (AL) Chapters; MotherAnest Schell McCarthy (1974), Jacksonville (FL) Chapter; Maternal Grandmother, Ann Schell (1968), Jacksonville (FL) Chapter; and, Paternal Grandmother - Gladys McCarthy, First President and Charter Member (1994), Magic City (AL) Chapter.

Daughter Courtney Johnson (2019); and Mother – Charlene Johnson* (1978), Platinum Member inducted Alexandria (LA) Chapter, Charleston (SC) Chapter

Daughter - Carol Kirby McElderry, Alumna Member (1989); and Mother:- Josephine Gardner Kirby* (1989), Birmingham (AL) Chapter

Happy 2024 my sisters (and brothers)! I hope your year is off to a fantastic start and that you are making time to rest even as you continue intentionally serving those in need. This “Linkspiration with Love” is entitled The Art of The Pivot. My prayer always is that you will find some encouragement in this message as you continue to serve. I am continuing to keep you lifted in my thoughts and prayers.

Linkspiration with Love

The Art of the Pivot

The word “pivot” is one I have been hearing frequently of late, at work, in community board meetings, in my beloved organizations, and so on. This led me to think about and meditate on what it really means to pivot and why pivoting is even necessary. If I asked what you think pivot means, most would say that to pivot is to change. It may even carry a negative connotation for some. For those in business, a pivot typically means a change in course or direction when you realize that current methods are not meeting the needs of the business or its customers.

If we dig a bit deeper, we begin to understand that a pivot is indeed a change, but I would submit that it is a strategic move done intentionally, not just to avoid negative outcomes, but to enhance the likelihood of positive ones. A pivot then is not just a skill of doing but a shift that allows for growth and reimagining possibilities. Eric Reis writes that “A Pivot is a change in strategy not a change in vision.” Wow! That statement is powerful and helps us understand that we can preserve the vision with one foot firmly planted in our rich history and legacy, while also innovating, elevating, intentionally pivoting to better position us to meet the needs of others. To improve upon what once was and enhance our ability to be more effective. Learning to pivot

is a choice that requires adaptability, flexibility, courage, and even growth.

Spiritually speaking, we can each pivot, slow down, and put ourselves in position to hear from God. This allows us to sit and think, not just to move and act. By doing so, we can reaffirm our commitment to His purposes, realign our focus with His calling, and reposition ourselves to where God needs us to be. The spiritual pivot in this context becomes a shift of mindset and heart allowing us to serve more effectively. I am encouraging each of us to embrace and not be afraid of the pivot because “The Art of The Pivot” is an essential ingredient for impactful service and making a difference in the lives of others.

Please reach out to me via email at chaplain@salinksinc.org if I may be of assistance.

With Love and Intention,

Tedra Anderson-Brown, MD Southern Area Chaplain

Ethics and Standards

Navigating Intentional Ethics: Keeping Friendship First

Selma Robinson-Ayers, Area Chair, Ethics and Standards

Greetings to each of you, from the Area Ethics and Standards Team!

As we begin the third quarter, executing our charges and accomplishing our theme, “Leading With Intentional Friendship and Service,” it is only fitting that we expound on “Ethics” and the importance of being “Intentional” in maintaining a culture of ethics and integrity throughout the organization!

As members of The Links, Incorporated, we have the utmost responsibility to carry out the dayto-day business of the organization in an ethical manner. Ethics is everyone’s responsibility. It is deeply rooted in the founding principles that guide us and forms the basis for our core values, in which “Friendship” is first on the list.

Intentions matter because they guide our actions, provide a sense of purpose, and help us to be more mindful of our choices to act in ways that are aligned with our values. Simply put, being “Intentional” about ethics implies making deliberate choices in adhering to our rules and standards and in making concerted efforts to keep friendship first. We are, foremost, an organization of friends, and all of our actions must, ultimately, reflect friendship!

In today’s world of declining moral values and misguided views, the lines between what is right and wrong are becoming increasingly more blurred. Ethics then is a necessary compass; morality, a guiding light; and friendship, the radar to assist us in navigating these challenging times.

Keeping friendship first implies that we will go the extra mile to resolve issues amicably. It

also means we need to master the art of effective communication and decisionmaking by choosing actions that result in consequences that are best for everyone. Our values influence how we make ethical decisions.

Ethics and morals both relate to right and wrong conduct. While morals constitute a basic human standard, ethics are more like a set of agreed upon rules and guidelines that define acceptable behavior and conduct. Our standards set forth norms that are protective, prescriptive, and proactive. They provide guidance and instruction to chapters as we demonstrate high ethical standards in promoting the bonds of friendship and providing service to our communities.

Throughout the Southern Area, members make ethical decisions that not only affect chapters, but have an impact upon the overall reputation and success of the organization at large. That’s why the rules and standards are a valuable resource to assist members in making good ethical decisions. The Ethics and Standards Committee, on all levels, is another useful resource and the primary conduit for promoting ethical conduct.

When issues arise, or when members are faced with difficult situations or ethical dilemmas, being intentional about decision-making should be the attitude, and keeping friendship first the disposition. Due diligence should also be applied in analyzing every situation. All it takes is sincerity and commitment! Let us begin by honoring and reaffirming the promises we made when we became members.

Lastly, when the going gets tough and the voyage to friendship gets rough, let us ensure that every action we undertake fits squarely in our compass, follows our guiding light, and tracks with our radar. Is our action ethical? Is it moral? And, most importantly … Is it friendly?

Legislative Affairs

Tips for Effective Advocacy

Tiffany Johnson Cole, Area Chair, Legislative Affairs and Resolutions

Legislative sessions are convening across the Southern Area and Links are headed to State Capitols for Links Day at the Capitol (LDAC). As we gather at the Capitol, let’s be reminded of the importance of advocating and relationship building with those we have elected to serve, not only on our LDAC, but throughout the year.

Building quality respectful relationships with your legislators regardless of their political affiliation can serve to assist in your advocacy efforts. Spending time with your legislators outside of session and when you are not advocating is key. This will allow you and your legislator to have a rapport beyond any one issue. It is also a good idea to get to know key legislative staff. The staffers generally have direct access to their respective legislator and can assist you on getting information.

Effective and impactful advocacy requires that we do several things. We must be get educated on the topic. Researching the topic, you wish to speak to your representative about is imperative.

 Become an expert on the topic.

 Understand who the issue relates to or impacts; how it may affect other issues; and how others feel about it.

 Learn the pros and cons of the issues. Empirical data, if available, is an excellent tool to assist in your advocacy.

 Also, educate yourself on what legislators are interested in your issue.

 Know who supports it and why as well as who doesn’t support it and why.

It is also important to understand the process. It is critical know when legislation is submitted in your quest to advocate effectively.

Does your state pre-file bills before the session? If so, when does that period begin? Where can you access the pre-filed bills? Often, the earlier you can begin to talk to your legislator about your issue the more impact you may have.

You should know when your legislators convene for the legislative session. What is their typical calendar? Committee meetings are an excellent way to be heard on an issue and be informed of how legislation is moving.

While Links Day at the Capitol provides an excellent opportunity for the legislative body to see who we are and be reminded that the women in green are watching; our advocacy efforts should not begin and end on this one day. Our advocacy efforts should also not be centered only at the State House. We should be advocating for issues on the local, state, and national level as concerned individuals seeking positive impactful change for our communities.

INTENTIONAL SERVICE

Intentional Focus

Persharon M. Dixon, Area Program Coordinator

The Southern Area Program Initiatives, which are aligned with the National Signature Programs, National Initiatives, National Pilot Programs, and/or National Supporting Programs and Areas of Concentration, embody our member’s commitment to providing impactful service to our communities. We are emphasizing the Intentional Focus work as the primary initiatives that we would like to be conducted in the Southern Area. A summary of Southern Area program priorities are provided in the following sections.

Services to Youth Facet

Links Connected To Prepare Our Youth For Success

The Services to Youth programs are designed to empower Black youth to use their intellect and spirit of achievement to become successful and productive citizens.

Area Intentional Focus

 I Read, You Read, We Read Together

More Intentional Work

 Links Love HBCUs – “Get In The Game”

 STEMReady, NSBE Jr.

The Arts Facet

Links Connected To Advance Our Artistic Heritage

The Links, Incorporated creates and supports art-related educational opportunities for minority youth as well as presents and supports performances by youth and accomplished professional artists in an array of disciplines.

Area Intentional Focus

 Overture: A Look Inside Opera

 Lights, Camera, Action: Our Stories, Our Lens

 Grandma’s Hands – Storytelling

Through Quilting

More Intentional Work

 Young Master Writers Project

 National Poster Arts Competition

National Trends and Services Facet

Links Connected to Advocate for Our Communities

Through National Trends and Services, our chapters are empowered to raise their voices and transform communities by reducing barriers to resources through advocacy, education, and service.

Area Intentional Focus

 Southern Area Voter Engagement Program (SAVE)

More Intentional Work

 Dressing HER From The Inside Out

International Trends and Services Facet

Links Connected For Global Impact

The International Trends and Services Facet is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people of African descent worldwide.

Area Intentional Focus

 Bahama Scholars: Intentional Living Project

More Intentional Work

 Watford Elementary School, Jamaica

 L.I.F.E. Signature Program

Health and Human Services Facet

Links Connected to Promote Black Family Wellness

The Health and Human Services Facet provides programming opportunities that respond to the chronic health disparities that persist in black communities and result in the decreased life expectancy of African Americans and other people of African ancestry.

Area Intentional Focus

 The Emerald Plate

 Signature Mental Health Initiative: Links P.O.W.E.R.

More Intentional Work

 Heart Links/Walk for Healthy Living

 Links in Pink 2.0: Fight Like a Link

For additional information about the Southern Area’s Intentional Focus on Programming, please visit the Southern Area website at https://www.salinksinc.org/programs.

Tuskegee (AL) Chapter

The Health & Human Services Facet in the Tuskegee (AL) Chapter leads the chapter’s efforts to increase and sustain breast cancer awareness activities in Macon County and chapter-sponsored breast cancer screenings. One in eight women is diagnosed with breast cancer. For women, the U.S. incident rate is 126.8; Alabama’s is 121.8; black women’s rate in Alabama is 126.8; and Macon County’s rate is 111.2. Awareness campaigns and screenings improve incidence of cancer diagnosis.

With limited resources in our small rural community, the chapter collaborates with other agencies to provide breast health services to the underserved. For the last three years, we partnered with Joy to Lose and Joy to Life for an annual breast cancer awareness walk-a-thon fundraiser. The chapter established a relationship with Tuskegee’s B&D Cancer Care Center to help ensure their clients get transportation to have their mammograms. In the last few years, we have been able to support travel to a nearby city for at least 25 patients a year.

Our chapter seeks funds to be able to increase the donations for our “Links Think Pink” partners. To that end, if we had one wish it would be for $300 to increase the facet’s ability to supplement the chapter’s community contributions, namely $100 to Joy to Life, $100 to Joy to Lose Walk-athon, and $100 to the B&D Cancer Center.

Greater Mobile (AL) Chapter

For the Well-deserved Intentional Service Help, the Greater Mobile (AL) Chapter is requesting grant assistance with our Services to Youth Umbrella Program, Rising Links Scholars. Rising Links Scholars has been an impactful program for High School Seniors from an

underserved community.

Participants attend monthly sessions customized to increase their knowledge of essential personal and professional skills. Mentors provide support and guidance to participants with navigating the college application process. The Rising Links Scholars program empowers first generation college students to pursue and achieve success at post-secondary institutions. If we had one wish, we would hire educational consultant, Dr. Robyn Green to provide College and Career Readiness which includes ACT Test Prep, scholarship/essay application preparation, and career planning for $300.

Selma (AL) Chapter

The Selma (AL) Chapter has had a Links In Pink program highlighting breast cancer awareness and prevention for over 5 years. We have had four in-person seminars, two virtual seminars and three health fairs with an emphasis on breast cancer prevention and early detection. We collaborated with several health facilities and sponsored free breast exams in 2019 and most recently sponsored the Montgomery Mammogram Mobile Bus that provided mammograms especially for low-income women with no insurance on January 15, 2024. We will continue to promote breast cancer awareness and will be expanding to increase awareness of prostate and colon cancer. We are

currently increasing the number of HEAL ambassadors in our chapter.

