Membership Manual 1200 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C

Transcription

1 Membership Manual 1200 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C August 2013 ~ i ~

2 Table of Contents FOREWORD 1 HISTORY OF THE LINKS, INCORPORATED 3 GENERAL INFORMATION 5 SYMBOLS OF THE LINKS, INCORPORATED 6 NATIONAL DOCUMENTS 6 NATIONAL PLEDGE 6 NATIONAL SONGS 7 NATIONAL SONG 7 CANDLE LIGHT SONG (SUNG TO THE TUNE OF BRAHMS LULLABY) 7 NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS 8 OUR VISION 9 OUR MISSION 9 OUR OBJECTIVES 9 OUR VALUES 10 PUBLIC POLICY GOVERNING THE LINKS, INCORPORATED 11 NATIONAL PROGRAMS 12 NATIONAL PROGRAMS OVERVIEW 13 SERVICES TO YOUTH 14 ~ ii ~

3 NATIONAL TRENDS AND SERVICES 17 THE ARTS 19 INTERNATIONAL TRENDS AND SERVICES 21 UNITED NATIONS NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATION 23 HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES 24 SIGNATURE PROGRAMS AND NATIONAL INITIATIVES 25 PROJECT LEAD: HIGH EXPECTATIONS SIGNATURE PROGRAM 25 LINKS TO SUCCESS: CHILDREN ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE SIGNATURE PROGRAM 28 "LINKAGES TO LIFE" SIGNATURE PROGRAM 29 CLASSICS THROUGH THE AGES SIGNATURE PROGRAM 31 "EDUCATION ACROSS THE MILES SIGNATURE PROGRAM 32 HEARTLINKS TO HEART HEALTH SIGNATURE PROGRAM 33 WALK FOR HEALTHY LIVING SIGNATURE PROGRAM 34 NATIONAL HBCU INITIATIVE 35 NATIONAL CHILDHOOD OBESITY INITIATIVE 35 SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATHEMATICS (S.T.E.M.) EDUCATION AND CAREER READINESS INITIATIVE 36 ACHIEVING THE DREAM INITIATIVE 36 THE LINKS FOUNDATION, INCORPORATED 38 BRIEF HISTORY OF THE FOUNDATION 39 WHAT IS THE LINKS FOUNDATION? 40 ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ABOUT THE LINKS FOUNDATION 40 WHAT IS SECTION 501 (C) (3) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE? 40 WHAT ARE THE PURPOSES OF THE FOUNDATION? 40 WHO MAY BE A MEMBER OF THE LINKS FOUNDATION? 41 WHEN ARE MEMBERSHIP DUES PAID? 41 WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TAX-EXEMPT IN THE LINKS, INCORPORATED AND TAX-EXEMPT/TAX DEDUCTIBLE IN THE LINKS FOUNDATION, INCORPORATED? 41 STRUCTURE 42 ~ iii ~

4 MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS 42 BENEFITS OF THE LINKS FOUNDATION TO LINKS CHAPTERS 43 PROCESSING FEES 43 THE LINKS, INCORPORATED 44 CHAPTER STRUCTURE AND GOVERNANCE 45 THE CHAPTER STRUCTURE 45 CHAPTER GOVERNANCE 46 CHAPTER MEETING ORGANIZATION 47 EXPECTATIONS OF AN EFFECTIVE CHAPTER PRESIDENT LINK CHAPTER GOVERNANCE TEAM 48 CHAPTER ORGANIZATION REQUIREMENTS 51 THE CHAPTER HANDBOOK 52 MEMBERSHIP CLASSIFICATIONS 53 MEMBERSHIP CLASSIFICATION 54 ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP 54 LEAVE OF ABSENCE MEMBERSHIP 55 ALUMNA MEMBERSHIP 56 AFFILIATE MEMBERSHIP 57 PROVISORY MEMBERSHIP 58 HONORARY MEMBERSHIP 59 PLATINUM MEMBERSHIP 60 RESPONSIBILITIES AND PRIVILEGES OF A MEMBER BY SPECIFIC MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY 62 MEMBERSHIP TRANSITIONS 63 INTRODUCTION TO MEMBERSHIP TRANSITIONS 64 TRANSFER CONDITIONS AND PROCESS 65 TRANSFER ELIGIBILITY 65 TRANSFER PROCESS 65 CONDITIONS THAT MAY AFFECT THE TRANSFER PROCESS 67 DETAILS FOR PROCESS FOR OBTAINING ADDITIONAL APPROVALS FOR TRANSFER 68 HOW TO HANDLE CHAPTER DUES AND ASSESSMENTS FOLLOWING A TRANSFER 68 ~ iv ~

5 REINSTATEMENT 69 REINSTATEMENT PROCESS 70 TERMS OF REINSTATEMENT 72 THE CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE 75 THE CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE SECTION 76 ROLE OF THE MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE 76 ATTRIBUTES OF COMMITTEE MEMBERS 76 OVERALL COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES 76 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 77 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE 78 INDUCTION OF NEW MEMBERS 81 ELECTION OF NEW MEMBERS 82 OTHER DUTIES OF THE MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE 82 REQUIREMENT FOR TWO-THIRDS (2/3) OF MEMBERSHIP VOTING 82 EXAMPLE OF AN EXTREME APPLICATION OF A QUORUM 82 EXAMPLE OF A TELLER S REPORT ON VOTING 83 PROCEDURES FOR INDUCTING A DAUGHTER OF A LINK 85 INTAKE PROCEDURES FOR A DAUGHTER OF A LINK (DOL) 86 EXPECTATIONS OF AN EFFECTIVE ORIENTATION PROCESS 87 CANDIDATE RESPONSIBILITIES 87 RESPONSIBILITIES OF EACH CANDIDATE PRIOR TO INDUCTION 87 RESPONSIBILITIES OF NEW MEMBER WITHIN THE FIRST YEAR 87 CHAPTER RESPONSIBILITIES 88 CHAPTER BYLAWS OR STANDING RULES 89 INDUCTION CHECKLIST AND COMPLETING THE INDUCTION PROCESS 90 ~ v ~

6 COMPLETING THE ONLINE INDUCTION PROCESS 90 USING AN INDUCTION CHECKLIST 92 COMPLETING THE INDUCTION PROCESS 93 ORIENTATION ACTIVITIES 95 NEW MEMBERS (OR TRANSFERRING MEMBERS) MENTOR PROGRAM 96 SUCCESS STRATEGIES 96 MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PERIOD FOR NEW MEMBERS 96 ORIENTATION MANUAL/WORKSHOP MAPPING 97 SAMPLE AGENDA 98 SERVICE PROJECT REQUIREMENTS 99 SERVICE PROJECTS 99 ACTIVITIES NEW MEMBERS ENGAGE IN WITH OTHER CHAPTER MEMBERS 101 PROPOSED MEMBERSHIP INDUCTION MODEL SCHEDULE 102 SUGGESTED FORMAT FOR ORIENTATION WORKSHOPS 105 MATTER OF FINANCE FINES AND FEES 106 THE MATTER OF FINANCE 107 NATIONAL DUES, ASSESSMENTS, FEES AND FINES 107 THE LINKS, INCORPORATED 107 THE LINKS FOUNDATION 108 EXEMPT MEMBERSHIP CLASSIFICATIONS 109 PLATINUM MEMBERS 109 ACTIVE MILITARY MEMBERS 109 TRANSFER MEMBERS 109 DUE DATE OF NATIONAL FEES AND ASSESSMENTS 109 NON FINANCIAL STATUS 109 FINANCIAL REINSTATEMENT OF MEMBERSHIP 110 FEES AND FINES 110 APPENDIX 111 TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP 112 COMMON ISSUES THAT CAUSE CONFLICTS AND DISENGAGEMENT IN CHAPTER 112 RED FLAGS OF A DYSFUNCTIONAL CHAPTER 112 ~ vi ~

7 ACTIVITIES PROMOTING POSITIVE PRODUCTIVE MEMBERSHIP 112 CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP NEEDS ASSESSMENT 113 MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT CHALLENGES 116 MEMBERS WHO DO NOT ATTEND MEETINGS 116 MEMBERS WHO DO NOT WORK ON COMMITTEES 116 WHAT SUCCESSFUL LEADERS MUST DO (FROM JOHN C. MAXWELL S SUCCESS 101 NASHVILLE: NELSON 2008) 117 ELEVEN RULES OF A GOOD CHAPTER PRESIDENT 117 HOW TO RETAIN MEMBERS 117 A FEW FRIENDSHIP QUOTES 122 MEMBERSHIP FORMS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS 123 MEMBERSHIP ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM 124 AFFILIATE TRAVEL MEMBER 125 BOUNDARY CHANGE GUIDELINES 126 SERVICE HOURS RECORD KEEPING LOG 127 ALUMNA MEMBER FORM 128 ALUMNA TO ACTIVE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 129 PLATINUM MEMBER FORM 130 THIRD YEAR LEAVE APPLICATION 131 TRANSFER FORM 132 SAMPLE LETTERS 133 INVITATION TO JOIN 134 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF ACCEPTANCE OF INVITATION TO JOIN 135 MISSED MEETINGS LETTER 136 RETURN FROM LEAVE OF ABSENCE LETTER 137 LETTER ACKNOWLEDGING RESIGNATION OF MEMBER IN GOOD STANDING 138 FORFEITURE LETTER 139 ~ vii ~

8 FOREWORD The often repeated story of our organization s beginnings is familiar to most Links, but it is imperative that we continue to be aware of those precepts if we are to reach our goal of being the premier service organization in America. The Links, Incorporated was conceived when a small group of friends, led by cofounders Sara Scott and Margaret Hawkins, linked together with a determination to serve their fellowman and yet remain a group of friends, a tall order then as well as now. Yet, we who carry the banner of Linkdom continue to be dedicated to the proposition that we shall be friends as we continue to strive to help those less fortunate than ourselves; for Linkdom without friendship is counterfeit and a mockery of the principles set forth by our co-founders and fostered by the many beautiful women who have followed in their footsteps. One of the finest privileges and richest rewards of membership in our organization is the opportunity offered for friendship. The successful incorporation of new members into our Chapters is central to our progress. The Links, Incorporated extends invitation of membership to women with demonstrated records of public service, volunteerism, civic engagement, and program development/implementation. Additionally, women possessing strong personal and social skills, talents in diplomacy and business and those who have demonstrated through thought and action, the ability to fulfill the philosophical, financial and program obligations of The Links, Incorporated are also strong candidates for membership. When new members become a part of us, we must extend to them the hand of friendship, help them understand what is expected of them and integrate them into our organization by orientation and example. The material compiled within this Membership Manual reflects the guidelines of the organization. Additionally, the following pages contain the tools which allow the participation of all members to be informed, purposeful and engaging. Every Link will familiarize themselves with the twin purposes of friendship and service. In an attempt to keep this Membership Manual current, it will be updated periodically, in order to keep the policies and practices exposed here in stride with national and international political, cultural and social climates. ~ 1 ~

9 The current revision was completed in under the leadership of: National President: Margot James Copeland - Cleveland (OH) Chapter National Vice President: Glenda Newell-Harris Alameda Contra-Costa (CA) The current version was completed by the National Membership Committee: Glenda Newell-Harris - National Vice President Natalie Fant - Eastern Area Vice Director Tamara Young Lee - Southern Area Vice Director Glenda Masingale Manson - Central Area Vice Director Jacqueline Howard - Western Area Vice Director Previous National Membership Committee Contributors that worked on revisions to this version for were: Glenda Newell-Harris - National Vice President Dianne Hardison - Eastern Area Vice Director Eneid Francis - Southern Area Vice Director Alice Strong-Simmons - Central Area Vice Director Constance Smith - Western Area Vice Director ~ 2 ~

10 History of The Links, Incorporated The year was In the wake of World War II, Philadelphia matrons Margaret Rosell Hawkins and Sarah Strickland Scott called together seven friends in hopes of starting a new type of organization, a chain of women s clubs composed of friends along the Eastern seaboard who would respond to the needs and aspirations of women of African descent. There were other groups in existence, but the two women envisioned a service-oriented organization that would have a three-fold purpose to promote civic, educational and cultural concerns and to lead women of African descent into postwar America. The original nine members were Frances Atkinson, Katie Green, Margaret Hawkins, Marion Minton, Myrtle Manigault, Sarah Scott, Lillian Stanford, Lillian Wall, and Dorothy Wright. That founding meeting on November 7, 1946 launched what is now The Links, Incorporated, an international women s service organization that is among the most prestigious associations of Black women in the world. From that modest first meeting of nine women, the organization born in the wake of World War II has expanded and refined its mission and membership, endured social and racial upheavals, and today has a membership of 12,000+ women of African descent in 274 Chapters located in the United States and the Bahamas. The members of The Links, Incorporated are physicians, ~ 3 ~

11 dentists, judges, attorneys, engineers, educators, entrepreneurs, elected officials, non-profit executives, authors, corporate executives and homemakers. They use their considerable resources to improve the quality of life for others. Over the years, the organization has lived out its implemented programs with the purpose of fostering cultural appreciation through the arts, developing richer intergroup relations and helping women who participate understand and accept their social and civic responsibilities. In 1949, The Links became a national organization when 40 members, representing 14 clubs, convened the first National Assembly in Philadelphia. The organization has been incorporated since March 29, ~ 4 ~

12 General Information ~ 5 ~

13 SYMBOLS OF THE LINKS, INCORPORATED NAME: COLORS: The Links, Incorporated Green (Emerald PMS 347) and White FLOWER: White Rose EMBLEM: Insignia A World Globe Encircled by a Chain with the tag line Linked in Friendship, Connected in Service The Links, Incorporated logo is patented and may be copied and used for Link activities, but cannot be altered in any way. The National Pledge and National Song should be a part of each Chapter meeting, Area conference and National Assembly ceremonies. NATIONAL DOCUMENTS The National publications of The Links, Incorporated are: Constitution and Bylaws, The Manual of Procedures, The Recording Secretary Manual, The Protocol Manual, Orientation Manual, Membership Manual, Financial Handbook, Rituals Manual, and The Links, Incorporated History. NATIONAL PLEDGE I do solemnly pledge myself to all the ideals, purposes, and true meaning of the word Friendship as embodied in the name LINKS. I shall earnestly endeavor to uphold these standards and do my share toward serving my community and my Chapter to the best of my ability. And this I promise. Authored by: Sarah Strickland Scott Co-founder and First National President ~ 6 ~

14 NATIONAL SONGS NATIONAL SONG We strive to do some good each year For those who need our aid; It binds us close and brings us joy, And so we feel repaid. We re each a link in friendship s chain, And loyal to our creed Of doing good through work and play, Together we ll succeed. Lyrics by: Frances Atkinson Music by: Marietta Hall-Cephas CANDLE LIGHT SONG (SUNG TO THE TUNE OF BRAHMS LULLABY) Candle light Candle light In this soft hour of gloaming All the cares and all the blame You have urged them in your flame. With a prayer in our hearts That has grown with this day We will walk in your glow And will find our lost way. In thy spell Candle light As the day nears its end We remember we have come In the name of Links and friend. As the day dawns tomorrow May we pledge once again To gather our blessings And share them with friends. Lyrics by: Unknown Music by: Johannes Brahms ~ 7 ~

15 NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS National Headquarters The Links, Incorporated 1200 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC Phone: (202) Fax: (202) The Links Foundation, Incorporated 1200 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC Phone: (202) Fax: (202) ~ 8 ~

16 OUR VISION The Links, Incorporated will impact the quality of life for humankind through community service. In response to an ever-changing society, The Links, Incorporated will increase its participation nationally and internationally for a stronger partnership with people of good will and good deeds. The Links, Incorporated impacts the quality of life for mankind through community service. In response to an ever changing society, The Links, Incorporated seeks to increase its participation on both national and international fronts for a stronger partnership with people of good will and good deeds. OUR MISSION The Links, Incorporated is a volunteer service organization of concerned, committed, and talented women who, linked in friendship, enhance the quality of life in the larger community. The organization is concerned primarily with enriching, sustaining and ensuring the identities, culture and economic survival of African Americans and persons of African descent. To contribute to the formulation of a positive, productive, and culturally diverse society, The Links, Incorporated also focuses on education, cultural enrichment, health and wellness and civic involvement. This focus is implemented through strategies such as in public information and education, economic development, and public policy. OUR OBJECTIVES 1. Foster economic development 2. Educate the public about issues central to the well being of African Americans. 3. Advocate appropriate public responses to the needs of African Americans. 4. Empower the membership in leadership development by offering training programs for greater effectiveness. 5. Provide a positive approach to address critical youth issues. 6. Foster artistic endeavors. 7. Promote the well being of the African American family. 8. Collaborate with organizations with similar goals and objectives. 9. Increase awareness of international issues, particularly those affecting people of African descent. ~ 9 ~

17 OUR VALUES The Links, Incorporated is based upon key values, beliefs and attitudes that are translated into core values which undergird the organization and include the following: Friendship, Integrity, Honesty, Service, Commitment, Family Relationships, Courage, and Respect for others and self. ~ 10 ~

18 PUBLIC POLICY GOVERNING THE LINKS, INCORPORATED The Links, Incorporated is a public service, non-partisan, volunteer organization. As such, it is listed as a tax-exempt organization because of its purposes and pursuit of charitable endeavors. Because of its mission, goals objectives and tax exempt status, The Links, Incorporated does not support or crusade for political causes under the banner of any one political party. However, all Links should vote, encourage others to vote, and support basic legislation which affects home and family life. Furthermore, Links are encouraged and should seek public office. The Links, Incorporated recognizes every Link is concerned with local, state, national and international issues and each Link has an undeniable right to express her personal opinion on such matters. However, no individual member, Chapter or Area, may make issuances on public policy in the name of The Links, Incorporated. Equally important is the recognition that The Links is an inclusive organization which conforms to the global tenets of diversity and multiculturalism. ~ 11 ~

19 NATIONAL PROGRAMS ~ 12 ~

20 NATIONAL PROGRAMS OVERVIEW From the inception of The Links Incorporated, the organization has addressed its community service through its threefold purpose in the areas of educational, civic and intercultural commitment using program facets. The program facets are Services to Youth, The Arts, National Trends and Services, International Trends and Services, and Health and Human Services. Our organization depends upon the manpower, expertise and commitment of its members to fulfill this mission. Thus, in keeping with our commitment, several focus areas have been developed over the years that allow the organization to live up to its promise in an organized and strategic manner that fosters the greatest positive impact to the communities it serves. The following milestones are notable: In 1958, only twelve years in the evolution of our organization, under the leadership of the 3 rd National President Pauline Maloney, the National Assembly adopted the first program facet, Educating for Democracy, which later became SERVICES TO YOUTH. The objective of this program facet was to aid minority youth in America to find and fulfill their intellectual potential. Thousands of youth benefited from this program facet and it has continued to expand and serve youth of African descent locally and globally since its inception. In 1964, The Links National Assembly embraced a second facet, THE ARTS. This program was launched around the theme of "Freedom and the Fine Arts during the tenure of the 4 th National President Vivian Beamon. The objective of this program facet has historically been to encourage appreciation of and support for cultural enrichment and the arts. Also to empower artists to become an integral part of the global art community. The Links, Incorporated is particularly interested in assisting youth to develop and display their artistic talents. Also in 1964, the program facet, NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL TRENDS AND SERVICES was adopted. This facet included recognition of the international thrust. As this program facet evolved, the chosen priority of action had to meet strict criteria. Identification of a focus of great importance in the foreseeable future. Initiatives must be achievable. Initiatives must be consistent with each other ~ 13 ~

