LINKS enhances Marine Family skills

Lifestyle Insights, Networking, Knowledge, and Skills is a Marine Corps Family Team Building program that enhances the readiness of Marines and their Families by offering an orientation to the Marine Corps lifestyle. The program was initially created in 1995 by Marine Corps spouses for Marine Corps spouses, but has since expanded to include Marines and the parents and children of Marines. LINKS sessions are facilitated by experienced spouses who serve as mentors to other spouses, Marine Corps Family Team Building staff, and guest speakers who are subject matter experts. LINKS involves information sharing, group discussions, and interactive activities for participants. The program 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.

LINKS topics include an 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 is shared along with an overview of Marine Corps pay and allowances. Tips on effective money management and tips on successful PCS moves, as well as tools and strategies to help during separations and deployments are covered in LINKS sessions. Details on Marine Corps career paths and the benefits, options, and incentives for staying in the Corps is another topic presented in the program. In addition, participants learn helpful information specific to their installation.

All Marines, spouses, children, teens and parents of Marines are eligible to participate in LINKS. Other service members and spouses serving with Marines and Marine Corps civilian employees and spouses also may attend.

The benefits of attending LINKS include gaining a better understanding of Marine Corps mission and how it affects Marines and their families. In addition, participants can expect to acquire the knowledge and develop the skills to successfully meet the challenges of the Marine Corps lifestyle. Most of all, participants of LINKS will make new friends and thrive as an empowered member of the Marine Corps Family. LINKS is the Family’s link to the Corps.