Lifestyle Insights, Networking, Knowledge, and Skills (L.I.N.K.S.) is a Marine Corps Family Team Building program that enhances the readiness of Marines — single or married — and their families by offering an orientation to the Marine Corps lifestyle.

Historically L.I.N.K.S. has been offered only to Marine Corps spouses. The 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, General James F. Amos, had issued new guidance for the Family Readiness programs. L.I.N.K.S classes are available for Marines, parents of Marines, and the children of Marines.

The program works through a partnership of volunteer spouses, Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) staff, Marine Corps Career Retention Specialist, 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. provides information on:

• Marine Corps history tradition and language
• Benefits and services
• Financial awarenesses
• Dealing with separation and deployments
• Tips on moving
• Effective communication

L.I.N.K.S. Mentor Needed

Have you been married to your Marine for what seems like forever?
Do the terms PCS, TAD, and MOS roll right off your tongue?
Have you lost count of how many moves you have made?
If so ... L.I.N.K.S. needs YOU!

L.I.N.K.S. is looking for volunteers to help facilitate one-day sessions for all ages: L.I.N.K.S. for Kids, for Teens, for Spouses, and for Marines.

Topics include:
• Marine Corps organization, customs and culture
• Moving in the military
• Connecting in your new community
• Surviving deployments
• Understanding military pay

Come and share your valuable experience with us!
For more information, contact the L.I.N.K.S. Trainer at 703-693-1457 or ombmcftbhh@usmc-mccs.org.