21 Initiatives must be worth the money invested. In 1978, INTERNATIONAL TRENDS AND SERVICES gained full status as a program facet after having been separated from National Trends. It was established under the administration of the 6 th National President Pauline Ellison. This facet was a natural progression to our programming efforts. Since the organization s inception, the goals of universal human rights and full citizenship have received attention. Because the official U. S. foreign policy embodied international goodwill, it was not long before Links were giving more and more attention to areas of international human rights, through which they identified with peoples of developing countries. In 2010, the membership voted on and approved the establishment of the HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES facet at the 37 th National Assembly in Detroit, Michigan, under the administration of the 14 th National President Gwendolyn Lee. An outgrowth from existing health programming originally housed under National Trends and Service, the newest facet was created to directly address these health disparities. The Health and Human Services facet promotes and facilitates programs that support the maintenance if good health and the elimination of chronic health disparities in communities of color through education, health advocacy, and optimal utilization of health resources. The areas of emphasis are childhood obesity, cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, organ, tissue, and blood donation. All healthrelated programs are now housed within the new facet. SERVICES TO YOUTH The program embraced by this facet had its origin in the Spotlight, a handbook drafted by Link Bernice Munce. The original goals of this facet were to: Identify those issues and areas in the respective communities where utilization of resources, talents, and skills can make a difference such as providing programs that help eliminate teenage pregnancies, drug and alcohol abuse, crime and juvenile delinquency. Address educational issues as a basis for attaining and/or maintaining positive self-esteem. Provide programs that help children develop self-esteem and good decisionmaking skills. Provide programs that increase the literacy rate among our youth as well as programs that nurture the potential of youth. For years, the Services to Youth facet has provided excellence in programming. ~ 14 ~

22 As a result of President Eisenhower s Conference on Minority Resources, which emphasized the potential of minority youth, The Links, Incorporated, at its 10th National Assembly (New York City 1958), pledged itself to a "Talent Search" as the major goal of a new National program. "Educating for Democracy" was chosen as the theme under which a search for "academically talented and/or gifted youth" was to be undertaken by all Chapters. Programs designed to nurture the potential of youth would be devised by participating Chapters. The program was pursued experimentally for four years. During the period , operating under the "Educating for Democracy" theme, more than 2,000 gifted youth were discovered. There was a need to broaden our base if the goal of "leadership in depth" was to be achieved. The 1962 National Assembly (French Lick, Indiana) articulated this need by voting to continue the program and expand its coverage. Services To Youth have been and continue to be directed toward eliminating the problems of youth of African ancestry and their families in eight target areas: Teenage pregnancy, juvenile crime and delinquency, alcohol and substance abuse, mental and emotional illnesses/disorders, sexually transmitted diseases, family dysfunction, unemployment, and educational access, and opportunity and achievements. Because the target areas are so intertwined, prevention/intervention strategies were applied to alleviate these issues. Through a grant received from the National Institute of Drug Abuse, National and Area Services To Youth leaders participated in program development training on drug and alcohol abuse prevention. The participants in turn provided a series of workshops on the Chapter, Area and National levels. Through "Youth Eighties Survival - A Family Affair", Links Chapters united to educate and encourage African American families to teach children how to avoid drugs and to provide opportunities through which positive self-esteem and a feeling of hope for the future would be nurtured and reinforced. During the biennium, the 9 th National President, Link Regina Jollivette Frazier and the Executive Council of The Links, Incorporated approved the formation of a Self- Esteem Task Force. Its primary purpose was to strengthen and support the efforts of Project LEAD: HIGH EXPECTATIONS (Links Erase Alcohol and Drugs), a $1 million+ program funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Under the aegis of this task force, a partnership was established with the Library of Congress in its national literacy campaign, " Year of the Lifetime Reader". Chapters continue to network with ~ 15 ~

23 other national organizations in developing and implementing programs which address educational issues as a basis for attaining and/or maintaining positive self-esteem. During the administration of the 10 th National President Marion Schultz Sutherland an effort was made to further empower youth to just say No" to substance abuse and other negative influences. From , Services To Youth spearheaded Operation SEED (Self-Esteem Enrichment Day) as a national observance. Through this project, the organization utilized individual and Chapter resources in a creative manner to increase awareness of the need of a healthy self-concept/self-worthiness and a greater sense of personal and social responsibility and accountability. Innovative programs were developed to address critical youth issues in a more positive and supportive way. The Services To Youth facet is a dynamic facet that allows members a variety of choices in implementing programs that meet the needs of children within our local and global communities. Today, The Links, Incorporated continues to implement programs that are responsive to the academic, cultural, health, social awareness, career development, and mentoring needs of youth. The Links, Incorporated s Services To Youth facet is an integrated approach to preparing young people to succeed in the 21 st century workforce. The primary goals of this facet are to: Promote early literacy Implement local mentoring programs from kindergarten through college Close the academic achievement gaps from kindergarten through college Introduce and support Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (S.T.E.M.) education and career readiness Implement college readiness programs Increase high school and college graduation rates Award college scholarships and build educational endowments Promote and support Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) The Services To Youth facet is currently presenting five National Initiatives and two Signature Programs in support of our mission to enrich the lives of, and advocate for the betterment of, African-American youth. ~ 16 ~

24 NATIONAL TRENDS AND SERVICES At the 1962 National Assembly (French Lick, Indiana), a new area of interest was introduced to the National program. This dimension was designed to project The Links dynamic interest in public affairs, especially those concerned with promoting human welfare and eliminating second-class citizenship. This facet, originated as National Trends and Services, was expanded to include the international aspect of programming and was officially adopted as a part of the National program at the 1964 National Assembly (Nassau, Bahamas). The goal, as envisioned for this joint facet, was to keep Links apprised and abreast of current national and international trends. Chapters were encouraged to initiate, support, and participate in programs designed to achieve the major goals of National Trends and Services which were to: Identify those issues and areas in the respective communities where utilization of resources, talents, and skills can make a difference. Design and implement programs at the Chapter, Area and National levels which will provide assistance in resolving or alleviating economic, political, and social issues that impact humankind. Increase Links' involvement in their respective communities and in the international arena. Provide services that will enrich the personal lives of Links as well as that of community members. Heighten community awareness of the problems faced by minorities and the disadvantaged. Advocate for meaningful change at the local and National level that will improve the quality of life for all. The National Trends and Services facet is one that allows members a variety of choices in implementing programs that meet the needs of the people in our communities. Across the country, Chapters serve their communities by individually and collectively addressing issues and concerns for the betterment of those whom they serve. Linkages with other organizations have strengthened this resolve. Areas and issues that have been of particular interest to members include: educational access, poverty, unemployment, spousal abuse, voter registration, crime in the Black community, leadership, citizenship and civic engagement, consumer education, housing, nutrition, economics, education, the survival of Black colleges, health and wellness, senior citizens, ~ 17 ~

25 the Black family, women s issues and more. Throughout our history, Chapters have found creative and unique ways in which to share their resources and skills to meet the challenging issues of the times. A variety of forums have been presented to showcase talent and bring public attention to critical issues of the day. Conferences, seminars, leadership forums, workshops, mobile units, volunteer service, monetary contributions, voter registration drives, media presentations and position papers are but a few of the mechanisms used for education, and service delivery, in order to bring public attention to vital issues. If involvement is the key to our efforts through the National Trends and Services facet, commitment is the motivator. From the National level, Chapters have been urged to collaborate with organizations and agencies in their local areas to create a "multiplier" effect, bringing collective resources and a greater synergy to those areas to be addressed. They are also encouraged to tap the resources of corporate partners to help sponsor related events. The formation of coalitions is viewed as an effective way of pooling resources to work toward resolving critical societal issues. During the administration of the 8 th National President Dolly Adams, Project Discovery was the vehicle through which the National Trends and Services facet implemented the National program focus, Youth Eighties Survival - (Y-E-S) - A Family Affair. In 1984, a grant from the Women's Bureau of the U.S. Department of Labor enabled The Links, Incorporated to conduct a pilot project in Baltimore, Maryland. This project, a two -day workshop, assisted middle-income minority women in developing skills and techniques needed to re-enter the workplace and to change or upgrade their employment status. Following the successful pilot project, a grant of $89,550 was awarded to The Links Foundation, Incorporated to fund Chapters to replicate Project Discovery workshops in eight cities across the U.S. during "Fulfilling the Dream" led to a National Trends and Services program that significantly impacted the "wellness" of the Black family in mind, body, and spirit. To that end, Chapters have been involved in services to the homeless, the elderly, single parents, day care, women's shelters, food banks, hospitals, community centers, and churches. A major thrust has been cooperation with other organizations and agencies to maximize the impact on the Black community. The workshops at the State Department and the Rayburn House Office Building during the 27th National Assembly in Washington, DC provided an excellent insight into the Civil Rights Act of A letter writing campaign was launched by Links to let congress know about their concerns regarding this particular piece of legislative ~ 18 ~

26 action. This was not a "one shot" event, but an ongoing activity conducted by Links. Through their individual Chapters, Links followed the progress of civil rights legislation. The biennium, during the administration of 10 th National President Marion Sutherland, National Trends and Services continued to focus on health and wellness in the African American family. Links joined with The National Cancer Institute (NCI) to facilitate the Cancer Prevention Awareness Program for African Americans, focusing on the theme: "Eat Your Way to Good Health! Special emphasis centered on cancer screenings and mammographies. This program developed and made available culturally sensitive information and materials about cancer prevention and nutrition, including a Nutrition Kit, a Nutrition Calendar, and a Nutrition Poster. Today, the focus of the National Trends and Services facet is to design community programs that increase awareness of issues that affect the quality of life of African-Americans. National Trends and Services addresses the significant economic and social inequalities that significantly affect our communities in the areas of education, income, health, employment, and other social indicators of well-being. As Links explore national trends to plan services that will make an impact on our communities, it is clear that racial and ethnic disparities are two of the underlying factors that lead to those issues of concern identified and addressed by our programming. The vision of the National Trends and Services facet is to eliminate disparities by reducing barriers to services through advocacy, education, and service. The mission is to empower Chapters to effectively empower the communities in which we work. Goals include: Increasing the number of sustainable and measurable programs Increasing collaborative partnerships Extending our existing initiatives to include communities identified as having the greatest need THE ARTS In 1965, at the request of the 4 th National President Vivian Beamon, Link Margaret Hough developed a program entitled Freedom and The Arts. The proposal was reviewed, voted upon by the Area Conferences in 1965 and was adopted at the 1966 National Assembly (Boston, Massachusetts). Link Hough became the first director of this facet that is now simply called The Arts. ~ 19 ~

27 The establishment of The Arts facet completed the comprehensive program through which The Links has unified its efforts and services. The goals of Links' concentration on The Arts and their creators obviously are manifold. The specific goals are: To enhance the knowledge and appreciation of youth and adults for the fine arts. To assist Chapters in search of new approaches for their National Links' project. To give Links another area of programming which highlights and educates the community on the contributions of the African American artists. To increase interest in the purchase and commissioning of work from noted artists. To create greater opportunities for exposure to and experience in the various art forms. The Arts facet is one that allows members a variety of choices in implementing programs that meet artistic needs of members in our communities. The Links, Incorporated has a strong and rich record of support for the performing and visual arts. From the inception of the organization, Chapter members found unique ways to express their individual and collective interests in cultural enrichment in communities across the nation. Links continually provided scholarships for talented individuals, sponsored quality programs for display of talent by budding as well as established artists, used their influence with public and private art institutions to insure inclusion of African American artists, and sponsored countless programs and projects for young people. The Links, Incorporated has been at the forefront of organizational advocacy for the preservation of African American cultural heritage. In addition, the National organization, through its Chapters, is busily engaged in activities which support the development of new talent. Outstanding local and National projects have made the name Links synonymous with excellence in arts activities as varied as conducting arts camps in the southern states, showcasing artistically talented individuals, to contributing funds to major art museum exhibitions. The direction for The Arts during the biennium, under the leadership of 8 th National President Dolly Adams, was toward development of a national after-school program, for using arts as a catalyst for encouraging basic skills training. This program was a part of The Links National program - "Youth Eighties Survival (YES)" - prioritized to utilize our resources to find innovative ways to support Black youth. The Arts were used to explore, stimulate and develop the creative and intellectual potential of students who are otherwise turned off by the traditional school curriculum. Links provided leadership and resources to develop this exciting project. ~ 20 ~

28 During the biennium, The Links, Incorporated, through its members, continued developing and offering cultural and educational opportunities for families and individuals across this nation. Top priority was given to establishing criteria and financial resources for exhibition(s) organized by The Links, Incorporated, to promote the excellence found in African American art identified from the four geographical Areas. The traveling art show was exhibited at museums and culture centers across the nation. In addition, and in conjunction with the traveling exhibit, lectures, films, workshops, and performing arts events were sponsored to enhance and enrich a greater understanding and appreciation of the rich and diverse cultural contributions found in this country. Funding was secured from private and governmental sources in order to promote and develop, through education, a diverse audience for the acceptance and appreciation of world cultures. Finally, an edited catalogue regarding this exhibition documented its purpose and historic value as it relates to the world of art. History will record the African American contribution over a period of time and its relationship with other world cultures for all future generations to study and appreciate. Therefore, The Links, Incorporated, as an organization, through its Chapters, will develop substantial linkages across this nation to direct, support, and foster this process. The Links are proud of their fine tradition of taking the lead in finding innovative ways to integrate the African American arts into the general art culture. Women in the organization are enthusiastic and dedicated to continue their support for the arts. Throughout the nation today, Links Chapters partner with museums, symphonies, arts councils, educational institutes and corporations in order to support art programs, especially where there is a focus on artists of color. Links are creating and supporting opportunities for educating minority youth in the arts and presenting and supporting performances by youth and accomplished professional artists in a diversity of disciplines. The goal of The Arts facet is to increase and expand art activity, and elevate our programs through arts integration and effectively create an arts renaissance within our organization and programmatic efforts. INTERNATIONAL TRENDS AND SERVICES The International Trends and Services facet was originally included under National Trends and Services. However, in 1970, the International Trends and Services ~ 21 ~

29 facet was separated from National Trends and was established as an ad hoc committee. The 1978 National Assembly (Chicago, Illinois) voted full status to the International Trends and Services program facet. The major goal of the International Trends and Services facet is to ensure that each Link will have a greater awareness of international events, affairs, and issues through personal involvement, commitment, and enrichment in the following program areas: 1. United Nations and Human Rights Day Observances 2. Great Issues Discussions 3. Financial Assistance to the Cause of Internationalism 4. Special Services to Foreign Guests 5. Personal Enrichment through International Travel 6. Information on International Issues 7. African Water Wells Project 8. Haitian Refugee Issues 9. Building Schools in South Africa Projects implemented under the early beginnings of International Trends and Services facet are still a part of the National program thrust. The Links render services and assistance to global friends, especially those living in African and Caribbean countries. This facet provides an opportunity to meet the challenges that lie ahead as the program's horizons are expanded through the following activities: Increasing involvement and participation in international affairs for bridging "Linkages. Toward the Possible for people on a global basis; Providing information on international issues related to the political, economic, and cultural matters involving African and Caribbean countries; Supporting international organizations on the local, national, and international levels; Continuing to provide substantial financial support to the African Water Wells Project throughout the International Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Decade ( ) and beyond; Collaborating with other organizations in sponsoring international projects whose goals are similar, and being actively involved in exploring, developing, and initiating community support programs for the adjustment and rehabilitation of Haitian nationals. Supporting foreign students who are studying at American colleges and universities and encouraging their participation in international dialogue. ~ 22 ~

30 Providing financial support for the building of schools in South Africa in order to ensure education for children of Africa and the Diaspora (global village) and integrating this into the curriculum of The House of Lands and Peoples in the National Program Links to Success: Children Achieving Excellence. UNITED NATIONS NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATION In May, 1985, The Links, Incorporated accepted status as a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) of the United Nations. At that time, the organization recommitted itself to promoting global awareness. The NGO representative disseminated information about the U.N. for use by Chapters. The UN has always embodied the hopes and aspirations of all humanity. Since it was established, it has unquestionably rendered a valuable service to the international community, and has provided a forum where the voice of conscience can be heard. There are 32 special U.N. agencies and programs which deserve our attention. The intent of this organization is to identify and recognize the relevance of these programs which match the goals of The Links, Incorporated. Links program facets have global perspectives which correlate with programs of the United Nations. The Link Woman is described as a world traveler, an internationalist who is well read. Foreign faces, languages, mores, and milieu are appreciated by Links. Their commitment to serving humankind has no boundaries or geographical limitations. However, the priority of The Links, Incorporated is to improve the quality of life for people of the world of African descent. The mission of the International Trends and Services facet is to expand the global platform for programs designed and developed to service the educational, health and cultural needs of people of African descent throughout the world. All programmatic components of the facet are delivered through measurable and sustainable service delivery methods that reach women and their families. The foremost goal of the International Trends and Services facet is to provide opportunities for tangible service in other countries. Our "boots on the ground" approach provides for more personalized methods for assisting and improving the lives of women, children and men worldwide through long-term programs committed to empowerment and public policy leadership in advocating for social justice. ~ 23 ~

31 HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES In 2010, The Links, Incorporated established the Health and Human Services facet in response to the chronic health disparities that persist in our communities and result in the decreased life expectancy of African-Americans. This new facet, whose programming was originally housed under National Trends and Services, brings greater focus, resources, and coordination to The Links, Incorporated s health initiatives already in existence. With the expansion of partnerships with national health agencies, and more definitive structure and support for our health related signature programs, our mission can flourish. The mission of the Health and Human Services facet is to promote and facilitate programs that support the maintenance of good health and the elimination of chronic health disparities in communities of color through education, health advocacy, and optimal utilization of health resources. Community education about health risks is crucial and The Links, Incorporated can play a significant role in providing it. There has been an increase in the prevalence of cardiovascular disease and stroke in ethnic communities. Obesity, diabetes and physical inactivity are all risk factors that can be modified. African-American women are more likely to die from breast cancer and early detection would allow for effective treatment and cure. Links will educate members about healthy lifestyles and disease prevention to ensure that we become models of the health behavior we ourselves hope to promote in our communities. The areas of emphasis are cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, and organ, tissue and blood donation. All health-related programs will find a home within the new facet. The Links efforts are guided by Chapter assessments of community need, Healthy People 2020 (a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services initiative), and the goals of the National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities. ~ 24 ~

32 SIGNATURE PROGRAMS AND NATIONAL INITIATIVES As programming initiatives, strategies, and outcomes were analyzed for trends and best practice, certain programs were developed to meet the needs of our communities on local, national, and international levels. The Links, Incorporated is committed to innovation in programming that is enhanced by collaborative efforts between The Links, Incorporated and other organizations, people and communities. Signature Programs and National Initiatives came into existence to address emerging or current issues, concerns and needs which impact the lives of individuals in a target population within the global Black community. Signature Programs and National Initiatives distinctive features are action, collaboration, leadership, excellence, and authenticity. Signature Programs and National Initiatives best reflect the collaborative programming efforts that successfully meet the needs of the communities we serve but which also generate a great deal of good will as we participate, partner and nurture connections, affiliations, and project sharing with other organizations, agencies, and communities. Signature Programs and National Initiatives carry out the organization s purposes, and convey its core values, which are friendship, integrity, honesty, service, commitment, family relationships, courage, and respect for self and others. The purpose of Signature Programs and National Initiatives is to strengthen the capacity of the global Black community to invest in the future: its youth, families, organizations, and institutions; and serve the public well-being by addressing the needs of people of African descent through the organization s collective expertise and resources available within the Chapter/member networking system. PROJECT LEAD: HIGH EXPECTATIONS SIGNATURE PROGRAM In 1985, the alcohol and drug abuse initiative was formally entitled, "Project LEAD: HIGH EXPECTATIONS" (Links Erase Alcohol and Drug Abuse), and was moved from the Services To Youth facet. It was made the National umbrella project of The Links, Incorporated. Through a grant received from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Program Facet Directors, Area Directors and Chapter Representatives participated in a program development training session on drug and alcohol abuse prevention to provide a series of workshops at the Chapter, Area, and National levels. Chapters were encouraged to develop programs that would effectively address the problems surrounding drug and alcohol abuse in their respective communities. Twelve Chapters were involved in this project. ~ 25 ~

