Table of Contents

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OVERVIEW OF SERVICES TO YOUTH FACET Services to Youth Goals

NATIONAL INITIATIVES & SIGNATURE PROGRAMS AT-A-GLANCE –Target Audience, Program Descriptions, Materials & Contact Information

SERVICE DELIVERY MODEL The Links, Incorporated - Program Service Delivery Model

PARTNERSHIPS Services to Youth National Partnerships

APPENDIX Service Delivery Model for Services to Youth Memorandum of Understanding Template Chapter Program Report Form Best Practice Program Summaries (Extracts of National Winners 2008-2010) Services to Youth – National Committee Members

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The Services to Youth programming is aligned with delivering and sustaining transformational programs for youth in kindergarten through college. Through the 274 chapters that comprise The Links, Incorporated, we aim to design and conduct programs that are community relevant and have a positive, long-term impact. We are committed to engaging the community in the design, implementation and delivery of programs that close the academic achievement gap and that prepare African American youth for the 21st Century Workforce. We will accomplish these efforts by Leading with Excellence ~ Serving with Grace.

To assist chapters to develop programs aligned with Services to Youth goals, this toolkit offers an overview of current National Initiatives and Signature programs along with their corresponding goals and outcomes as listed in the Service Delivery Model. Information is also included to guide the development and enhancement of chapters’ programs and goals and to assess effectiveness and impact.

The Links, Incorporated is proud of the many innovative and impactful programs offered through our chapters.We encourage chapters to take advantage of these resources and to integrate your efforts with the initiativesoutlined. When we summarize the impact of our programming in this facet, we are sure that the results willportray a positive and long-term transformation of the lives of children and youth whom we have touched.

Link Argentina M. James Director

Link Jacqueline Hrabowski Co-Director

Overview of Services to Youth

Services to Youth Facet Committee

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Margot James Copeland

National President

Barbara Ruffin-Boston

Director National Programs

Delores Bolden Stamps

Co-Director

National Programs

Argentina M. James

Director

Services to Youth

Jacqueline Hrabowski

Co-Director

Services to Youth

Services to Youth Program Goals

The primary goals of this facet are to

• Promote early literacy• Close the K –16 academic achievement gaps• Increase high school and college graduation rates• Implement local mentoring programs from kindergarten through college• Introduce and support S.T.E.M. education and career readiness programs• Implement college readiness programs• Award college scholarships and endowments• Promote and support Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU)

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National Initiatives & Signature Programs

Services to Youth National Initiatives

The Services to Youth Facet has five national initiatives deemed by The Links, Incorporated’s Leadership as top-of-mind issues of importance and are in support of and/or advocate for the betterment of African American youth. National Mentoring Initiative

• Define how chapters can establish successful mentoring relationships (one-on-one, group mentoring, etc.)

• Develop more mentoring relationships with youths K-16, through local chapters and community partners

• Identify and recruitment more local African American mentors• Stress competence and character building as core values in a mentoring relationship• Encourage mentoring relationships to focus on closing the academic achievement gap

and workforce readiness• Advocate for stronger mentoring relationships with measureable impact • Continue to align with national and local mentoring partners to support mentoring

initiative objectives

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Young Achievers Initiative – 9th-12th Grade – “Developing the Whole Child”

• Implement male and female mentoring programs for youth• Emphasized closing the high school academic achievement gap• Implement S.T.E.M-related career awareness programs • Introduce college readiness • Promote HBCUs as viable options• Introduce financial literacy • Award college scholarships

S.T.E.M. Education and Career Readiness Initiative

• Close the S.T.E.M education gap• Integrate S.T.E.M educational programming K-16 • Facilitate mentoring opportunities • Prepare and encourage students to attend community college

and /or a 4-year college S.T.E.M related program • Prepare minorities to compete in the global workforce • Enhance S.T.E.M related career opportunities for minorities


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Education Linkage – “The Equation for Excellence” Program

• Improve consistency and quality of volunteer/mentoring interventions • Improve student learning outcomes and matriculation into higher

education institutions• Improve student learning outcomes and graduation rates from ATD community

colleges among students of minority and low-income students• Increase student and family financial literacy at the feeder schools and ATD

community colleges• Replicate best practices from feeder school and Equation for Excellence community college volunteer

interventions at HBCUs close to ATD community colleges

National Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Initiative

• Partner with other national organizations• Host HBCU college fairs and other events in each geographic region• Promote and encourage connection with an HBCU and its S.T.E.M programs • Mentor and recruit students to attend and complete HBCU• Identify opportunities to support faculty research and/or professional development • Contribute to the sustainability of HBCU institutions • Establish and brand “The Links Scholars” and “The Links HBCU Endowment”

names and programs


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Signature Programs

A signature program is one which is designed and implemented by The Links, Incorporated. The programs outline how chapters intend to address emerging or current issues, concerns and needs that impact the lives of a target population within the global African American community. There are currently two such programs supported by the Services to Youth Facet — Link to Success: Children Achieving Excellence and Project L.E.A.D High expectations

Links-to-Success: Children Achieving Excellence

• Partner with national organization 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

Project L.E.A.D. – High Expectations

• 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

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Services to Youth Program At a Glance

NATIONAL MENTORING INITIATIVE

Target Audience: all ages

Program DescriptionMentoring programs can include a wide range of topics, formats, and outcomes. The common characteristic of all programs is that the program is based on a structured and trusting relationship that brings young people together with caring adults who offer guidance, support and encouragement aimed at developing the competence and character of the mentee.

