EarthLinks History

EarthLinks began in 1996 through the vision, initiative, and dedication of Bette Ann Jaster,

OP (Dominican Sisters of Hope), and Cathy Mueller, SL (Sisters of Loretto). Their broad

experience included interaction with religious, civic, and neighborhood organizations, primarily

partnering with agencies offering education, health care, pastoral, and social services among

middle and low income multicultural groups. Over the years, the two women noted profound

fragmentation and deep hunger for connection and belonging. This cry came from diverse

people in many different circumstances. The founders knew it was possible to create

experiences with people to build bridges with one another, and to discover strength and

meaning in their relatedness with all life. This was the motivation for beginning EarthLinks.

Because economically poor neighborhoods often face more environmental challenges and the people have less

voice, EarthLinks began with low income persons. EarthLinks exposes participants to Earth literacy, discovering new

meaning and new ways to belong, and then integrate it into their lives. In this manner, people are encouraged to open

their hearts, develop their voices, and move to action as advocates for the Earth. Because there are so many basic

needs for people who are on the margins of society, EarthLinks has chosen to work through other nonprofit

organizations who are serving this population. We respond to specific aspects of the need for beauty, belonging, and

new options, so our services complement the other organizations. EarthLinks offers experiences that disenfranchised

persons do not usually receive: a chance to experience the wonder of nature, the beauty of the Earth, and the innate

sense of being part of a larger community.