33 Under the administration of the 9 th National President Regina Jollivette Frazier, "Project LEAD: High Expectations!" funded in 1987 through a grant in excess of three-quarters of a million dollars, from the Office of Substance Abuse Prevention (O SAP) of the Alcohol, Drug Abuse, and Mental Health Administration (ADAMHA), Department of Health and Human Services, finished the three-year demonstration/research project. The program was re-funded for an additional two years. This project expanded the earlier conceptualization described above, and set in place an adequately funded mechanism for more systematic and effective training in values clarification, decision making and problem solving, vocational and career planning, and enhancing self- esteem. The overall goal of the project was to develop a field-tested, innovative, community based, educational outreach program to prevent alcohol and other drug abuse, premature sexual activity, unintended births, and sexually transmitted diseases among Black youth in selected cities across the country. The target group was high-risk Black youth, so classified because they represented one of the following subgroups: children of substance abusers; children at risk of becoming adolescent parents; children at risk of dropping out of school; children who are economically disadvantaged; and children in selfcare arrangements (latch-key children). The five major components of "Project LEAD: High Expectations! were: a) training, b) materials development and adaptation, c) information dissemination, d) community involvement, and e) evaluation. While each component was distinct, successful implementation of the project depended on the integration of one with the other. A training program for trainers and a five- module curriculum was developed and successfully utilized with high- risk youth. Members of The Links, Incorporated and members of the other Black professional, fraternal, and service organizations were trained to implement the project. The Links efforts to implement this prevention model throughout the country demonstrated the success of the "Project LEAD: High Expectations!"concept; namely, that with national-level leadership and support, volunteer professionals in local communities can organize and deliver effective prevention programs. Over a five-year period, the model was used in 146 sites in 107 U.S. cities, and Nassau, Bahamas and through these efforts, approximately 400 volunteers provided educational and enrichment activities to almost 10,000 youth and their families. Comprehensive, culturally relevant curricula and training aids, developed and produced at the National level, were used successfully throughout the country. Through participation in the program, African American and other youth in many U.S. communities ~ 26 ~

34 made positive changes in their lives. From their "Project LEAD: High Expectations!" experiences, participants reduced the risks of problems related to alcohol and drug use and early pregnancy by developing better communication and decision-making skills, increasing resistance to peer pressure, and learning how to avoid serious health risks. They also enhanced the probability of enjoying a better quality of life in the future because they learned to take pride in their African American heritage and to see a role for themselves in the larger society. Under the administration of 14 th National President Gwendolyn B. Lee the focus of this Signature Program shifted to violence prevention, financial literacy and career awareness, health/wellness and mentoring. The shift in focus brought about a change to the acronym - Links Educate, Accommodate and Develop with High Expectations Today, the title of LEAD reflects The Links, Incorporated s effort to close the academic achievement gap of middle school students, while responding to their socialemotional needs, encouraging health and fitness, introducing S.T.E.M. related education and career options, and improving their financial literacy. Instilling High Expectations in the youth participating in the program is a priority. Project LEAD participants are empowered to believe that they are capable of making significant contributions to society, and that The Links, Incorporated members and society in general also has high expectations of them. The program goals are to: Emphasize closing the middle school academic achievement gap Eradicate childhood obesity Support the S.T.E.M. Education and Career Readiness Initiative Involve and empower youth to become leaders in violence prevention Introduce and promote financial literacy at an early age Prepare and promote college readiness Develop effective mentoring relationships between children and positive adult role models ~ 27 ~

35 LINKS TO SUCCESS: CHILDREN ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE SIGNATURE PROGRAM In 1998 the Links to Success: Children Achieving Excellence program became a Signature Program. A proposal was developed by 12 th National President Barbara Dixon Simpkins and then National Vice President Gladys Gary Vaughn, entitled Links to Success: Children Achieving Excellence. This Signature Program of The Links, Incorporated was designed as an education program that would operate as a three year pilot for pre-schoolers and grade one to grade five students. It was a non - formal school-readiness/academic achievement program for young children and their parents/caregivers. This early intervention initiative provided additional educational experience beyond that offered in school for the purpose helping at-risk students overcome educational impediments. At the 31 st National Assembly held in Boston, Massachusetts in 1998, the Kellogg, UPS and Exxon Foundations awarded The Links Foundation more than $1 million dollars to implement Links to Success: Children Achieving Excellence. Over the years, The Links, Incorporated has implemented, in collaboration with other community organizations and institutions, a comprehensive program designed to develop cognitive, affective, and psychomotor skills that will enable children to experience academic and social success. To that end, Chapters have been engaged in implementing initiatives that provide developmentally appropriate, education-based, experiential program with effective instructional tutorial enrichment services and a parent involvement component. The objectives during this period were to: Develop, test, and evaluate a non-formal, experiential, educational model through which volunteer professionals are trained to teach cognitive, affective and psychomotor skills to selected children at risk of school and social failure. Provide young children expanded opportunities for the development of scientific and social skills though developmentally appropriate, participatory learning experiences. Teach parents/caregivers to become active participants in the educational and social development of their children, and to take charge of their own and their children s wellbeing, and to engage community members in tutoring and mentoring young children. Conduct a three-year training and demonstration project for students in pre-k through grade five. Incorporate state education standards, national education goals, and recent research findings on child development, teaching, and parental involvement into innovative learning environments and instructional strategies. ~ 28 ~

36 Chapters began piloting this program in twelve Chapters under the leadership of the 11 th National President Patricia Russell-McCloud. These pilot programs were met with great success. It is widely acknowledged that children must be reached at the earliest possible age of their formative years in order to have the greatest impact on their lives and to achieve lasting results. Indeed, experts believe that a child s behavior patterns are set by age six. The Links To Success: Children Achieving Excellence program runs on a nine-month cycle concurrently with the school year from September to June. Chapters are given the flexibility to schedule, in consultation with the parents, a minimum of four hours per week on Saturdays, Sundays or after school. Today, this Signature Program continues to be based on the belief that reading is the foundation enabling all children to succeed and that effective teaching of reading must begin at the earliest age with effective literacy practices. The 30 Million Word Gap cites that during the early years of cognitive development, many impoverished children generally hear 30 million fewer words by age three than their privileged peers. With effective intervention, the literacy gap can be closed, and children can then move forward and master other subjects and grade level skills. The goal of Links to Success: Children Achieving Excellence is to mentor and assist in closing the achievement gap for K-3rd grade minority students with an emphasis on literacy. Additional goals of Links to Success are to: Partner with national organizations to promote early childhood literacy Emphasize closing the elementary achievement gap Teach critical thinking tactics Introduce S.T.E.M. Education and Career Readiness Programs Prevent early childhood obesity and promote healthy lifestyle Expand education and career awareness "LINKAGES TO LIFE" SIGNATURE PROGRAM At the April 1999, Southern Area conference, in Charlotte, North Carolina, the 12 th National President Barbara Dixon Simpkins proposed that Linkages to Life become a National Links program. Subsequently, approval was given unanimously by the Area Chapters and the National Executive Committee. This Signature Program was implemented under the leadership of Link Simpkins and Link Cora Salzburg, Director of National Trends & Services. Linkages to Life is a program unlike any other sponsored by The Links, Incorporated. The Links, Incorporated believes that with education and enlightenment, our community can be galvanized to respond to the needs of African Americans waiting for transplants by signing up to become organ and bone marrow donors in order to give the Gift of Life. ~ 29 ~

37 This comprehensive program was conceptualized by Link Joyce M. Dixon, Southern Area Director, 1995 to Under her leadership Linkages to Life was presented in 1997 at the Southern Area conference and Linkages to Life was approved as an Area focus. Initially the guidelines were developed using three phases: Awareness, Development and Implementation. Next, the program was successfully implemented throughout the Southern Area with the collaboration and support of the Southeast Regional Red Cross and Region III of the National Medical Association, Incorporated. The program has been recognized as a trailblazer. The National Trends and Services facet was embellished to include three linkages Education, Health and Wellness, and Legislative. The goals of the Linkages to Life are: The Links, Incorporated, will become knowledgeable about the Linkages to Life program and its importance to the African American community. African American communities will be educated about the importance of donating organs, tissue, and bone marrow with an emphasis on eliminating the myths and misconceptions that have negatively influenced the donation rates in this population. Chapters have been engaged in promoting awareness about the critical need for organ, tissue, and bone marrow donations in the African American community in order to increase the tissue, organ, and bone marrow donation rates in the African American population. Linkages to Life is truly the ultimate community service. Linkages to Life fosters working in collaboration with other organizations to increase awareness and participation by African Americans in organ, tissue and bone marrow donor programs. The Links, Incorporated will promote awareness about the critical need for organ, tissue, and bone marrow donations in the African American community. Through systematic programming activities, Links Chapters will encourage the African American community to increase its organ, tissue and bone marrow donations. On a nationwide basis, Chapters have implemented the Linkages to Life by employing the following strategies: Conducted training sessions to teach Linkages to Life coordinators to raise Chapter awareness and to conduct community workshops and donor drives. Established Chapter teams and trained team members in the use of the Linkages to Life strategies and materials Gathered data from local agencies and organizations on current African American donations and recipient rates in Chapter communities in order to prepare appropriate programs. ~ 30 ~

38 Identified and collaborated with other organizations and companies that will become meaningful partners in the Linkages to Life program. Conducted donor drives and spearheaded donor drives through church activities and business activities. The full measure of what members of The Links, Incorporated have been able to accomplish with this program will not be realized for years to come. Certainly, the combined efforts of our membership in informing and mobilizing African Americans to become bone marrow and organ donors will provide a great legacy and public health enhancement. With the establishment of the Health and Human Services facet in 2010 at the 37 th National Assembly, Linkages to Life is now a Signature Program of this facet. CLASSICS THROUGH THE AGES SIGNATURE PROGRAM Under the leadership of 14 th National President Gwendolyn Lee, at the 36 th National Assembly (Seattle, Washington) Classics Through the Ages was approved as one of two new Signature Programs. Initial development of this Signature Program began during the administration of 13 th National President Gladys Gary Vaughn with the sponsorship of the Ritz Chamber Players, the first chamber music ensemble comprised solely of musicians of African descent. Classics Through the Ages promotes art education among youth of color to pique their interest, increase their knowledge and encourage their continued study in classical arts. This program seeks to afford exemplary student artists the opportunity to hone their talents and skills and earn recognition and support for their educational and career pursuits. The development of education and community partnerships optimize the program s impact and leverages Chapter resources. Classics Through the Ages strives to recognize, reward and develop avenues to support excellence in artistic education. The program runs annually from May 1 through April 30 of the following year. Chapters sponsor one or more artistically gifted students in a selected classical art discipline (visual arts, performing arts or humanities). Student sponsorship carries over from year to year until the student graduates from high school. Links Chapters assign a mentor to offer guidance and assist student artists with networking as well as set up opportunities for mentoring and exposure to established, professional artists in the student s artistic discipline. Students are further supported through the funding of advanced training, instruction, classes and workshops and the purchasing supplies and/or the updating of equipment. Internships or scholarships are awarded to expand the learning experiences of student artists. A master class, lead by a professional artist, is provided as the culminating event each year. ~ 31 ~

39 Student artists commit to performing or exhibiting at no less than two events each year, and commit to mentoring peers unfamiliar with their discipline. Chapters help coordinate these performances and exhibits for the students. "EDUCATION ACROSS THE MILES SIGNATURE PROGRAM In 1998 Education Across the Miles became a Signature Program under the leadership of 11 th National President Patricia Russell McCloud, JD, and Link Juel Shannon Smith, PhD, Director of the International Trends and Services facet. After Education Across the Miles, Building Schools for the Children of South African Descent was accepted by the Executive Council of this organization and a call to action was issued to the membership to fund the building of schools at $10,000 each. The Links, Incorporated soon formed a collaborative partnership with the International Foundation for Education and Self Help (IFESH) for construction of schools. A partnership agreement was signed in 1997 by the late Dr. Leon Howard Sullivan, Founder and President/CEO and Dr. C.T. Wright, current President and CEO. From 1997 when the Education Across the Miles program was developed and proposed by Link Juel Shannon Smith, PhD to the end of the administration of Link Barbara Dixon Simpkins presidency in 2002, a total of 56 schools have been sponsored and 31 built in South Africa by The Links, Incorporated. Suffice it to say, this program has generated tremendous enthusiasm and support from our membership because its goals are: Based upon the request from the Minister of Education, local governments of the Republic of South African and the International Foundation for Education and Self-Help (IFESH), The Links, Incorporated provided financial support for the building of schools. The program helps ensure education for children of African and the Diaspora (global village) and will be integrated into the curriculum of The House of Lands and Peoples in the National Program Links to Success: Children Achieving Excellence. The first three schools were built in the Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Northern provinces, three of the most under developed provinces within Southern Africa. These provinces were chosen based upon the need as expressed by the local governments and educational boards of The Republic of South Africa Parliament and the Education subcommittee. A large segment of the African population remains vulnerable to social, economic, environmental and public health problems that have hindered African ~ 32 ~

40 development for centuries. Africa has a population of 450 million. Fifty percent of the population is under 15 years of age. Half of the youth of Africa, million, do not have access to schools in their communities. The Links, Incorporated has recorded the success of this program in several ways. However, one of the most important successes is reflected in the fact that some children in South Africa no longer have to walk 20 to 30 miles round trip to attend school because of the Education Across the Miles program. Since the founding of the organization, the goals of universal human rights and full citizenship have received attention from the Links. Through the efforts of Chapters, the National body and individual members, these goals have generated a strong concern and sense of responsibility for international development. International Trends and Services, addresses issues and concerns that impact upon the quality of life globally... especially African and Caribbean countries. The Education Across the Miles program has continued to strengthen this philosophy and legacy. Teaching and nurturing of children of Africa will change and brighten the future for today s children of Africa; their success will reflect our solemn promise to serve. The National Program evolution of The Links, Incorporated has successfully addressed community service concerns from the beginning of our organization and it has created a legacy that will live on not only through those persons fortunate enough to have participated in developing and implementing the programs, but also through the many lives these initiatives have touched. The legacy of the National programs of The Links, Incorporated reflects the essence of the words of the 13 th National President Gladys Gary Vaughn - who said let us continue Touching Tomorrow Today. Today The Links, Incorporated is positioning itself to adopt four schools in Liberia, West Africa the Todee School, AME University, the School for the Blind, and the Ann Sandell School. Through in-kind donations, monetary support, and the lending of professional expertise in curriculum and lesson plan development, we will aid in the reestablishment of the Liberian educational system which was decimated by many years of civil war. HEARTLINKS TO HEART HEALTH SIGNATURE PROGRAM Established under the leadership of 14 th National President Gwendolyn B. Lee, this Signature Program aims to encourage Link members and communities to take an aggressive stance against heart disease, the number one killer of African-American women. HeartLinks accomplishes its goal by presenting Chapters with numerous ways to implement healthy heart activities in their communities including: Walk for Healthy ~ 33 ~

41 Living (signature program), Million Pound Challenge, Red Dress events and Cardiovascular Risk Reduction programs. HeartLinks is supported by our continued partnership with the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute and the Office of Women s Health. WALK FOR HEALTHY LIVING SIGNATURE PROGRAM In September 1995, as envisioned by 11 th National President Patricia Russell- McCloud, the Signature Program Walk for Heath and Hunger stepped off. Developed under the National Trends and Services facet, the walk established a common day (the last Saturday in September) for Chapters to conduct walk-a-thons to increase health awareness and raise funds to eliminate hunger in their communities, state, nation, and the world. Because of the walk s success, The Link received a $61,000 grant from the Centers for Disease Control to support health and wellness linkage, creating Project Walking Fete: Make Health a Habit. One of the byproducts was a National poster art contest. Under the administration of 14 th National President Gwendolyn Lee, the title changed to Walk for Healthy Living. The Walk for Healthy Living Signature Program aims to teach others that healthy, sustained lifestyle changes can induce and reduce the incidence of many diseases. The program achieves this goal by encouraging Links members to improve their health and that of their families through daily, healthy nutrition choices; by sponsoring Links Walk-a-Thons annually in September in order to raise funds for organizations that promote healthy lifestyles; and by participating in established walk-a-thons held by organizations such as Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the American Cancer Society ~ 34 ~

42 NATIONAL HBCU INITIATIVE The National HBCU Initiative is one of four initiatives voted on and approved by the Executive Council during their meetings on November 12, 2010 in Washington, DC. The goal of the National Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Initiative is to implement and support efforts that align with President Obama s plan to increase the retention and graduation rates of students attending college by the year While emphasizing the relevance of HBCU s past, present and future, this initiative will create synergy and complement program initiatives already underway in the Areas. Through partnerships with identified national organizations we will encourage a national dialogue on HBCU/Community College collaboration at the Area Conferences. The Links, Incorporated will assist HBCUs efforts to recruit students by partnering with other national organizations to host HBCU college fairs and other events in each geographic region. Other goals include: (1) development of an HBCU Toolkit for dissemination to Chapters, (2) promoting and encouraging Link members to connect with an HBCU, to mentor and recruit students, to identify opportunities for faculty research and/or professional development, and to contribute to the sustainability of HBCU institutions, (3) establishing and branding the name The Links Scholars and The Links HBCU Endowment. NATIONAL CHILDHOOD OBESITY INITIATIVE The adoption of the Childhood Obesity Resolution at the 35th National Assembly in 2006 signified The Links, Incorporated s recognition of the need for targeted intervention strategies that address and produce sustained results among African-American children battling obesity. The Southern Area s success in launching this program gave root to the National Childhood Obesity Initiative established under the 15 th National President Margot James Copeland s administration at the November 2010 Executive Council meetings. With a purpose of developing and implementing strategies targeted to the specific health needs of African-American children, this initiative has been embraced to give a greater voice and sustainability to the health and well-being of our children. The Links, Incorporated plans to increase awareness and heighten understanding surrounding the multi-dimensional issues that contribute to obesity in African- American children. Additional goals are to: (1) develop an action-oriented agenda for disseminating key messages that aid in the prevention of childhood obesity among African-American children and (2) establish approaches that will strengthen ~ 35 ~

43 collaborative networks regarding obesity prevention to sustain on-going health initiatives. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATHEMATICS (S.T.E.M.) EDUCATION AND CAREER READINESS INITIATIVE The Western Area s commitment to S.T.E.M. education gave light to our need for a comprehensive National initiative. The S.T.E.M. Education and Career Readiness Initiative was crafted out of The Links, Incorporated s dedication to ensuring quality S.T.E.M. education at all grade levels and to prepare youth for S.T.E.M.-related careers. Through The Links, Incorporated s National S.T.E.M Initiative, established under 15 th National President Margot James Copeland s administration at the November 2010 Executive Council meetings, local Chapters will continue working to: Increase S.T.E.M. literacy so K-12 th grade students can think critically in science, technology, engineering and mathematics; Close the education gap so underrepresented groups, including minority students, women and girls are no longer outperformed by any competing geographic or demographic group; and Prepare youth to better compete for S.T.E.M.-related career opportunities, through career awareness and field-based learning. By preparing and encouraging students to attend colleges and universities with S.T.E.M. programs, we will equip minorities with the skills to compete and excel in the global workforce that increasingly relies on individuals with S.T.E.M.-related proficiencies. The Links, Incorporated aims to identify and align with a National S.T.E.M.- related program that is consistent with the initiative. ACHIEVING THE DREAM INITIATIVE Education Linkage aims to support President Barack Obama s education initiative by building an alliance with community colleges nationally and to partner with the Achieving the Dream program. Achieving the Dream is a multi-year National initiative designed to ensure the success of students who attend community college. Achieving the Dream is particularly concerned with student groups that traditionally have faced significant barriers to success, i.e. students of color and those from lowincome families. There are currently 130 community colleges and four-year institutions participating in Achieving the Dream programs across the United States. ~ 36 ~

