Programs
Rosia Blackwell Lawrence
Program Chair
The Greater Hudson Valley Chapter of The Links, Incorporated is dedicated to serving our community through transformative programs and initiatives under our five core facets: Services to Youth, National Trends & Services, The Arts, Health & Human Services, and International Trends & Services. Each facet represents a strategic area of impact, empowering our community and fostering positive change.
We are committed to enriching the lives of young people by providing educational, cultural, and healthy experiences and engagements in their communities. Through mentorship, engagement and on the ground enrichment, our chapter has implemented initiatives such as Healthy Snacks and Dinners, Community Healing & Vegetable Gardens, Books Alive for Kids, college readiness workshops, STEM programs, and Healthy Relationships workshops. We are committed to ensuring our young people are given the tools and resources they need to succeed academically and to be productive members of society.
2. **National Trends & Services**
We are committed to effectively empowering the communities and families with whom we work to eliminate disparities by reducing barriers to services through advocacy, education, and service. Our chapter addresses pressing national issues that affect our community, from economic development to social justice. Among our chapter programs and activities include Feeding Westchester Annual Food Drive, Share The Warmth Annual scarves and gloves distribution, a partnership with Dress for Success to conduct an annual virtual Vision Board activity with women around the world, and recognizing outstanding young people with our Youth Community Leaders Awards.
3. **The Arts**
We celebrate and promote African American arts and culture through various platforms. Our chapter has hosted Art Appreciation Events such as Picture My World, which showcases student photographers and their vision of their lives and the issues that are important to them, Classics Through the Ages a partnership with Rockland Conservatory of Music, and The Emerald Book Club, which feature dialogue and engaging conversation with local and national Black authors. In addition, we sponsor arts focused competitions for youth, such as the signature Young Masters 2.0 offering them exposure to diverse art , music, written word and dance forms and encouraging creativity.
4. **Health & Human Services**
Health and wellness are at the forefront of our efforts, and we are devoted to improving the well-being of the communities we serve. Through our integrated and umbrella national initiative, Black Family Wellness Health Expos and health workshops, we provide screenings, health education, and access to resources that address health disparities such as heart disease, diabetes, and mental health. We also actively support initiatives promoting healthy living through nutrition and exercise, in particular our Annual Walk for Healthy Living Annual Walk-a-Thon and addressing the critical need for organ donation in the Black community through hosting Donor Sabbath Days.
5. **International Trends & Services**
Our chapter is deeply engaged in global service initiatives, providing aid and support to underserved communities abroad. We have a longstanding relationship and sponsorship of the Putellas School in South Africa, where we supply educational materials, provide critical infrastructure, and support teachers. Our commitment to international collaboration ensures that we extend our mission of service beyond borders.
**Link Up The Vote Initiative**
The Greater Hudson Valley Chapter is proud to support the national *Link Up The Vote* initiative, which underscores the importance of civic engagement and voting. We believe that voting is a fundamental right and a critical tool for empowerment and social change. Our efforts focus on mobilizing, educating, and empowering our community to actively participate in the voting process. By hosting voter registration drives, conducting educational forums, and providing information on voting rights, we aim to ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to make their voice heard.
We recognize the importance of informed and engaged citizens in shaping the future of our nation. Through Link Up the Vote, we are committed to increasing voter turnout, particularly in underserved communities, and advocating for policies that uphold justice, equality, and equity for all.
Our chapter programming focus reflects our ongoing commitment to service, empowerment, and active participation in working to improve the vibrancy and health of our communities, aligning with the mission of The Links, Incorporated.
Rosia Blackwell Lawrence
Programming Chair
Greater Hudson Valley Chapter, The Links, Incorporated