Program Materials, Resources, and CostsSince mentoring programs offer great flexibility in design, the related materials, resources, and costs will vary accordingly. Chapter are encourage to develop or locate available resources that help them achieve the goals of their respective programs. Chapters can also consider resources available through our national partnership. The Links, Incorporated has a national partnership with The National Cares Mentoring Movement. This nationwide mentoring movement, founded by Susan Taylor, is a coalition of partner organizations (The National Urban League, 100 Black Men, The YWCA, and The Links, Incorporated), along with a coalition of other organizations and concerned individuals Leading a “call to action” for every able Black adult to mentor a vulnerable young adult in our community. Chapter members mentor and help to recruit, register and support mentors in their local communities.

Program Contact InformationLink Sheila Finlayson, Chair E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 410.626.0071

mailto:[email protected]

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YOUNG ACHIEVERS INITIATIVE

Target Audience: 3rd–12th Grades

Program DescriptionYoung Achievers provides mentoring and Leadership training and development to help students address challenging issues faced during middle and high school and in college and beyond. Thus, a wide range of topics are covered based on the unique needs of the students in the program. Students attend monthly meetings and participate in workshops and filed trips from September through June. Mentoring relationships are established through group interactions and dynamics. Other community partners participate in the program and serve as role models and career experts who can give first-hand information on students’ career interests. Almost 90% of “Young Achievers” have gone on to college.

Program Materials and CostsThis program is chapter specific and therefore, flexible enough to employ a wide range of materials, resources & participants which will ultimately determine the cost to implement.

Program Contact InformationAlthough we have many Achiever programs in each area, the following chapters have exemplary program strategies to share. Metro Manhattan (NY); Angel City (CA); Commonwealth (VA); West Towns (IL).

Link Barbara Martin, Chair E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 914.654.9535

Link Dene Wallace, Co-Chair E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 623.533.3312




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EDUCATION LINKAGE – “THE EQUATION FOR EXCELLENCE” PROGRAM

Target Audience: Community Colleges & University students

Program Description: The Education Linkage Initiative is aimed at creating partnerships and alliances to educate and prepare youth for the 21 Century Workforce. The Equation for Excellence collaboration focuses on the personal and realistic accessibility of higher education. The program aims to increase significantly students’ attitudinal and intellectual college readiness at middle and high school grade levels, thus eventually lessening the need for developmental education at the college level.

The Links, Incorporated has forged a national alliance with Achieving the Dream, Incorporated to launch the Equation for Excellence Program with community colleges and HBCUs. Achieving the Dream, (ATD) Incorporated is a multi-year national initiative designed to ensure the success of students who attend community colleges. ATD is particularly concerned with student groups that traditionally have faced significant barriers to success, i.e., students of color and those from low-income families. More than 130 community colleges and four-year institutions participate in ATD programs across the United States. The ATD community colleges and The Links, Incorporated will bring focus and passion to student success by implementing the Equation for Excellence Program. Program Materials and Costs: Varies according to the scope and content of each program

Program Contact Information: Link Erma Hadley Johnson, Chair E:mail [email protected] Phone: 817. 534.8228Link Connie Cosby, Co-Chair E:mail [email protected] Phone: 502.426.2590



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NATIONAL HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES (HBCU) INITIATIVE

Target Audience: Students in Community Colleges & Universities

Program Description: At its national Conference in 2010, The Links, Incorporated, established a signature program to enhance the role and presence of historically black colleges and universities by creating a national committee consisting of Links members from each region of the nation to form The Links, Incorporated National HBCU Initiative. The goals of this program are aligned with those of the Obama Administration that has called for measures to ensure a larger number of college graduates by the year 2020. A minimum of 25 students will be identified from each participating community college to receive financial support, mentoring, academic coaching and other services needed for successful transfer to an HBCU. Upon completion of at least 30 semester hours or a 2-year degree program, the community college students will transfer to an HBCU. These students will be placed in specific learning communities aligned with their educational and career interests, and receive additional mentoring and coaching by HBCU staff and The Links members. The program will be made available to all students attending the identified community colleges.