Our programs involve audience participation. We believe in being hands on and we have found that participants love to interact. Therefore, we would love to purchase breast and prostate models for the audience to get a chance to feel masses. We plan on using the models at our upcoming Black Family Wellness Expo in March. We believe this would enhance our presentations. If we had one wish, we would purchase two items: a life-size

prostate model set and a left breast anatomy model with three pathologies

Greater Huntsville (AL) Chapter

The members of the Greater Huntsville (AL) Chapter, in collaboration with our community partners, the 100 Black Men of Greater Huntsville and the National Society of Black Engineers –North Alabama Chapter, National Coalition of 100 Black Women (Huntsville), annually host the STEAMposium. The STEAMposium is a youth program which seeks to expose high school students (Grades 9 – 12) in Madison, Morgan, and Limestone Counties to STEAM related-careers and professionals. The 2024 “STEAMposium will take place on April 6, 2024, at Calhoun

Community College (CCC). The theme this year is “E-STEAM: Empowering Youth through Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math.”

One of the components of the STEAMposium is the Lego Competition. Working in conjunction with the Tennessee Valley Lego Association and local architects, civil engineers, and construction managers, students are provided hands-on guidance on how to research, sketch, and design building structures utilizing Lego Kits. Each participant in the Lego Competition is provided a Lego Kit with personal instruction on how to

construct a bridge, sky tower, or tall building. If we had one wish, we would purchase six Lego Kits for the 2024 STEAMposium.

Tri-County (AL) Chapter

The Tri-County (AL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, a chapter whose primary focus is Youth Empowerment, works with youth at Huffman High School, located in the Birmingham City School system. Our school serves students who are predominantly African American who qualify for additional financial support for lunch. Our partnership with the school is fourteen years old; we believe we make a difference with the youth. We sponsor workshops, such as Job Seeking, Job keeping, and hold our annual Youth Summit at the school, which focuses on a variety of areas: academics, college and career, and social, emotional, and holistic well-being.

In keeping with our central focus, we will host a series of writing workshops for 15 students to participate in a Poetry Slam in April. We believe that this initiative with our youth will empower them tremendously, raising their voices boldly to enter the conversations that mean much to them. Learning to express oneself in writing creatively allows the student an outlet to share with others.

If we had one wish, we would purchase writing notebooks/journals, pens, markers, and a model text for each student.

Orlando (FL) Chapter

The Orlando (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated requests that you grant our wish to provide art supplies for the art students at Jones High School and the Pine Hills Community Center. These young artists have enriched our “Classics Through the Ages” program creatively with their drawings and quilting projects. This year, their talents will be on full display as they participate in “The Importance of Voting” Arts Poster Contest as part of the “Link Up the Vote” initiative.

This is a critical year for our democracy, and this project will teach students the significance of

every single vote. To engage our students, elected officials will meet with them during their classes to share how important every vote was to their campaigns. From that inspiration, the students will artistically express the importance of voting, and their artwork will be voted on at the Black Family Wellness Expo in March.

Equipping the students with the right tools –paints, pencils, brushes, and canvases – will give them the resources to complete their artwork. We hope to spark conversations, inspire action, and encourage the students and their families to vote. To that end, we believe providing these art supplies is not just an investment in artistic expression, but a critical step towards a more engaged and informed community. If we had one wish, we would purchase art supplies for our students to collectively express through art that every vote counts.

St. Petersburg (FL) Chapter

The St. Petersburg (FL) Chapter launched its inaugural session of our newly created program entitled “The Masterpiece Extraordinaire Program” in May 2023, for a group of students enrolled in our Career Mentoring Academy. Masterpiece Extraordinaire emphasizes learning through creative, artistic expression. Our program featured local artists-in-residence and culminated in a half day seminar at the Warehouse Arts District Association (WADA), a prominent artist community in St. Petersburg. Six of our students and fourteen of our Chapter members had the opportunity to tour WADA’s art gallery and artists’ studios.

The participants were able to hear from several artists from different fields including poetry, theater, visual arts, and a business manager from one of the leading cultural institutions in St. Petersburg: The Museum of Fine Arts of St. Petersburg. The artists shared their career journey, education and professional training, practical information on how to pursue a career in the arts, either full-time or part-time, and future career prospects. We would like to continue Masterpiece Extraordinaire for our students, as it has so much potential to expose young people to fulfilling careers that they perhaps have never considered. Masterpiece Extraordinaire also provides a wonderful opportunity for our sister Links to spend time together, strengthen our relationships with

one another and enjoy learning about The Arts. If we had one wish, we would purchase 25 admission tickets at $12.00 per student, for a total of $300.00, to the Museum of Fine Arts of St. Petersburg.

Tampa (FL) Chapter

The Tampa (FL) Chapter has implemented a youth mentoring program for more than 20 years. We mentor the entire fifth grade class at Sheehy Elementary, a Title I school that primarily serves African American and Latinx students. We also mentor students at Miracles Outreach, a home for homeless, abused, human trafficking victims.

We would like to expose our mentees to a Broadway show at our local performing arts

theater. Exposing the students to a professional theatrical performance would foster a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Broadway productions offer a magical blend of storytelling, music, dance, and stagecraft that captivates and inspires. Witnessing these live performances can ignite a spark within their imagination, opening doors to new possibilities. The sheer spectacle of a Broadway show creates a sensory experience that transcends the confines of a classroom, leaving an indelible mark on young minds.

Moreover, Broadway productions often tackle diverse themes and narratives, exposing them to diverse cultures, historical events, and perspectives. These stories teach invaluable lessons about empathy, resilience, and human experience. Through characters facing challenges or celebrating triumphs onstage, children learn to relate, understand, and appreciate the complexities of emotions and human relationships.

Additionally, attending Broadway shows can enhance educational development. It bolsters critical thinking skills as children analyze plots, characters, and the production's artistic elements. It also improves concentration and focus by engaging them in a live, immersive experience. The cost of the experience would be priceless and well worth the $300 cost of attendance for our mentees. If we had one wish, we would purchase tickets to a local performing arts theater show for our mentees at Sheehy Elementary and Miracles Outreach.

North Broward County (FL) Chapter

We are so excited that Orchestra Noir from Atlanta is visiting South Florida for the first time ever on Saturday, February 10th, 2024 and they are bringing the heat! They will perform and celebrate 50 years of Hip Hop with a concert featuring South Florida’s very own “Diamond Princess” Trina. She is joining them to perform her multiplatinum hits (with family-friendly lyrics, of course.)

Led by the Arts Facet, the National Trends and Services Facet and our Intergenerational Committee, we would like to introduce Orchestra Noir to at least five of our senior citizens who attended our community Linking Sassy Seniors program in November 2023. We have several long-standing seniors who continually support our chapter program initiatives by showing up.

This bridges culture and the arts, specifically classical arts, as well as introducing this to an age

group of (60+) that would not typically attend a concert in general, or a classical concert, or much less a hip-hop concert. Orchestra Noir provides all three.

It would also further boost our commitment this year for Classics Through the Ages, whereas we are sponsoring three low-income students to

receive lessons from Black Violin Foundation, Incorporated. If we had one wish, we would purchase these tickets for our seniors to experience a “once-in-a-lifetime” cultural experience.

Magnolia (GA) Chapter

During National Women's History Month, the International Trends and Services Facet of the

Magnolia (GA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated would like to honor women on an international spectrum. The International Women’s Day 2024 theme is “Invest in women: Accelerate progress”, in honor of this theme, the International Trends and Services Facet has organized an outreach initiative that will support the mission work of Rev. Gwendolyn Traore, missionary with the National Baptist Convention Incorporated in Guinea, West Africa by purchasing medical supplies for their Community Health Center.

The proposed medical supplies include the alcohol prep pads, bandage wrap, Gauze, Gloves, Iodine, glucose monitors and strips, needles, hand sanitizers, sanitary wipes, stethoscope, syringes, tape, thermometers, hydrocortisone cream, pain relievers, antacids, antihistamines, antibiotic ointment, irons tablets, vitamin D and A supplements, tweezers, eyewash or saline eyedrops, and first aid kits. If the Magnolia (GA) Chapter ITS facet had one wish, it would be to help purchase medical supplies necessary to help close the needs gap of the community health center in Guinea, West Africa.

Azalea City (GA) Chapter

If the Azalea City (GA) Chapter had one wish, we would provide art supplies, a venue space to host a private/reception, and master class sessions with featured visual artists. The Arts Facet of the Chapter would like to use funding to enhance programming centered upon the 2024 National Poster Arts contest initiative at Michael R. Hollis Innovation Academy. Funding would be used to secure supplies, certificates, food to have a private showing/reception, masterclass sessions with featured visual artists providing feedback for developing student portfolios. Implementing one or more of the following measures will augment the arts initiative, expand our reach within the arts,

as well as build student’s knowledge on visual arts and the impact it could have within the community.

Buckhead/Cascade City (GA) Chapter

The Buckhead/Cascade City Chapter is excited to request support for our long-standing program partner, Status: Home (formerly Jerusalem House). Status: Home provides homeless and low-income individuals and families impacted by HIV/AIDS with housing. Their mission is to “Save lives in Atlanta one home at a time.”

Our chapter has had a front row seat to this life saving journey for 29 years, as one of the first organizations to join the fight in supporting the needs of a community disproportionately impacted by the HIV/AIDS crisis. The organization recently changed its name to Status: Home to better align

with their overall mission to provide a comfortable home with life changing resources, services and medical support.

Over the past 29 years, the chapter has been a key partner and contributor to Status: Home. We have raised funds, furnished the family program, established a clothing closet for women and children, supplied bedding/mattresses/towels, provided workshops and career services, donated toys, and so much more. We would like to continue our support by providing the residents with an opportunity to purchase essential items upon entry into the program. A $50 gift card to purchase initial essentials would be a great step in changing the status of the residents to HOME. If we had one wish, we would present 6 new residents at Status: Home with a $50 gift card to purchase essential needs.

West Georgia (GA) Chapter

This program year, we focused on the educational challenges that continue to linger for those young students that began their academic journey during the pandemic. The mission of this initiative was to increase the reading proficiency scores of underserved minority students and provide experiences to offset educational barriers caused by the pandemic, socioeconomic disparities, and inequities in resource allocation.

Our chapter implemented the Links to Success: Children Achieving Excellence National Signature Program. Douglas County School Board Chair and charter member of the West Georgia (GA) Chapter, Tracy Rookard, identified an elementary school in the area for our literacy program, Burnett Elementary School. Tracy shared that Burnett was an amazing school serving students who are primarily economically disadvantaged. School principal, Ms. Khalilah Allen, selected 22 second grade students who experienced a significant grade level decline in reading for our program. The school provided a designated time slot for chapter Link Sisters to meet with the students weekly. If we had one wish we would purchase books and educational supplements for the students at Burnett Elementary School.

New Orleans (LA) Chapter

The Services to Youth Facet of the New Orleans (LA) Chapter sponsors the program, “GIRL POWER!” with partner school, Mary McLeod Bethune Elementary School. This program supports 8th grade girls for the school year. Starting with an annual theme and kickoff celebration, STY leads, as each facet conducts an engaging session. We focus on transformational programs that are responsive to the academic, health, cultural, social awareness, career development, and mentoring needs of youth. A concluding event takes place before graduation. This concluding event will be an Etiquette Luncheon.

This Etiquette Luncheon will teach and provide the girls with the principles of etiquette, which are consideration, respect, and honesty. These principles are the basics of the manners that we have, and they cross over all races and cultures. We will discuss these principles with the girls, in addition to how “please” and “thank you” can go a long way. There will also be discussions around dressing appropriately, being mindful of what one says, practicing good table manners, respecting personal space, and when to put the cellphone away.

The STY facet will provide demonstrations and Alumnae members will be invited to attend the event, to discuss their thoughts and feelings about etiquette, and how it has changed, and why it is necessary. We will also have the girls demonstrate proper etiquette techniques. The event will provide an open space for the girls to discuss and ask questions to facet members. If we had one wish we would provide transportation for the girls to Dooky Chase Restaurant, May 17, 2024, from Mary McLeod Bethune Elementary.

La Capitale (LA) Chapter

The Services to Youth Facet of the La Capitale (LA) Chapter would like to introduce the sport of golf to the children of our community families. According to the National Golf Foundation, in 2021 4.1 million African Americans played golf in the United States. Despite what appears to be a large number, African Americans still make up only a small fraction of the total number of golfers in the country.

