March 29th Virtual Family Reunion Planners Workshop Sponsor:

Have you noticed that communication at reunions have changed over the years? The reunion tip this month aligns with the observance of Words Matter Week, a week-long celebration in March that highlights the importance of words and communication. And it's a sentiment that could be beneficial if engaged all year long.

Words matter—especially when it comes to verbal communications with family and at reunions. Without words we can't share our history, tell our tales, ask questions, get answers or advice, be mentored, or brag on our kids, parents, siblings, etc. All of us have stories to tell, but we need words to help communicate them. So, this month's reunion tip is to think of ways to get family members talking (not texting) before the reunion, so that during the reunion communications can flow freely between generations, and those we know (and don't know). Our families and stories rely on the body language, facial expressions and gestures, tone and expression that breathe life into what we say, and our ability to meet, greet and speak with one another with freedom and ease.

Practical family reunion planning involves two key components: organizing essential elements such as activities, accommodations, food, invitations and funding, while also fostering engagement, encouragement, and support among family members. This planning process not only strengthens family bonds but also invites us to delve deeper into our family history and connections. Wellderly Week, a special occasion celebrated in March dedicated to acknowledging and honoring the well-being and achievements of our elders, provides the perfect chance to build upon those family bonds.

Wellderly Week serves as an opportunity for seniors to explore their passions, try new hobbies, and fully embrace life, reinforcing the idea that age shouldn't hinder one's ability to lead an active and fulfilling life. Wellderly Week is committed to promoting overall wellness—physical, mental and emotional—among the elderly, celebrating their invaluable contributions and inspiring them to stay engaged and vibrant throughout their golden years.

When we get to know family members who are older, we often accept them at face value, overlooking the rich tapestry of their past experiences, preferences, and aspirations. Old photos and census reports can offer us a glimpse into their lives, but what truly enriches our understanding is the time spent in conversation. This Wellderly Week let's commit to uncovering the stories and desires of our elders, bridging the gap between what we know and what remains to be explored. Together we can foster connections that honor their past and illuminate their present.

Reaching younger generations, building expectations, creating a sense of worthiness, building up self-esteem and high expectations, offering scholarships, and getting children to think beyond where they are, is highly important. There’s nothing better than being able to offer real-life role models that look like you, can talk with you and can mentor you. Children need role models outside of the sports and entertainment world and that’s one of the benefits of the family reunion. And that’s definitely one of the benefits of reunions being more than just a picnic. 

- Dr. Ione Vargus

The best way to not feel hopeless is to get up and do something. Don’t wait for good things to happen to you. If you go out and make some good things happen, you will fill the world with hope, you will fill yourself with hope.
- Barack Obama

I’ve come to believe that each of us has a personal calling that’s as unique as a fingerprint—and that the best way to succeed is to discover what you love and then find a way to offer it to others in the form of service, working hard, and also allowing the energy of the universe to lead you.   - Oprah Winfrey

We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked, and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved, and uncared for is the greatest poverty.  

- Mother Teresa

There is no doubt that it is around the family and the home that all the greatest virtues…are created, strengthened and maintained.   - Winston Churchill