health and human services (hhS)

HHS Overview

HHS was established in 2010 to promote healthier communities by advancing health education, strengthening advocacy, expanding access to resources, and addressing chronic health disparities in communities of color.

The Wichita (KS) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated has supported Health & Human Services (HHS) through several initiatives and programs:

Annual Walk for Healthy Living Initiative

For the past 31 years, we have proudly participated in the Annual Walk for Healthy Living initiative, engaging community members and encouraging them to take proactive steps toward improving their health and overall well-being.

Black Family Wellness Expo Initiative

For the past two years, our chapter has proudly sponsored the Black Family Wellness Expo initiative, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to promoting health equity, wellness, and community engagement. In partnership with HealthCore Clinic.  The 2026 Expo was held at Saint Mark United Methodist Church and brought together more than 35 community organizations to provide valuable health education, screenings, and community resources. Attendees had access to blood pressure checks, dental and breast cancer screenings, water contamination testing provided by HealthCore, complimentary haircuts by Franklin's Barber Shop, and yoga with Allison Williams. Additionally, nine healthcare professionals led educational workshops focused on behavioral health and women's and men's health, providing attendees with information and resources to support informed health decisions and healthier lifestyles.

Mental Health Awareness

The Health and Human Services (HHS) Facet hosted a one-hour mental health and wellness workshop for the Middle School Positivity Girls Group at Holy Savior Academy. The workshop focused on increasing awareness of stress and anxiety through interactive group activities designed to encourage self-reflection, promote emotional well-being, and introduce healthy coping strategies.

Kidney Disease Awareness

The Health and Human Services (HHS) Facet has demonstrated its commitment to raising awareness of kidney disease through various community education initiatives, outreach efforts, and collaborative partnerships.

Kidney Foundation Walk

HHS has supported kidney disease awareness in several ways.  We support the Kansas Kidney Foundation at its annual walk and provide a monetary donation.

Midwest Transport- Kidney Awareness Event

The Health and Human Services (HHS) Facet collaborated with Midwest Transport, an organ donation organization, the Black Nurses Association, and Paradise Baptist Church to promote community education and awareness about the importance of organ donation. The event emphasized the need to increase awareness of kidney donation, particularly within the African American community, and encouraged individuals to consider the life-saving impact of becoming organ donors.

Diabetes Awareness Workshop  

The Health and Human Services (HHS) Facet co-sponsored a half-day diabetes awareness workshop in partnership with Progressive Community Outreach Program of Progressive Baptist Church.  HHS provided educational resources and  Link Michelle Redmond led a session toincrease community awareness and understanding of diabetes management and the importance of effective patient-provider communication.

Black K.A.R.E. (Kidney Awareness, Resources, and Education)

Our chapter participated in the Black K.A.R.E. grant initiative, which focused on community education and raising awareness of kidney disease and its disproportionate impact on African Americans. The initiative concluded with a physical activity class and the distribution of educational church fans to reinforce the importance of kidney health, disease prevention, and healthy lifestyle choices.