The LINC
What is the LINC?
The LINC program is about building relationships with those in need so that we can better understand who they are, and how to best help them. We believe that everyone was created with potential; however, we recognize that it is often difficult for some to realize they were created with purpose. Through a network of volunteers, Love INC of Otero County seeks to walk alongside those individuals and provide them with encouragement and the practical tools they need to reach that potential. Here is how our program works…
Love INC of Otero County, through local churches, seeks to transform the lives of people in chronic need through caring relationships and classes/training opportunities.
Love INC of Otero County seeks to organize and equip church members from across many denominations to lead courses and/or walk alongside (mentor) people in need for a set time period. Transformational ministry helps people acquire one or more skills and move toward self-sufficiency.
Transformational Ministry is a year-long program accompanied by material support, special access to Love INC of Otero County Gap Ministry resources, and services that are donated by our local business community. These “incentives” are offered to those that demonstrate faithful participation and a willingness to seek to transform their lives.
In addition, transformational ministry courses include goal setting and accountability. This is essential to the continued success of our participants and the Transformational Ministry program.
Courses
Redemptive Compassion
Redemptive Compassion is a biblical philosophy on how we can offer holistic help to those we serve. It has evolved over fifteen years of working daily with people who find themselves struggling with needs in their life and unable to overcome them on their own. It challenges many current and common ways of addressing need based upon six core principles:
- Everyone has value
- We are called to invest relationally in each other
- Everyone has capacity and potential
- Mutual participation is important
- We must use wisdom and discernment
- What we do should transform
Need will not change until we change how we address need. We are facing critical times in America, and the Church will soon have an unprecedented opportunity to step to the forefront of addressing need. Will we be ready when the time comes?
Affirming Potential
Affirming Potential is a 12-week group class evaluating the physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual areas of life. It builds on the foundation that God has created us with intrinsic worth and unique potential.
Participants learn how to use the AP Dream Tool, which helps individuals set and achieve goals and provides steps to live out their God-given potential.
Continuing Classes
Boundaries: When to say YES, when to say NO; to take control of your life. Boundaries, by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend, addresses specific issues that confront today's Christians. Issues such as:
Living a Life Out of Control
* Having people take advantage of us
* Having trouble saying no
* Being disappointed with God because of unanswered prayers… and many more vital issues.
Financial Wellness
* Balancing a household budget
* Healthy spending habits
* What is a NEED vs. a WANT
* How to be content with what you have
* Biblical principles of financial giving
Parenting
Healthy communication, positive reinforcement,
stress management, discipline out of love, not anger, being a parent, not a friend.
Marriage
A biblical perspective on marriage, “investing” in your relationship, communication, overcoming the power struggle, and setting goals for the future.
Cooking/Shopping
Learn how to shop wisely and cook healthy, low cost meals.
Sewing/Craft
Starting with the basics and then the sky is the limit. Make your own clothes, curtains, and bedding and get the looks you want for a fraction of the cost, and create designs that can be sold at craft fairs.
Gardening
Grow your own produce for a fraction of the cost of the grocery store. This is a great way to use your God given potential!
Word Processing
From learning the basic functions of a word processor to creating a resume, this four week class will get you there.
Spreadsheet Basics
Learn the basics about using a spreadsheet program by creating a budget spreadsheet that calculates a person's gross income and net income from taxes. Then, have the spreadsheet compare the net income vs. expenses.