Lifestyles, Insights, Networking, Knowledge and Skills (L.I.N.K.S.)
Building 1795
(760) 725-2335
The L.I.N.K.S. Program: Links Brochure (PDF 392KB)
Lifestyle, Insights, Networking, Knowledge and Skills (L.I.N.K.S.) is a program within Marine Corps Family Team Building that enhances the readiness of Marines, both single and married, and their families by offering an orientation to the Marine Corps lifestyle. This orientation includes mentorship by experienced and knowledgeable volunteer mentors, Marine Corps Family Team Building personnel and involves information sharing, small group discussions and interactive activities. L.I.N.K.S. provides a positive environment for Marines and their families to learn to manage the demands of the Marine Corps lifestyle, and to work together as a team in balancing family needs while meeting Marine Corps expectations. L.I.N.K.S. sessions are available for:
Eligibility:
All Marines, spouses, children, teens, and parents of Marines are eligible to participate in L.I.N.K.S. Additionally, other Service members and spouses serving with Marines, and Marine Corps civilian employees and spouses are eligible.
Benefits of attending L.I.N.K.S. include:
- Understanding the Marine Corps mission and how it affects Marines and the family they were born into, sworn into, and married into.
- Acquiring the knowledge and developing the skills to successfully meet the challenges of the Marine Corps lifestyle.
- Making new friends and thriving as an empowered member of the Marine Corps family.
Session Topics:
- Introduction to the Marine Corps organization, mission, culture, history, and traditions.
- Information regarding the many services, benefits, and privileges available to Marines and their families.
- An overview of Marine Corps pay and allowances, and tips on effective money management.
- Information presented will vary and will be applicable to the audience.
- Strategies and services for a successful Marine Corps duty station change.
- Tools, tips and strategies to help prepare for and thrive during, separations due to deployments and training exercises.
- Volunteer opportunities and the benefits of becoming involved in each new community.
- Concepts and resources for maintaining positive personal relationships.
- Details on Marine Corps career paths and the benefits, options, and incentives for staying in the Corps.
Lifestyle is a way of living and in this case means understanding the military community and the unique lifestyle it offers.
Insights come from experienced Marines and family members who relate their experiences
in living the Marine Corps lifestyle.
Networking represents people getting to know each other during L.I.N.K.S., and others who will be met during the journey in the Marine Corps.
Knowledge is what is gained that will help in the understanding and navigation of the Marine Corps culture.
Skills are what will be learned to help Marines and families get the most from their experiences in the Marine Corps Community.