During our golf outing, in addition to Introducing the sport of golf to our families

(adults and children), we can touch upon the following areas:

1. Team building,

2. Physical fitness,

3. African Americans in the sport,

4. African American with PGA Tour status,

5. Southern University’s “New Golf” Team, and

6. Other HBCU’s that have golf programs.

Our thoughts are to have a few special guestsa Link sister and a spouse who are recreational golfers and the Golf Coach at Southern University. If we had one wish, we would like to take our families to either a local golf course, a driving range, and/or Top Golf to let them experience how exciting and rewarding golf can be.

Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter

For the 11th year, the Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter is implementing its Rising Stars Mentoring Program, which exposes high school girls to programming in the five facets of The Links, Incorporated. Additionally, the mentees engage in cultural and educational activities that they might not otherwise have access to. For the first 10 years of the Rising Stars program, which is our umbrella initiative, the chapter implemented the initiative at one New Orleans high school, McDonogh #35. This is the first high school established for African-Americans in the city.

This year, Pontchartrain (LA) expanded the program to two additional high schools. Through the years, our mentees have learned about responsible financing, social etiquette, sewing, artistic painting, international issues, heart health and breast health, and STEM, to name a few of the program’s focus areas. Some of our field trips with

the girls have included taking them to view local plays, visit museums, and tour area HBCU campuses.

Pontchartrain (LA) would like to make a Wish List request that will assist us with offering purposeful field trips. One museum that we would like the mentees to visit is the Whitney Plantation in Wallace, Louisiana. The museum has a mission to educate the public about the history and legacies of slavery in the United States. If we had one wish, we would purchase 20 tickets for the mentees to participate in the museum’s guided tour.

Jackson (MS) Chapter

The Jackson (MS) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated request support for the expansion of our chapter’s Little Free Library project in the Metro Jackson, Mississippi area. Our project aims to promote literacy, community engagement, and a love for reading among children and community members.

The Little Free Library project was initiated in May 2023 when we successfully installed and presented a Little Free Library to an elementary school in the Jackson Public School District. The project's objective is to establish additional Little Free Libraries in the Metro Jackson area, enabling more children and community members to share the joy of reading. This book-sharing initiative encourages individuals to borrow a book from the library and contribute a book in return, fostering a sense of community and promoting reading.

Our project objectives include expanding access to books; encouraging reading and literacy; and fostering community engagement We believe that access to books and a passion for reading are essential for personal growth and community wellbeing. A Southern Area Wish List Grant will enable us to expand our project's reach and create a positive impact on the lives of many individuals If we had one wish, we would purchase books to donate to our Little Free Library project.

Mississippi Delta (MS) Chapter

The Mississippi Delta (MS) Chapter serves an area where opera is a rarely viewed art form. The larger municipalities in our service area have local theatres that provide art-related exposure, but they are a far cry from opera. To see an opera presentation, one would need to travel well-over 100 miles. Therefore, it was not surprising that

none of our targeted group of fifteen (15) black students reported that they have seen an operatic performance.

Art exposure provides a plethora of lifetime benefits. It improves the ability to solve problems and opens the mind to new ideas. It aids in improving literacy skills, increases academic achievement, boosts confidence, nurtures thoughts about employment opportunities, and facilitates the development of organizational skills. Socially, art exposure helps children learn about cooperation and collaboration. Introduction to the arts can prompt children to dream of things beyond what is commonplace in their day-to-day surroundings. In addition to being a source of entertainment, art activities can be an excellent vehicle to encourage creativity.

Recently, the Arts Facet Chair shared that while preparing a church choir for a special program to sing “Total Praise” by Richard Smallwood, a visiting, seasoned soprano stated, “I didn’t know we would be singing opera.” She mistakenly labeled the song as opera. The chair said her mind immediately thought of the need for the Southern Area’s current and intentional push to heighten awareness of opera as part of its programming. If we had one wish, we would cover the cost to provide a group of fifteen (15) students with a memorable experience of attending the performance of the opera “Don Giovanni” in Memphis, Tennessee to culminate their study of opera.

Mississippi Roses (MS) Chapter

The Mississippi Roses (MS) Chapter’s wish involves an event that we would like to include as part of our transformational umbrella program, Classic Through the Ages. Activities in our Classic Through the Ages program include, but are not limited to, providing musical instruments and lessons for students; exposing students to various types of classical music like opera; and exposing students to international forms of art including dance, African drumming, and theater.

Participants in the program are middle school students from three counties served by the organization. Individual music lessons are completed once a week and activities and events

are completed in schools and various venues throughout the year.

As part of our wish, chapter members would like to take some students in our program to see Lawrence Brownlee at the Gertrude Ford Performing Arts Center located on the campus of the University of Mississippi. Lawrence Brownlee is a leading figure in opera, both as a singer on the world’s top stages and as a voice for activism and diversity in the industry. If we had one wish, we would take 30 students from our program to see Lawrence Brownlee and expose them to opera as an art form.

Raleigh (NC) Chapter

The Services to Youth Facet of the Raleigh (NC) Chapter has supported Shaw University, a local Historically Black College and University (HBCU), informally since its inception in 1949. Our chapter officially adopted Shaw University in 2010 with an initial $10,000 donation.

We eagerly embraced the “Links Love HBCU Program” and have started a Mentoring Program with students at Shaw University this fiscal year based on national criteria. Our goal is to have 20 sophomore students this first year and enroll additional sophomores each year as the students move up to their junior and senior year. We know that most of these students are first generation college students and are working part-time while attending classes to make ends meet as they do not get monetary support from home. Approximately 90% of Shaw’s students qualify for full financial aid.

We would like to offer door prizes at each meeting and/or distribute gift bags to all participants just to keep them engaged. Our

students lack basic necessities like detergent to properly wash their clothing each week, female sanitary protection and personal hygiene items such as lotion, body wash and deodorant. The National Trends and Services Facet collaborated with our local Dress for Success Agency to provide two outfits for Shaw University students who attended and our mentees session.

Winston-Salem (NC) Chapter

In the course of working with our local school system, Winston Salem Forsyth County (WSFCS) we learned about a critical matter that rarely gets talked about but one that impacts female students and their attendance in school. Period poverty is the lack of access to menstrual products (MP) and improper education about menstrual hygiene. When girls don’t have adequate access or the financial means to purchase supplies, they simply don’t go to school during their monthly menstrual

cycle. According to the National Institutes of Health 40% of girls are frequently absent from school during this time. Menstrual products are vital for the health, well-being and full participation of women and girls.

Inadequate menstrual support is associated with both health and psycho-social issues, particularly among low-income women. The Winston-Salem Chapter got involved with this initiative during the 2022 program year by partnering with The City of Winston-Salem Mayor’s office and Sam’s Club towards the purchase of menstrual products to supply two title I schools. We have expanded our program this year to not only provide products but to also add an educational component with small group discussions about menstrual hygiene and to filter questions about myths and truths about menstruation. Currently we are working with two middle school however there are 15 in WSFCS. The need for supplies continues to grow monthly as we are constantly replenishing these menstrual items. If we had one wish, we would purchase enough menstrual supplies to add another middle school until each of the 15 middle schools in Winston-Salem Forsyth County are served.

Charlotte (NC) Chapter

The Charlotte (NC) Chapter of The Links Incorporated has spent the past year working with Smart Girls HQ. This organization provides young girls with the foundation in STEAM concepts that will allow them to compete in a technologically driven society. The chapter facilitates bi-weekly sessions with Smart Girls HQ where we provide support with guest speakers, field trips, and handson activities that will extend their experiences with STEM. This program is held in 5 different middle schools in the greater Charlotte community.

The schools that participate are Title 1 schools that serve students from low socioeconomic communities. The curriculum for this program requires STEM kits for each student to use throughout the school year. The Charlotte (NC) Chapter has already purchased STEM kits for each participant, but March is the Design Stage where the young ladies will make jewelry. We currently have about 120 middle school girls participating. We have found a vendor for the jewelry mold, which will give each participant her own jewelry

mold. The girls will design their own jewelry, according to their favorite style and color.

April is the Maker Stage where they will use their designs to actually make the jewelry they have designed. The jewelry mold will support both the design and maker stage of the project. If The Charlotte Chapter had one wish, we would provide jewelry molds for our Umbrella Project. This gift would support Smart Girls HQ and allow for creativity and collaboration while designing and producing jewelry that they will be able to enjoy for years to come.

Piedmont (NC) Chapter

The National Trends & Services Facet of the Piedmont (NC) Chapter has two major programs that we’ve focused on over the last two years. We’ve received grant money to place automated external defibrillator (AED) units in African American churches in our service area. In 2022, we received $26,000 and placed 18 AED units, into 17 different churches. In 2023, we received an additional $24,000 for AED units. We plan to place an additional 14 AED units in our area churches, beginning in February 2024.

As part of our programming, we will provide AED/CPR and first aid training for 2 members from each congregation. We have already trained 36 people and will train an additional 28 others. We’ll also provide follow up certification training

for those that have already been trained though our program.

The second program we’ve focused on is the AARP/OATS program. We have one Link sister already trained to present program lectures, and the sessions will begin later this month. We have committed to conduct four sessions each month, including sessions in a few local nursing homes.

For both programs, we have to secure locations to use for the training sessions and/or the technology lectures. The locations we secure will need to have audio visual (A/V) equipment available for us to use. It has been a struggle finding available spaces with the required A/V equipment, at a reasonable cost. If we had one wish, we would purchase a $300 Portable A/V projector and screen for use for the two programs.

Lake Gaston Area (NC) Chapter

The Lake Gaston Area (NC) Chapter sponsors the NSBE Jr. program at Northwest Collegiate and Technical Academy in Littleton, North Carolina. Northwest is a small high school located in the rural agricultural area in Eastern North Carolina that provides education to 326 students in grades 9-12. There are 12 students enrolled in the NSBE Jr. program. This year, the Services to Youth Facet in collaboration with the NSBE Jr. program is excited to sponsor our “Quilting with Numbers” Project. Additional funds will assist us to purchase supplies (scissors, thread, padding, quilting

apparatus, additional t-shirts, etc.) for the NSBE Jr. scholars to have hands-on experience in making one T-shirt quilt. The quilt will be made 60 inches by 48 inches, with each panel 12 inches by 12 inches. The students will measure and cut the panels.

The Quilting Facilitator and volunteer seamstress will sew the panels together with the inside padding. The panels will consist of T-Shirts representing activities at the school, school system, and in the community. The quilt will be displayed at our Links’ chapter functions, as well as school events. The book, Patchwork Quilt, is recommended to be introduced to the students about the value and essence of making a quilt involving STEM. As an adjunct project with the Arts Facet, the books will be read and donated to middle school students, along with the quilt being displayed.

We would also like to provide a monetary token of appreciation to our Quilting Facilitator and guest seamstresses. If we had one wish, we would love support for our “Quilting with Numbers” Project.

Triangle Park (NC) Chapter

Pearsontown Elementary School in Durham County leads with a vision to “engage, educate, and empower everyone.” This vision requires establishing programs that will support its largely diverse student population that consist of 57.8% students of color. As a year-round educational center, it operates programs to help develop the whole student.

One such program is the Sister to Sister Mentoring program that the Triangle Park Chapter (TPC) supports. Each month TPC members meet with 42 3rd-5th grade girls to help them explore topics on integrity, responsibility, kindness, courage, and perseverance. The young ladies are encouraged to engage in activities related to the topic, TPC educates them on the how embracing the topic can further enhance their future, and we all leave empowered and motivated!

As we move to the next level of engagement with the Sister to Sister participants, TPC will explore STEM topics and careers to increase their awareness. The Gladstone Institutes states that only 27% of women are in STEM careers and only 9% and 7% of STEM workers identify as Black or Hispanic, respectively. With this data in hand,

TPC plans to expose the students to STEM through a field trip at the Museum of Life Sciences. We believe that this eye-opening experience aligns with the vision of Pearsontown and builds excitement for STEM with the students. If we had one wish, we would sponsor two sessions of STEM Adventures to the museum to generate interest in STEM among the 42 girls.

Elizabeth City (NC) Chapter

The Elizabeth City (NC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, in collaboration with the organization, Serving Others in Unity and Love Ministry (S.O.U.L.S. Ministry), has provided meals to the homeless population for the past 15 years. The chapter continues to provide meals on five separate occasions throughout each programmatic year. While this program falls under the auspices of National Trends and Services, (NTS) each of the five facets are assigned a month in which they serve as the lead on the S.O.U.L.S. Ministry community outreach efforts. The chapter’s goal aligns with the Signature NTS program, Project Lead, and operates to increase our communities’ capacity to fight and resist conditions that lead to housing and food insecurity.