Program Materials and Costs: The project team in collaboration with the participating community colleges will identify the type of resources the selected students will need to ensure the students’ continuous participation in the project through completion at the community college. Upon identification of needed resources, the project team will make use of The Links, Incorporated 12,000 plus membership to assist in providing various in-kind resources such as directing them to scholarship opportunities.

Program Contact Information:Link Dorothy Cowser Yancy, Chair E:mail: [email protected] Phone: 704. 575.8045



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S.T.E.M AND CAREER READINESS INITIATIVETarget Audience: All students K-College & Career Readiness

Program Description: The Links, Incorporated will prepare and encourage students to attend colleges and universities with Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (S.T.E.M.) programs, expose students to S.T.E.M. related careers, and equip students with the skills to compete and excel in a global workforce that increasingly relies on individuals with S.T.E.M. related proficiencies. Through a national collaboration with NASA, activities can focus on NASA’s goal to develop innovative strategies to reach educators and students, improve STEM retention and engage community colleges and minority-serving institutions. Chapters can use the NASA S.T.E.M. Curriculum http://stemcareer.com/nasa-education-materials/ to implement integrated S.T.E.M programming in their local communities. Chapters can also integrate S.T.E.M components through other program activities if they choose not to use the NASA curriculum. For example, the Young Achievers Initiative can include a S.T.E.M career awareness activity and/or promote and encourage students to seek S.T.E.M college degree. Chapters could then award their Young Achievers, who are seeking a S.T.E.M-related degree, with chapter scholarships. The S.T.E.M programs and activities should focus on closing the achievement gap for minority children by targeting grades Pre-K through college. Local chapters can provide, through the five program facets, a range of innovative, substantive and sustainable educational resources that: • Inspire a more diverse student population to pursue careers in S.T.E.M-related fields in a creative way. • Engage students, and parents/adult family members, and teachers by incorporating emerging technologies. • Educate students using rigorous S.T.E.M curriculum enhancement activities designed and implemented to encourage critical

thinking.

Program Materials and Costs: Varies according to the scope and content of each program

Program Contact Information: Link Eddie Bernice Johnson, Chair E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 202.225.8885Link Telisa Toliver, Co- Chair E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 832. 202.3445


http://stemcareer.com/nasa-education-materials/



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LINKS-TO-SUCCESS: CHILDREN ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE Target Audience: Target Classrooms 1. K – 3rd Grades 2. Elementary Schools 3. Special Programs in Day Care Centers, Churches and/or other agencies Program Description:This program assists in closing the achievement gap for minority children by focusing on literacy. The mission is to provide a range of innovative, substantive and sustainable educational resources to chapters and communities, to assist in closing the achievement gap. The Links to Success program focuses on the four components of Literacy: Reading , Writing , Speaking, and Listening.

Pre-Implementation Process 4. Meet with School District officials and/or literacy coordinator to explain who The Links are, our community service programs, and the chapter’s

goal to focus on improving literacy for students in grades K-3 who are experiencing challenges. 5. Allow district to recommend a school that has not made AYP and would welcome The Links chapter to implement a literacy program at the school.

Also, seek suggestions for grade level. 6. Upon recommendation/approval from the district, schedule an appointment to meet with the Principal to introduce self, The Links and the

program. Allow principal to recommend grade level (PreK-3) for program implementation. Chapter determines whether they will work with one class, or an entire grade level.

7. Meet with teacher(s) to introduce program and determine needs of students. Discuss suggested literacy activities, and decide on timeline for implementation so as to not interfere with school holidays or testing schedule.

8. 5. Provide a schedule for the project including frequency, time and date: Frequency – bi-weekly, monthly, first Tuesday, third Friday etc. Time – During the regular day program, after-school program, Saturday program, special events.

Program Materials/Costs: Varies according to the scope and content of each program

Program Contact Information: Link Wilma Tootle, Chair E-mail [email protected] Phone: 516.223.0289



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PROJECT L.E.A.D.: HIGH EXPECTATIONS

Target Audience: Students: Grades 4-8, Parents, Guardians

Program Description:This signature program focuses on closing the achievement gap of middle grade students by helping to develop competencies, skills, and positive attitudes. This innovative, transformational, integrative, flexible program helps students to: reduce their aggression and increase their social competencies; understand how to explore S.T.E.M-related careers and choice the right ones for them; develop their ability to make informed judgments and effective decisions about the use and management of their money; and to improve the overall balance of their lives through healthy eating and activities. A minimum of two areas, in addition to mentoring must be implemented. Pre-Implementation Process1. Meet with the school principal, community center program director, church program superintendents, etc. to explain the

project and recruit the students.2. Meet with classroom teacher (s) to explain the project and review materials that will be used.3. Provide a written and consistent schedule for the project.4. Send informational letters, parental permission forms and all other related forms to the parents/guardians,5. Conduct an orientation meeting for students and parents/guardians. Program Materials, Resources, and Costs: Varies according to the scope and content of each program Program References/Contact Information:Link Audrey Cooper-Stanton, Chair E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 773/374-7898 Link Shelly Thompson, Co-Chair E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 216.256.8590


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*Listed below is a description of The Links, Incorporated Service Delivery Model, developed by Alma Dodd, Director, National Strategic Partnerships.

