In commemoration of 40 Years of transformational service and dedication, the South Suburban Chicago (IL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated held a formal celebration on June 5, 2016 at the Olympia Fields Country Club in Olympia Fields, IL. Jacquelyn Heath Parker, 10th Chapter President served as chairman of the event. The impressive guest list included Dr. Glenda Newell-Harris, 16th National President of The Links, Incorporated; Glenda Masingale Manson, Central Area Director of The Links, Incorporated; 14th National President, Gwendolyn B. Lee, PhD, a member of South Suburban Chicago Chapter and the Chapter Organizer; Yvonne Roulhac Horton, Ph.D. Additionally, in attendance were Board Members from School District 147, South Suburban Mayors, State Representatives, Chicago Area Links members, friends, family and more than 200 longtime supporters. As an embellishment to the pomp and splendor, the chapter unveiled their first Chapter History Book dating from 1976 to 2016.
The South Suburban Chicago Chapter (SSCC) functions as one of the premier community service organizations in the Southern Suburbs. SSCC was chartered in University Park, Illinois in June 1976. The organizer, Yvonne Roulhac Horton accepted the challenge of establishing a Links Chapter in the South Suburban Community. The chartering vision became a reality and as a result, the chapter made a memorable and historical imprint through dedicated and transformational service.
SSCC comprised of 59 women, is able to provide sustainable community service programs through grants and fundraising efforts. The five programs of service (Facets) are National Trends and Services, International Trends and Services, Health and Human Services, Services To Youth and The Arts. In addition to annually disbursing thousands of dollars in community programming, each year the chapter awards a total of $10,000 in scholarships to deserving High School Graduates. The chapter is also a recipient of numerous National and Area Awards for the superlative programming it provides in the South Suburban Community.
In the words of the President, Jacqueline James Lewis, “For four decades we have focused on the strengths, needs and possibilities within the Southland Community. Through strategic planning and partnerships, we have enriched the lives of children and families. Yes, we are servant leaders making a difference toward creating healthy, productive lives and level playing fields for all citizens. This chapter anticipates a continuum of prospering service.”