On December 31, 2023, the Health & Human Services Facet served over 40 homeless individuals, including men, women, and small children. The racial and ethnic background of the individuals proved to be equally diverse and has expanded within the past year. Given the challenging housing and food insecurities, reflected across the nation, the chapter remains committed to providing an entrée, beverage, and dessert to those in need. Most recently, the Elizabeth City chapter has had to increase their

provisions by 75% from the prior year. If we had one wish, we would purchase additional meals, winter socks and gloves for the S.O.U.L.S. Ministry population that is currently experiencing housing and food insecurity within the Elizabeth City (NC) Chapter service area. This would immensely contribute to the fiscal resources required to sustain the chapter’s outreach efforts as we seek to eradicate food insecurity, as well as serve as a vehicle to provide warm coats and gloves to the small children who gather at souls Ministry for a warm, fortifying, and nutritious meal.

Carolina Pines (NC) Chapter

During the month of March for Women’s HERstory Month, members from the Carolina Pines (NC) Chapter will visit the Boys & Girls Club of Cabarrus County, on a weekly basis as part of the National Mentoring Initiative we adopted to share our professional experiences and journeys with middle school girls. Our vision is to educate and inspire these young ladies to consider pursuing STE(A)M careers as they develop higher education and career goals. We will offer real life stories to help the students understand what is available and required of them as future leaders. Presentations will emphasize successes and diversions to demonstrate challenges faced.

In addition to the career presentation, there will be motivational topics woven throughout the workshop. Topics to be emphasized are perseverance, friendship, self-esteem, and

self-care. These topics are designed to promote connection and personal growth. If we had one wish, we would purchase 24 journals with personalized pens to promote goal setting. Next, we would order 48 inspirational wristbands with motivational messages of I am brave, I am beautiful, I am creative, I am loved. These will be used to promote self-love.

Charleston (SC) Chapter

The Services to Youth (STY) Facet of the Charleston (SC) Chapter will use the requested funds to launch a segment of the “Read Across America” initiative in celebration of Dr. Seuss’ birthday. During the week of March 2-6, 2024, school age scholars across America will be diving into genres of literature! It is considered an annual

program that calls for every child in every community to celebrate reading. Through our “I Read, You Read, We Read” program at Chicora Elementary School. Chicora has an average daily enrollment of 305 students. The school has been identified as performing at or below the 5th percentile of all Title I schools in the state.

In collaboration with the school media specialist, we will implement the following activities

 Read “Green Eggs and Ham” with a tasting party of green eggs and ham biscuits for the scholars.

 Read “The Cat in the Hat” with a visual sensory and math concept activity, including the use of tall and short Dr. Seuss Hats to enable the students to guess the number of objects in each clear hat for understanding of visualization concepts. Prizes will be awarded for three scholars whose guess comes the closest to the actual count.

Greenville (SC) Chapter

In the Fall of 2022, the Greenville (SC) Chapter’s Arts Facet initiated its pilot film program, “Behind the Scenes: Lights, Camera, Action, Film.” The goal is to educate youth about occupations in the film industry. The kick-off activity was held at St Anthony of Padua Catholic School, our program partner for 50 students, grades K-5. The guest speaker was Imani-Grace King, a 2019 graduate of Furman University, who is a filmmaker, actor, and writer specializing in films 10 minutes or less, and founder of Jig Productions (https://www.imanigraceking.com). Ms. King discussed filmmaking, involved the students in impromptu acting, and had a Question & Answer session about the short film, Mountaintop, that they had viewed.

In 2023, activities focused on staging scenes with 35 students in grades 3-5 creating a design set box using images from the Black Panther movies. We also expanded the film program to four sessions. For 2024, we have sustained the program with 6-8 students participating. We hope to have a professional actor make a presentation to the students. Other planned sessions include discussions about film scores or costume design. We also want to take the students to Pronk Studios, a production space, for an on-site visit. If we had one wish, we would provide a stipend for

the driver of the school bus loaned to St Anthony of Padua Catholic School, pay for gas, and use the remainder of the funds to purchase a 10-pack of Fuji Quicksnap throw-away cameras for the students who go on the on-site visit to Pronk Studios.

Hilton Head (SC) Chapter

The Rising Stars Mentoring Program mentors young female students at Polaris Tech in Ridgeland, South Carolina. The program is aligned with the national Linked Up Mentoring Initiative. The target population was chosen because 100 percent of their students qualify for free lunch. Activities are geared around leadership training and exposure to cultural programming to encourage the students to become contributing citizens in their community.

Each year on Hilton Head Island, the community hosts a Gullah Festival that highlights the rich traditions of the Gullah Community including storytelling, music, arts and crafts, and food. The Hilton Head (SC) Chapter will host a hospital van at the festival to provide health screenings, a breast cancer examination model, and literature on healthy lifestyles. We also plan to register voters. If we had one wish, we would purchase tickets to The Gullah Festival for seven students so they may experience the rich traditions of the Gullah Culture and learn about maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

The Arts Facet

The Southern Area Embraces Overture: A Look Inside Opera

Arlene Ferebee, Area Chair, The Arts Facet

Opera may be centuries-old, but there has never been a more relevant time to experience the beauty, artistry, and history of the exquisite art form. Opera houses around the world are finding imaginative ways to attract new and more diverse audiences to the genre and make opera more versatile and accessible. As opera companies take steps to bring more racial diversity to the stage, many are expanding their traditional grand opera repertoire with masterful contemporary works that feature Black composers, artists, characters, and stories.

With this in mind, the Southern Area Intentional Focus Area Overture: A Look Inside Opera is both an invitation and call to action. It is designed to drive exposure to opera as well as celebrate Black excellence in the art form, the barriers broken to advance the operatic tradition on and off the stage, and the new narratives giving voice to untold stories that reflect our communities. Among such compelling works are Fire Shut Up In My Bones, the first opera by an African American composer, Terence Blanchard, to ever be performed at the Metropolitan Opera in its 138-year history and Champion, Blanchard’s second opera, which premiered last year at the Met. This paved the way for X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X, a 1986 work composed by Anthony Davis, to make its Met debut in 2023.

Additionally, acclaimed mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves starred in the Glimmerglass production of The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson, a play with music composed by Carlos Simon about the remarkable artist who founded the National Negro Opera Company.

To date, 15 Southern Area chapters have reported plans to expose young people to the opera through local programming and/or experience opera via a Links friendship activity. They include the Asheville (NC), Azalea City (GA), Bradenton/Sarasota (FL), Brevard County (FL), Charlotte (NC), Elizabeth City (NC), Fort Valley (GA), Gulf Coast (MS), LaGrange (GA), MiamiBiscayne Bay (FL), Mississippi Delta (MS), Piedmont (NC), Savannah (GA), Shreveport (LA), Tuscaloosa (AL), and Shreveport (LA) chapters.

Terence Blanchard’s Fire Shut Up In My Bones at the Metropolitan Opera

Denyce Graves in The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson (photo by Karli Cadel)

The Tuscaloosa (AL) chapter created an Opera Etiquette Workshop series for middle schoolers to learn about the arts discipline before attending a night at the opera. In April, the Mississippi Delta (MS) chapter will host a virtual discussion between an HBCU professor and high school students on a myriad of opera-related topics before experiencing Mozart’s Don Giovanni. Recently, Brevard County (FL) chapter members enjoyed Orlando Opera’s production of Frida about the life of Mexican surrealist painter, Frida Kahlo. Robert Xavier Rodríguez’s score mixed mariachi-style orchestrations with classical opera.

Whether you are an avid patron or absolute novice, opera offers something for everyone to appreciate. Take some time to check out what productions are playing at opera houses, theatres, or universities in your area. Alternatively, The Met: Live in HD offers tickets to live and encore movie theater transmissions of Met opera performances in various cinemas. Click here to identify options in your area.

Opera Etiquette Workshop presented by the Tuscaloosa (AL) Chapter

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Don Giovanni (photo from Met Opera)

Opera Orlando presents Robert Xavier Rodriguez’s Frida

Netflix Biopic of Political Icon Shirley Chisholm Inspires Southern Area Collaboration for The Arts and National Trends & Services Facets

The Southern Area Arts and National Trends and Services Facets are excited to announce the global film premiere of “Shirley” on March 22, 2024. The Netflix biopic starring Regina King follows Chisholm's boundary-breaking journey as the first Black congresswoman and presidential candidate. Directed and written by John Ridley, the film also includes a talented cast of Black actors including Lance Reddick, André Holland and Terrence Howard.

Use the QR code below or click here to view the trailer.

The Arts and NTS Facets invite our Southern Area chapters to use the film “Shirley” as a vehicle to build upon two of our Southern Area Intentional Focus Areas - - Lights, Camera, Action: Our Stories, Our Lens and the Southern Area Voter Engagement (S.A.V.E.) Program. To create purposeful participation, chapters are asked to:

 Host Watch Parties

 Hold Talkback Sessions

 Coordinate LinkUp the Vote! Events

Be sure to tag #SALinks when posting your activities on social media.

The Southern Area looks forward to hearing how your chapters rally to support and elevate Black stories featuring Black artists while inspiring social action and voter engagement.

Brevard County (FL) chapter members attend Opera Orlando’s Frida. Link sisters pictured left to right are Alumna Betty Minton; Kira Walls; Regine Pappas, Vice President; Edna Lawson, Program Chair; and Naomie Baptiste, The Arts Facet Chair

LINKing Hunger to Justice

Kimberly LaMotte, Area Chair, National Trends and Services Facet

"No society can flourish; children can’t flourish if they’re going hungry. We can’t ask a child to feed her mind when she can barely feed her stomach.” These are the words of then President Barack Obama as he set his policy to address global hunger.

Food insecurity is a long-standing driver of hunger in our country. “Food insecurity” or “low food security” means there is not enough food for everyone in the household. “Very food insecure” or “very low food security” adds a hunger aspect characterized by reduced food intake and a disruption of normal eating patterns. Access to food is the foundational challenge in either category. However, the quality and affordability of food that individuals have access to are additional considerations.

Many believe that access to affordable, healthy food is the true indicator of food security. In urban settings, it is not uncommon for residents’ primary food options to come from the local “corner store”, a small, locally owned store that isn’t stocked with healthy food options such as fresh, affordable, and nutritious fruit and produce. Additionally, there is a food insecurity/obesity paradox identified that shows that as food insecurity increases, so do the rates of obesity and diabetes. This is prevalent in communities where healthy options are not available, usually because there isn’t a grocery store with nutritious options nearby. The lack of access causes the “substitution effect” whereby inexpensive, energy-dense foods such as potato chips or processed meat replace healthier foods such as fresh produce and whole grains.

Many have heard the term “food desert.” However, when this issue is considered through a social justice lens, it brings forth a change in terminology that points to the fact that these areas are not naturally occurring, as deserts are. The term food apartheid, as opposed to food desert, has become more common as it acknowledges the injustices due to intentional lack of policies and structural inequities that oftentimes produce these areas. Further, the term food justice brings awareness to additional issues of racial and

socioeconomic disparities rooted in food systems, such as agricultural workers’ rights, food chain supply impacts, injustices experienced by black farmers, access to SNAP benefits, and environmental justice concerns.

The historical importance of the intersectionality of politics and food is exceptionally rich in the southern region of the United States. For generations, black farmers have been an integral part of the economic backbone of the black community. They played a critical role in the Civil Rights Movement by providing food, coordination, and safe spaces for the civil rights activists to meet and organize. However, they have endured structural racism resulting in class action lawsuits settled by the United States government.

Data confirm that food insecurity negatively impacts student test scores and academic performance. Of course, we know that “a good breakfast” is recommended before any high stakes test. But that may be difficult, or impossible, for students from low socioeconomic households that may be receiving SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits. The Hungry for Success Study notes that students who test at the end of their monthly benefit period are likely hungry and unable to perform at their best and are less likely to attend a four-year college.

What is the Impact in the Southern Area?

The USDA considered a 3-year period (20192021) to identify food insecurity rates by state. The prevalence of food insecurity was higher than the national average in Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and South Carolina. The prevalence of very low food security was higher than the national average in Louisiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina. Other states were in line with the national average.

13.5M households

33.8M people

24.5M adults

Source: USDA 2021 data

9.3M children

four different schools serving a total of over 750 students (ages 4- 13)!