44 Education Linkage will lead The Links, Incorporated s efforts to create a sustainable relationship with other national organizations that are especially focused on assisting African-American youth gain success in higher education and thus improve the quality of life for themselves and their families. This initiative, established under the 15 th National President Margot James Copeland s administration at the November 2010 Executive Council meetings, will provide an opportunity for each of our 274 Chapters to partner with their local community college. ~ 37 ~

45 The Links Foundation, Incorporated ~ 38 ~

46 BRIEF HISTORY OF THE FOUNDATION In 1968, the Links Foundation was conceived in the minds of some of its officers at the National Assembly in Berkeley, California. They believed that the organization needed 501(c)(3) tax status to enhance its philanthropic endeavors, using the advantages of the deductible tax position. The intent was to present a plan of action to that assembly; however, Whitney Young, then Director of The National Urban League, presented The Links, Incorporated with a challenge to assist the League with its work. The Links were so moved by his appeal that they pledged $100,000 to the Urban League, thus putting the idea of a Links Foundation on hold. The idea was revived in 1980 and was broached at the National Assembly held in Atlanta, Georgia. This time, preliminaries had been carried out and many of the legal papers had been prepared. The Assembly adopted the motion to create a Links Fund withholding its grant-in- aid monies until Chapters had the opportunity to study the ramifications of having a Links Foundation. In 1984, at the National Assembly in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, The Links, Incorporated voted to pay its grants-in-aid monies to The Links Foundation, Incorporated, making the Foundation a viable entity. During the past years, Project Discovery, funded by the Federal Government; Consultations I, II, III, and IV funded by the Lilly Foundation; Project Lead; High Expectations!, funded by the Federal Government; Links to Success: Children Achieving Excellence, funded by the Kellogg, UPS and Exxon Foundations, have been program thrusts of the Foundation. The Foundation s Headquarters, funded by members of The Links, Incorporated, became reality in The building, located in Washington, D.C., also houses the offices of The Links, Incorporated. Grants-In-Aid monies from The Links, Incorporated have made it possible for The Links Foundation, Incorporated to make grants of over one million dollars to various organizations which have programs compatible with the purposes of The Links, Incorporated and allowable under the 501 (c)(3) federal tax laws. ~ 39 ~

47 WHAT IS THE LINKS FOUNDATION? The Links Foundation, Incorporated (hereinafter referred to as The Links Foundation or the Foundation) was created by The Links, Incorporated therefore, it is committed by choice to the guidance, purpose and determination to support, enhance and expand the programs set forth by The Links, Incorporated. The Links Foundation provides a means of securing tax exemption and tax deduction for members of The Links, Incorporated and others including corporations making contributions to the Foundation in support of activities falling within the guidelines of Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue code of 1954, hereinafter referred to as the Code. The Foundation is an arm of The Links, Incorporated and is governed by its Board of Directors and members. ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ABOUT THE LINKS FOUNDATION WHAT IS SECTION 501 (C) (3) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE? An organization qualifies for exemption from federal income tax under Section 501 (c) (3) of the code if it is organized and operated exclusively for one or more of the following purposes; charitable, religious, educational, scientific, literary, testing for public safety, fostering national and international amateur sports competition, or the prevention of cruelty to children and animals. The Bylaws of The Links Foundation, Incorporated state that it has been organized for charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c) (3) Code. WHAT ARE THE PURPOSES OF THE FOUNDATION? The purposes of The Links Foundation are to: Design, support and conduct charitable and educational activities useful to the individual and beneficial to the community within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Code: and Receive contributions and pay them over to organizations that are described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Code and exempt from taxation under Section 501(a) of the Code. ~ 40 ~

48 WHO MAY BE A MEMBER OF THE LINKS FOUNDATION? All members of The Links, Incorporated whose annual membership fees are current are members of The Links, Foundation, Incorporated. WHEN ARE MEMBERSHIP DUES PAID? Annual dues for The Links Foundation, Incorporated shall be paid at the time that annual dues are paid to The Links, Incorporated. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TAX-EXEMPT IN THE LINKS, INCORPORATED AND TAX-EXEMPT/TAX DEDUCTIBLE IN THE LINKS FOUNDATION, INCORPORATED? Tax-exempt in The Links, Incorporated means that the organization is exempt from federal income taxes only. For example, if a Chapter holds a dinner-dance as a fundraiser, that Chapter is liable for all taxes except federal income taxes. No part of the cost of the tickets for activities sponsored by The Links, Incorporated is tax-deductible. By contrast, The Links Foundation, Incorporated is usually exempt from any type of taxes. Moreover, the portion of the ticket price not related to food costs in cases where food service is part of the activity) is fully tax-deductible. In some states, if a Chapter holds a dinner-dance as a fundraiser and uses The Links Foundation, Incorporated as described elsewhere in this manual, the activity will be completely exempt from any taxes including entertainment taxes, food costs, will be tax-deductible. When a Chapter sponsors activities (concerts, art shows and the like) which do not involve food costs, the price of the tickets is fully tax-deductible. ~ 41 ~

49 STRUCTURE The Links Foundation, Incorporated is the philanthropic arm of The Links, Incorporated, and, as such, is a non-profit entity, which operates exclusively for charitable and educational purposes. The Links Foundation, Incorporated (hereafter referred to as The Foundation), was created by The Links, Incorporated and is, therefore, it is committed to support, enhance and expand the programs set forth by the organization. The Foundation (a totally separate and independent entity) provides a means of securing tax exemption and tax deduction for members of The Links, Incorporated and others. Including corporations making contributions to the Foundation in support of activities falling within the guidelines of the code. The Foundation is governed by its own Board of Directors and members. It has fiscally sound policies and procedures which include annual audits for all its accounts. Additionally, representatives from the four geographical Areas (Eastern, Central, Southern, and Western) of the Links, Incorporated, sit on the Foundation Board. The Board is empowered to: Design, support and conduct educational activities useful to individuals, groups and communities. Provide services to youth, directed towards upgrading academic and other skills and preventing juvenile delinquency. Support and defend human and civil rights secured by law. Provide charitable services to senior citizens. Receive and disburse contributions to organizations which are exempt from taxes under 501 (a) of the Internal Revenue Code MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS All members of The Links, Incorporated, pay an annual membership fee of $45 per year to the Foundation. By virtue of their individual memberships in the Foundation, each Link has voting privileges at Foundation meetings which are held annually during the National Assembly in even years and during the Executive Council meeting in odd years. Annual dues for The Links Foundation are paid at the time that annual dues are paid to The Links, Incorporated. In order for a member s dues and assessment for the Foundation to be tax deductible, a check covering Foundation dues as well as the Grants-in-Aid assessment of $40 must be made payable to The Links Foundation, Incorporated. Members individual checks which are made payable to The Links Foundation, Incorporated should be deposited in the Chapter s foundation account. ~ 42 ~

50 BENEFITS OF THE LINKS FOUNDATION TO LINKS CHAPTERS Tax-exempt in The Links, Incorporated means that the organization is exempt from federal income taxes only. For example, if a Chapter holds a dinner-dance as a fundraiser, that Chapter is liable for all taxes except federal income taxes. Other taxes may include entertainment tax, food tax, and sales tax. No part of the cost of the tickets for activities sponsored by The Links, Incorporated is tax-deductible. By contrast, The Links Foundation is exempt from taxes. Moreover, a portion of the ticket price (excluding meal costs) is tax-deductible. Funds from any source to be used for charitable and educational purposes made payable to and deposited in The Links Foundation are tax-exempt and tax-deductible. Therefore, Chapters that solicit and/or otherwise raise funds (from corporations, organizations and individuals) to support educational and charitable activities within the meaning of the IRS 501 (c)(3) code can benefit from this tax-exempt and tax-deductible status by processing such funds through the Foundation. PROCESSING FEES All Chapters must pay a fee for processing money through The Foundation, Incorporated. This fee covers up to three transactions. An additional fee will be charged beginning with the fourth transaction. No fee is charged for deposits to the Foundation. Multiple checks issued to a Chapter or its designee(s), which subsequently are forwarded simultaneously to The Foundation, are considered one transaction. However, if these checks are forwarded on separate dates, each date in which checks are received is considered a separate transaction. ~ 43 ~

51 The Links, Incorporated National MEMBER Member Chapter ~ 44 ~

52 CHAPTER STRUCTURE AND GOVERNANCE THE CHAPTER STRUCTURE Appointed Positions Special Committees Elected Positions President Programs (Facets) Program Coordinator Standing Committees Vice President (Membership Chair) Chairperson The Arts Parliamentarian Archivist Recording Secretary Corresponding Secretary Financial Secretary Treasurer Chair Person Services to Youth Chairperson National Trends and Services Chairperson International Trends and Services Chairperson Health and Human Services ~ 45 ~

53 CHAPTER GOVERNANCE The Links Chapter President is a key position in the organization s structure. Above all she must acquire and maintain a thorough knowledge of and be guided by the governing documents of The Links, Incorporated. These documents include: National Constitution and Bylaws Chapter Bylaws History of The Links, Incorporated Manual of Procedures Membership Orientation Manual Membership Manual Recording Secretary Manual Rituals Manual National Program Manual Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised, 11th Edition Protocol Manual Financial Handbook Code of Ethics and Standards The National Constitution and Bylaws is the primary governing document of The Links, Incorporated. Any inconsistencies within any of the other governing documents are superseded by the Constitution and Bylaws. Further, it is imperative that Chapter Presidents have a clear understanding of the organization's philosophy, goals and objectives as well as its commitments. A Chapter President's performance is the key to Chapter motivation and effectiveness. Among a president's strongest assets will be a thorough knowledge of the organization's internal structure and Chapter Bylaws; effective interpersonal skills; and the ability to work with diverse age groups, attitudes, and viewpoints among the Chapter membership. Every effort must be made to engage Chapter members. Suffice it to say, Chapter leaders must be able to work fairly and objectively with the group. ~ 46 ~

54 Chapter Meeting Organization Meetings should be well organized, timely and interesting. Chapter Presidents must plan each meeting carefully to ensure that these criteria are met. The suggested order of business is as follows: 1. Call to Order 2. Devotion 3. Pledge and Song 4. Correspondence 5. Approval of Minutes 6. Treasurer s Report 7. Report of Standing Committees 8. Report of Special Committees 9. Unfinished Business 10. New Business 11. Announcements 12. Other Matters 13. Adjournment 14. Friendship Activities Expectations of an Effective Chapter President... The Chapter President sets the tone for the operation and implementation of a local Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. She should: Be knowledgeable about the National Constitution and By-laws, Manual of Procedures, Chapter bylaws, organization policies, rules and regulations, Membership Orientation Manual, Membership Manual, Rituals Manual, Financial Handbook, Protocol Manual; minutes of the National Assemblies, Area Conferences, and Chapter meetings. Establish an Executive Committee. This committee is the decision-making arm within the Chapter. It usually consists of the officers of the Chapter and the chairmen of the committees. It serves in a liaison capacity, acts in emergencies, expedites old and new business, and is a medium for furthering the Chapter's business. Its authority should be set forth in the Chapter Bylaws. Plan Chapter meeting agendas with the Executive Committee. Insures a wellorganized agenda and sends a copy to Chapter members before the meeting. It is helpful to send copies of reports and memos from the National President and Area Directors (plus notice of any other important matters to be discussed), to ~ 47 ~

55 members prior to meetings. Please note that any correspondence from the National President and Area Director are priority items, and, as such, must always be shared (orally or with copies) during the meeting in addition to any other items which require action. Charge and encourage committees to implement Chapter plans. Organize members into committees and utilizes their assistance in implementing committee plans, and implements the policy that states each member is required to serve on a program facet committee and at least one standing (operations) committee. Conduct meetings according to parliamentary procedure. Example: If a motion is necessary, a skilled president does not permit discussion to ramble. A motion puts the matter on the floor for action. Following the motion's seconding, the President restates the motion and calls for discussion. If no one responds, or, when, in her judgment, discussion has continued long enough, she asks: "Are you ready for the vote?" Evaluate each meeting for future planning. Plan and implement a method of welcoming all new members. It is beneficial to pair the new member with an established member for an extended period of time until the new member is acclimated to organizational culture and operations. Each Chapter should have a Chapter Handbook. It is the Chapter President's responsibility to see that the handbook is prepared and kept current. Guidelines are included in this section. Link Chapter Governance Team Expectations and Duties of the Chapter Vice-President are to: Serve as an assistant to the President. Preside in the President s absence or at the request of the President. Perform other duties specified in the Chapter Bylaws, such as serving as the Chair of Membership. Complete a President s term, should that office be vacated unless the Chapter Bylaws stipulate otherwise. Preside when there is a personal motion about the President. Keep track of the required 48 hour service requirement for each member. The Vice-President should be familiar with all of the duties of the President, the history of Links, Incorporated, the National Constitution and Bylaws, all organization manuals and rituals, as well as Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised, 11th Edition. Should the necessity arise for the Vice-President to preside, she must be prepared to assume the ~ 48 ~

56 President s role. Duties of the Recording Secretary are to: Keep an accurate written record (minutes) of all Chapter proceedings reflecting the business discussed and the action taken. As the minutes are a Chapter s official meeting record, the Secretary should keep them in an official book - typed, dated, and signed. Present typed copies of previous meeting s minutes for approval / correction. Keep the official attendance record for all Chapter meetings. Keep committee reports on file. Update the Chapter member s 1 in 5 record in the Management Information System (MIS). A prepared and well-informed Recording Secretary assists the President or Vice- President in facilitating and expediting Chapter business. Duties of the Corresponding Secretary are to: Prepare and disseminate complete and accurate rosters to Chapter members. Rosters should include addresses and facsimile and telephone numbers. Send meeting notices to all members. At the President s request, read or distribute copies of all pertinent correspondence at each Chapter meeting. Duties of the Financial Secretary are to: Work cooperatively with the Treasurer in handling Chapter finances. Collects and records all financial transactions (dues/fees) of members prior to submitting same to the Treasurer. Prepare and distribute receipts for all monies received. Assist in development of Chapter finance policy. Duties of the Treasurer are to: Receive all Chapter funds from the Chapter Financial Secretary. Deposit Chapter s said funds in approved accounts within specified time period of receipt of funds. Manage and oversee all Chapter accounts. Keep a computerized or written permanent ledger. ~ 49 ~

57 Present computer generated reports of Chapter accounts to members at Chapter meetings. Maintain signature card at approved financial institution which includes the President s signature, the Treasurer s signature, and, if Chapter Bylaws stipulate, a third signature (e.g., Financial Secretary). Disburse funds as authorized by the Chapter. Arrange an annual external audit of Chapter accounts. Keep a financial file which includes: a. Bank statements b. Cancelled checks c. Investment statements d. 990 forms The role of the Treasurer requires absolute honesty and integrity. She is the custodian of Chapter funds and trustee of all accounts. She should have finance management expertise and/or accounting skills. Organization policy stipulates that every Treasurer must be bonded. Duties of the Parliamentarian are to: Advise and counsel the President and the Chapter on matters of parliamentary procedure. Always have a copy of Chapter and National Constitution and Bylaws, all official manuals as well as a copy of Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised, 11th Edition. Offer explanations/advice based on her comprehensive knowledge of parliamentary law. Sit in close proximity to the President so that she can discreetly alert the chair to any errors in procedure or violations of rules. Assist in the preparation of bylaws and amendments and in interpretation of rules and general procedure. Keep bylaws up to date by adding any adopted amendments with date of approval. ~ 50 ~

58 Chapter Organization Requirements To remain in compliance, a Chapter must... Collect and forward dues and assessments to the National Headquarters within the time limits set forth in the Financial Handbook. Maintain a minimum of 20 active members. Take responsibility for sending duly certified delegates to its biennial (odd years) Area Conference and to the biennial (even years) National Assembly. A Chapter that fails to send a delegate to both meetings will be sanctioned and fined. Take responsibility for participating in and furthering the National programs in the local community. Take responsibility for filing membership reports, directory information, and other necessary data with both the Area Director and National Headquarters. File its annual fiscal statement on Form 990, as required by the Internal Revenue Service under our tax-exemption, no later than September 15th of each year. Chapters will be fined $100 if Form 990 is not postmarked to the IRS and to National Headquarters by September 15. Begin its fiscal year to coincide with that of the National organization - May 1st to April 3 0th. Follows constitutional procedures as enacted at the National Assemblies. Develop bylaws that govern its internal operations. Chapter Bylaws must not be in conflict with those of the National organization. A copy must be sent to the National Parliamentarian, the respective Area Director, and to National Headquarters. Conduct Chapter meetings and general procedures according to the current edition of Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised, 11th Edition. A Chapter which fails to meet above criteria is not eligible to induct new members. In addition, the Chapter is subject to being placed on probation by the Area Director. If the Chapter does not show improvement within a specified time period, upon the Director s recommendation to the Executive Council, and with the approval of the National Assembly, its charter may be revoked. ~ 51 ~

59 The Chapter Handbook Ideally, a loose leaf binder in which pages can be easily removed or inserted is most practical for the handbook. Material which has no lasting value or is personal in nature may be removed from year to year or with the changing of administrations. Resourceful Chapter Handbooks include many of the items listed below. As applicable, other material may be added, such as: A roster of all National and Area elected and appointed officers and committees A Roster of Chapter elected and appointed officers A Membership Roster including all members (alumna, platinum, on leave, provisory) Committees Chapter Bylaws National calendar Area calendar Chapter calendar Chapter program including special events and projects Chapter hostess schedule Statement of use of parliamentary procedure (optional) Statement of public relations policies with examples Budget President's recommendations, greetings, statements ~ 52 ~

60 Membership Classifications ~ 53 ~

61 ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP CLASSIFICATION (Reference: National Constitution Article III, National Bylaws Article I, Manual of Procedures-Membership Classification) An active member is a member in good standing who has met all the obligations of her Chapter, Area and the National Assembly. The responsibilities for maintaining active membership include: Payment of dues, Chapter and National Payment of assessments Participation in Chapter activities and programs Participation in the Chapter implementation of the National programs/priorities Attendance requirements met as determined by the Chapter Minimum service requirements met (i.e. 48 hours per year) Attendance requirements met for National and Area meetings (one-in-five years) Other requirements levied by the Chapter, Area and National Assembly Not under disciplinary action The rights and privileges of an active member include: Wear the organization s insignia; use the title Link Hold membership in a Chapter and an Area Vote Hold office Hold committee chairmanships Participate in Chapter, Area, and National Assembly meetings Transfer to another Chapter Change from active status to affiliate, provisory or alumnae status as necessary Hold membership in The Links Foundation, Incorporated Apply for leave of absence, if necessary Participate in service and friendship activities with friends Entitled to memorial service and other rituals Heir-o-Link status for children and Connecting Link status for spouse ~ 54 ~