What is Service Model?The National Program Team adopted a Service Delivery Model in order to build a common language for accountability and evaluation across the organization. A Service Model is a tool that may be useful in planning and evaluating programs, committee work and other collaborative projects. Our model was adapted from University of Wisconsin-Extension and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Logic Model. The Logic Model process is a tool that has been used for more than 20 years by program managers and evaluators to describe the effectiveness of their programs. Logic models represent a visual way of expressing the rationale or thought behind a program. Planning Process Our planning process revolves around our basic definition of programming. We define programs as a comprehensive approach to solving a problem or addressing a need or issue within a community. A program is not a onetime event or single activity. A program should include a series of related activities focused on achieving a predetermined set of goals and objectives. Our Service Model contains six components with Inputs-Outputs-Outcomes being central to the common basis of the model. Planning ElementsSituation: Service models are built in response to an existing situation. We identify the problem or priority the program is responding to and the expected benefit to specific audiences. Inputs: The inputs are the resources available to make your program work. Resources could include the people, the money or the community resources that are necessary to operate the program. Inputs lead to outputs.

National Service Delivery Model*

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Outputs: The activities, products, methods, and services you use represent your outputs. Examples of program activities include research, training, technical assistance and other services. Outputs lead to outcomes. Outcomes: The results and benefits for groups, individuals or communities represent outcomes. They may include direct products, services or events delivered through planned activities. External Factors: These are the outside forces that affect the implementation and success of the program. Assumptions: Assumptions are the beliefs we have about why our program will work. Evaluation Planning An evaluation plan to assess the program can be superimposed using the Service Model format. Evaluation involves asking key questions.

Were inputs made as planned? Were activities conducted as planned? Was the desired level of participation achieved? Did clients express or show that they were satisfied with the program?

Outcomes should be measurable and should answer questions such as: Did the participants show an increased level of knowledge, awareness, or motivation? Were behaviors of the clients modified or were policies changed? To what extent did the program affect social, economic, political, or environmental conditions? Developing appropriate and measurable indicators during the planning phase is key to a sound evaluation. Link your activities and results in order to insure success.


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Key Questions for Developing Your Service Model

1. What is the community –level impact (change) that our chapter would like to create as a result of our program?

2. What are the long-term outcomes or behaviors we would like our clients to achieve?3. What are the short-term outcomes we would like our clients to achieve?4. What programs, strategies or services do we need to achieve the short and long term outcomes?5. What resources or inputs do we need to support strategy or service implementation?6. What is going on in our community or in our client’s lives that we have no control over but will affect the

quality of the success of our program?

In Conclusion:

What is a Service Model? A graphic that shows the relationship between inputs, outputs, and outcomes relative to a problem we are trying to solve.

Why use a Service Model?Connects activities with impact ; Provides continuity; Continued improvement


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Situation: (The Problem) Priorities: Mission-Vision: What drives the outcome?

In order to accomplish our set of activities

we will need the following:

In order to address our problem or

asset, we will accomplish the

following activities:

We must clearly identify the

clients who we are serving.

We expect that if accomplished, these activities will lead to the

following changes in 1-2 years:

We expect that if accomplished, these activities will lead to the

following changes in 3-4 years:

We expect that if accomplished

these activities will lead to long

term societal changes.

Indicators: Specific data tracked to measure progress in achieving outcomes Surveys, record reviews observations

External Factors:1.2.

Assumptions:1.2.

Participation: Medium-Term:Activities: Impact/Long-Term:Short-Term:Outputs: Outcomes:Inputs/Resources:

EXAMPLES:- Staff Trainers- Facility- Funding

EXAMPLES:- Classes- Mentoring- Meals- Workshops

Statements ofdesired changeat beginning

Midpointdesired changestatements

Long-term Behavior Change

EVALUATION

Program Action Delivery Model“Leading with Excellence ~ Serving with Grace”

"Signature Service Provides Substantive Solutions"

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Services To Youth National Partnerships

National Cares Mentoring Movement -This is an unprecedented youth-outreach initiative that aims to mobilize the collective African American community to become mentors, volunteers and advocates for young people in association with national and community organizations. We can and must address the critical issues that prevent our youth from reaching full potential

www.CARESmentoring.com

Achieving the Dream, Incorporated, is a multi-year national initiative designed to ensure the success of students who attend community colleges. ATD is particularly concerned with student groups that traditionally have faced significant barriers to success, i.e., students of color and those from low-income families. More than 130 community colleges and four-year institutions participate in ATD programs across the United States.

www.achievingthedream.org

http://www.caresmentoring.com/

http://www.achievingthedream.org/

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APPENDIX

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Services To Youth National Service Delivery Model*

The Links, Incorporated Service Delivery Model“Leading with Excellence ~ Serving with Grace”

Services to Youth Facet: National ProgramsAn integrated approach to preparing a well

educated and skilled workforce

(The following section includes the preliminary Service Delivery Model as it applies to the Services to Youth Facet National Initiatives and

Signature Programs. It is designed to give chapters guidance on program planning and implementation. A finalized version is forthcoming. )

* A special thanks to Link Adrienne Bailey, Windy City (IL) Chapter, for facilitating the development of this National Service Delivery Model for Services to Youth.