Mission Trip Update

This is an important issue for the Southern Area of The Links, Incorporated. Madam Area Director is keenly aware of the issue of food insecurity and considers it a priority.

To that end, food access will become a component of National Trends & Services programming in the Southern Area. I look forward to working with chapters to address the issue of food insecurity in our communities.

Chapters are encouraged to identify a program lead to address this issue within their current programmatic efforts to expand community impact. This lead can assist the chapter with drafting programmatic objectives, identifying community partners, and seeking collaboration/integration with other facets and chapters to maximize input. Local food banks/food pantries, churches, HBCUs, K-12 public school, and non-profit organizations are suggested partners to explore. Target audiences comprised of students or women would be ideal candidates to implement programming.

For more information on food insecurity research and studies, click here

International Trends and Services Facet Celebrating Transformation and Triumph: Bahamas Scholars Intentional Living Project

Pearline Booth Greene, Area Chair, International Trends and Services Facet

Greetings from the Southern Area International Trends and Services Facet Committee! Hopefully, a member of this committee has contacted every ITS Chapter chairperson. Small groups were created to expedite communication. With this concept in mind, contact me directly if you have not received an email or text from one of us.

The 2024 Education Across the Miles: Mission Trip to Jamaica was amazing! Over 230 members of The Links Incorporated, including 41 from the Southern Area, donated their time and expertise in

While the majority of SA Links volunteered at Watford Hill Primary and Infant School, several also served at Mt. Zion Primary & Infant School, St. Mary’s Prep, and Mt. Cary School. The school personnel were appreciative of our efforts and the students enthusiastically participated in each lesson. As we toured the buildings and engaged with the staff, we were impressed with the progress that was made possible because of financial support and voluntarism by The Links, Incorporated. The STEAM/WildSTEM curriculum guide and the Health and Wellness curriculum guide were helpful for many of the volunteers. It was great seeing so many longtime friends and making new ones!

International Women’s Day

Some chapters commemorated International Women’s History Month in March. Please share your highlights with me. March 8th has been identified as International Women’s Day (IWD). According to the IWD website, this day is noteworthy for five reasons, three of which are relevant: (1) Educate and raise awareness about women’s equality; (2) Call for positive change advancing women; and (3) Fundraise for femalefocused charities. There is no better way to promote IWD than financially supporting the women’s dormitory in the Bahamas.

The Southern Area Intentional Focus AreaBahamas Scholars: Intentional Living Project fundraising goal is $50,000 with each chapter being asked to donate a minimum of $500. This donation may be submitted in two payments of $250 per submission. The first contribution was due on March 8, 2024 and the second contribution is due on March 8, 2025. These dates intentionally coincide with recognition of International Women’s Day.

Thank you to the chapters whose donations have been received. Chapter checks should be made payable to the Southern Area of The Links, Incorporated. Donations should be mailed to the Southern Area Financial Secretary and Vending Chair: Lakenya Collins (3813 Lennox, New Orleans LA 70131

Mental Health Moment: Intentional Focus on Brain Health

Tedra Anderson-Brown, Area Chair, Mental Health Initiative

The movement to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia has entered a new era. With emerging treatment options, a growing understanding of prevention methods, and potential diagnostics in the pipeline, the Alzheimer’s Association and AARP can provide people living with the disease and their caregivers with real-world help and hope for the future. But we must ensure these advances are accessible and effective for all populations, recognizing that those who are disproportionately impacted are also often the most underserved.

Through strategic partnering, The Links Incorporated, The Alzheimer’s Association, and AARP are creating a pathway to greater health equity, mission engagement and inclusion for everyone. We are building an organizational culture of understanding through education and awareness campaigns. The Alzheimer’s Association’s vision of a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia is also that wish of our organization. AARP offers much needed resources and guidance on a range of relevant topics as families navigate challenges faced by those with Alzheimer’s including caregiving and advocacy.

Engaging diverse perspectives is critical to achieving health equity — meaning that all communities have a fair and just opportunity for early diagnosis and access to risk reduction and quality care. Underrepresented and underserved communities are disproportionately impacted by Alzheimer’s and dementia, and yet are less likely to be diagnosed; less likely to be recruited to participate in research; and less likely to have access to care and support services. This is unacceptable and must change.

The Southern Area of The Links, Incorporated and its chapters can be the change with great partnering and programming to meet the needs of our communities. To this end, the Southern Area’s Mental Health Initiative hosted “The P.O.W.E.R.

of Knowing: An Alzheimer’s Update” on January 9, 2024 via Facebook Live and YouTube.

This impactful, educational townhall was moderated by WSB-TV News anchor Karyn Greer and included national and regional Alzheimer’s experts including Dr. Carl Hill (Alzheimer’s Association, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer), Mrs. Dionne Polite (AARP Florida Director of State Operations), Dr. Monica Parker (Director of the Outreach, Recruitment and Education and Minority Engagement Cores at the Goizueta Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center of Emory University ), and Dr. Belinda SavageEdwards (Board-certified Neurologist, Headache Medicine Specialist, and Researcher at Rehabilitation & Neurological Services).

A moving video featuring one family’s Alzheimer’s journey was also shared and was a powerful testimony highlighting many of the issues experienced by families. Our panelists shared nuggets about knowing the 10 warning signs, new medications, getting assessments, finding caregiver and other family support, the importance of participating in research studies and so much more. This well-received forum on Alzheimer’s disease, which has over 1500 views to date, continues to be available as a valuable resource to each of you and the communities we serve via the Southern Area Facebook and YouTube channels.

Additional resources are also provided on the following page. For assistance with programming needs and resources related to Alzheimer’s disease or other Mental Health topics, please reach out to us via email.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month!

Be on the lookout for information and upcoming programming from your Southern Area Mental Health Committee. We also want to hear about the innovative ways you are working with your Mental Health Ambassadors to stop stigma, educate, and engage your local communities. And, don’t forget to send your information and pictures to us at mentalhealth@salinksinc.org.

For assistance with programming needs and resources related to Alzheimer’s disease or other Mental Health topics, please reach out to us via email.

 Dr. Tedra Anderson-Brown

 Phyllis Kitchens-Thurmond

 Candace Eskew-Bell

Southern Area Mental Health Initiative Committee

CHAPTER NEWS

Greater Miami (FL) Chapter

Global Community Fair by Greater Miami (FL) Chapter Provides Education Across the Miles

The Services to Youth (STY) facet of the Greater Miami (FL) Chapter organized the Education Across The Miles outreach initiative in Coconut Grove, Miami. This event aimed to provide a unified global community fair for prospective residents from the Bahamas, Trinidad, Haiti, Venezuela, and Cuba. Collaborating with the Health & Human Services Facet, National Trends & Services Facet, and Greater St. Paul Church, Links members engaged with citizens about voting rights, healthcare, and promoting STEM awareness among local youth.

Dade County (FL) Chapter members also participated in the community fair, distributing information on health, the significance of voting, and educational literacy pamphlets. Adult education brochures, featuring GED, Citizenship, and Environmental Services material, were shared with the community.

Links members set up a booth for STEM projects, encouraging students to apply critical thinking skills. Children showcased their creativity by completing science engineering configurations using hands-on artifacts representing NASAdesigned projects.

In collaboration with CHI Community Health Center, the Health & Human Services facet conducted blood pressure, glucose, and BMI checks. Links members distributed vital information pamphlets for all age groups, and visitors received health care bags containing stress balls, hand sanitizers, and healthy snacks.

National Trends & Services provided a platform for residents to watch a video spotlighting Barack and Michelle Obama, former President and First Lady of the United States. The video emphasized the importance of voting, and residents could complete a survey about upcoming voting information afterward.

Fair attendees who qualified received free laptops, tablets, or cell phones. Senior citizens appreciated medical checks, while students were delighted to receive technology items. The community fair served over 80 residents, ranging in age from 2 to 75.

This inclusive event brought together people of all nationalities and provided valuable information to residents, citizens, and immigrants from various countries about career opportunities, voting rights, and educational literacy programs in the Miami-

St. Petersburg (FL_ Chapter Founders Day 2023 - Celebrating Our Founders with Tri-Chapter Fellowship

As the 2023 Founders Day Host Chapter in a traditionally held Tri-Chapter Founders Day Celebration, the St. Petersburg (FL) Chapter, led by Chapter President Tia Young, welcomed the Bradenton/Sarasota (FL) Chapter led by Chapter President LaVerne Green, and the Tampa (FL) Chapter led by Chapter President Julie Sneed to feast on not only a delicious celebratory luncheon, but to feast on an inspirational, encouraging, heartfelt, and Intentional message delivered by our dynamic Southern Area Director, Vanessa Falls.

What an honor, privilege, and pleasure it was to have Madam Southern Area Director join the three chapters in what has been our annual tradition for well over 20 years as we eagerly greeted one another and reconnected. Upon arrival, members were invited to “strike a pose” in front of a specially designed Founders Day banner at the photo station.

In addition to the day’s program, which included greetings from each chapter president, attendees were treated to the soothing soulful sounds of live jazz by saxophonist, Jordan Bolds. Our Founders Day Ceremony rounded out the day’s event and as members departed, tokens of appreciation were shared throughout.

As the host chapter, the St. Petersburg (FL) Chapter Founders Day Committee, led by Chair Tonjua Williams and Co-Chair Lisa Hamilton, did a magnificent job creating a beautiful space for us to gather. It was truly a beautiful day, inside and outside. Smiles, hugs, and laughter filled the room

as sisters took turns for photo ops and sampling the delectable dessert table.

When the day’s event ended and parting farewells were shared, so were the lasting and farreaching words imparted by our very gracious Southern Area Director Vanessa Falls. Intentional Messaging to an Intentional Audience in an Intentional Sisterhood. We were most grateful and very thankful to have shared this significant time and special day together at Link Vanessa Fall’s very first in-person Founders Day Celebration as Madam Southern Area Director!

North Broward County (FL) Chapter

The Color Purple looks good on North Broward County (FL) Links!

On the first day of Kwanzaa, North Broward County (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated supported the Christmas holiday showing of the musical movie The Color Purple.

Renting and selling out a theater showing of The Color Purple, at the Paragon Theater in Davie, Florida, Links members, family and friends came out to show their support for the movie. Also, each guest in attendance received a wonderful box of “Ca-nookie” (candy and cookie pieces) by J.O. Sweets & Treats provided by our very own Julie Owens

Chapter President Link Angela LucasMumford supported the movie on the same day while in New York City with her husband, Ronald, and her children, Reece and Ryan! The North Broward County (FL) Chapter’s commitment to the call to action in support of The Color Purple demonstrates our continued commitment to community and the arts.

Columbus (GA) Chapter

Columbus, Georgia Links Close Out 2023 with a Bang!

The Columbus, GA chapter enjoyed both friendship and service in December as they closed out 2023. Chapter members visited Girls, Inc., where they have had a tremendous partnership with the organization for over 10 years, providing enriching after-school programs for the girls that make each one of the Links Facets come alive to them!

Link members came to spread Christmas Cheer to the girls but also to encourage them as they prepare to start the second half of the school year. There was even a surprise visit by Elmo and one of Santa’s Helpers!

Each year, the Columbus (GA) Chapter determines who the guests will be for their holiday event either members only, members and their significant others only, family members including children, or friends. This year’s holiday soiree’ was with members and friends at the beautiful Green Island Country Club in Columbus.

“Fa La La with the Links” proved to be the fabulous and fun event that it was promised to be. The committee outdid themselves with gorgeous décor, delicious food and drinks, festive entertainment and prizes. The annual holiday event is always one of the highlights of the program year and this year’s fun fellowship was truly enjoyed by all!

Buckhead/Cascade City (GA) Chapter Friendship Takeover

The Buckhead/Cascade City (GA) Chapter’s goal for Friendship Month was “Intentional Friendship” in alignment with our Southern Area theme. The desire was for chapter members to experience Friendship Month. In the words of Maya Angelou, “People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did. But people will never forget how you made them feel ” We kicked off Friendship Month with the musical sounds from an acclaimed musician at our November Chapter meeting, which set the stage and the feeling for the entire month: Fun, dancing, laughter and sisterly connections. Although it was November, we sang “do you remember the 21st night of September” as we danced the day away. Of course, we handled the chapter business but the same intentional friendship was interwoven into our entire meeting.

