EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SPOTLIGHT
The Links That Keep Us Connected Are The Bonds We Cherish.
As we begin a new year, I find myself reflecting with a heart full of gratitude. Looking back over the past 20 years, I feel incredibly blessed.
I am blessed by the thousands of survivors and their families who have trusted Links for Life to walk alongside them during one of the most challenging times of their lives. I am grateful for the loyal donors who have partnered with us throughout our 34-year history, as well as those who have recently joined our mission. Together, you have made hope possible for so many.
I think about the laughter we have shared while building this organization, and I also remember the tears shed as we faced difficult moments and made tough decisions to ensure we could continue meeting the changing needs of our community. Every challenge has strengthened our commitment to those we serve.
I also reflect on the thousands of volunteers, board members, staff, community partners, and supporters who have shared their wisdom, talents, and passion with me over the years. One of the greatest privileges of leading a nonprofit organization is learning from people with incredible expertise and generous hearts. I have never built Links for Life alone. Every volunteer who has given their time, every donor who has made a gift, every staff member who has served with compassion, and every survivor who has shared their story has helped shape the organization we are today.
Links for Life was created for the women, men, and families facing breast cancer, and it continues to exist because of each of you. I am deeply humbled to serve as Executive Director and to champion this mission every day.
I have the privilege of witnessing extraordinary courage. I see individuals fighting for their lives with remarkable strength. I see families and friends standing beside their loved ones, offering unwavering support. I see long-time survivors reaching out to those who are newly diagnosed, offering encouragement, understanding, and hope. Those connections often become lifelong friendships built through shared experiences, compassion, and resilience.
These are the survivors. These are the thrivers. These are the people who make Links for Life a family.
As we enter our 34th year of serving Kern County, I want to personally thank you for being part of this journey. Your generosity, compassion, and belief in our mission allow us to continue providing critical programs and services to those affected by breast cancer. We simply could not do this work without you.
There are many ways to stay involved throughout the coming year. If you enjoy community events, we invite you to join us on October 3 for the Lace’n It Up 5K at The Park at River Walk or celebrate with us at the Hot Pink Celebration on October 23 at Luigi’s Warehouse. If those events aren’t your style, we’d love to see you at our Love Links Luncheon on February 11, or join us for the Sharyn Woods Memorial Pro-Am Golf Tournament on April 19. No matter your interests, there is an opportunity to support Links for Life and make a meaningful difference.
If giving your time is more your passion, we would love to welcome you as a volunteer. Whether assisting survivors in our Wig Boutique or helping educate our community about breast health at wellness events, your time and compassion can have a lasting impact on someone’s life.
I truly believe we are not placed on this earth simply to receive, but to serve, to give, and to lift others when they need us most. Together, we can continue bringing hope, support, and healing to those facing breast cancer.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your continued support, your kindness, and your belief in our mission. Here’s to another year of changing lives, together.
With sincere gratitude,
Jennifer Henry Executive Director Links for Life
