Pontchartrain Chapter of The Links, Inc. records

Collection

Identifier: 715

Staff Only

Content Description

The records of the Pontchartrain Chapter of The Links, Inc. contain chapter and national materials that document the Chapter’s activities include minutes and agendas, photographs, correspondence, bylaws, and financial records.

The records include photographs of Chapter activities, Links publications, such as Link to Link and Linkdom News, newsletters and news clippings; and ephemeral materials. Of note is the President’s book for Anita Dabon (2003-2005) containing programs, correspondence, agendas, minutes, financial records, and budgets for the time period. Additionally, of interest is a planning book for the 30th National Assembly in New Orleans.

The records also contain materials that document the history of the Chapter since its inception in 1994. Of note is a scrapbook/photograph album documenting the Metropolitan Area Guild and the early years of the Pontchartrain Chapter (1992-1996). Of interest are a list of charter members: Valera Mason, Bari Davis, Esparanza Sullins, Janet Duncan Barnes, Jacqueline Raphael, Lynn Bernal-Green, Carolyn E. Lewis, Ruth Jean, and Betty Walker. Materials also relate to the Southern Area Conference (1997-2005), as well as national assemblies and programs supported or sponsored by The Links, Inc. are present.

Dates

Other: 1992-2018

Creator

Links, Inc., Pontchartrain Chapter (Organization)

Historical Note

The Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter of The Links, Inc., was established in 1994. An interest group under the mentorship of Lydia Sindos Adams was established in 1989 at the invitation of the Crescent City (LA) Chapter of The Links, Inc. to explore the establishment of a third chapter of The Links, Incorporated in the metropolitan area of New Orleans, Louisiana. The original group named itself the Metropolitan Area Guild whose members became charter members of the Pontchartrain Chapter in May 1994. The late Jacqueline N. Raphael was the charter president. National President Marion Schultz Sutherland, National Vice President Patricia Russell-McCloud, and Southern Area Vice Director Joyce Martin Dixon.

With a focus on civic, charitable, philanthropic, educational, and cultural engagement the Pontchartrain Chapter has engaged the New Orleans community for more than 25 years. When public school music programs were eliminated, Chapter members responded by initiating “Links Keep the Music Playing” a three-part program comprised of vocal and instrumental training, applied performance skills, and educational sessions to strengthen music appreciation. The Pontchartrain Links Boys Choir, the vision of Chapter President Jacqueline N. Raphael, became a conduit for showcasing the musical talents of area public elementary and middle school boys. Chapter members and Connecting Links (members’ spouses) assisted with workshops, career days, and group discussions that promoted the importance of academic achievement, the richness of our culture, and the value of having a range of social skills.

Other philanthropic efforts for the Chapter included providing residents with donated toiletries, long-term shelter, clothing, and financial support.