Next, our members experienced “ThanksGrooving,” which was a fun-filled night of delectable bites, signature drinks, karaoke, a DJ, line dancing, games, a bracelet making station, and prizes. The best was our Alumna member, who treated us to the full version of “Tyrone” by Erykah Badu. Karaoke is now a signature friendship event for the chapter. We learned so much about our sisters, which strengthened our bonds of intergenerational friendship. A November Playlist was created to capture the musical selections and moments that made us smile and chuckle.

The chapter was delighted to extend our month of “Intentional Friendship” with our link sisters across the Atlanta Cluster, as we hosted the Atlanta Cluster Worship Service and Reception at historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, the home church of the late civil rights icon, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Approximately 120 members worshipped together and donated $3,700 to the One Ebenezer Fund in memory of Alumna Member, the late Dr. Christine King Farris.

Following worship, we proceeded with “Intentional Service,” as members participated in a National Day of Impact with an informative presentation from the Alzheimer’s Association highlighting the importance of providing support to caretakers of family members or patients who

suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. In honor of National Donor Sabbath weekend, Links Lovette Russell, Buckhead/Cascade City (GA) Chapter, and Tammy Crooks, Dogwood City (GA) Chapter shared testimonies of their personal journeys of organ donation as double lung transplant recipients. The National Day of Impact culminated in an appreciation ceremony where veterans and caretakers were recognized and honored for their

sacrifice and service. They were gifted with succulent plants symbolizing tenacity, resilience, strength, and selflessness love. The Friendship and Fellowship brunch with our link sisters was the proverbial “icing on the cake.”

The chapter closed Friendship Month with a friendship crawl titled “Charcuterie, Chili, and Cheesecake ” Members strolled from house to house enjoying delicious food, libations, but more importantly each other.

We played games, we exchanged gifts and we exchanged lots of hugs. And, we unanimously agreed that this was the best friendship month ever. We intentionally showed up, we intentionally connected, and we intentionally prioritized our friendships. We fulfilled the quote so eloquently articulated by the late great Maya Angelou.

Buckhead/Cascade City Chapter Celebrates Twenty-Five Years of Toys and Smiles

The Buckhead/Cascade City (GA) Chapter was excited once again to spread holiday cheer and joy for the 25th year in a row to unhoused and underserved children in the Atlanta community. Over the years, we have donated to Status: Home (formerly Jerusalem House), the Boys and Girls Club and Solomon’s Temple. Annually, our longterm friend and partner, Dwight Eubanks of the Purple Door Salon, hosts a toy drive with our chapter generously designated as one of the benefactors. This season’s toy donations were extra-special as we celebrated a 25-year partnership, thanks to our first President, Barbara Yarn. “Dwight was my hair stylist and he always threw fabulous Christmas parties. In the mid-90’s, he began asking guests to bring an unwrapped gift. BCCC had just begun supporting Jerusalem House and the donated toys were given to the residents. As his parties grew in size every year, so did his donation to the chapter,” says Barbara Yarn.

This past year, we donated toys once again to the residents of Status: Home, a shelter for unhoused families impacted by HIV/AIDS. We organized and donated age-appropriate gifts from dolls to trucks for distribution to the youth.

“Status:Home has been a recipient of the Buckhead/Cascade City (GA) Chapter’s philanthropy for over two decades as they served our population of unhoused families with toy donations, funding, board service and events. The children and families were profoundly grateful for the generous gesture, as it not only brought joy to their hearts but also instilled a renewed sense of hope,” states Nick Rawls, Manager of Community Partnerships. As we extend our 25+ year partnership with Status: Home, we are excited to receive funding from the Southern Area to provide ‘starter pack’ gift cards for new residents to purchase essential items.

We also had the opportunity to donate to the Annual Red Ribbon Toy Drive, hosted by Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. The chapter partnered with other donors to provide toys and bicycles to over 600 Atlanta families in need, bringing joy and holiday cheer to hundreds of children. “It was a truly heartwarming experience to see the smiles on their little faces and to know that Buckhead/Cascade City (GA) Chapter was able to make a difference in so many lives,” says Chapter

President Shaun Hunter Green. “We are deeply grateful to Buckhead/Cascade City Chapter and all our other generous sponsors who made this event possible, as well as the dedicated volunteers who gave their time and effort to make it a success. We look forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come and making a positive impact on the lives of even more children” announced Demetrius McCray, Director of Community Relations for the City of Atlanta.

The Buckhead/Cascade City (GA) Chapter looks forward to our continued partnership with Dwight Eubanks of the Purple Door and the opportunity to spread holiday cheer for years to come to the underserved youth in the Atlanta Community. This successful program was organized by The Arts Facet, the Health and Human Services Facet, and the National Trends

and Services Facet. Alice Cooper and Sandra Williams are co-chairs of The Arts Facet Evelyn Pryor and Brandi Stephens serve as the co-chairs of the Health and Human Services Facet. The National Trends and Services Facet is chaired by Cheryl G. Williams. Ilene Jones Fraser is the President of the Shreveport (LA) Chapter.

New Orleans (LA) Chapter

New Orleans (LA) Chapter third annual Trunks-giving event with English Turn Property Owners Association

Thanksgiving is the time of year when we show gratitude for our many blessings. It is also the perfect time to pay those blessings forward. This past Thanksgiving, our chapter members participated in our third annual “Trunks-Giving,” an event that gave members and the community the opportunity to do just that by donating items to five organizations that have been uplifting the Greater New Orleans Community for many years.

On Saturday, November 18, 2023 in cooperation with the English Turn Property Owners Association, a private residential community in which several members reside, members and their family and friends, as well as residents of English Turn donated hundreds of items from the wish lists of these organizations: Youth Empowerment Project; Clover (formerly Kingsley House); Mary McLeod Bethune Elementary Charter School and Covenant House.

Each Facet suggested an organization and gathered that organization’s wish list, which the Chapter publicized to the Greater New Orleans community. Facet chairpersons and committee members lavishly decorated their trunks in the parking lot of the English Turn Country Club in preparation for the drop off donation event. Signage with each organization’s logo was also placed near the appropriate trunk. Chapter members, English Turn residents and members of the community reviewed the wish lists of each of the organizations, chose one or multiple partners to receive their donations, packaged items according to the organization, and then dropped them off on to the Trunks-giving event.

Requested items included: gently used clothes for children and adults; pajamas; backpacks; diapers, baby wipes, towels, sheets, hand sanitizer, lotion, personal hygiene items, undergarments; cleaning products; non-perishable food; hair care products and many more essential items. The Chapter received heartfelt thank you messages from each organization noting the remarkable impact the donations would have on those whom they serve.

Shreveport (LA) Chapter

Shreveport (LA) Chapter is Empowering Students to Save Lives

The Shreveport (LA) Chapter held a CPR training session for 5th grade students at Caddo Heights Elementary on December 1, 2023. The integrated program was sponsored by International Trends and Services, Services to Youth, and Health and Human Services Facets.

Students were taught about the life-saving emergency process of CPR by an instructor from the American Red Cross of North Louisiana. The program was held on National HIV/AIDS Day. Members were encouraged to wear red to acknowledge the progress made in preventing and treating HIV and the challenges remaining to eliminate new HIV infections.

Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter

Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter expands its commitment to education in Ghana Second mission trip planned this fall

More resources, more educational materials and a classroom makeover; those are just three tangible results of The Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter's mission work in Ghana at Atasemanso R/C Primary School. Through the chapter's efforts a second classroom has undergone a floor to ceiling transformation, including 40 new chairs and desks for students, a bookcase and teacher's table.

The chapter's service and financial support have helped to raise the standards at the school. The two renovated classrooms have created transformational change by fostering a more secure learning environment. The classroom upgrades will ensure that many children will now

have access to a proper roofed classroom where they can learn without being hindered by rain.

An official classroom dedication ceremony was held in December via zoom. The ceremony included dignitaries, teachers, and students from Kumasi Ghana along with several members from the Pontchartrain Chapter of The Links, Incorporated.

This fall, a delegation of chapter members will travel to Ghana for a 10-day mission trip in October 2024. It's the second time that the chapter will be providing "Boots on The Ground" service to the school and the Kumasi community at large. Members will physically see the second renovated classroom while engaging in dialogue about future needs and solutions.

The mission trip is part of the Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter's award-winning International Trends and Services Program, Education

Across the Diaspora. The chapter works with Bridge-to-Africa Connection to support both students and teachers at the school. The ITS facet is chaired by Voris Vigee with Co-chair Katherine Dukes and Ruth Cookie Jean.

Jackson (MS) Chapter

Jackson (MS) Chapter Links Stroll to the Polls

The Jackson (MS) Chapter converged on the campus of Jackson State University on Election Day as members led university students on a stroll to the poll. The pep rally-styled demonstration on November 7, 2023 was the culmination of multiple Get Out The Vote (GOTV) activities that the chapter sponsored to encourage young people’s participation in local elections. Chapter members laced up their sneakers, donned Links GOTV gear, and joined a throng of energetic students as they headed to the on-campus voting site. The thumping sounds of rap and hip hop filled the air while chapter members held up “VOTE TODAY” signs and urged students to follow them to the poll. After the stroll, all students who voted and presented “I Voted” stickers were treated to a free lunch treat from a chapter-sponsored food truck.

The event proved successful thanks to the efforts of the National Trends and Services Facet led by Link Beverly Hogan and Link Ivye Allen. The National Trends and Services Facet of the Jackson (MS) Chapter developed, organized and executed engaged, collaborative and impactful Get

Out the Vote (GOTV) initiatives, leading to the November 7, 2023 election. The NTS facet was intentional from the onset in planning to engage in activities with other community groups to get more people to vote. The facet’s first activity was the collaboration with the Health and Human Services Facet to support the Black Family Health Expo in March 2023 at the Jackson Hinds Comprehensive Health Center. The facet set up a booth in collaboration with Southern Echo’s Move Project and distributed voter education information and registration forms for every person attending the Health Expo. Approximately 16 individuals completed the voter registration form.

NTS also established an agenda for the other activities to move the GOTV initiative forward. The first priority was to support the Mississippi NAACP’s phone bank. Chapter members made telephone calls to eligible voters to encourage them to vote and reached more than 100 voters through the collective work of six members.

The second priority was to run targeted social media and streamline platform ads bearing the Jackson (MS) Chapter logo. The voter registration and voter education materials were developed and placed on the chapter’s Facebook page and distributed through other organizations’ contact links.

The third priority was to Adopt-a-Precinct. The precinct at Jackson State University was chosen because it is a large precinct, comprised principally of the university’s students, with historical low voter turnout. To engage community-wide voter participation, the Jackson (MS) chapter posted some 200 “VOTE TODAY” yard signs throughout city, at key neighborhood entrances and the university’s campus entrances.

The Jackson (MS) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated made a strong presence throughout Jackson, Mississippi on Election Day, as members

continued to present the chapter as a viable community partner.

Jackson (MS) Links Chapter Presents

The Color Purple

The Jackson (MS) Chapter took to the Purple Carpet on Thursday, December 21, 2023 for the Mississippi Advanced Screening of The Color Purple at B&B Theatres. The chapter was privileged to present the event with the Southern Poverty Law Center, MS Black Women’s Roundtable and the MS Film Society.

Chapter members Letitia Johnson and Waikinya Clanton co-hosted the screening, which was sponsored by Oprah Winfrey, the movie’s executive producer. Prior to the screening, Ms. Winfrey delivered a special recorded message to the Jackson audience! The star-studded, purpleclad crowd enjoyed complimentary snacks while viewing the re-imagined film classic based on the novel, The Color Purple, by Alice Walker.

Following the screening, the audience was treated to a panel discussion of community thought leaders, who shared perspectives about the movie’s impact on the lives of African American women.

Panelists included Waikinya Clanton, Ebony Lumumba, and Aisha Nyandoro of the Jackson (MS) Chapter as well as Colibri Jenkins and Erin Pickens of the LeFleur’s Bluff (MS) Chapter.

Wilson-Rocky Mount-Tarboro (NC) Chapter

Celebrating 75 years of Friendship and Service

A journey that began in 1948 by 13 pioneering women in Eastern North Carolina was heralded by the members of the Wilson-Rocky Mount-Tarboro (NC) Chapter, as they celebrated their 75th Anniversary milestone with family and friends. Chartered on March 18, 1948, the Wilson-Rocky Mount-Tarboro (NC) Chapter was the sixth chapter charted by The Links, Incorporated, and the first chapter chartered in the incomparable Southern Area. Filled with tenacity and a desire to foster the mission and goals of The Links, Incorporated, this small group and those who joined them in the early years of the chapter sponsored four new chapters; Charlotte (NC), Wilmington (NC), Raleigh (NC) and Lake Gaston

Area (NC), which continue to vibrantly grow in service and friendship.

