The goal of HHS 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.
Health and Human Services
The Links, Incorporated established the Health and Human Services (HHS) facet in response to the chronic health disparities that persist in black communities and result in the decreased life expectancy of African Americans and other people of African ancestry.
Community education about health risks is crucial and The Links, Incorporated plays a significant role in providing information. The Dade County Chapter continues to implement Health and Human Services with the following programs.
Linking to Empower U
A Virtual HIV Educational Program - As awardees of the Southern Area’s Gilead Sciences Sub-Grant, Linking to Empower U: A Virtual HIV Educational Program, the Dade County Chapter and the Empower U Community Health Center (EUCHC) hosted multiple virtual events for the Liberty City Community. EUCHC engaged a guest speaker for the event who had knowledge and experience in the HIV field as well as a presence in the community. The discussion included HIV prevention methods and other relevant topics. The events were conducted using the Facebook Live Streaming platform, spanning over four days and reaching over 250 individuals.
I am Becoming...
Linking Into Light and Life
The Health and Human Services Facet partnered with New Horizons Community Mental Health Center, Incorporated Children’s Program to initiate “I Am Becoming…. Linking into Light and Life”. To help ensure the safety and hygiene of students serviced through New Horizons. The Facet donated 160 backpacks and bags filled with facial masks, hand sanitizer, rulers, mechanical pencils, folders, notebooks, composition books, flashlights, and other items for students to begin the 2020-2021 academic year.
Linking Up with
Mind, Body, and Spirit
The Dade County chapter facilitates lunch and learn series for students in the magnet program at Miami Central Senior High School.
Link Sisters Celebrating Heart Health Month
Throughout the month of Februrary, our chapter illuminates the importance of preventative care, encouraging every Link Sister and community partner to "know their numbers." From educational seminars to our signature Go Red gatherings, we provide a sophisticated platform for dialogue regarding heart disease—the leading cause of health challenges for women. By wearing our iconic red attire, we stand in solidarity to raise awareness and inspire life-saving lifestyle changes.
Links Walk-a-thon
The Dade County chapter actively and financially supports monthly walks/runs in Miami-Dade County to include Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), Suicide Prevention, Juvenile Diabetes, and many more.
Colgate Bright Smiles Dental Van
A Brighter Future for R.R. Moton Elementary
The Dade County (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated was proud to facilitate a transformational visit from the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures® mobile dental unit to the students of Robert Russa Moton Elementary School. This signature initiative brought world-class oral health resources directly to the heart of the West Perrine community, ensuring our youth receive the healthy start and clinical attention they deserve.
The Mobile Clinic Experience
During this high-impact visit, students were welcomed aboard the state-of-the-art, 32-foot mobile dental unit, a "dental office on wheels" designed to provide a friendly and non-intimidating environment for pediatric care. Within this clinical space, volunteer dental professionals conducted complimentary oral health screenings to assess each child's needs. These clinical check-ups were paired with empowering educational sessions focused on the vital importance of brushing twice daily and maintaining a healthy diet. To ensure long-term wellness, the program provided vital treatment referrals for students requiring follow-up care, bridging the gap between initial screening and permanent dental health.
Equipping the Next Generation
The impact of the day extended far beyond the mobile clinic, as every student departed empowered with a "Healthy Smile" kit. These resources—including a Colgate® toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and bilingual educational materials—serve to reinforce life-changing hygiene habits within the home. By bringing this global initiative to the halls of R.R. Moton Elementary, our chapter continues its mission of removing barriers to wellness and fostering the confidence necessary for our leaders of tomorrow to succeed.
Health and Human Services: Facet Chair
Dr. Alysse Richardson