How To Join Links Incorporated A Step By Step Membership Guide

Links Incorporated is one of the most respected volunteer service organizations for Black women in the United States. Founded in 1946, it has grown into a national network dedicated to enriching, sustaining, and ensuring the cultural and economic survival of African Americans and other underserved communities. With over 17,000 members across more than 294 chapters, Links provides impactful programming in areas like health, education, international advocacy, human services, and the arts.

Becoming a member is not simply about filling out a form—it’s a commitment to service, leadership, and sisterhood. This guide walks you through the entire process, from determining eligibility to submitting your application and integrating into an active chapter.

Understanding Links Incorporated: Purpose and Structure

Before pursuing membership, it’s essential to understand what Links Incorporated stands for. The organization operates under five program facets: Services to Youth, The Arts, National Trends and Services, International Trends and Services, and Health and Human Services. Each chapter selects initiatives within these areas based on community needs.

Membership is by invitation only and requires sponsorship from at least two current members in good standing. Prospective members must demonstrate professional achievement, community involvement, and alignment with the organization’s mission. Chapters are organized regionally—Northeastern, Southeastern, Central, Southwestern, and Western—and each functions autonomously while adhering to national guidelines.

“Membership in Links is not just about joining an organization; it’s about answering a call to lead, serve, and uplift.” — Dr. Glenda Glover, Past National President, Links Incorporated

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Membership

Gaining entry into Links Incorporated involves a structured, multi-phase process designed to ensure candidates are well-aligned with the organization’s values and capable of fulfilling its rigorous service expectations.

1. Determine Eligibility: Candidates must be women of African descent, at least 25 years old (though some chapters accept younger professionals), professionally accomplished, and actively engaged in civic or charitable work.
2. Research Local Chapters: Visit the official Links Incorporated website to locate active chapters in your area. Note their meeting schedules, community projects, and outreach focus.
3. Attend Public Events: Many chapters host public events such as galas, scholarship fundraisers, or health fairs. Attend these to observe operations and begin building relationships.
4. Secure Sponsors: Identify two current members who can vouch for your character, professional background, and service orientation. These sponsors will submit formal letters of recommendation.
5. Submit Application Packet: Complete the official application, which includes personal information, résumé, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining your motivation and service philosophy.
6. Interview Process: If shortlisted, you’ll be invited for an interview with the chapter’s membership committee. Expect questions about your availability, financial commitment, and long-term goals.
7. Voting and Induction: The full chapter votes on your candidacy. If approved, you’ll undergo an orientation and formal induction ceremony.

Tip: Begin networking with members early—even six months before applying—to build trust and visibility.

Key Requirements and Expectations

Membership in Links Incorporated is both an honor and a responsibility. Once accepted, members commit to sustained participation, including regular attendance, project leadership, fundraising contributions, and annual dues.

Requirement	Details
Age	Minimum 25 years (varies slightly by chapter)
Sponsorship	Two active members must sponsor you in writing
Professional Status	Established career or notable community leadership
Time Commitment	Monthly meetings + project involvement (10–15 hrs/month avg.)
Financial Obligations	One-time initiation fee ($300–$600) + annual dues ($200–$400)
Service Hours	Expected to contribute 100+ hours annually

Real Example: How One Professional Gained Membership

Tanya R., a public health administrator in Atlanta, wanted to expand her impact beyond her day job. She attended three Links-hosted health expos over nine months, volunteered at a back-to-school drive, and connected with two members during a community summit. After expressing interest, she was encouraged to apply.

Her sponsors highlighted her leadership in launching a maternal wellness initiative and her consistent volunteer record. During her interview, Tanya outlined how she planned to leverage her expertise in the Health and Human Services facet. Six weeks later, she was voted in and assigned to lead a diabetes awareness campaign.

“I didn’t rush the process,” Tanya said. “I showed up consistently, listened more than I spoke, and let my actions speak first.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying without connections: Cold applications are rarely successful. Build relationships first.
• Underestimating time demands: Members are expected to participate year-round, not just during big events.
• Overlooking dues and fees: Financial readiness is part of the screening process.
• Submitting a generic application: Tailor your personal statement to reflect the chapter’s recent initiatives.
• Expecting immediate acceptance: The process often takes 6–12 months from initial contact to induction.

Tip: Keep a journal of your community service activities—you’ll need specific examples during the interview.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can men join Links Incorporated?

No, Links Incorporated is a women’s organization exclusively for women of African descent. However, men are welcome to participate in public events and service projects as volunteers or partners.

Is there a national application portal?

No. Applications are managed at the chapter level. While the national office sets standards, each chapter handles recruitment independently. Contact your local chapter directly for application materials.

What if I move after joining?

Moving members can transfer to another chapter through a formal request process. The receiving chapter may require an orientation period but typically honors prior membership status.

Checklist: Are You Ready to Apply?

Use this checklist to assess your preparedness before initiating the application process:

• ✅ I am a woman of African descent
• ✅ I am at least 25 years old
• ✅ I have attended at least two Links events
• ✅ I have built relationships with two current members
• ✅ I am financially prepared for initiation fees and annual dues
• ✅ I can commit 10–15 hours per month to chapter activities
• ✅ I have a résumé highlighting professional and community roles
• ✅ I have written a personal statement aligned with Links’ mission

Final Steps and Moving Forward

Joining Links Incorporated is more than a resume addition—it’s a lifelong commitment to service excellence and collective advancement. The journey begins with intentionality: identifying the right chapter, demonstrating genuine interest, and aligning your skills with their mission.

Once inducted, members gain access to a powerful network of leaders, professional development resources, and platforms to influence change at local and national levels. Many former presidents, CEOs, educators, and healthcare pioneers began their broader impact journeys through Links.

“The strength of our organization lies in the caliber of women we bring in and the legacy they build together.” — Joyce Banda, Former National Director, Membership Development

Conclusion

Entering the ranks of Links Incorporated requires patience, preparation, and purpose. By following this guide—understanding the structure, securing sponsors, preparing thoroughly, and respecting the timeline—you position yourself not just as a candidate, but as a future leader in a storied tradition of service.

🚀 Ready to take the next step? Locate your nearest chapter today, attend a public event, and begin building the relationships that could lead to a lifetime of meaningful contribution. Your journey with Links starts now.