As we launched our 2023-2024 Program Year, the chapter has received accolades and proclamations within our service areas, as well as other individual entities who recognized our commitment to the marginalized in our communities. Proclamations of Excellence and Service were received from the City of Rocky Mount, the town of Tarboro, and The Honorable Don Davis, U.S. House of Representatives.

To celebrate this momentous occasion, the chapter hosted an Anniversary Luncheon at the Walnut Creek Country Club on October 29, 2023. Other area chapters in attendance included Raleigh (NC), Wilmington (NC), Lake Gaston Area (NC),

Triangle Park (NC) and Elizabeth City (NC) Chapters.

Congratulatory correspondence was shared from Link Ethel Issacs Williams, National President of The Links, Incorporated and Southern Area Director Vanessa Falls. Guest speakers were Former US Congressman G.K. Butterfield and Dr. Bertha B. Todd of the Wilmington (NC) Chapter. The Honorable G.K. Butterfield is the son of Addie Butterfield, a charter member of the Wilson-Rocky MountTarboro (NC) Chapter.

An enjoyable Sunday afternoon of live music, delectable foods and awesome friends culminated with a champagne toast with commemorative flutes for all attendees. The 75-year legacy of the Wilson-Rocky Mount-Tarboro (NC) Chapter

stands as a beacon of friendship and community service. Members are committed to making a difference in the community and remaining dedicated to the organization’s rich traditions while charting new pathways of impact and engagement.

Raleigh (NC) Chapter Service to Youth – Links Love HBCUs

The Raleigh (NC) Chapter’s Service to Youth Facet eagerly embraced the “Links Love HBCU Program” and on January 17, 2024, they launched a Mentoring Program with students at Shaw University based on national criteria. The goal is to have 20 sophomore students this first year and enroll additional sophomores each year as the students move up to their junior and senior year. The Meet and Greet was successful and the mentees will participate in seven sessions to learn about career goal setting, career aptitude and assessment tests, resume construction, interviewing, and soft skills.

Most of the students are first generation college students and work part-time while attending classes to make ends meet, as they do not receive monetary support from home. Also, approximately 90% of Shaw’s students qualify for full financial aid.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!

Our Stories, Our Lens

On December 30, the Raleigh (NC) Chapter, in collaboration with The Triangle Park (NC) Chapter, hosted a private viewing of the movie, The Color Purple and 62 Link members, family and friends were in attendance.

Raleigh (NC) Chapter Collaborates with Dress for Success, Arise Collective and Wake Technical Community College to Serve Previously Justice Involved Women

The Raleigh (NC) Chapter partnered with Dress for Success Triangle, Arise Collective and Wake Technical Community College on February 3, 2024, to serve a group of previously justice involved women. The women represented various ethnicities, ages, and self-identified genders, and currently participate in Arise Collective’s Reentry Bootcamp. This umbrella program is a component of the National Trends and Services Facet’s Dressing Her from the Inside Out program.

Let’s Talk Jobs was the first of two program workshops and a luncheon. This first workshop focused on communication skills, resume preparation and interviewing techniques, as well as image consulting. The Dress for Success Mobile Boutique was on site to suit the women with professional outfits. In preparation for working with this target population, chapter members have completed three unconscious bias training sessions this year. Twenty chapter members representing all five facets volunteered at the workshop.

Last year, the chapter sponsored two donation drives, volunteered at the annual boutique sale, served as image coaches, provided a table for Dress for Success at our Black Family Wellness

Expo and assisted with the mobile boutique events at two area HBCUs, offering resume writing tips at one of them. The chapter’s relationship with Dress for Success continues to grow and strengthen.

International Trends and Services focuses on LIFE (Links International Foreign Affairs and Business Empowerment for Youth)

The Raleigh (NC) Chapter’s International Trends and Services Facet focus is on the LIFE Program. The Facet partners with International Focus (NGO) which provides an opportunity for the Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School (SRMHS) IB students, whom the Facets work with monthly, to engage with international delegates, international community representatives and learn about international issues impacting women in STEM. In November 2023, the Facet hosted a Timor Delegation Visit to the school. Twenty-one students participated and it was a great success. On March 1, 2024, we hosted the Africa Delegation to the school. Thirteen nations will be represented at the event with a focus on journalism.

Black Family Wellness Expo 2024

The Raleigh (NC) Health and Human Services Facet is preparing for the Black Family Wellness Expo that will take place on March 16, 2024. We are collaborating with our sister Links, The Triangle Park Chapter, 100 Black Men of Triangle East and the Southeast Raleigh YMCA. We are excited to host the event at Southeast Raleigh YMCA.

The community will have the opportunity to have screenings with WakeMed for cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol. There will be 40 booths of various wellness and health vendors, and physicians speaking on topics including mental health and prostate awareness. There will be something for everyone!

Winston-Salem (NC) Chapter

Winston-Salem (NC) Chapter Continue

Closing the Gap by Helping Students Prepare for the ACT and college

The Winston-Salem Chapter, through its Service to Youth Facet, hosted an ACT Preparation Session on January 20, 2024, on the campus of Winston-Salem State University (WSSU). The annual ACT Prep Workshop, now in its 15th year, is designed to help high school students prepare for the ACT college entrance exam by focusing on test strategies and test taking skills development.

Educational research suggests that participation in an ACT prep course can help students improve ACT performance, which is an important aspect of

their college application. Unfortunately, many students from under resourced families do not have access to these programs because of financial constraints. Thus, we attempt to remove this barrier by providing the program without charge to the public using our target market.

The target population included high school students in the Triad area, specifically within Forsyth County and the City of High Point in North Carolina. Over 100 students registered for the session with 65 students attending on the coldest day of the year. Nine WSSU professors volunteered to serve as instructional facilitators for the program. Link Facet members and volunteers coordinated marketing, outreach, registration, curriculum assignments, and incorporated a spotlight on the presence and value of HBCUs as a key contributor to the educational infrastructure of

the nation. A special highlight was the workshop was hosted in the beautiful new sciences building, in partnership with WSSU.

The program consisted of the following components:

(1) booklets presented to each student to provide the basis of the session reviews and covered content in all sections of the ACT, including English, Math, Reading, Science, and the optional writing test. Students were able to rotate through a session highlighting each section of the ACT, allowing in-depth understanding of specific question types and content area;

(2) exposure to content expert college professors who guided the students through material providing clear explanations, feedback, and answers to student questions;

(3) test-taking strategies for efficient time management and intelligent guessing;

(4) overview of the writing section whereby students were provided tips to review to enhance skills to improve performance; and

(5) general tips for test day readiness, whereby students were provided techniques to manage test anxiety and ways to ensure readiness for a testing environment.

At the end of the course, students were asked to complete a survey as part of the session evaluation and feedback. The committee uses these evaluations, along with feedback from professors and Link attendees, for continuous future course improvement. An appreciation swag bag was given to each volunteer instructor and the department chair of the facility for the time and attention given to assist the students and make the program a success.

Facet Chair, Link Denise Robinson says "helping students perform better on the ACT is creating a pathway to college. I am proud of the work we do in opening doors to help them reach goals and dreams."

The Winston-Salem (NC) Chapter of the Links Partners with Title I Schools in the WinstonSalem Forsyth County School System to Tackle Period Poverty

A critical matter that rarely gets talked about but one that impacts female students and their attendance in school also has a major impact right here in Winston-Salem Forsyth County Schools (WSFCS), and that is period poverty.

The Winston-Salem Chapter of the Links, Inc., originally became involved with this initiative during their 2022 program year by partnering with The City of Winston-Salem Mayor’s office and Sam’s Club towards the purchase of menstrual products to supply two Title I schools. Period poverty is the lack of access to menstrual products and improper education about menstrual hygiene. When girls do not have adequate access or the financial means to purchase supplies, they simply choose not to go to school during their monthly menstrual cycle.

According to the National Institutes of Health 40% of girls are frequently absent from school during this time. Menstrual products are vital for the health, well-being and full participation of women and girls. Inadequate menstrual support is associated with both health and psycho-social issues, particularly among low-income women. This may force females to wear the same menstrual products for a longer period of time, which exceeds the intended use, which can affect their health.

The prolonged use of menstrual products, such as pads, tampons, or menstrual cups, increases the risk of infections such as urinary tract infection and bacterial vaginosis. The psycho-social issues can range from depression, anxiety, feelings of disgrace, and social isolation.

This year the chapter has expanded their program to not only provide menstrual products but to also add an educational component with small group discussions about menstrual hygiene and to filter questions about myths and truths about menstruation. Currently we are working with two Title I middle schools; Philo-Hill Magnet Academy and Mineral Springs Middle School. However, our ultimate goal is to gradually increase our reach so that all schools in WSFCS have the menstrual supplies they need for all students to be successful. The National Trends and Services Facet will use funding provided by the Southern Area to support the purchase of supplies for this program to ensure that more students can benefit from access to menstrual supplies.

Piedmont (NC) Chapter

The Piedmont (NC) Chapter (NC) Awaits Your Presence at our White Rose Event

The Piedmont (NC) Chapter is thrilled to present the 35th annual White Rose Event. Our guests will be transported into a world of timeless elegance and spirited fun at the reimagined White Rose Derby Brunch. Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit The Piedmont (NC) Chapter and will be used for charitable and educational purposes in our community.

This enchanting event will blend the sophistication of classic Derby atmosphere with the warmth of lifelong friendships, all in support of noble causes. Our celebration will feature the energetic Derby Hat Parades and contests, imbuing the space with the elegance of horse racing adorned with white roses. Guests can capture beautiful moments in our Derby-themed photo booth while enjoying the festive atmosphere. The excitement continues with a Derby-inspired race, enabling guests to watch and wager on classic races. Our GREEN carpet awaits to welcome you for an unforgettable experience of fashion, fun, and philanthropy, all in honor of enduring friendships.

The Piedmont (NC) Chapter serves Gaston, Catawba and Cleveland counties and is committed to providing enhanced educational, cultural and civic programs and activities within these communities. By attending the event or giving a donation, you are supporting our community service programs, which include our annual Young Masters Writers Program, Senior Planet OATS Program, HBCU educational outreach, Fitness for Life Programs, cultural exchange initiatives that provide health and educational resources to students in Nigeria, AED Project, college scholarships, participation in the Impact Library Program, and our work with Habitat for Humanity.

Ticket sales, sponsorships and general donations must be received by March 15, 2024. For more information, please reach out to the Fundraising Chair, Monica Alexander at monicaalexanderpnclinks@gmail.com.

Carolina Pines (NC) Chapter Serving Our Local Communities

Greetings Southern Area Link Sisters, it is with great pleasure that I share with you many of the exciting things the Carolina Pines (NC) Chapter

has been engaged with over the past several months as we serve communities of Cabarrus and Rowan counties.

Girls Night In

The Arts Facet along with Health and Human Services Facet hosted a Dinner and Paint event focusing on Breast Health, Black K.A.R.E., relaxation skills and painting! We each invited two friends to share the importance of breast health and chronic kidney disease awareness, resources and education.

Donor Sabbath – Health and Human Services

Our experience with Black K.A.R.E continued with Donor Sabbath, a collaboration with the Charlotte (NC) Chapter. This impactful webinar featured Dr. Roger Denny, husband to a Charlotte member, a nurse practitioner as well as two transplant recipients. We learned valuable insights on both organ and tissue donations.

Links Love HBCUs

Our service area covers two HBCUs, Livingstone College, (Salisbury, NC) and Barber Scotia College, (Concord, NC). We met students on Livingston’s campus and exposed them to the possibility of working with the United Nations Association, allowing them to start a student guided and operated chapter on campus.

Additionally, Livingstone College has accepted first year of Foster Care Students. Carolina Pines provided toiletries at this event and later gave them gifts for the holidays. The college hosted a Career Fair and we provided new and gently used business outfits for their Career Closet and working to develop a mentoring program.

Our second HBCU is Barber Scotia College, (Concord, NC) under the leadership of new president, Chris Rey who is steadfast to gain its accreditation. Carolina Pines is onboard with “Barber Scotia Rising” and have participated in their “Day of Service” preparing for homecoming activities by donating cleaning supplies, clean up and registration. We look forward to continuing our work at both these institutions.