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Services to Youth Service Delivery Model

INPUTS/RESOURCES

OUTPUTS

ACTIVITIES & PARTICIPATION OUTCOMES

Short Term Medium TermIn order to accomplish our set of activities, we will need the following:

In order to address our problem or asset, we will accomplish the following activities:

We must clearly identify the clients we are serving.

We expect that if accomplished, these activities will lead to the following changes by Chapter Program Year - 2011- 2012:

We expect that if accomplished, these activities will lead to the following changes by Chapter Program Year -2013-2014:


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Links to Success

INPUTS/RESOURCES OUTPUTSACTIVITIES & PARTICIPATION *OUTCOMES

2011-12* 2013-14*SchoolsCommunity centersSchool staffChapter volunteersCommunity leadersCommunity volunteersLearning Through ArtBooks Alive! For KidsParentsTeachers Testing/evaluation coordinatorFinancial Resources :

Corporate Chapter Community Schools/Title 1

Books in a BoxJanitorial servicesRefreshmentsBooks/PrizesCertificates

Chapter trainingTeacher trainingWelcome sessionPre/Post testingReading sessionCraft projectTutoringMentoringVacation reading ContestLinks Reading ChallengeLive and DV D performancesDVD performanceEnd of year activityGrant writingMarketing/PREvaluationUpdate resourcesS.T.E.M. related activity

Grades K-3

TARGET AUDIENCEGrades K-3 Current: 1,000 1-2 years: 1,400

* Chapter Program year

TARGET AUDIENCEGrades K-3 3-4 years: 1,800

* Chapter Program year


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Project L.E.A.D.

INPUTS/RESOURCES OUTPUTSACTIVITIES & PARTICIPATION

OUTCOMES 2011-12 2013-14

SchoolsCommunity centersSchool staffChapter volunteersParents Sororities FraternitiesMentorsTrainersCommunity guest

speakersInstructional MaterialsFinancial resources :

• Corporate• Chapter• Community

Orientation sessionsChapter volunteersStudentsParents/GrandparentsSchool staffMentorsWorkshopsS.T.E.M. related activityPromote/recruit for HBCUsTutoringCareer fairsHealth fairsField tripsPre/Post testingProgram evaluation Activities may occur:

• During school day• After School• Week-ends

Grades 4-8

TARGET AUDIENCEGrades 4-8 Current: 200 1-2 years: 300-400

TARGET AUDIENCEGrades 4-8 3-4 years: 400-500


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Mentoring Initiative


OUTCOMES 2011-12 2013-14

LinksConnecting LinksCommunity volunteersExisting chapter programs which reach the youth

Volunteer recruitmentTrainingOne-on-oneSmall group to small group interactions focused on education, S.T.E.M. financial literacy, health and social development

Grades K-16 TARGET AUDIENCEGrades K-16 Current: 500 1-2 years: 1,000-

1,500

TARGET AUDIENCEGrades K-163-4 years:10,000


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Young Achievers Initiative

INPUTS/RESOURCES OUTPUTSACTIVITIES & PARTICIATION

OUTCOMES 2011-12 2013-14

InternetSchools CommunityColleges and universitiesOrganizationsLink membersFinancial In-kindFraternitiesSororities100 Black MenUNCFNAFEONCNWBoule’Boys & Girls ClubYMCA

Planning meetingsOrientation /training sessionsVolunteer/partner recruitmentGrant writingCollege fairs/toursAfter-school and Saturday workshops1 on 1 and Group mentoring Speaker presentationsLeadership seminarsCareer daysPartnershipsStudent service projectsS.T.E.M.-related activityRecruit/promote HBCUsField tripsFamily nightFinancial literacy

Grades 9-14

TARGET AUDIENCEGrades 9-14 Current: 380 1-2 years: 460-

540

TARGET AUDIENCEGrades 9-14 3-4 years: 620-700


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Education Linkage


OUTCOMES 2011-12 2013-14

Training materialsLinksCommunity collegesAchieving the DreamHBCUs & other colleges/universities

MentoringTraining/Credentialing programEducational support K – College servicesVolunteer interventionsFinancial literacy seminarsFinancial literacy centersEvaluationS.T.E.M. related activityCollege toursPromote/recruit for HBCUs

