We've got a new name, logo & status...

Suzanne  Vargus Holloman, Co-Director of the Family Reunion Institute has  announced the organization’s name change. “I’m excited to announce our  name change  to the National Family Reunion Institute (NFRI). We have always been  national in scope and the name change reflects that. Our commitment to  family reunions and family reunion planners remains our highest  priority. As part of this name change, NFRI has adopted  a new logo that emphasizes our dedication to family reunions. Our tax status has changed as well. We are now a tax exempt non-profit, and  all donations are tax deductible. Donations represent an opportunity  to do more for family reunions. Individuals and organizations desiring  to support the Institute’s programs that build on the strengths of families, using reunions as the tool, are able to make a donations on  the website."

I used to think of September as a time for change and transition, similar to the new year. In September we typically plan our last Summer barbecue, get children settled into a back-to-school routine, ready ourselves for fall and end of year holidays and celebrations, all while conducting some serious planning for our next family reunion. The thing about family reunions is that they too change and transition. Life changes us and our family members. Every year our families are getting older, wiser and hopefully more involved. New members are born, others pass on. The family dynamic, interactions, roles and relationships shift. And that changes the way we plan, the activities and events we pursue, and how we communicate.

In order for reunions to stay fresh, succeed and grow, we have to be willing to adapt, modify and recalibrate. That doesn’t mean our well established, deeply rooted traditions go away. Traditions are needed to keep the past, present and future connected. They also encourage the pursuit of unknown family ancestry and lineage. What it does mean is that we have to get our younger generations on board, and work through the day-to-day issues and stumbling blocks that slow down our planning, progression and togetherness.

Speaking of family lineage, September is host to Hispanic Heritage Month, Ancestor Appreciation Day, Intergeneration Month, Wife Appreciation Day, Grandparent’s Day, Stepfamily Day, Baby Safety Month, Kids Take Over The Kitchen Day and Childrens’ Good Manners Month. There’s also Labor Day, National Day of Service and Remembrance, National Preparedness Month, Air Force Birthday, National Courtesy Month, Respect Day, Good Neighbor Day, National Love People Day, Family Health and Fitness Day, National School Success Month, Self-Improvement Month, Healthy Aging Month, and so much more. Check out this month’s FAMILY TIME with over 70 observances you and your family can enjoy.

This month’s REUNION TIP OF THE MONTH is a repeat from last year but well worth repeating. It includes tips for Ancestor Appreciation Month andIntergeneration Month. In WORTH REPEATING we share two groups of quotes: one regarding learning to be prepared and the other about fall and the upcoming autumnal change and transition. 

While there are a number of fun things to observe this month, there are also some serious things happening as well, including National Preparedness Month and Suicide Prevention Month. Check the links below for information and help if needed.

Have a blessed September. Be well. Keep planning. Check-in on family members—old and young. And don’t forget to have some fun.

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NEW NOW:

- Reunion Tip of the Month

- Family Time

- Worth Repeating Quotes: Learning and Preparedness

- Worth Repeating Quotes: Fall

- Sticky Reunion Situation