S.T.E.A.M NASCAR and Character Counts

Our Services to Youth Facet presented a NASCAR S.T.E.A.M Day for the Boys and Girls Club on November 4, 2023 presented by partners from NASCAR, NC American Association Blacks in Energy (AABE), Youth Energy Academy, Clearwater Arts, as well as Terrell Woods, the husband to one of our members, and others. We hosted 30-plus registered students and their parents for a fun-filled interactive day learning about S.T.E.A.M and Black K.A.R.E.

In October 2023, each facet and the executive committee taught character skillsets on a weekly basis to 24 third through fifth graders at the Cabarrus County Boys and Girls Club. Program administrators shared expressed their appreciation and positive impact our programming had on participating “Shining Star” students!

In December 2023, our chapter was recognized by the Cabarrus County Boys and Girls Club for our service impact and virtual reading program, which was established 2020!

All in Friendship!

In the month of November, our friendship activities included a beautiful virtual Founders Day. The Royal Court Cluster of chapters in our area celebrated friendship together. A beautiful evening of cocktails, friendship ceremony followed by dinner and the “Green Table Talk” with the chapter presidents.

Saluting Our Members’ Achievements

Magic City (AL) Chapter: Alexis Barton’s Work

Listed in The Best American Essays (2023)

The Magic City (AL) Chapter extends congratulations to Chapter member Alexis Barton. Her celebrated Washington Post Magazine piece, The Finer Things, was most recently included in The Best American Essays’ list of Notable Essays and Literary Nonfiction of 2022.

Alexis’ piece was recognized with a 2023 Deadline Club Award (Magazine Feature Reporting) from the New York City Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists at the Harvard Club (pictured). She also received two 2023 Excellence-in-Features Journalism Awards (First Place - Inclusion and Representation in Features; Second Place - Food Features) from the Society for Features Journalism, and a 2023 Green Eyeshade Award (First Place - Feature Writing).

Greater Huntsville (AL) Chapter: Kimberly Evans

Named Teacher of the Year for 2023-2024

On Friday, December 8, 2023, Kimberly Evans was named 2023-2024 Teacher of the Year for Decatur High School in Decatur, Alabama. Kimberly, who has been teaching English and Language Arts for 27 years, credits her longevity in education to her supportive family, to include her father, Dr. Richard A. Evans (deceased), her

mother, Alumna member Gloria Evans, and her extended family community.

Kimberly believes that students can achieve success when the “ABCs” of education are in action. The acronym stands for Accountability in academic achievement, Building strong relationships, and a Call to Action for all stakeholders. As she continues her journey as an educator, Kimberly aspires to inspire her students by igniting engagement at its highest level. In her spare time, Kimberly enjoys sharing time with her family and friends, mentoring, serving her community, and relaxing with retail therapy.

Greater Huntsville (AL) Chapter: Laura Hall and LaFreeda Jordan Win Women of Impact Awards

Congratulations to Alumna Member Laura Hall and LaFreeda Jordan! Both were honored by the Yellow Hammer News Media Group for the 6th Annual Women of Impact Awards. Women of Impact recognizes the women in Alabama whose contributions have earned the authority and power to move the needle in their industry. These women are a force in our state; respected leaders, advisors and mentors who empower others through the lives they devote and the trails they blaze.

Information about LaFreeda Jordan directly follows. You can find out more about the Honorable Laura Hall in the Alumna Section.

LaFreeda Jordan: Serving others starts with a ‘yes’ and leaves an enduring benefit to all.

Augusta (GA) Chapter: Ebony Brown Receives 2024 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award

Ebony Brown, a local entrepreneur was recognized by the White House for her STEMrelated accomplishments with girls in the community. She received an Honorary Doctor degree in International Humanities, as well as the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award

Being a service to your community, you can help change and mold the different things that are happening in society. If you don’t get involved, then change can’t happen.

Serving as the Director of U.S. Senator Richard Shelby’s North Alabama Congressional Office, Jordan was the Senator’s principal State liaison to NASA, Department of the Army, Department of Justice and the space and defense industry leaders. Jordan’s wealth of experience in the political realm led to her position at UAH as Chief External Affairs Officer.

As founder and Chief Executive Officer of Brown Girls Code, Dr. Ebony Brown caught the attention of the White House for the program she founded in 2019. The program helps expose girls of color to STEM-based fields and coding.

Brown Girls Code now trains young girls across 26 states and there are plans for international expansion to reach more young girls.

Buckhead/Cascade City (GA) Chapter: Lovette

Russell is New Board Chair of Spelman College

Lovette Russell, the new Spelman College board chair announced at the beginning of the year her goal to increase endowments to $1 billion in the next 5 years. To achieve this goal, Russell is working with Spelman’s president, Dr. Helene Gayle, and the board of trustees to create a strategic plan.

On January 18, 2024, Lovette Russell moved one step closer to her goal. In a historic moment, Spelman College received a record breaking $100 million gift from board chair Ronda Stryker and William Johnston. This historic contribution will help fund student life and scholarships for years to come.

Lovette Russell shared in the announcement just how valuable the opportunity is for promising undergraduates and prospective undergraduates who deal with financial challenges that could thwart their path to a degree. "As a student, I experienced the power of this historic institution and how it transforms the futures of talented young women," said Russell, addressing a crowd of buzzing students gathered on campus. "I know that some of the brightest young women who dream about coming to Spelman are facing financial hardships and barriers toward higher education.

What I am sharing with you today is a major step to ensure more young women can achieve their dreams."

President Helene Gayle and Board Chair

Lovette Russell shared the news, citing it as “a critical step in our mission to eliminate financial barriers.

Buckhead/Cascade City (GA) Chapter: Bentina Terry

Named President and CEO of Major Company

January 1, 2024, Bentina C. Terry was named president and CEO of Southern Communications with responsibility to lead Southern Linc and Southern Telecom, Inc.

Terry assumes her new role, leading these Southern Company (NYSE: SO) subsidiaries that provide mission critical LTE wireless and darkfiber networks and services to electric utilities and a range of businesses and public sector agencies.

She will advance a strategy that furthers the capabilities of these subsidiaries to strengthen grid resilience and increase value for Southern Company system customers, communities and shareholders.

"I'm pleased that a leader of Bentina's caliber will join our experienced telecommunications leadership team," said Stan Connally, executive vice president of Southern Company Operations and CEO of Southern Company Services. "Her proven leadership skills and deep industry experience will help us advance how we meet core operational and customer needs through our

wireline and wireless telecommunications operations."

With more than 20 years in the utility sector, Terry brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to her new role. She has demonstrated a deep understanding of the industry, consistently driven growth, fostered innovation and achieved outstanding business outcomes.

Terry joins Southern Linc and STI from Southern Company subsidiary Georgia Power, where she most recently served as senior vice president of Customer Strategy and Solutions. In that role, she led business areas focused on ensuring superior service and innovative solutions for Georgia Power's 2.4 million customers.

Throughout her career with the Southern Company system, Bentina has served customers and stakeholders in several states through wideranging roles in many areas. Since joining Georgia Power in 2001, she has held senior leadership roles in many areas of the business. Prior to Southern Company, Terry supported Georgia Power and Southern Company at Troutman Sanders (now Troutman Pepper) as a labor and employment lawyer. Earlier in her career, she served as associate general counsel at Progress Energy (now Duke Energy) in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Magnolia (GA) Chapter: Members in Dentistry, Art and Architecture Making News in STEAM

Jarrett Manning Landrum of the Magnolia (GA) Chapter is helping young women see themselves beyond their smiles. She has launched a program to expose young black girls to the field of dentistry. The non-profit program is called Beyond Her Smile. Its goal is to combat the dismal numbers of people of color in dentistry.

Only 3.8% of dentists in the U.S. are Black, and less than 40% are women. Jarrett Manning Landrum shared her story on NBC’s Today Show in September. She hopes her program will ignite interest in dentistry from young girls who look like her.

In the meantime, September Gray, also of Magnolia (GA) Chapter, was featured in the November/December 2023 issue of Essence Magazine.

September is the founder and curator of the Atlanta-based September Gray Fine Art Gallery. Her Chicago exhibit, “Decadence of Another Kind,” on display at the Bridgeport Art Center, was highlighted in the Cultural Guide section of the magazine. The exhibit runs from January 19 –March 1, 2024. You can hear September Gray talk more about the exhibit here.

In additional news, Ivenue Love-Stanley and her husband, William Stanley, III of Stanley, Love-Stanley P.C., an Atlanta-based architecture and design firm, were honored by the City of Atlanta on December 4, 2023. The acclaimed architects were bestowed a proclamation and numerous accolades for their outstanding projects. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Atlanta City Council members, and Magnolia (GA) Chapter President Link Shelley Woods Whiting were among the community, professional, and personal supporters who lauded these humble, amazing servant leaders.

We are proud of our Magnificent Magnolias!

Elizabeth City (NC) Chapter: Crystal Keyes and Nichole Lewis lauded for leadership

Crystal Keyes has received a leadership appointment by Dr. Karrie Dixon, Chancellor, Elizabeth City State University, and also a member of the Elizabeth City (NC) Chapter. Dr. Keyes will serve as the Interim Executive Director of Student Engagement and Leadership on the campus of Elizabeth City State University.

Nichole Lewis has also received a leadership appointment at Elizabeth City State University, Chancellor, Dr. Karrie Dixon, Chancellor and Elizabeth City (NC) Chapter member. Dr. Lewis will serve as the Interim Associate Vice Chancellor of Student, Alumni, and Constituent Engagement.

Crown Jewels (NC) Chapter: Erica Bryant recognized for Community Service

Erica Bryant is an Emmy Award winning journalist. Ms. Bryant has served as co-anchor for WSOC-TV "Channel 9 Eyewitness News" weeknights at 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 11 p.m. since 2009, when she made history by becoming part of the first all-black prime-time anchor team in the market’s history. Prior to joining WSOC-TV in 2004, Ms. Bryant worked for WCBD-TV in Charleston, South Carolina and WHNS-TV in Greenville, South Carolina.

In 2020, Erica was named RTDNAC (Radio, Television, Digital News Association of the Carolinas) TV News Anchor of the Year. Some of her most memorable work includes co-producing prime time special reports “Stand Up to Domestic Violence” and “Life After Death: Rae Carruth and The Son Who Survived.” Mr. Bryant also coanchored live coverage of the Memorial Service for Reverend Billy Graham in 2018, the Democratic National Convention in 2012, and the Republican National Convention in 2020.

She attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass

communication. A former board member of Safe Alliance which runs the Mecklenburg County Domestic Violence Shelter, Ms. Bryant is passionate about volunteering in the community and focuses on issues facing disadvantaged families, women and children. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the Crown Jewels Chapter of the Links, Incorporated, and the Charlotte Chapter of Jack and Jill of America.

Erica lives in Charlotte with her husband and two children.

Celebrating Our Alumna Members

Greater Huntsville (AL) Chapter Salutes

Alumna Member Laura Hall

Rep. Laura Hall: Classroom to Capitol, A Lifelong Journey of Service.

While we advocate on behalf of matters facing the Black community, we also see our role as educating our younger and newer members on how to write and pass legislation in their respective states.

Alabama State Representative Laura Hall was first elected to House District 19 in 1993 and has enthusiastically served her state with an unwavering commitment to public service ever since.

Southern Area Calendar of Upcoming Events

Date Program/Activity

March 1-31, 2024 Women’s History Month

March 12, 2024 The State of Black Women’s Health – HHS Town Hall

March 16, 2024 Black Family Wellness Expo

Intent Magazine Submission Deadlines

Call For April 2024 Submissions

Share your chapter’s events, programs, good news and outstanding member accomplishments! The Southern Area Communications Team and Magazine Publications Subcommittee are pleased to issue this Call for Submissions for upcoming publications. Content is accepted on an ongoing basis, however, the deadline for submissions specifically for the next quarterly issue is on April 5, 2024.

Please use the following publication guidelines for your submissions:

 Submit content in Microsoft Word or Text files using .doc, .docx, .rtf, or .txt formats.

 Times New Roman font is preferred, in 12-point type.

 Content should not exceed 500 words.

 Photos should be submitted at 300 dpi resolution in .jpg, .jpeg, or .png formats. Questions, comments and content can be sent to editor@salinksinc.org.

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