Grades 10-16 (Associates or Bachelors Degree)

TARGET AUDIENCEGrades 10-16 (Associates or Bachelors Degree) 1 Year: 250

TARGET AUDIENCEGrades 10-16 (Associates or Bachelors Degree)2– 3 years: 1,250


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National HBCU Initiative


OUTCOMES 2011-12 2013-14

HBCUsAchieving the DreamScholarshipsLinksHBCU supporting organizations

Collaborate with other national organizationsWorkshop presentations Generate Financial Resources - Scholarships and Faculty researchProfessional DevelopmentEstablish, Align & Brand HBCU “Scholars” & Endowment Programs S.T.E.M. related activityRecruit studentsMentoring

Grades 10 –16Degree and Career Placement

TARGET AUDIENCEGrades 10 –16 1-2 years: 600

TARGET AUDIENCE Grade 10 –16 3-4 years: 1,000


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S.T.E.M. Integration and Partnership


OUTCOMES 2011-12 2013-14

LinksHBCUs and other university partnersBusiness partner employeesSchoolsCommunity collegesCommunity –based organizationsNASA curriculum and training tools

Orientation sessionsWorkshops on S.T.E.M. careersPrepare students to pursue degrees in S.T.E.M programsRecruit students for S.T.E.M. careersVolunteer/partner recruitmentMentoringTutoringExperiential learning Field trips/college toursSpeaker presentationsProfessional developmentTeacher trainingEnhance curriculaEmphasizing S.T.E.M . disciplines and energy industry

S.T.E.M: Grades K-16 TARGET AUDIENCEGrades K-16 S.T.E.M. INTEGRATED APPROACH Current: 5,000 1-2 years.:10,000 S.T.E.M. PARTNERSHIP PROJECT (Grade 9)1 year: 500

TARGET AUDIENCEGrades K-16 S.T.E.M. INTEGRATED APPROACH 3-4 years: 5,000 S.T.E.M. PARTNERSHIP PROJECT (Grades 10-11)2-3 years: 1,000

*A S.T.E.M. related approach can be applied across all Services to Youth initiatives and signature programs as well as integrated within the four other program facets.


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Targeted Program Outcomes

TARGETED PROGRAM OUTCOMES**Though specific program outcomes are still being captured and finalized, the following represent general outcomes components expected for all Services to Youth Programs.

All STY Programs• Participation in a S.T.E.M. related activity • Specific and measurable individual chapter STY program accomplishments

STY Programs Targeted to Grades K-12• Increased academic improvement in reading and math• 90% of students passing to the next grade

STY Programs Targeted to Grades 13-17 *• Completion of 2 years of non-remedial college credit• Increase in number of scholarships awards to HBCU students• Four -5 year college completion *Allows for 5 year college completion

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MOU TEMPLATE (Memorandum of Understanding)

To ensure mutual understanding, chapters are encouraged to develop a MOU with all local partners who support the work of the chapter.

It should include the following:

Goals & Objectives: What is to be accomplished by the project / program? By what date?

Partner Agreement: What will each entity do and /or be accountable for?

Deliverables: What are the expected outcomes/results for each entity?

Approvals: What approvals are required and by whom? (i.e. use of photos, grade release authorizations, field trip permissions, contact information, background checks)

Financial Agreements: (i.e. Scholarships, Awards, Gifts, Proposals)

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PROGRAM INFORMATION

Chapter Report Template

PROBLEM/SITUATION ADDRESSED

The Links, IncorporatedChapter Program Report

Print This Page

We would like this program to be considered for an award: Facet:Sub-facet:

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GOAL(S)/OBJECTIVE (S) of PROGRAM

DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM PROJECT

LIST OF ACTIVITIES (OUTPUT) IMPLEMENTED

TARGETED GROUPS


Please check all that apply:[ ] Women [ ] Children[ ] Senior Citizens[ ] Family[ ] Others

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METHODS USED TO DETERMINE THE GROUP(S) (e.g. Needs Assessment)

1. Number of members in chapter

2. Number of members who participated in program

3. Number of People Served

4. Did you collaborate with other community groups to plan and/or implement the program?

5. If yes, give name s of the groups and describe their involvement.

Projected Costs: Actual Costs:

Was a grant or underwriting obtained?

COST OF PROGRAM/PROJECT


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OPERATION AND SUSTAINABILITY

If yes, give amount and funding source(s) name (s) and address(es) $____________Total Amount Underwritten Were any in-kind donations/services provided?

Most outstanding qualities of this program (up to three) How will this program be sustained and/or institutionalized?

