Transformational Programming

The “Transformational Programming” workshop at the 2012 Links Western Area Leadership Summit encouraged attendees to work together.

Link Diane Scott, chairperson of Western Area programs, provided strategies to help chapters foster effective program assessment. 

The template for smart goals includes an evaluation of each project’s reliability. Evaluations should assess whether programs are realistic and responsible. For example, programs with a STEM emphasis should inspire, engage and educate participants. The ultimate goal is to help participants become gainfully employed in STEM occupations. 

Panelists also discussed the importance of incorporating the service delivery model in chapter projects to help users think through issues. Key questions include: 

Why do we integrate? 

·      To conserve our resources 

·      Collaboration

·      To meet the needs of target groups

How do we integrate?

·      More than one facet working together 

·      100 percent participation 

·      Participate and be strong 

When we work as a team, we grow stronger. Man power plus brainpower equals ideas. 

Finally, panelists discussed how chapters might assess the final product. Outcomes, or what you expect to happen, may be measured using the following:

·      Review of priorities and goals

·      Measurements 

·      Sustainability 

·      Impact 

·      Allocation of resources going forward 

·      See changes in behavior 

·      Long-term change 

Evaluation piece should be a part of the program 

·      Focus groups 

·      Midpoint assessment

·      Interpretation of evaluation 

Links Spread Joy at Woodland Springs Nursing Home

The Links had a blessed time visiting members of the Alzheimer's wing of the Woodland Spring's Nursing home. About 12 members participated in the activity meant to bring joy to the facility's clients.

"It is always good when we can give back to the community," Link Felicia Coleman said after directing several traditional hymns.

The Links received a special treat when one of the patients began to play the piano. In addition to singing church hymns, Links members passed out travel-sized toiletries such as soap, lotion, vaseline and shampoo.

Heir-)-Links pitched in by talking to patients and spreading joy through smiles, hugs and handshakes.

"It is always nice to bring a smile to someone's face," said Heidi Hall, who formed a special friendship with a younger patient who recently sustained a motorcycle injury. "It is really hard to see someone there who is close to your age. But you never know where God is going to place you."

Links Inc. historical photos

The Waco Chapter of The Links, Inc. received special treats during the months of October and November when Link Beulah Barksdale shared historical tidbits and photos at regular meetings.

Upon the suggestion of Link Terri Woods-Campbell, who  joined the organization two years ago, and wanted to learn more about its history, President Josette Ayres instituted a "Moment in Chapter History" into each meeting.

In October, Link Barksdale revealed this chapter was chartered when integration was at its heyday.

"Professionals were interspersed among work places that had many restrictions," she said.  "We came together as friends. We wanted to know each other’s names, not have to watch our backs. It is still that way today. "

Barksdale said the organization has always worked in the community, caring for children, recognizing leaders and helping the African-American community. It has always been sisterly, very prominent and useful in the community.

"We are a tight-knit group," she said. "That means no unfriendliness, separate groups, no line sisters."

In November, Barksdale discussed the group attending its first national convention and shared photos from the event.

"When we were established in 1974, we had 12 members," she said. "We had lots of visitors from various cities. We had a great time."

Members were in awe at her display.

Link Ramona Curtis shared her thoughts on Barksdale's presentation and expressed the gratitude felt by the entire Waco Chapter.

"This is really beneficial," said Link  Curtis. "I'm glad she shared these photos and information with us.

Waco Links, Inc. Participates in The Art Centers Pumpkin Event

The Waco Chapter of The Links, Inc. shared in the festivities of this year's Pumpkin Event sponsored by the
Art Center on Oct. 30. The event featured apple bobbing, pumpkin carving, games, a costume contest and more.

Links members helped participants create artistic masks using paper plates, paint, glitter, yarn and an assortment of other items. Not only did Links members have a great time, but Heir-o-Links joined in the celebration as well.

"I can't believe we got to carve a pumpkin," said Timothy Hall Ramirez, who cleaned his pumpkin alone,  and carved it using a special kit supplied by The Art Center. "It was so much fun."

The event was free and open to the public. It is held annually at The Art Center of Waco, which is housed on the McLennan Community College campus.

Waco’s first Bronze Eagle Fly-in

Timothy and William

By Mia Moody-Ramirez

Waco’s first Bronze Eagle Fly-in was a success with hundreds of participants from all walks of life.

Co-sponsored by the Waco Chapter of The Links, Inc. and the  Bronze Eagles Flying Club (BEFC) of Texas, it targeted African Americans, Hispanics, girls and members of other groups that are underrepresented in STEM-related occupations.

Demetra Kennedy, Links chair, said the 2011 Boeing Pilot & Technician Outlook indicates that by 2030 the global aviation industry will require 460,000 new commercial airline pilots and 650,000 new commercial airline maintenance technicians,

“The good news is there are many scholarships available in the aviation field,” she said. “We need to make sure our children take advantage of them!””

The Fly-in gave local youth the opportunity to meet an astronaut/pilots and experience flying in a plane. Participants also operated flight simulators, learned about Black aviation pioneers and experienced the world of air traffic control.

Connecting Link, Jesse Hayes, and Heir-o-Links, Timothy and William Hall-Ramirez, were featured on KWTX's 10 p.m. newscast. KWTX Video

“It was awesome,” said Timothy who really enjoyed meeting pilots and an astronaut. “I may consider becoming a pilot.”

The Bronze Eagles Flying Club (BEFC) of Texas is a nonprofit charity flying organization and chapter of the Black Pilots of America, (BPA).

“We help disadvantaged youth in their endeavors toward higher education, particularly in the field of aviation,” said Hayes, who was instrumental in bringing the program to Waco.

The organization also offers a variety of services including: free familiarization flights, free aviation career training, and a National Summer Flight Academy for eligible students.

Links President Josette Ayres said the Fly-in was successful on all accounts.

“We may look at co-sponsoring it every year,” she added.

Movie created by Timothy Hall-Ramirez