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The Greater Southeast (MI) Chapter-Elect of The Links, Incorporated, was envisioned by organizer, Mrs. Lori Singleton, a longtime resident of Macomb County and a dedicated high school principal. Through her deep involvement in education and community service, Mrs. Singleton recognized numerous unmet needs within the African American community, in Macomb County, and felt compelled to respond.

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In June, 2022, she began researching the process of establishing a Links chapter and consulted a trusted friend, who was already a member of The Links, Incorporated. With a clear vision in mind, she reached out to women of diverse backgrounds who shared a commitment to service and leadership. On July 30, 2022, Mrs. Singleton initiated conversations with close friends, Lois McEntyre, Carla Stamps, Sharon Freed-Moreland, Patrece Hamblin, and Jenine Bland, and later connected with Angelia Miller, Asenath Jones, Cynthia Miree-Coppin, and Candace Cooper about starting a chapter in Macomb County. As interest grew, additional community-focused women were invited to join. This expanding group became known as, Friends on a Mission to Serve (FOM).

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Early meetings were held at a local high school in Macomb County, symbolizing the group’s deep commitment to education and community engagement. FOM’s early efforts focused on addressing critical community needs and building meaningful partnerships throughout Macomb County. Friends on a Mission supported and sponsored a three-part career readiness series for high school students, raised funds for scholarships for African American students in Macomb County, advocated for and facilitated HBCU representation within the second-largest school district in Michigan, raised funds for cancer research, supported the American Heart Association, and participated in cancer walks and wellness fairs. Community outreach included supporting events at Black-owned businesses, supporting the Anton Art Center, providing food and care packages for students locally and abroad, making blankets for families in need, supporting World Medical Relief, and collaborating with organizations such as Families Against Narcotics and Friends of Foster Kids. Partnerships were formed with Habitat for Humanity, the Salvation Army Senior Lunch Program, Black Health Matters, and local schools in Macomb to expand outreach and create sustainable impact.

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In January 2023, the group submitted official materials for consideration as an interest group, marking a significant step

toward chapter establishment. Through consistent service and intentional leadership, FOM’s accomplishments and shared values aligned closely with the mission of The Links, Incorporated to enrich lives and sustain cultural and economic support for underserved communities. On March 7, 2026, the Greater Southeast (MI) Chapter-Elect of The Links, Incorporated was officially chartered by 39 women serving Macomb County and portions of Northern Oakland County. What began as Mrs. Lori Singleton’s vision has evolved into a collective mission embraced by 39 committed women. Together, they continue to uplift, empower, and serve, carrying forward a legacy of excellence, sisterhood, and transformative community impact.