Methods of Evaluation

MARKETING AND EVALUATION

PROGRAM SUMMARY/IMPACT STATEMENT


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Best Practice Program Summaries

Chapter Name: TampaArea: SouthernLocation: Tampa, FLTitle of Program: Jewels of TampaNumber of Members in Chapter: 37Number of Members who Participated in the Program: 25Number of People Served: 360Names of Collaborators/Partners and Sponsorship Activity:John F. Germany Public Library, Henry B. Plant, Candy Lowe Tea Time, Mr. Fred Hearns (localhistorian), Mr. Hearns (tour narrator), National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE)Program Budget: $3,000

Program Summary/Impact Statement: On the third Friday afternoon of each month, The Tampa Chapter, along with invited presenters, meet the “Jewels of Tampa” for dialogues on various topics including cultural, educational, social, health/wellness, and self-development issues. Further exposure and impact are provided through field trips to the Victorian Christmas Stroll at the H.B. Plant Museum, University tour and campus lunch, tour of historical Black Tampa and Mother/Daughter International Tea. Each dynamic event contributes significantly to the ongoing personal growth and development of each Jewel. The Jewels mentoring program was initiated in 2004 at Sheehy Elementary School (Royal Jewels) and expanded to Van Buren Middle School in 2008 (Radiant Jewels). Hundreds of girls have participated in the program since 2004, with 71 current fifth and eighth grade Jewels who pledge to pursue key values, beliefs and attitudes of friendship, respect for self and others, healthy lifestyles, scholarship and good citizenship. One of the more impressive and affirming reactions to the Jewels program was a published article of interviews following a field trip; student responses demonstrated an appreciation for the cultural exposures and exhibited an increase in self-confidence. The Tampa Chapter is very pleased with the program and progress of its participants. The Jewels are Tampa’s leaders of tomorrow, and the responsibility to contribute toward their best preparation is this Chapter’s commitment. Building strong youth and stronger communities ensures a brighter future for them and all of us.

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Chapter Name: ChattanoogaArea: CentralLocation: Chattanooga, TNTitle of Program: Linking Students to ACT PreparationNumber of Members in Chapter: 38Number of Members who Participated in the Program: 28Number of People Served: 250Names of Collaborators/Partners and Sponsorship Activity:Hamilton County Schools, Kastle Instructional Recovery, Kastle Transportation, GEAR-UP (Universityof Tennessee), HSAT staff, 100 Black Men and Phi Beta SigmaProgram Budget: $72,000

Program Summary/Impact Statement: The Links Academy in Chattanooga, Tennessee is designed to servehigh school students and is featured at one of the oldest high schools in Tennessee. The school serves a 93%minority, 97% economically disadvantaged population, and takes students from “wanting” to go to collegeto being academically and socially prepared to succeed in college. Students participate four days per week for 2-3 hour sessions in intensive academic preparation in mathematics, language, writing, speaking, and listening. Social and debate skills, based on student research, serve to build confidence and enable students to demonstrate leadership skills by proposing solutions to long-standing Chattanooga problems first to the school, then to The Links, Incorporated, and ultimately to the Chattanooga City Council. Larger problems are debated at the state capitol and/or Washington, D.C. This project gives the school credibility by allowing the students to be recognized across the district. When city and county leaders listen to the students debate the issues and present a solution to a problem, they are impressed and have more respect for the school and the academic environment.

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Chapter Name: Fairfield County Area: EasternLocation: Bridgeport, CTTitle of Program: Children Achieving Excellence: Healthy MindsNumber of Members in Chapter: 44Number of Members who Participated in the Program: 14Number of People Served: 193Names of Collaborators/Partners and Sponsorship Activity:Bridgeport Unified School District, Learning Through Art: Books Alive!Program Budget: $500 (Actual in excess of $3,700)

Program Summary/Impact Statement: In 3 years, we’ve successfully grown this program from 16 students to 95 students per year – a six fold increase, thereby uplifting an entire grade. To that end, we’ve helped to improve the literacy levels of more than 200 Bridgeport children over 3 consecutive years. Test results for the first year of the program resulted in a 4% increase in CMT reading and comprehension scores. Although a majority of these students come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, our goal is to help them develop fundamental and critical reading skills through the use of “tried and true” foundational tools needed for a sustainable, productive, successful and well purposed life. Our GW Johnson students embraced reading and became empowered. As noted by their parents and teachers, a visible difference and self esteem improvement are evident. The students enthusiastically accept the challenge to push themselves beyond the limited expectations of a society and a social structure that, in many cases, have failed them. For every child that we assist in improving their reading and critical thinking skills, we also succeed in improving their opportunity to escape the cycle of poverty and establish a firm roadmap toward high school graduation. Lastly, by early intervention, we increase the chances for long term success and optimize their personal contributions to society.