62 The restrictions on active membership include: Must remain active in the Chapter in which she was inducted for a minimum of two (2) years to retain her membership in The Links, Incorporated. May not transfer to a new Chapter which is closer to her residence for at least two (2) years unless her residence has changed and the new residence is outside the locality that her Chapter was chartered to serve. Please refer to Transfer Conditions and Process for additional conditions. Upon change of residence to a new locality, request for transfer must be made within a six-month period. LEAVE OF ABSENCE MEMBERSHIP Leave of absence membership is simultaneously a category of membership and a privilege of membership. It is granted at the discretion of the Chapter for reasons acceptable to the Chapter. Chapters are limited to granting leaves of absence up to a maximum of ten percent (10%) of its membership. Leave of absence membership is granted through the following process: 1. The individual requesting a leave of absence must be an active member (in good standing) at the time of the request. 2. The request must be in writing from the member (or a family member) to the Chapter within the time period specified by the Chapter. 3. A leave of absence MAY be granted by the Chapter for one year, a second year of leave MAY also be granted. Any subsequent leave beyond the two years requires approval by the Chapter and concurrence by the Area Director. 4. The Chapter must respond in writing to the member regarding the disposition of the member s request. 5. The Chapter must give written notice of the pending expiration date of the approved leave period. The written notice must be extended at least 30 days in advance, i.e. prior to the pending leave expiration date. Leaves begin and end in accordance with the fiscal calendar, May 1 st April 30 th. The responsibilities of leave of absence membership include: Payment of National dues and assessment through her Chapter within the policies established by the Chapter. At the conclusion of the approved leave of absence, the member must 1) return to active status, 2) request reclassification to a different membership status, or 3) ~ 55 ~

63 terminate her membership. Meet the one-in-five requirement to attend an Area Conference or National Assembly. The rights and privileges of leave of absence membership include: No responsibilities to the Chapter (finance, attendance, participation) Wear the organization s insignia; use the title Link Hold membership in a Chapter and an Area Participate in Area Conference and National Assembly activities Transfer to another Chapter Change to affiliate, provisory or alumnae status as necessary Hold membership in The Links Foundation, Incorporated Participate in service and friendship activities with friends Memorial service and other rituals Heir-o-Link status for children and Connecting Link status for spouse The restrictions on leave of absence membership include: No Chapter privileges No voting privileges at any level of The Links, Incorporated May attend Chapter meetings only on the invitation of the Chapter ALUMNA MEMBERSHIP An alumna member is one who has provided 30 years of service or who has reached 70 years of age or older and who has been active for at least 10 years of service. Alumna member status is granted through the following process: 1. Platinum membership is granted by the Chapter to a member who has served a minimum of 30 years providing service to the Links Incorporated and is at least 80 years old. 2. The Platinum Membership Recommendation form must be completed by the Chapter President or her designee, including appropriate signatures and mailed to the appropriate Membership Specialists no later than February 1 of the year that the Platinum status will be granted. 3. An alumna member who desires to return to active status must do this within 5 years of becoming an alumna member. ~ 56 ~

64 The rights and privileges of an alumna member include: Not responsible for any dues or assessments at any level of The Links, Incorporated An alumna member has all rights and privileges in The Links, Incorporated except for voting, chairing committees and holding office Wear the organization s insignia; use the title Link Participate in Chapter meetings, Area Conferences and National Assemblies Participate in service and friendship activities with friends Entitled to a Memorial Service and other rituals in her original Chapter or, if she has moved, a Chapter she has chosen to affiliate with. Heir-o-Link status for children and Connecting Link status for spouse The restrictions on alumna membership include: An alumna member shall assume financial responsibility for any Chapter meeting(s) which she attends, including the cost of meals, except when invited as a guest of the hostess. She shall give the hostess notice of her intent to attend the meeting. An alumna member shall give notice to the President when she plans to participate in any activity requiring a fee or assessment. All financial responsibilities and required fees assumed by the alumna member for participation in a Chapter s activities must be paid through the Chapter. All financial responsibilities and required fees assumed by the Alumna member for participation in National or Area activities must be paid through the Area or National Office. AFFILIATE MEMBERSHIP Affiliate membership involves relocating and transfer. An affiliate member is an active member who relocates to a different geographic Area, 1) where a Chapter of The Links, Incorporated does not exist, or 2) where the existing Chapter(s) has/have reached the maximum number of members, i.e. 60 members, or the Link has not designated a Receiving Chapter. Affiliate membership is granted through the following process: 1. Inform her Chapter President and National of her new resident status and request the change. 2. Submit a letter from the Chapter President verifying her request and complete a ~ 57 ~

65 numbered transfer form, which in effect, transfers her from her current status with her Chapter to affiliate status. 3. Apply for such status immediately after moving or no longer than six (6) months or she shall forfeit her membership in The Links, Incorporated. 4. Affiliate membership is granted ONLY by National Headquarters staff. Chapters CANNOT grant affiliate membership status. The responsibilities of affiliate membership include: Pay National dues and assessments directly to National Headquarters via online payment system. Meet the one-in-five requirement to attend an Area Conference or National Assembly. Meet the 48 hour service requirement. The rights and privileges of affiliate membership include: Entitled to all National communications Wear the organization s insignia; use the title Link Hold membership in an Area Transfer to a Chapter Change to active, provisory or alumna status as necessary. Apply for leave of absence if necessary. Participate in service and friendship activities with friends Entitled to memorial service and other rituals Heir-o-Link status for children and Connecting Link status for spouse The restrictions of affiliate membership include: No voting or holding office at any level of The Links, Incorporated Must wait 6 months to join a newly established Chapter in her locality PROVISORY MEMBERSHIP Provisory membership is simultaneously a category of membership and a privilege of membership. A provisory member is one granted leave from Chapter activities because of documented medical reasons, and is medically unable to participate in any activities outside her home. It is granted at the discretion of the Chapter for reasons acceptable to the Chapter. Provisory membership is granted through the following process: ~ 58 ~

66 1. Member requesting provisory status must be classified as an active member or a member on leave at the time of the request. 2. Request must be in writing from the member (or a family member) to the Chapter. 3. The Chapter must respond in writing to the member regarding the disposition of the member s request. 4. If or when the health of a provisory member improves such that she is well enough to participate in activities outside her home, she must either 1) return to active status, 2) request reclassification to a different membership status, or 3) terminate her membership. The responsibilities of provisory membership include: Pay National dues and assessments through her Chapter within the policies established by the Chapter. The rights and privileges of provisory membership include: Wear the organization s insignia; use the title Link Hold membership in a Chapter and an Area Transfer to another Chapter Change to active, affiliate or alumna status as necessary Participate in service and friendship activities with friends Entitled to memorial service and other rituals Heir-o-Link status for children and Connecting Link status for spouse The restrictions on granting provisory membership include: Member whose claims for provisory status are proven false is subject to immediate loss of membership as voted by the Executive Committee of the Executive Council. Chapter that knows of a member s false claims of provisory membership status and fails to take any action on the matter, including notifying the National Membership Committee chairman, shall be subject to disciplinary action. HONORARY MEMBERSHIP An honorary member is a well -known public individual of high ethical standing of any race, nationality or creed who has been cited nationally and/or internationally for her outstanding service to humanity. ~ 59 ~

67 The requirements for honorary membership include: An honorary member shall have evidenced identifiable abilities, interests and contributions in regard to educational, civic, and intercultural activities, with special emphasis on at least one of the four (4) dimensional program facets of The Links, Incorporated. The rights and privileges of an honorary member include: An Honorary member shall be accorded all rights and privileges of The Links, Incorporated except for voting, holding office and chairing committees. An Honorary member has no financial responsibility to The Links Incorporated; however she may participate in Chapter, Area and National activities with the payment of any required fees. An Honorary member shall not share in the financial obligations of the National Assembly at which she is inducted. Reimbursement shall be at the same rate as established for members of the Executive Council except that she shall have full room allowance. Reimbursement for attendance at subsequent assemblies shall be limited to the registration fee. An Honorary member shall be presented with an appropriate plaque/scroll which shall remain the same for all individuals so honored. An Honorary member who becomes an Active member shall relinquish all rights and privileges of honorary membership. No former Link may become an honorary member. PLATINUM MEMBERSHIP A Platinum Link is one who has reached 80 years of age or older and who has given 30 years of service. This classification is to offer a place of distinction to those individuals who have reached 80 years of age and have given tirelessly of their time and efforts to the continuation of the spirit of Links. Platinum member status is granted through the following process: 1. A Platinum Member Recommendation form must be completed and signed by the Chapter President. This form must be forwarded to National headquarters, the National Vice President and the Area Director by no later than February 1 of the year, that Platinum status is being considered. 2. The member being considered must become eligible for Platinum status ~ 60 ~

68 between the previous National Assembly and June 30 th of the year in which she will be honored. 3. Approval by the National Executive Council is required. The rights and privileges of a Platinum member include: Not responsible for National dues and assessments Exempt from Chapter dues and assessments at the discretion of the Chapter Entitled to all National and Area communications Has all rights and privileges in The Links, Incorporated (exclusions apply if the member has taken Alumna status, i.e. voting, chairing committees and holding offices) Ability to wear the organization s insignia as well as using the title Link Participate in Chapter meetings and activities, Area Conference and National Assembly Participate in service and friendship activities Entitled to memorial service and other rituals Heir-o-Link status for children and Connecting Link status for spouse Receive memento to indicate Platinum Link status Registration fee waived for the National Assembly at which Platinum status was bestowed Active Platinum members shall be exempt from the minimum forty-eight (48) hour service requirement and the 1 in 5 Area/National Assembly Conference Attendance Requirement ~ 61 ~

69 RESPONSIBILITIES AND PRIVILEGES OF A MEMBER BY SPECIFIC MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY RESPONSIBILITIES Active LOA Alumna Affiliate Provisory Honorary Platinum (Unless Alumna) 7 Attends Chapter meeting X X 2 X Attends at least one Area Conference, or National Assembly every five X 6 X 6 X 6 years. Holds office, chairs committees X X Participates in Chapter, Area, National activities/programs X X X X Not under disciplinary action X X N/A N/A X Pays National dues and assessments X X 1 X 4 X Pays local dues and assessments X X Pays Area assessments X PRIVILEGES Active LOA Alumna Affiliate Provisory Honorary Platinum( Unless Alumna) Votes in Chapter meeting X X Holds office X X Attends Chapter meeting X X 2 X Chairs committees X X Has NO financial obligations to The Links, Incorporated X 5 X Receives National (N)/Area(A) Communications N & A N X 3 N & A N & A N N X Notes on Table 1. Pays through her Chapter 2. Assumes financial responsibility for meetings, including meals (unless invited as guest of hostess) AND gives notice to her Chapter President when she plans to participate in any activity requiring a fee or assessment. Fees/financial responsibilities are paid through her Chapter. 3. For a fee 4. Submit dues via online system payable to The Links, Incorporated and The Links Foundation 5. She may participate in Chapter, Area and National activities with payment of required fee 6. Effective beginning Unless Alumna means that if Platinum Member is also Alumna then the only responsibilities that apply are those under the Alumna column. Adapted from Membership Workshop document used by Link Barbara Lord Watkins ~ 62 ~

70 Membership Transitions ~ 63 ~

71 INTRODUCTION TO MEMBERSHIP TRANSITIONS The Membership Transitions section has Transfer Conditions and Process which includes Transfer Eligibility and Transfer Process and the Reinstatement Policy which details the Reinstatement Process and includes a Reinstatement Checklist. ~ 64 ~

72 TRANSFER CONDITIONS AND PROCESS An active Link who is financially current and in good standing and moves her home address within the boundaries of another Chapter; may request a transfer to another Chapter between May 1 st and December 1 st. To initiate the process she must request a transfer within six (6) months of her last attended meeting of her current Chapter. For the sake of clarity her current Chapter, which she transfer from, will be referred to as the Sending Chapter. The Chapter to which she is transferring will be referred to as the Receiving Chapter. TRANSFER ELIGIBILITY Conditions for Transfer: 1. She has moved and her new residence is located in another Chapter s boundaries. 2. She has been a member of the Sending Chapter for a minimum of two years and a newly established Chapter (chartered for at least two years) is closer to her home address. Ineligibility for Transfer: 1. She has not changed her primary home address. 2. She is on a leave of absence. A member on a leave of absence may not transfer until she returns to active membership in her current Chapter. 3. She is an active member in good standing. 3. The Receiving Chapter has been chartered for less than two years. TRANSFER PROCESS 1. Transfers are processed by National Headquarters between May 1 st and December 1st. 2. Only an Active member in good standing may transfer to another Chapter. A member on leave of absence cannot transfer to another Chapter. A member on a leave of absence may not transfer until she returns to active membership in her current Chapter. 3. A transfer must be initiated by a member, not her Chapter President. The transferring member shall retrieve a transfer form from the documents section of the Members Only portion of the Links website ( She will then begin the transfer process by completing the relevant sections of the Transfer Request Form and faxing, ing or mailing the form directly to the membership department t National Headquarters. 4. Until a transfer is approved by National Headquarters, a member requesting a transfer remains a member of the Sending Chapter and must fulfill her Chapter and National obligations (financial, attendance at Chapter meetings, participation in Chapter activities, and 48-hour service requirement) through the ~ 65 ~

73 Sending Chapter. Her service hours will be reported through the Sending Chapter and she must pay her National dues and assessments through the Sending Chapter. 5. The Sending Chapter President will send notification in writing (via ) to the National Office and Area Director of the last meeting attended by the transferring member. This will allow the Chapter to vacate the member s space in the Chapter. The member will be placed in affiliate status. 6. The Sending Chapter President certifies that the member requesting a transfer is in good standing with the Sending Chapter by completing the relevant section of the Transfer Request Form, signing the form and returning it to the membership staff at National Headquarters and the Area Director within 30 days of receipt. If the transferring member is the Chapter President, the Chapter s Membership Chair should fulfill the duties described above. 7. If the member is not eligible to transfer or is not in good standing, the Sending Chapter President should not sign the Transfer Request Form. She must send a letter, within 30 days of receiving the form, to National Headquarters explaining the reasons the member requesting a transfer is not eligible to transfer or is not in good standing. The Sending Chapter President should also send a letter to the member requesting a transfer explaining that because she is not eligible to transfer or is not a member in good standing that the Sending Chapter President cannot certify the transfer and the reasons why she cannot certify the member s request for a transfer. 8. The transferring member is responsible for all financial obligations to the Sending Chapter until her transfer is finalized and the Receiving Chapter President has received a letter from National Headquarters. 9. National Headquarters sends the Transfer Request Form to the Receiving Chapter, as indicated on the form after the form has been completed and signed by the member who desires to transfer. 10. The maximum number of members excluding DOLs is 60 members. If the Receiving Chapter has not reached its maximum number of non-daughters of Links members or the member requesting a transfer is a DOL, the Receiving Chapter President signs the form where indicated and returns it to National Headquarters within 30 days of receipt. 11. If the Receiving Chapter has an opening, it cannot refuse to accept a member requesting a transfer to that Chapter. If a Chapter has openings, it cannot reserve those openings for membership intake. Because potential candidates for membership are not members at the time the Chapter receives the Transfer Request Form, there are openings. The perspective candidates will not become members until they are inducted. A member s transfer has priority. She fills an opening first, before potential candidates for membership. ~ 66 ~

74 12. If the Receiving Chapter has reached its maximum of non-daughters of Links members and the member requesting transfer is not a DOL, the Receiving Chapter President indicates this on the Transfer Request Form and returns it to National Headquarters within 30 days of receipt. National Headquarters notifies the member requesting a transfer that the Receiving Chapter does not have an opening. If there are no openings in the requested Chapter, the letter stating that would also include options for other Chapters in the locality. 13. If no Chapter in the locality has an opening, National Headquarters advises the member requesting a transfer that she will be placed in Affiliate status until a Chapter in the member s locale has an opening. If there are no other Chapters in the locale with openings, it should be explained that the Link will go on a waiting list of the Chapter requested and remain in affiliate status 14. If the transferring member is in good standing, National Headquarters acknowledges receipt of the transfer form in writing to the Sending Chapter President, indicating the date received, status of openings in the Receiving Chapter and date of mailing/ the form to the Receiving Chapter President. National Headquarters signs and validates the Transfer Request Form and sends copies of the Transfer notification indicating the effective date of the transfer to the: a. Sending Chapter b. Receiving Chapter c. Respective Area Director(s) d. Member requesting a transfer, and Questions regarding transfers shall be referred to the appropriate Area Vice Director or Area Director and, if necessary, the National Vice President. National Headquarters should send a quarterly report to the National Vice President of all transfers within an Area. CONDITIONS THAT MAY AFFECT THE TRANSFER PROCESS The conditions stated below may affect the expediency of the process: Transferee has not met the transfer eligibility requirements. Incomplete information on form. Form without the application signatures. Requested Receiving Chapter is at the 60 member maximum excluding DOLs. Paperwork is sent to the Receiving Chapter President by the transferee or the Sending Chapter President Additional approvals needed ~ 67 ~

75 New address or current contact information not listed on the form DETAILS FOR PROCESS FOR OBTAINING ADDITIONAL APPROVALS FOR TRANSFER 1. Sending Chapter President contacts her Area Director in writing, advising the Area Director of the reasons for requesting an exception. 2. If the request is approved, the Area Director forwards the Sending Chapter s request with a cover letter advising of her approval to the National Vice President. 3. The National Vice President notifies the parties listed below of her decision: a. Sending Chapter President b. Area Director c. Area Vice Director d. National Headquarters 4. Approval by the National Executive Council HOW TO HANDLE CHAPTER DUES AND ASSESSMENTS FOLLOWING A TRANSFER A member s financial obligation on the effective date of the transfer ends to the Sending Chapter; and begins with the Receiving Chapter. Therefore, because transfers are processed after the start of the fiscal year after the sending and receiving Chapters have collected Chapter dues for the current fiscal year, a member transferring to another Chapter is entitled to a prorated refund of the Chapter dues she paid to the Sending Chapter. Similarly, a member transferring to another Chapter has an obligation to pay a pro rata share of the Receiving Chapter s dues and assessments. The amount to be refunded is calculated from the effective date of the transfer through April 30 th. For example, if the member s transfer became effective on July 1, she should receive a prorated refund of the dues paid to the Sending Chapter. The amount to be refunded is calculated from July 1, the effective date of the transfer, through April 30. There are 305 days, end day included, from July 1 through April 30. Thus, if the dues of the Sending Chapter were $200.00, this member is entitled to a refund of $ ($ x 305). Similarly, because this member transferred into the Receiving Chapter on July1, she owes the Receiving Chapter prorated Chapter dues calculated from July 1 through April 30. Thus, if the Receiving Chapter s dues are $150.00, this member must pay the Receiving Chapter dues of $125 ($ x 305). NOTE: Date calculators which identify the number of days within a period of ~ 68 ~

76 time are available on the Internet. REINSTATEMENT A former Links member who resigns in good standing or who forfeited membership (for non-payment of dues, assessments or failure to fulfill the attendance, service hour, or One (1)-in-Five (5) requirement) may apply for reinstatement based on her status at resignation and whether less than or greater than two years as follows: A former member who resigned in good standing and applies for reinstatement within two (2) years of her resignation shall be reinstated upon application and a majority ballot vote of the Chapter members present and voting. She shall pay current National and Chapter dues and assessments and a reinstatement fee in an amount determined by the National Finance Committee and approved by the National Assembly. A former member who forfeited her membership for non-payment of dues and applies for reinstatement within two (2) years of her forfeiture, shall be reinstated upon application, payment of all current Chapter and National dues and assessments, payment of all National and Chapter dues and assessments owed at the time of her forfeiture, and a majority ballot vote of the Chapter members present and voting. She shall pay a reinstatement fee in an amount determined by the National Finance Committee and approved by the National Assembly. A former member who resigned in good standing and applies for reinstatement more than two (2) years after her resignation shall be reinstated upon application, a two-thirds (2/3) affirmative ballot vote of the Chapter members present and voting, and payment of current National and Chapter dues and assessments. She shall be inducted as in the process for a new member. She shall pay a reinstatement fee in an amount determined by the National Finance Committee and approved by the National Assembly. A former member who forfeited her membership for non-payment of dues and applies for reinstatement more than two (2) years after her forfeiture, shall be reinstated upon application, payment of all current Chapter and National dues and assessments, payment of all National and Chapter dues and assessments owed at the time of her forfeiture, and a two-thirds (2/3) affirmative ballot vote of the Chapter members present and voting. She shall be inducted as in the process for a new member. She shall pay a reinstatement fee in an amount determined by the ~ 69 ~

