The Atlanta (GA) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated was formed during a crucial time in America’s history. The 1950s were a turbulent time in the United States, especially in the South. Encouraged by the winds of change blowing internationally along with sustained pressure by civil rights organizations, a grassroots movement was being made for full equality for Black Americans in all aspects of life. Nowhere was this more evident than in the bustling, growing city of Atlanta. On February 14, 1953, a meeting of what would eventually become the Atlanta (GA) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated was held at the home of charter member, Bennie McLendon.  On that day in February the group assembled became the 12th chapter of The Links, Incorporated – and the first one in the state of Georgia. 

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The national Links organization eventually concentrated efforts on serving the community in four main areas, or Facets: the Arts, International Trends and Services, National Trends and Services, and Services to Youth. In the spirit of these objectives, these Atlanta women, who were community leaders in their own right, united. The four Facets would eventually grow to include a fifth Facet, Health and Human Services.  The Atlanta (GA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated is dedicated to fostering transformational change in the communities it serves through impactful programming and strategic partnerships. The chapter’s mission is to empower marginalized populations, particularly African Americans, by addressing critical disparities in education, health, economic opportunities, and the arts.

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​The programmatic theme “Linked in a Legacy of Friendship and Purposeful Programming” encapsulates the chapter’s vision and celebrates its rich heritage. Guided by a deep commitment to equity, the Atlanta Chapter continues to design and implement transformative programs like eSTEAM-Ed (pronounced esteemed), Making It Count, The Green Screen Project, and Smart M.O.U.T.H. (My Oral health Upholds Total Health),  that expand career access and uplift underrepresented voices in historically marginalized communities. Since 2021, this purposeful work has earned widespread acclaim—garnering over $20,000 in awards and receiving distinguished recognition at both the Area and National levels.