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Chapter Name: Missouri CityArea: WesternLocation: TexasTitle of Program: STEM-ULATION: LEFT BRAIN/RIGHT BRAINNumber of Members in Chapter: 60Number of Members who Participated in the Program: 60Number of People Served: 475Names of Collaborators/Partners and Sponsorship Activity:Aspiring Youth Houston, ,E-STEM Academy, James Ryan Middle School, The Ensemble Theatre, Texas SouthernUniversity, Black Pilots of America, Inc., Texas Children’s Hospital, Alzheimier’s Association of Houston, AmericanHeart Association, Bronze Eagle Flying Club, BP America, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas - Houston Branch,Global Youth Services, Houston Arts Alliance, National Cares Mentoring Movement, Port of Houston Authority,Society for the Performing Arts, NASA, and Ellington Air Field.Program Budget: $352,400Program Summary/Impact Statement: In July of 2008, MCCL formed a community collaborative partnership with the Choice Foundation, E-STEM Academy, Ryan Middle School, Texas Southern University and the Ensemble Theatre to address the increasing under-representation of minorities and women in STEM careers. The MCCL called upon the leadership, knowledge and positioning of its members at major corporations, institutions,medical facilities and TSU to propel the STEM charter school to the next level. The resulting program is a true testament to the breadth and depth of the women and resources within The Links organization. The partnership resulted in the development of the STEM-ULATION: Left Brain/Right Brain Program. The full brain approach (left brain/right brain) reinforces the broad scope of STEM competencies in the 21st century. The STEM-ULATIONProgram seeks to prepare minorities and women to assume the role of problem-solver in the STEM-related disciplines and careers. The impact of the STEM-ULATION program will be far-reaching although right now it is still in its infancy stage. However, there are some early commendations which show very promising results. Recently, the E-STEM Academies participated in a state-wide robotics competition and won 4th place among the 87 public and private schools that competed. We believe this level of success speaks to the consummate program design and the commitment of each partner to expose the students to the best and the brightest STEM professionals in the city, coupled with rigorous study. The 97.9% performance rating on the TAKS scores, almost 3 percentage points higher than the national average, is another early indicator that we're on the right track and closely aligned with the goals and objectives of the program. The program curriculum is designed so that graduating students will have earned 24 college credits upon graduation, therefore graduating high school with a diploma and a 2-year college associate’s degree. This is an incredible achievement and a huge financial boost to families who do not have the means to pay for college. This is an intentional program design to support the goal of making the transition from high school to college not only possible but attainable. STEM-ULATION: Right Brain/Left Brain is a powerful tool for producing high school graduates with a deep knowledge and strong passion for science, technology, engineering and math that translates into much higher rates of college attendance and graduation in scientific fields. This is the ultimate goal we strive to achieve.

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Services to Youth CommitteesServices to YouthArgentina M. James (Director) Jacqueline Hrabowski (Co-Director) Vicki Hill BrooksDorian CarterConnie Cosby Sheila Maxine FinlaysonKimberly Mumby GreenErma Johnson Hadley Brenda Thompson JamersonEddie Bernice Johnson Barbara J. LeonardBarbara MartinAudrey Cooper-StantonShelly ThompsonTelisa Toliver Wilma TootleAudrey Rose WalkerDene WallaceDorothy Yancy

National Mentoring InitiativeSheila Finlayson (Chair) Mary Kendrick CastleberryJacqueline Pope

Young Achievers InitiativeBarbara Martin (Chair)Dene Wallace (Co-Chair)Irma LowmanBrandolyn Thomas Pinkston

Education LinkageErma Johnson Hadley (Chair) Connie Cosby (Co-Chair)Helen E. Jones-KelleyLucinda SullivanCharlotte Meade NedMildred ThompsonCheryl AtkinsonAdrienne BaileyMary BaileyAdrienne JamesJoyce LanierDebra LazareDeborah SimsDene Wallace Project L.E.A.D./ High ExpectationsAudrey Cooper-Stanton (Chair)Shelly Thompson (Co-Chair) Diedrae Carron Bell-HunterCatherine Fisher CollinsHermina HendricksTasha Ransom (Liaison)Debra Braithwaite (Liaison) Patricia Robinson (Liaison)

Links To SuccessWilma Tootle (Chair)Cherry A. McGee BanksDonnice Brown

National HBCU Initiative Dorothy Yancy (Chair)Shirley Marie McCartherHarriet Frink DavisEdwina HefnerBeverly HoganBarbara Talbert JacksonMarye JeffriesJacquelyn Madry-TaylorLaverne ParkerDeanne SheltonMary SiasAnnie WhatleyBoyce C. Williams (Liaison)Clarissa Myrick-Harris (Liaison)

S.T.E.M. Education and Career Readiness InitiativeEddie Bernice Johnson (Chair) Telisa Toliver (Co-Chair) Iris CrossJoan HigginbothamKimberly Houston-PhilpotTeresa Cox

The Links, Incorporated1200 Massachusetts Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20005202-842-8686

www.linksinc.org

Argentina M. JamesServices to Youth Director

e-mail: [email protected] and 713.306-6822

Jacqueline HrabowskiServices to Youth Co-Directore-mail: [email protected] and 410.581.2235



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