77 National Finance Committee and approved by the National Assembly. The Manual of Procedures for The Links, Incorporated, specifically provides that A former member shall at no time become a member of The Links, Incorporated except through the [reinstatement] process..., Manual of Procedures, Article I, Membership Reinstatement Process. REINSTATEMENT PROCESS 1. The former member who wishes to be reinstated shall send a letter or request for reinstatement to the President of her former Chapter by certified mail, return receipt requested between September and December. If the former member has moved, she may apply for reinstatement in a Chapter in her new location with a letter from her former Chapter President certifying that she was active and in good standing at the time of her resignation or forfeiture of membership for non-payment of dues, assessments and participation (attendance and service hour requirement). The former member s Chapter President must provide the former member with a letter certifying her status within 30 days after receiving the letter of request. 2. If the former member seeking reinstatement is not a DOL, the Chapter may consider her request for reinstatement only if it has not reached its maximum number of non-dol members. A request for reinstatement by a DOL may be considered regardless of the number of members in the Chapter. 3. If the Chapter has not reached its maximum number of members, upon receipt of the letter requesting reinstatement, the Chapter must send the former member a New Member Profile and Induction Request form within 30 days of receipt of the letter. This form will be the second part of the online New Member Profile discussed in Completing the Online Induction Process. It will have to be printed out and sent to the candidate. 4. After receiving the completed New Member Profile and Induction Request form, the information from the form must be entered online into the second part of the New Member Profile and Induction Request form that starts with the Candidate Profile. The Chapter must vote on the request for reinstatement within two regular Chapter meetings of receiving the information from the candidate for reinstatement. 5. The number of votes needed to reinstate a member depends on the number of years between her resignation or the forfeiture of her membership and request for reinstatement. The time period for reinstatement begins when the Chapter accepts the resignation or May 1 of the year the member forfeited her membership. 6. A former member who requests reinstatement within two years after her ~ 70 ~

78 resignation or the forfeiture of her membership needs a majority vote of the members present and voting at the meeting where her reinstatement is considered. A former member who requests reinstatement more than two years after her resignation or the forfeiture of her membership will need a twothirds vote of the members present and voting at the meeting where her reinstatement is considered. 7. If the Chapter votes to reinstate the former member, the Chapter completes the online New Member Profile and Induction Request form and online Request for Verification of Candidates and Approval for Induction. An is sent to the Area Director for review and approval. Once the Area Director approves the request for reinstatement, an is sent to National Headquarters for approval. Note: the process is done automatically. There is not an to be forwarded by the chapter or Area Director as it is done in the background based on the approval or denial made on the online verification form. 8. Upon receiving approval from National Headquarters, the Chapter notifies by certified mail the former member of the approval of her request for reinstatement. In this letter, the Chapter advises the former member of the monies that are due and the deadline for receipt of payment. 9. The Chapter sends all appropriate fees and assessments to National Headquarters at least 35 days before reinstatement. A former member must pay a reinstatement fee and all Chapter and National dues and assessments, current and any owed at the time of separation from the Chapter, before she can be reinstated. Reinstating members do not pay new member fees. 10. A former member who requests reinstatement within two years of when her membership was terminated is not required to go through new member orientation. At a minimum of 35 days after all fees and assessments are paid, she will be reinstated. 11. A former member who requests reinstatement more than two years after her membership was terminated is reinstated only through orientation and induction, following the same process as for a new member. ~ 71 ~

79 TERMS OF REINSTATEMENT A former member shall at no time become a member of The Links, Incorporated except through the process contained in this Section. The former member shall pay a reinstatement fee. Reinstated members do not pay new member fees. A Chapter may consider a former member for reinstatement if it has not reached its maximum number of members. A DOL may be considered for reinstatement regardless of the number of Active members in a Chapter. A former member shall apply for reinstatement between September and May via a certified letter, return receipt requested, to the President of her former Chapter. The Chapter shall send the former member a New Member Profile and Induction Request form. When the completed form is returned, the Chapter shall vote on the request for reinstatement of the former member within two regular Chapter meeting dates. If the former member is to be reinstated, the Chapter shall forward the New Member Profile and Induction Request Form to the Area Director for review and approval. The Area Director shall forward the appropriate form(s) to National Headquarters. Upon receiving approval from National Headquarters, the Chapter shall notify the former member via certified mail of its decision and information regarding the amount of applicable assessments, National and Chapter dues, and the reinstatement fee. All appropriate fees and assessments shall be sent to National Headquarters via cashier s check, Chapter check or money order at least thirty-five (35) days prior to reinstatement. Members who are being reinstated shall be required to participate in orientation sessions if they have been away for more than two years. All reinstatements of former members shall occur between May 1 and June 30. A former member, seeking reinstatement, must apply for reinstatement to her former Chapter unless she has moved since the termination of her membership. If she has moved, she may apply for reinstatement in a Chapter in her new location. Her application must be accompanied by a letter from her former Chapter President certifying her status at the time of her resignation or forfeiture of membership. However, the Chapter in which she is requesting to become a member must vote on her reinstatement. The President of her former Chapter, or the Chapter in which she is requesting to become a member, shall acknowledge, in writing, receipt of her request within thirty (30) days via certified mail. A former member who resigned in good standing and applies for reinstatement within two (2) years of her resignation shall be reinstated upon application and a majority ballot vote of the Chapter members present and voting. She shall pay current National and Chapter dues and assessments and a reinstatement fee in an amount determined by the National Finance committee and approved by the National Assembly. ~ 72 ~

80 A former member who forfeited her membership for non-payment of dues and applies for reinstatement within two (2) years of her forfeiture, shall be reinstated upon application, payment of all current Chapter and National dues and assessments, payment of all National and Chapter dues and assessments owed at the time of her forfeiture, and a majority ballot vote of the Chapter members present and voting. She shall pay a reinstatement fee in an amount determined by the National Finance Committee and approved by the National Assembly. A former member who resigned in good standing and applies for reinstatement more than two (2) years after her resignation shall be reinstated upon application, a two-thirds (2/3) affirmative ballot vote of the Chapter members present and voting, and payment of current National and Chapter dues and assessments. She shall be inducted as in the process for a new member. She shall pay a reinstatement fee in an amount determined by the National Finance Committee and approved by the National Assembly. A former member who forfeited her membership for non-payment of dues and applies for reinstatement more than two (2) years after her forfeiture, shall be reinstated upon application, payment of all current Chapter and National dues and assessments, payment of all National and Chapter dues and assessments owed at the time of her forfeiture, and a two-thirds (2/3) affirmative ballot vote of the Chapter members present and voting. She shall be inducted as in the process for a new member. A former member shall pay a reinstatement fee in an amount determined by the National Finance Committee and approved by the National Assembly. The time period for determining whether a former member is requesting reinstatement within two (2) years of her resignation or forfeiture of membership, or more than two (2) years after her resignation or forfeiture of membership, shall begin on the date the Chapter accepts her resignation or May 1 of the year of nonpayment of Chapter and/or National dues. Upon reinstatement, the member is given credit for her previous years of service as an active member. The following page is a form that provides a checklist for the REINSTATEMENT PROCESS. ~ 73 ~

81 REINSTATEMENT CHECKLIST 1. Chapter President receives certified letter, return receipt requested, from a former Chapter member requesting reinstatement between September and December. If a former member has moved since the termination of her membership, a letter from her former Chapter President certifying her membership status at the time her membership terminated must accompany the letter requesting reinstatement. 2. Former member is the daughter of a Link. Proceed to number Former member is not the daughter of a Link Chapter determines whether it has reached its maximum of 60 non-daughters of Link members. 4. Chapter has reached its maximum of 60 Non-Daughter of Links members. Reinstatement process cannot proceed. Chapter notifies the former member that it has no vacancies. 5. Chapter has vacancies. Chapter immediately sends the former member a New Member Profile and Induction Request form. Member requesting reinstatement fills in her information and signs form. 6. Chapter receives former member s completed New Member Profile and Induction Request form. The information received from the member is input into the online form in the Candidate s Information. 7. Within two regular Chapter meeting dates, the Chapter votes on the request for reinstatement. 8. Membership terminated within two years of request for reinstatement Majority vote required for reinstatement. 9. Membership terminated more than two years before request for reinstatement 2/3 affirmative vote required for reinstatement. 10. Former member receives required number of votes. 11. Chapter forwards the New Member Profile and Induction Request and Request for Verification of Candidates and Approval for Induction via the online system to the Area Director and Executive Director for review and approval. 12. National Headquarters notifies the Chapter that former member may be reinstated. 13. Chapter notifies the former member by certified mail of the approval of her request for reinstatement, advises her of the monies that are due and the deadline for receipt of payment. 14. Chapter submits all appropriate fees and assessments as directed by National Headquarters 15. If Membership terminated within two years of request for reinstatement, former member is reinstated with a majority vote approval. Link becomes an active member within a 35 day window after receipt of all funds due. For example, a reinstated link cannot be invited to Chapter meetings until dues paid. 16. Membership terminated more than two years of request for reinstatement Member goes through orientation and induction as a new member after a 2/3 approval vote ~ 74 ~

82 The Chapter Membership Committee ~ 75 ~

83 THE CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE SECTION The Chapter Membership Committee section includes the Role of the Membership Committee and a chart summarizing the Duties and Responsibilities of Membership Committee. ROLE OF THE MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE The Membership Committee is vital to the optimal functioning of each Chapter. The committee should operate as the right hand of the Chapter President, officers and facet chairpersons. The committee should develop and implement measures designed to engage all members in decisions and activities of the Chapter. A primary task of the Membership Committee is to ensure that a Chapter inducts and retains members who have the ability and willingness to work to make the Chapter s operations and programs a success. The Chapter President must give the committee her full support. The Membership Committee chair is the Chapter Vice President. A primary task of the Membership Committee is to ensure that meetings and activities are positive, not negative, experiences. A strong Membership Committee is essential if a Chapter is to induct and retain members who can and will work to make the Chapter s programs a success. ATTRIBUTES OF COMMITTEE MEMBERS Members of this committee should be skilled in handling interpersonal relationships. They should have demonstrated possession of the requisite skills through documented training and/or by attending various workshops at the National Assemblies or Area Conferences. They should have demonstrated an interest in developing, motivating and retaining dedicated Chapter members. They should be attuned to Chapter members personalities and be able to discern potential membership issues. OVERALL COMMITTEE OBJECTIVES The committee should function throughout the year, make regular reports and continuously impress upon the members the needs of the Chapter and their importance to effective Chapter operations and programs. The committee should work toward stated goals and objectives, including, but not limited to the following: Conducting activities that promote stronger Link-to-Link relationships ~ 76 ~

84 Planning and conducting the member intake process Planning and implementing a mentors program for new members and members who transfer to the Chapter Developing strategies designed to engage the entire membership in the service activities implemented by the Chapter Helping the Chapter select members that represent identified needs and ones who will work to enhance the Chapter program Tracking and reporting member s 48-hour service requirement statistics In order to achieve the stated objectives, the Membership Committee needs to utilize a variety of documents provided by the organization. Member profile (form to be completed by each member periodically) Membership Needs Assessment (compilation of demographics of Chapter) Constitution, Bylaws and Manual of Procedure Membership Orientation Manual Membership Orientation Test Membership Orientation Test Key Membership Manual Protocol Manual Rituals Manual Code of Ethics and Standards Member Evaluation Form Program Report and Evaluation GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The committee should work toward stated goals and objectives. These goals and objectives should include, but not be limited to the following: Implement bi-monthly activities which promote stronger Link-to-Link relationships. Develop strategies designed to engage the entire membership in the service activities implemented by the Chapter and The Links, Incorporated. Help the Chapter select members that represent identified needs; and select members who will work to enhance the Chapter programs and the programs of The Links, Incorporated. Plan and conduct the Chapter member intake process including implementing a service project for candidates. Plan and implement a Chapter mentoring program for new members. Help compile the 48-hour service requirement statistics. ~ 77 ~

85 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE The following chart identifies the objectives of the Membership Committee and suggested membership committee tasks. The objectives and tasks will be customized by each Chapter s Membership Committee. Objectives Tasks - Suggested Membership Committee Tasks Materials/ Resources Timelines Evaluation 1. Administer the membership profile (member data base) to all members. 2. Conduct a Chapter needs assessment annually. 3. Identify membership issues and concerns. 4. Maintain accurate attendance records in order to: Reach out to members to offer support if needed. Determine whether there are issues that are preventing a member from attending meetings, participating in Chapter activities, or whether something about the meeting has made her uncomfortable Objective I To promote stronger Linkto-Link relationships Alert the Chapter President that a member should receive a letter regarding her absenteeism based on Chapter Bylaws. Promote positive atmosphere in meetings. 5. Assist in planning/implementation of workshops and retreats. 6. Publicize and celebrate member accomplishments. 7. Develop and implement bonding activities. 8. Be aware of atmosphere at meetings; develop positive activities to counter negative actions. 9. Conduct activities (ice breakers, etc. at meetings) to develop cohesiveness. 10. Plan Friendship Month activities. 11. Develop and implement activities to enhance membership retention. ~ 78 ~

86 Objectives Tasks - Suggested Membership Committee Tasks Materials/ Resources Timelines Evaluation 1. Know the interests and expertise of Chapter members. Objective II To develop strategies designed to engage the entire membership in the series activities implemented by the Chapter. 2. Assist the Chapter President in placement of members on committees utilizing their particular skill sets, and/or interests. 3. Work with facet chairpersons and standing committees to encourage the inclusion of all members in program activities that utilize their skills and interest. 4. Provide incentives for participation. 5. Acknowledge officers and committee chairpersons for exemplary performance. 6. Get input from members to ensure their enthusiasm and participation in planned activities. 7. Help to ensure members are meeting the 48-hour service requirement. 1. Meet at some time before the Chapter s September meeting to ascertain the following information and to plan recommendations to present to the Chapter for action. (Some of the items listed below may be in the Chapter Bylaws or standing rules.) Objective III To help the Chapter select members that represent identified needs and the ones who will work to enhance the Chapter program. 2. Determine the number of openings available for new members. (Do not include alumna members and DOLs in total membership; and make sure Chapter has no more than ten percent (10%) of its membership on leave.) 3. Emphasize the Chapter needs in the consideration of new members. 4. Remind members of the qualifications for membership, specifically the service element. 5. Determine the number of members the Chapter feels it wants to induct at one time and if this number includes daughters of Links. 6. Outline the procedure to be used if more candidates are nominated than there are spaces available. 7. Prepare profile form. 8. If Chapter is under or near the twenty (20) member minimum, ~ 79 ~

87 Objectives Tasks - Suggested Membership Committee Tasks Materials/ Resources Timelines Evaluation determine the voting procedure if the number of candidates elected on the first ballot is insufficient to meet Chapter minimum membership requirement. 1. Annually conduct a needs assessment to determine the Chapter s membership needs and inform the Chapter of the results. 2. Recommend whether or not the Chapter should conduct membership intake. 3. Determine the number of openings available for new members. Objective IV 4. Recommend the number of members the Chapter should induct. To plan and conduct the Chapter member intake process. 5. Lead the discussion of the demographics and skill sets desired for new members. 6. Remind members of the importance of considering the Chapter s needs when nominating candidates for membership. 7. Remind members of the qualifications for membership, particularly a demonstrated commitment to community service. 8. Determine the procedure to be followed if more candidates are nominated than there are openings. 1. Assign a mentor (not the member s sponsor) to each new member. Objective V Implement mentors program 2. Advise the mentors of their responsibilities. 3. Periodically assess the new members integration into the Chapter, attendance at Chapter meetings, involvement in committees, participation in Chapter program activities and overall commitment to the organization. 4. Determine and address any issues involving the new members. 1. Remind members to report service hours each month. Objective VI 2. Input members service hours into the Member Management System. Track and report members service hours 3. Alert the Chapter President when a member s absences from Chapter meetings or low service hours present a potential issue of membership forfeiture. ~ 80 ~

88 Induction of New Members ~ 81 ~

89 ELECTION OF NEW MEMBERS OTHER DUTIES OF THE MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE Other duties of the Membership Committee may include: Conduct election of members. Prepare ballots. Determine two-thirds (2/3) vote needed. (This may vary with each candidate.) Count ballots. Read results of balloting to the membership. Give results to the Chapter President to declare the results. (Note: Per Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised, 11th Edition.) Plan and prepare for induction ceremony. Select and order gift(s) for candidate(s). Plan celebration for new member(s). An alternative plan for induction of a member(s) should be presented to your Chapter should one or more of the candidates be unable to attend the scheduled induction ceremony. New members cannot be inducted by proxy. Induction must take place between May 1 and June 30. REQUIREMENT FOR TWO-THIRDS (2/3) OF MEMBERSHIP VOTING One of the most misunderstood laws of The Links, Incorporated involves the meaning of the phrase present and voting. Our Bylaws state, New members shall be elected by two-thirds (2/3) affirmative vote of active members of a Chapter who are present and voting. Absentee voting is prohibited. A 2/3 vote when unqualified - is by definition one that is cast by persons entitled to vote, excluding blanks or abstentions, at a regular or properly called meeting. (RONR, 11 th edition, p.401 lines 7-10) In other words, a 2/3 vote means present and voting unless otherwise qualified. This rule of order assumes, of course, that a quorum is present at the meeting. Example of an Extreme Application of a Quorum In order to make this law as clear as possible, here is a most extreme case: Chapter membership 24 Members present at meeting 18 (a quorum) Affirmative vote needed to elect a member if all present vote 12 (2/3 of 18) If only 3 members vote, the affirmative Vote needed to elect to membership 2 (2/3 of 3) ~ 82 ~

90 Example of a Teller s Report on Voting It is very important that Chapters follow Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised, 11th Edition when making the teller s report. Note on page 418 line the following: The teller s report is entered in full in the minutes, becoming a part of the official records of the organization. Under no circumstances should this be omitted in an election or in a vote on a critical motion out of a mistaken deference to the feelings of unsuccessful candidates or members of the losing side. The tellers must report to the chair any ballots [whose meaning is unclear] if it/they may affect the vote count. And, the chair must immediately submit to the assembly the question of how the ballot(s) should be recorded. The Teller s Committee is NOT authorized to make this decision and neither is the Chapter President only the membership. (See RONR pg. 416) Appreciate that if the ballot(s) will not affect the result then the tellers committee can just treat them as illegal. Blank ballots, abstentions, incorrectly marked ballots that do not clearly identify for whom vote is cast and any other inconsistencies that make balloting unclear do not count as votes. The head teller addresses the chair, reads the results, and hands the written report to the chair. The chair then reads the teller s report again and declares the result. By the chair repeating the results, the members get another chance to actually hear what has happened. The chair reads aloud the vote count for each section /position /office /candidate and declares it. Then moves on to the next one and so on until it is finished. Let us assume that the Chapter has twenty-four (24) active members present at the meeting in which it is going to vote on prospective candidates. Let us further assume that there are two (2) names on the ballot. Conceivably the vote might be reported as shown in the Teller s Report below. ~ 83 ~

