L - Lifestyle is a way of living and in this case it means understanding the military community and the unique lifestyle it offers.
I - Marine Corps Lifestyle Insights come from experienced Marine Corps spouses who relate their experiences of living the Marine Corps lifestyle, who understand first hand what you are going through and who want to help you understand and adapt to the new culture of which you are now a part.
N - Networking represents the people you get to know during L.I.N.K.S. and all the others you will meet during your journey in Marine Corps living.
K - Knowledge is what you will leave with and what will help you understand and navigate the Marine Corps culture.
S - Is for the new Skills you will learn to help you enjoy and thrive in our Marine Corps community.
L.I.N.K.S. is a volunteer, team-mentoring program, designed by Marine Corps spouses. The program offers an orientation to the Marine Corps lifestyle, helping spouses, Marines, children and teens, and parents/extended family members understand and adapt to the unique challenges military life often presents. While the curriculum targets those who are new to the Marine Corps community, the information is very beneficial at all levels of Marine Corps experience.
The program works through a partnership of volunteer spouses, Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) staff, Marine Corps Career Retention Specialists and Chaplains. The discussion group leaders are experienced military spouses who facilitate the learning process by using a mentoring style of presentation. The climate is informal, with a nurturing structure and format. Participants receive real life tips, information on Marine Corps culture, and available resources to enable them to help themselves.
L.I.N.K.S. is currently presented through volunteer teams on each Marine Corps Installation and through MARFORRES/New Orleans. No cost childcare is provided to participants. Additionally, the teams at Marine Corps Recruit Depots Parris Island and San Diego introduce L.I.N.K.S. to families of new Marines.
L.I.N.K.S. provides information on:
- Marine Corps history, tradition and language
- Benefits and services
- Financial awareness
- Dealing with separation and deployments
- Tips on moving
- Effective communication
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.
All Marines, spouses, children, teens, and parents of Marines are eligible to participate. Additionally, other Service members and spouses serving with Marines, and Marine Corps civilian employees and spouses are eligible.