The National Trends and Services facet is tasked with eliminating disparities by reducing barriers to resources through advocacy, education, and service. Our chapters are empowered to raise their voices and transform the communities in which they work. The facet’s goals include increasing the number of sustainable and measurable programs; increasing collaborative partnerships; and extending our existing initiatives to include communities identified as having the greatest need. Currently, National Trends and Services encompasses the following programs and committees with national partners and sponsors, and serves as a catalyst for change, promoting individual and community empowerment.
The Links, Incorporated, is a national affiliate of Ally Financial and has been trained on the Ally Wallet Wise curriculum to assist with conducting financial education workshops in communities nationwide. Wallet Wise is a free financial education program created by Ally Financial that teaches consumers the basics of budgeting and credit, banking and investing, and financing a vehicle. The curriculum includes classroom and online modules and is being implemented by Links chapters in 34 target markets. We use Wallet Wise as:
Voter Registration
The Links, Incorporated, has a national voter registration initiative of Transforming Communities Through Our Voice, Our Vote, Our Power. To build the country and communities that we want to see, everyone must get out and exercise their right to vote. Our democracy is stronger when every voice is heard. The Harbor Lites Chapter conducts voter education, registration, and mobilization throughout Lake County communities.
PADS
PADS’ vision is to provide a path to stable housing and self-sufficiency for everyone who experiences homelessness in Lake County. Since 1972, PADS has faithfully provided immediate, critical services to the neediest among us; individuals and families that are experiencing homelessness in Lake County. The Harbor Lites Chapter has had a long and productive relationship with Shiloh Baptist Church and Pastor Walstone Francis for over 20 years. To that end we proudly aligned our efforts in assisting PADS at the Shiloh Baptist Church location. The members of Harbor Lites donate food, assist with food pantry operations, serve food to individuals and families who participate in the PADS program, engage and socialize with those serviced, make the beds, and assist with the reservation of shower times.