91 Teller s Report Name of Candidate Jane Doe Number of votes cast (yes or no) 24 (No abstentions) Necessary for election 16 Yes (2/3 or 24) Mrs. Doe received 18 Yes (Doe is voted for membership) Name of Candidate Number of votes cast (yes or no) Necessary for election Mrs. Doe received Mary Smith 20 (4 abstentions) 14 Yes 15 Yes (Smith is voted for membership) In other words, if twenty-four (24) Links are present, it is not automatic that sixteen (16) affirmative votes constitute two-thirds majority vote for each candidate since there may be abstentions and/or blank ballots. The result is always declared by the chair, who has read the teller s report before doing so. Other organizations may have different rules, but the laws of The Links, Incorporated are those as stated based on the total of the number of Yes and No votes cast. In other words, a member must vote yes or no if she wants to have a say in the election of new members. If she chooses not to vote, her abstention is not counted in determining the two-thirds (2/3) majority vote needed for acceptance of a new member. Another matter regarding a two-thirds (2/3) vote often needs clarification. It is in regard to fractions of votes. An example of rounding up to next whole number is: Chapter members 30 Chapter members at meeting 26 Two-thirds (2/3) of (1/3) Number affirmative votes needed if all members who are present vote 18 In other words, in order to be elected to membership, all fractions must be raised to the next higher number. There is no such thing as one-third (1/3) or twothirds (2/3) of a person. ~ 84 ~

92 PROCEDURES FOR INDUCTING A DAUGHTER OF A LINK Candidates for membership must be recommended by a member(s) in good standing in the respective Chapter. However, the daughter of a Link (DOL), or her mother, may write a letter of introduction to the Chapter expressing her (the DOL s) desire to apply for membership. It is not required that the mother be a member of the Chapter to which her daughter is applying or that she have a sponsor. Before a candidate can be considered for membership, the sponsoring member(s) must complete a New Member Profile and Request for Verification and Approval for Induction form on the prospective new member(s). A DOL may complete the form, and her mother, her sponsor or the Chapter President may sign her New Member Profile and Request for Verification and Approval for Induction form. Voting on the DOL, may take place at any regular Chapter meeting between September and May; unlike voting on candidates other than DOLs or former members of The Links, Incorporated, which may only occur at the November, December or January Chapter meeting. DOLs shall be elected by a majority vote of active members present and voting; unlike other new members who shall be elected by a two-thirds (2/3) affirmative ballot vote of active members of the Chapter who are present and voting. Just as for other new members, absentee voting for DOLs is prohibited. New Member Profile and Induction Request and Request for Verification of Candidates and Approval for Induction forms for all candidates receiving the required number of votes and DOLs receiving a majority vote, shall be filled out in their entirety and forwarded to the Area Director electronically no later than February 20th. After review and approval, the Area Director shall indicate approval on the Request for Verification and Approval for Induction form and forward electronically to National Headquarters for approval. No candidate shall be extended an invitation to membership prior to the Chapter receiving approval of the candidate(s) from National Headquarters. When the proper approval is received by the Chapter, invitations may be extended to the prospective new members. Upon written acceptance of the invitation, the candidate(s) shall be informed of all attendance and service requirements, and financial responsibilities, including joining fees and dues for the fiscal year. Part B of the New Member profile and Induction Request form must be signed by the candidate and returned to National Headquarters. When candidates have paid all fees and assessments, they are forwarded to ~ 85 ~

93 Headquarters via Chapter checks, Cashier s checks, or money orders; one payable to The Links, Incorporated and one payable to The Links Foundation, Incorporated. Fees are sent (postmarked) at least thirty-five (35) days before the date of induction to be received in Headquarters no later than thirty (30) days prior to induction. Upon National Headquarters acknowledgement of receipt of forms and fees, the Chapter may proceed with preparations for the induction of new members. The Chapter, using the official Orientation Manual, shall conduct orientation sessions for the candidate(s). At the conclusion of the orientation sessions, the candidate(s) will be inducted using the prescribed rituals. Chapters requesting a waiver of the thirty (30) day waiting period for inducting new members shall be charged a $50.00 processing fee if the request for waiver is granted. Chapters shall be charged a $ fee ($50.00 processing and $50.00 penalty) for any subsequent waiver granted. Requests for a waiver of the thirty (30) day waiting period for the induction of new members shall be automatically denied if they are postmarked less than fourteen (14) days before the proposed induction date. Requests for a waiver of the thirty (30) days waiting period for induction of new members shall be automatically denied if the fee accompanying the request is not in the form of certified check, cashier s check or money order, for the proper amount. INTAKE PROCEDURES FOR A DAUGHTER OF A LINK (DOL) 1. Within two months of the receipt of a completed New Member Profile and Induction Request form for DOL by either the Chapter President or Chapter Membership Chairman, voting on the DOL shall take place. 2. An invitation to membership shall be extended to the DOL within 30 days following a majority ballot vote and approval of the Area Director and National. New Member Profile and Induction Request and Request for Verification of Candidates and Approval for Induction forms must be forwarded immediately to the Area Director. 3. After review and approval, the Area Director shall sign the Request for Verification and Approval for Induction form and forward all forms to National for approval. 4. When an affirmative response to the invitation to membership and all necessary fees and assessments are received from the DOL, she shall be inducted into the Chapter between May 1 and June 30 of either the same year or the following year, whichever comes first, using the prescribed rituals. 5. Part B of the New Member profile and Induction Request form must be signed by the candidate and returned to National Headquarters. 6. All monies shall be paid to National Headquarters by Chapter check, Cashier s Check or money order postmarked at least thirty-five (35) days prior to the planned induction date. ~ 86 ~

94 EXPECTATIONS OF AN EFFECTIVE ORIENTATION PROCESS CANDIDATE RESPONSIBILITIES Responsibilities of Each Candidate Prior to Induction Is knowledgeable about the origin and formation of the organization, its founders, early Chapters, past National officers, etc. Is knowledgeable about the purposes/roles of National Assemblies, Area Conferences, and Cluster and Chapter meetings. Understands the relationships and interdependencies between Chapters, Areas and National. Can recite the Links pledge and song from memory. Can identify and explain the Links symbol. Knows current leadership/governance structure and office holders. Understands Chapter service expectations and committee participation requirements. Understands that each member is required to serve on a program facet committee and at least one standing committee. Knows Chapter accomplishments in service to the community. Clearly understands present and possible future financial obligations. Knows expectations for induction ceremony, i.e., dress, participation, traditions. Understand 48 hours service requirement and 1 in 5 requirements to avoid forfeiture of membership. Responsibilities of New Member Within the First Year Is knowledgeable about the National Constitution and Bylaws, Manual of Procedures, Chapter Bylaws, organization policies, rules and regulations, Orientation Manual, Membership Manual, Rituals Manual, Protocol Manual; and has a personal copy of each document. Knows at least 50% of the current Chapter members by name. Has a Chapter "mentor" other than her sponsor, designated for her first year of membership to acclimate her to the Links culture, processes and operations. Has a copy of the Handbook for the Chapter in which she is to be inducted if Chapter has a handbook. ~ 87 ~

95 CHAPTER RESPONSIBILITIES A Chapter must: Provide a detailed Orientation Plan to each candidate. The Plan should include the schedule of workshops. (At time of acceptance of invitation to provide flexibility for schedule conflicts), receipt of necessary orientation tools e.g. Links documentation, etc. Collect and forward dues and bona fide assessments to the National Headquarters within the time limits set forth. Involve all active members in the process. Explain current and anticipated future financial obligations. Provide all necessary documents to support each candidate's orientation. File all necessary membership reports for candidates. Provide a supportive environment to welcome new members. Take responsibility for education and nurturing of each candidate as they proceed to induction. Require the implementation of a service project for each group of candidates. ~ 88 ~

96 CHAPTER BYLAWS OR STANDING RULES Chapters are urged to include procedures on membership intake in their bylaws or standing rules. These may include but not be limited to: How frequently within a certain time period may the same name be presented? How many times may the same name be presented? How many new members will the Chapter induct in any given year? What will the Chapter do if more candidates are elected than the Chapter has vacancies? How will ties be broken? (If there are more candidates than available membership slots and there are tie votes on members, the Chapters have to have procedures in place before voting.) What will the Chapter do if a candidate cannot attend the scheduled induction ceremony? What type ballot will be used (one (1) ballot for each candidate, all names on one (1) ballot, etc.)? How and where will ballots be counted? (The Chapter President appoints a committee for this purpose which may or may not be the Membership Committee). No Link who has submitted a candidate s name for membership should serve on this committee. It is very important that the Chapter President and the Membership Chairperson be knowledgeable of Robert s Rules of Order Newly Revised, 11th Edition in all matters regarding voting procedures. ~ 89 ~

97 INDUCTION CHECKLIST AND COMPLETING THE INDUCTION PROCESS COMPLETING THE ONLINE INDUCTION PROCESS The paper induction work flow process has been replaced by an online workflow process. The online workflow process mimics the paper process. 1. The online process is initiated when a Member Induction Request is accessed online from the Members Only section of the National website by clicking on Member Profile to access the pull down list and selecting Member Induction Request. 2. When the New Member Profile Request window appears, clicking the link will move the process forward to the next screen. On the next screen you have the option of submitting a name on behalf of yourself or another member. If you are submitting a candidate s name on behalf of another member click yes and enter the other member s Link ID number. If you are submitting the candidate s name on your behalf, click no and proceed to the next screen. a. There are two sections to the form. The 1 st part is the Sponsor information section. Your information should be here, unless you are completing the form on behalf of someone else. b. The 2 nd part is the ~ 90 ~

98 candidate information section. Complete the form as you normally would. Select the appropriate button as it relates to whether they will be a new or reinstated member. The balance of the form is exactly the same as the hard copy form. 3. Submitted forms are sent to the Chapter Vice President via an . The Chapter Profile identifies the exact title for membership (which is Vice President, Vice President Membership, or 1 st Vice President ) and the Link s address. a. To access completed forms, the VP logs into the Members Only section of the National website, clicks Member Profile to access a pull down menu, and selects Member Induction Request Status. b. Then the New Candidate Status can be selected. Any candidates submitted will appear on this screen. Click the candidate s name to access their form, which can be printed for the Chapter meeting. 4. Once the Chapter has voted, the Chapter Vice President will come back to this screen to accept or deny a candidate. 5. Accepted candidates will move forward to the Chapter President for the Chapter President s approval. An is sent to the Chapter s account for all accepted candidates (chaptername@linksinc.org). The Chapter President will go into the system and confirm accepted candidates approved by the Chapter Vice President). 6. Approved candidates are forwarded to the Area Director for approval; after which the candidates are sent to National for final approval and assigning of membership number. 7. Once National has signed off on candidates, National will correspond back to the ~ 91 ~

99 Chapter via and the Chapter then proceeds with the membership intake process. USING AN INDUCTION CHECKLIST In order to be certain that membership applications will not be returned to you by the Membership Office at National Headquarters, you can use the Induction Check List. Note that there are separate written instructions for technology changes for electronic payment and online processes referred to in the checklist. INDUCTION CHECKLIST 1. Check to be sure all candidates live in the locality the Chapter was chartered to serve. 2. Make sure all of the requested information is on the membership application. 3. Check signatures to be sure all proper signatures are on the membership application. 4. Be sure the proposed induction date is at least thirty-five (35) days from the date the verification and application is sent electronically or postmarked to National Headquarters. 5. Check that the Chapter has sent the correct amount of money for each candidate to National Headquarters. Money is sent through online electronic payment procedures. 6. Check to be sure Chapter has sent two payments either electronically for each candidate; one with the payee being The Links, Incorporated, and the other with the payee being The Links Foundation, Incorporated. 7. All payments are to be made online. Note that checks are no longer being accepted for Chapter payments at National. 8. Complete electronic profile and verification forms on approved candidates for approval by the Area Director and National Headquarters using online procedures. Routing by is done automatically in the background Only forms for reinstated members can be completed on paper by the member requesting reinstatement and mailed to the Chapter President. The completed New Member Profile and Induction Request and Request for Verification of Candidates and Approval for Induction for reinstated members will then be submitted via the online system by the chapter. For forms completed online make sure the forms are correct. This ensures not only good record keeping but also correct routing to the next link in the approval process which is a background function. ~ 92 ~

100 COMPLETING THE INDUCTION PROCESS Provided that a Chapter has met all of the above requirements for applying for the induction of a new member, within 35 days after the forms and fees have reached National Headquarters, National will correspond back to the Chapter via after National has signed off on the induction request and the Chapter then proceeds with the membership intake process. The 35 days assures that National will have 30 days to process applications before induction. Before the induction date, the Chapter should also receive the following from National Headquarters for each new member: Letter welcoming new member User name and password for accessing the National website at The History of The Links, Incorporated National Financial Membership Card sent within 6 months Using the user name and password from National, new members are encouraged to access and print the following documents from National Constitution and Bylaws National Manual of Procedures National Membership Directory Current National Newsletter The items from National as well as access to should be presented to the new members after their induction along with the following from the local Chapter: Chapter handbook (if Chapter has a handbook) and/or Chapter specific information including Chapter Membership Roster, meeting dates/hostesses, etc. Chapter program materials Any newsletter or membership directory for the Area and online access to this information and other materials if there is an online website for the Chapter or Area ~ 93 ~

101 Celebration events after the induction may be as elaborate or modest as the Chapter wishes and may or may not include Connecting Links and Friends. Some suggested celebration events are: Luncheon Dinner (with or without program, dancing or entertainment) Reception with refreshments ~ 94 ~

102 ORIENTATION ACTIVITIES Orientation for new members should be meaningful, enjoyable and informative. Ideally there should be four orientation sessions. Minimally, there should be three orientation sessions held with prospective members prior to induction. Prospective members are also required to: a) work with the Chapter as a volunteer on a community service project, or, b) if the prospective group consists of four or more, design and implement a community service project. (See Service Project Requirements section of Orientation Activities.) Session Purpose Sections Session I Session II Session III Session IV The first session should be a get acquainted session. This is a working session to learn more. Emphasis is placed on preparing candidates for effective participation in The Links. Final review and rehearsal A. Prospective members meet all Chapter members in a social setting. Introductory activities are used and refreshments are served. Prospective members are given a copy of the Orientation Manual and any other materials they will need in order to prepare for future sessions. B. Chapter scrapbooks, awards and other paraphernalia are displayed in order to show Chapter accomplishments. C. Expenses and availability of time for service are presented and discussed. A. Background information B. The National and Area organizational structure C. National programs D. The Links Foundation A. Chapter structure and information B. Chapter programs and operations and The Links Foundation, Incorporated C. Parliamentary procedures D. Protocol and specific information for induction and the examination which should cover sections 1-5 E. Celebration of preparation for effective participation A. Review information in preparation for induction B. Have rehearsal ~ 95 ~

103 NEW MEMBERS (OR TRANSFERRING MEMBERS) MENTOR PROGRAM Goal: To fully acclimatize new members and transferring members into the positive culture of a Chapter. Success Strategies A member volunteer, aside from the member bringing in the new member, should serve as a mentor to the new or transferring member for at least one year. Mentor responsibilities are as follows: Help acquaint the new or transferring member to all policies and procedures of the Chapter After each meeting, check with the new or transferring member for questions and answers Accompany the new or transferring member to at least two Chapter functions Help widen the new or transferring member s circle of friendship MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PERIOD FOR NEW MEMBERS The Membership Committee recommends that all new members have a one-year development period to fully comprehend what it means to be a Link. During this period, they will be assigned a mentor and will be expected to: Attend all Chapter meetings and functions. (The exception would be illness, family emergencies and work-related issues.) Attend either an Area Conference or National Assembly during the year they are inducted. Attend a leadership forum or cluster workshop, if such exists in their Area. Fully participate in at least two Chapter committees; at least one should be a facet committee. Certificates will be issued to commemorate completion of development. ~ 96 ~

104 ORIENTATION MANUAL/WORKSHOP MAPPING Workshop Sections Workshop 1 A. Introduction/History/Public Policy (Section I) B. Friendship Activity C. New Member Finances (Section X) D. Chapter History E. Links Song/Pledge/Emblem/Symbols Workshop II A. National/Area Operations Programming B. New Member Mentoring Links Song/Pledge/Symbols Workshop III Workshop IV A. Chapter structure B. Information on Chapter Programs and Operations This is an extra optional workshop that can be included if needed. ~ 97 ~

105 SAMPLE AGENDA The Links, Incorporated Orientation Workshop 1 Date: <...>Time: <...>Place: <...> Meeting called by: Chapter Type of meeting: New member Orientation Facilitator: Chapter Membership Chair and Committee Attendees: Chapter Officers/Chapter Members/Membership Candidates Please bring: Note pad, invitation to join, pen AGENDA Item Icebreaker Activity Welcome/Introduction of Chapter Members Chapter Highlights Introduction to Linkdom Financial Responsibilities Person Responsible Membership Chair 20 minutes Chapter President 20 minutes Chapter Historian 15 minutes Membership Chair 30 minutes Chapter Treasurer 10 minutes What s Next Membership Chair 5 minutes Q s & A s All Attendees 30 minutes Other Information Resource persons: Special Notes: This meeting is open to all members of the Chapter. ~ 98 ~

106 SERVICE PROJECT REQUIREMENTS As founders and charter members, the extraordinary women of The Links, Incorporated were dedicated to working together as friends to help others. Over six decades later, we continue to honor their memory by working as friends in service to others. So it follows, that women interested in becoming members of The Links, Incorporated should demonstrate their commitment to friendship and service through short-term projects that emphasize service and promote bonding with each other and Chapter members. The service project should be an extension or expansion of current Chapter programming in one or more of the facets. The Membership Committee, charged with the responsibility of the overall orientation experience, must plan this phase very carefully. Expectations, with timelines, should be planned well ahead of the scheduled orientation period and specific Chapter members should be assigned to assist and supervise the process. The Membership Committee should manage the process with a "light hand" in order that the resourcefulness, initiative and leadership qualities of the candidates become evident. For example, the committee may assist with the selection of the specific project through suggestions, etc. However, the organization, development, scheduling, implementation and evaluation of the project should be done by the candidates with minimal assistance (other than support and encouragement). Candidates should implement a meaningful project to be completed within a timeframe of approximately two months. The experience should culminate with a final report (written and oral) documented by photographs, and products (invitations, agenda, new releases, news articles, etc.) Suggested projects for development and implementation by candidates for membership in the Links, Incorporated could include: Service Projects Services to Youth... Develop curriculum and a presentation for: o Career planning o Test preparation o Investment planning o Situational protocol (The appropriate behavior for specific situations) o Financial planning for college Organize and conduct tours Institutions of higher learning, corporations and ~ 99 ~

107 businesses. International Trends and Services... Establish collaboration with another organization and collect and ship Black dolls for children of selected African countries. Secure technology equipment and educational materials for a specific Links school in South Africa. National Trends and Services... Research and develop response to one of the highest health needs of African Americans in the community; partner with at least one organization to produce a public event. Participate in a local literacy effort by developing and producing an event in conjunction with the local library or public school system. Implement a voter registration drive focusing on young people at public schools and colleges. Conduct a voter awareness event for young people utilizing expert speakers on topics of importance to the welfare of people of African ancestry (affirmative action, health issues, the economy, etc.). The Arts... Partner with a local museum, library, or arts entity to expose children and youth to various art forms. Sponsor the presentation of local artists in public events or at local school. Health and Human Services... Partner with national health agencies to promote our health-related signature programs and enhance our initiatives. Sponsor programs for the maintenance of good health and elimination of chronic health disparities in communities of color through health education, health advocacy, and optimal utilization of health resources. Sponsor health fairs that provide education about healthy life styles and information about improved treatment for cardiovascular disease, strokes, obesity, diabetes, and lack of physical activity. ~ 100 ~

108 ACTIVITIES NEW MEMBERS ENGAGE IN WITH OTHER CHAPTER MEMBERS Orientation meetings Service project work with facet chairs and committees Interviews with all or selected members of Chapter; publish a membership directory (pictorial) that includes information garnered from the interviews With each other o Implementation of service project o Study sessions o Social event with families ~ 101 ~

109 PROPOSED MEMBERSHIP INDUCTION MODEL SCHEDULE The Membership Induction Process is a two-year journey. The first year begins in September with the Chapter decision to participate in membership induction for that year and ends in May or June with the induction of new members. The second year begins as soon as new members are inducted with the assignment of a mentor who nurtures their growth throughout their first year of membership. Timeframe (to be completed by the end of the month indicated below) July-August September September October Action Chapter completes Chapter Profile Chapter considers Membership Induction Membership Committee identifies online forms that are to be used. Chapter Membership Committee presents the candidate(s) Description The Membership Committee conducts a needs assessment, constructs a profile of the Chapter (age, talent, profession, skills, etc) recommends the preferred qualifications of prospective members recommends the number of candidates to invite. The Membership Committee presents profile of Chapter makes recommendation to have (or not have) membership induction during the current Chapter year. The recommendation is decided by majority vote of the Chapter. If the vote is affirmative to hold membership induction, the Membership Committee prepares and identifies online forms to potential sponsors; announces deadline for completion of forms and records date each form was electronically completed and returned. Each candidate s profile is read orally to the members present. Only those candidate forms received by the deadline and recommended by the committee are considered. (The Membership Committee should meet with the sponsors of any candidates not making the cut prior to the presentation.) It is strongly suggested that each member submit no more than one name for consideration. ~ 102 ~

110 Timeframe (to be completed by the end of the month indicated below) November, December, January February March Action Chapter votes on candidate(s) for membership. Chapters send letters to potential candidates. Chapter sends induction fees to National Headquarters. Chapter begins Orientation Process. Description 1. Upon receipt of verification, a letter of invitation is extended to each potential candidate. The letter clearly states the deadline date for acceptance and specifies the amount of candidate induction fees due. 2. Upon receipt of acceptance letter and fees, a second letter is sent with the Candidate Orientation schedule. 3. Names of women accepted by the prescribed vote are submitted to the Area Director and National Headquarters for verification. Upon receipt of verification, a letter of invitation is extended to each potential candidate. The letter clearly states the deadline date for acceptance and specifies the amount of candidate induction fees due. Upon receipt of acceptance letter and fees, a second letter is sent with the Candidate Orientation schedule. Fees for The Links, Incorporated and The Links Foundation, Incorporated are remitted to National Headquarters with copy to Area Director. Membership Committee prepares and distributes Orientation materials to candidates. Membership Committee conducts Orientation Workshop I. Membership Committee assigns mentors to candidates (someone other than the sponsoring Link) Candidates and Membership Committee jointly decide on short Service Project that reflects the Chapter s current programmatic thrust (an activity of the existing program). April Chapter continues Orientation Candidates implement service project. Process Service project initiated Membership Committee conducts Orientation Workshop. by candidates. ~ 103 ~

111 Timeframe (to be completed by the end of the month indicated below) May June Action Membership Committee continues Orientation. Service project is completed and final report submitted. Chapter holds induction of new members. One-year Member Development process begins. Chapter holds induction of new members. One-year Member Development process begins. Description Membership Committee conducts Orientation Workshop. Membership Committee administers the National test (Orientation Workshop IV). Candidates report on service project. All fees due to National must be submitted 35 days prior to induction. Membership Committee prepares ritualistic ceremony for induction of new members. Membership Committee assigns mentor to each new member. Membership Committee prepares ritualistic ceremony for induction of new members. All fees due to National must be submitted 35 days prior to induction. Membership Committee assigns mentor to each new member. Late inductions must be completed by June 30. ~ 104 ~

112 SUGGESTED FORMAT FOR ORIENTATION WORKSHOPS Timeframe Orientation Workshop Activities March Introduce Chapter members present. Tell a little about each one, their Chapter responsibilities and their participation on the National and/or Area levels. Complete any necessary forms. o Describe financial obligations. (Be frank.) Give brief history of National and Area and a more detailed history of the Chapter. Give information on deadlines, schedule of future orientation workshops, induction date, Chapter meeting dates and celebration activity. Give dates and functions of National, Area and Cluster (if possible) meetings. Encourage attendance. Give candidates Chapter roster and other pertinent materials. If candidates are expected to be involved in a service project, details and instructions should be given at this time. Give candidates Orientation Manual and How Much Do You Know About the Links questionnaire. April Explain all five (5) program facets on the National and Chapter levels. Candidates should be encouraged to select the program facet which interests them the most. o Describe the service projects that are presently being undertaken on the National and Chapter levels. Candidates report on their service project (if applicable) May/June Candidates return quiz and Membership Committee members answer any questions. Candidates report on their service project (if applicable). Candidates are taught Links pledge and song, and they are instructed regarding the induction ceremony; time, place, format, attire, etc. Candidates return quiz and Membership Committee members answer any questions. Candidates report on their service project (if applicable). Candidates are taught Links pledge and song, and they are instructed regarding the induction ceremony; time, place, format, attire, etc. ~ 105 ~

113 Matter of Finance Fines and Fees ~ 106 ~

114 THE MATTER OF FINANCE Every organization, profit or non-profit, must be fiscally sound if it is to operate properly. This section details the items of finance which directly relate to membership. Chapter Presidents and Treasurers are advised annually regarding the specific amounts of all dues and assessments and the procedures for submitting financial documents to The Links, Incorporated and The Links Foundation. The Financial Handbook should be consulted for a detailed and complete overview of all financial operations of The Links, Incorporated and The Links Foundation. NATIONAL DUES, ASSESSMENTS, FEES AND FINES The Links, Incorporated The following dues are payable to The Links, Incorporated: Active M e m b e r s and Members on leave: Active members and members on leave are responsible for National dues and assessments payable through the local Chapters. Active members must meet their Chapter financial obligations and service requirements before National dues and assessments are sent to the National Headquarters. Members on leave are not required to perform service hours; therefore dues for members on leave can be submitted without service hours. These fees include: o The Links, Incorporated Dues o Insurance Fee Affiliate Members: Affiliate members will complete required data on-line and are responsible for National dues and assessments directly to The Links, Incorporated. These fees include: o The Links, Incorporated Dues o Insurance Fee Alumna Members: Alumna members pay a service fee of $15.00 per year. These fees should be sent directly to the National Headquarters for current alumna members. Newly approved alumna member fees must be collected and included with the Chapter s dues transmitted for active members. If an alumnae member does not choose to pay this service fee, it will not affect her status in any way. She will remain an alumnae member, but will not receive published material from the National Headquarters. New Members: Chapter dues and assessments shall be as prescribed by the Chapter. Candidates shall not be charged an excessive amount above the Chapter dues, assessments and National requirements. Per the Bylaws ~ 107 ~

115 (Article X, Section 5), the total amount required at the Chapter level can be equal to but shall not exceed the amount required at the National level. These fees include: o Induction Fee o History Book o The Links, Incorporated Dues o Insurance Fee o Technology Fee The Links Foundation All members of The Links, Incorporated are required to be members of The Links Foundation. The following dues are payable to The Links Foundation: Active M e m b e r s and Members on leave: Active members and members on leave are responsible for foundation dues and fees payable through the local Chapters. Those fees include: o Capital Endowment o Program Endowment o Grant in Aid o Foundation Dues Affiliate Members: Affiliate Members will complete required data on-line and are responsible for Foundation dues and fees directly to The Links, Incorporated. These fees include: o Capital Endowment o Program Endowment o Grant in Aid o Foundation Dues New Members: The following foundation dues, fees and assessments shall be required for all new members: o Capital Endowment o Program Endowment o Grant in Aid o Links Foundation Dues o Building Assessment* *Building Assessment: All current and new members must pay the Building Assessment of $ contribution directly to The Links Foundation, Incorporated. Current and new members must satisfy their assessment within three years or less (from the applicable date) to remain a member in good standing. ~ 108 ~

116 EXEMPT MEMBERSHIP CLASSIFICATIONS Platinum Members Platinum members are exempt from all National dues and assessments; Chapter dues are exempt at the discretion of her Chapter and/or as stated in the Chapter s Bylaws. Active Military Members Active Military members in good standing on military duty deployed to a combat zone and granted special military leave are not responsible for National or Chapter dues and assessments until the next fiscal year following her return from deployment. Transfer Members A member who transfers from one Links Chapter to another after she has paid her local dues and assessments to her Chapter will have her dues and assessments returned by her Chapter on a pro rata basis. She is then required to pay a pro rata portion of the dues and assessments set by her new Chapter. Area and National dues and assessments are not refundable. DUE DATE OF NATIONAL FEES AND ASSESSMENTS All dues and assessments for The Links, Incorporated and The Links Foundation must be received at National Headquarters no later than April 1st of each year as reported on-line. NON FINANCIAL STATUS A member whose National dues and assessments have not been paid by May 1st will be considered non-financial and her membership is subject to termination. If there are extenuating circumstances, the Chapter President and Area Director must resolve. Issues relating to service hours will follow the same procedure. A member may be considered non-financial by her Chapter, as provided for in the Chapter Bylaws. Notice of such status must be sent to National headquarters and to the Area Director. ~ 109 ~

117 FINANCIAL REINSTATEMENT OF MEMBERSHIP Per Article I, Section 12 of The Links Incorporated Bylaws, former members who are reinstating are required to pay: A reinstatement fee as established by the National Assembly Current Chapter, Area and National (The Links, Incorporated and The Links Foundation, Incorporated) dues and assessments. All Chapter, Area and National (The Links, Incorporated and The Links Foundation, Incorporated) dues and assessment at the time of their forfeiture of membership. Reinstating members must pay the Building Assessment ($600.00) in full prior to being reinstated, if not already paid prior to leaving. Credit will be given for any portion already paid. FEES AND FINES Members are fined $25.00 per member if dues and assessments are not received by April 1st for The Links, Incorporated in addition to a $25.00 fine for The Links Foundation, Incorporated.. A member who completes her Chapter financial obligations after the Chapter check has been sent to National Headquarters shall pay her National dues, assessments and late fee through her Chapter, not directly to National Headquarters. Returned Checks Policy: Members will be assessed a fee of $50.00 for returned checks by the bank for non-sufficient fund (NSF). In addition members submitting payments to The Links, Incorporated and The Links Foundation, Incorporated will be required to make payments with money order, certified check or cashier s check after the first (1) NSF check. No Chapter shall grant a leave of absence in excess of ten percent (10%) of its membership during any year. Chapters which do so shall be subject to a fine. ~ 110 ~

118 Appendix ~ 111 ~

119 TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP COMMON ISSUES THAT CAUSE CONFLICTS AND DISENGAGEMENT IN CHAPTER 1. Chapter bylaws not in alignment with the National bylaws. Many times bylaws do not include information on meeting attendance, assessments, dues or participation in requirements for fundraisers and Chapter programs. 2. Differences of opinions; disagreement over an issue; different personalities; or differing beliefs on a subject. 3. No vision or mission for the Chapter and no consensus around that vision or mission of the Chapter. 4. Failure to enforce bylaws fairly and impartially. 5. Inadequate knowledge of Roberts Rules of Order. 6. Lack of or inadequate dissemination of information. 7. Lack of a strong leadership communication style. RED FLAGS OF A DYSFUNCTIONAL CHAPTER 1. Poor attendance at meetings 2. Cliques 3. Too many assessments and programs 4. Disrespectful behavior towards fellow members and/or leadership ACTIVITIES PROMOTING POSITIVE PRODUCTIVE MEMBERSHIP 1. Conduct a Chapter Survey to identify individual strengths in the Chapter. 2. Develop a Five Year Strategic Plan 3. Modify Chapter Strategic Plan, as needed each year, to evaluate its effectiveness and impact. 4. Value the Opinions of Others. 5. Utilize various personality instruments i.e. Myers Briggs, Leadership Colors that identify the diverse leadership and personality styles in the Chapter. 6. Invite National, Area and local leadership to support and enhance Chapter goals and objectives. 7. Promote yearly retreats 8. Encourage Friendship Activities at all meetings. ~ 112 ~

120 CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP NEEDS ASSESSMENT A. CHAPTER PROFILE Present Membership Active: On Leave: Alumnae: Total + vacancies = (maximum allowed 60 members, excluding DOL) B. Median age range of members: C. Occupations represented: D. Chapter involvement and interests: E. Civic/Community Affiliations: F. Resources available in present membership: After studying the above information, the committee should answer the following questions: Does the Chapter need new members? If yes, how many new members? In what age range does the Chapter need new members? to What specific skills, resources, community contacts, etc. are needed from new members? Has this needs assessment been discussed with the Chapter members? Yes No ~ 113 ~

121 ~ 114 ~

122 ~ 115 ~

123 MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT CHALLENGES Listed below are some problems frequently discussed at workshops and conferences. Here are a few suggestions to stimulate your thinking toward finding solutions to those problems. MEMBERS WHO DO NOT ATTEND MEETINGS There is a reason why members don t attend meetings. Find it. Is the member ill? Does she have conflicts with the time of the meeting and her job? Is a member of her family ill? Does she feel bored at meetings? Is the meeting too long? Is the member challenged in using her talents? The Chapter President may ask her to send the Chapter a letter stating why she is unable to attend the meetings. If the reason does not seem to be valid, the Chapter President should turn the matter over to the Chapter Membership Committee for study and recommendation to the Chapter. MEMBERS WHO DO NOT WORK ON COMMITTEES A good president studies the group dynamics i.e. the composition of her group old, middle aged, young, workers, drones, laissez faire, etc. She, therefore, tries to places members on committees according to their working ability. She can combine this information with the member s request, and hopefully find a match with ability and personal choices. Members work best when they are placed on a committee they enjoy and a committee that matches their working ability. ~ 116 ~

124 WHAT SUCCESSFUL LEADERS MUST DO (FROM JOHN C. MAXWELL S SUCCESS 101 NASHVILLE: NELSON 2008) 1. Manage Your Emotions 2. Manage Your Time 3. Manage Your Priorities 4. Manage Your Energy 5. Manage Your Thinking 6. Manage Your Words 7. Manage Your Personal Life ELEVEN RULES OF A GOOD CHAPTER PRESIDENT It has been said the role of Chapter President is the hardest job in Links Inc. When give the opportunity to serve in this role in your Chapter, consider it an honor and remember that you will be fortunate enough to take all of the credit at times and all of the blame at others. A Chapter President must: 1. Be Knowledgeable 2. Be Prepared for the Unexpected 3. Be Willing to Listen 4. Be Organized 5. Be Committed 6. Be Aware of the Importance of Delegating 7. Be Willing to Share Information Appropriately and in a Timely Manner 8. Be Able and Willing to Resolve Conflict 9. Be Willing to Lead 10. Be Objective 11. Be Fair and Consistent HOW TO RETAIN MEMBERS 1. Make a concerted effort to know members before inducting them into your Chapter. 2. Consider some of the following questions when seeking new members for your Chapter: Have you worked with them in other organizations or groups? Are they committed to community service? Would you consider them a friend? What are they doing elsewhere in the community; how well and how cooperatively do they work in groups? Can they be a leader as well as a team ~ 117 ~

125 player? Do they just want to be Links for the name or are they truly interested in service? 3. Have thorough and complete orientation workshops before inducting new members into the Chapter. Let them know exactly what is expected of them with regards to time, money and participation. Let them know what they can expect of you. Include the entire Chapter in the workshop if existing Chapter members need a refresher. 4. Have periodic retreats using group psychology as one of the elements of the retreat as well as some informational sessions that update members on basic membership questions. 5. When planning your programs, fundraisers and friendship activities get input from all members to ensure their enthusiasm and participation. 6. Acknowledge committee chairmen and members for a job well done. 7. Follow Links Recipe for Friendship and poem on the next three pages. ~ 118 ~

126 LINKS RECIPE FOR FRIENDSHIP Blend lively conversation, head back laughter, work, and fun together. Slowly add trust and acceptance, and mix well. Stirring gently, soften with teardrops, tender heartedness. Sweeten with empathy and understanding. Sprinkle generously with your favorite memories, prayers and well wishes. Decorate with hugs, high 5s, fist bumps and smiles and ENJOY! Recipe for Friendship 2 cups of patience 1 heart full of love 2 handfuls of generosity 2 cups of loyalty 1 cup of understanding A dash of laughter Mix all ingredients well. Sprinkle generously over a lifetime and serve everyone you meet. ~ 119 ~

127 Recipe for Friendship Fold two hands together, And express a dash of sorrow, Marinate it overnight, And work on it tomorrow. Chop one grudge in tiny pieces, Add several cups of love, Dredge with a large sized smile, And mix the ingredients above. Dissolve the hate within you, By doing a very good deed, Dash in some help for any friend, If they should be in need. Stir in laughter, love and kindness, From the heart it has to come, Mix with genuine forgiveness, And give your neighbor some. The amount of people you can serve, From the recipe above, Is in the quality of its ingredients, And unlimited amounts of love. This recipe s for the whole wide world, For everyone to make, Just get it all together, And cook for God s own sake! ~ 120 ~

128 ~ 121 ~

129 A FEW FRIENDSHIP QUOTES A friend is one who knows us, but loves us anyway. ~ Fr. Jerome Cummings ~ Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for a while and leave footprints on our hearts. And we are never, ever the same. ~ Anonymous ~ Among Life s precious jewels, Genuine and rare, The one that we call friendship Has worth beyond compare. ~ Author Unknown ~ Everyone hears what you say. Friends listen to what you say. Best friends listen to what you don t say. ~ Anonymous ~ A friend loves at all times Proverbs 17:17 Friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together ~ Woodrow Wilson ~ Treat your friends as you do your pictures, and place them in their best light. ~ Jennie Jerome Churchill ~ Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that gives value to survival. ~ C.S. Lewis ~ In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends. ~ Martin Luther King Jr. ~ Friendship doubles your joys, and divides your sorrows. (f) ~ Author unknown ~ The only way to have a friend is to be one. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson ~ A friend is a gift you give yourself. ~ Robert Louis Stevenson ~ ~ 122 ~

130 MEMBERSHIP FORMS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ~ 123 ~

131 MEMBERSHIP ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM ~ 124 ~

132 AFFILIATE TRAVEL MEMBER ~ 125 ~

133 BOUNDARY CHANGE GUIDELINES ~ 126 ~

134 SERVICE HOURS RECORD KEEPING Month of August Position Held Chapter Meetings Facet Committee Standing Committee Chapter Program Service Chapter Fundraising Other Link Service Total Link Service Community Service Name Office Chair/ Member Total Hrs. Date Total Hrs. Date Total Hrs. Date Project Total Hrs. Date Event Total Hrs. Date Event Total Hrs. Date Total Hrs. Org. Total Hrs. Georgia Peach Corr. Sec STY mbr/ Bylaws NA NA 2 hrs. 9/10/12 2 hrs. 9/8/12 Health. Fair 4 hrs. 9/10/12 DMA 4 hrs. 9/27/12 Cluster 4 hrs. 9/28/12 16 hrs. UCCF 5 hrs. Link Service Defined Time expended in planning, preparing, participating, implementing and evaluating the operational, programmatic, advocacy and philanthropic activities of The Links, Incorporated and The Links Foundation, Incorporated. Notes: For officers and committee chairs, total hours may include preparation time. For Position Held, insert the appropriate facet and standing committee and note whether chair or member. Directions: Area Vice Director will distribute template to Chapter Presidents and Membership Chairs by or fax. The Chapter Membership Chair and Committee will Complete monthly log for each member (record service and attendance data from Officers and Committee Chairs) Contact members not in accordance with chapter attendance records (chapter bylaws) Make monthly report to Chapter President and chapter Compile annual record for each member and calculate chapter total attendance and service hours Chapter President will submit annual report to Area Director with copy to Area Vice Director by May 15. Monthly Attendance Service Log ~ 127 ~

135 ALUMNA MEMBER FORM ~ 128 ~

136 ALUMNA TO ACTIVE MEMEBRSHIP ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM ~ 129 ~

137 PLATINUM MEMBER FORM ~ 130 ~

138 THIRD YEAR LEAVE APPLICATION ~ 131 ~

139 TRANSFER FORM ~ 132 ~

140 SAMPLE LETTERS or ~ 133 ~