National Family Reunion Institute Announces Final Workshop as Part of Year-End Closure

Oct 8

2 min read

Philadelphia, PA (October 7, 2026). The National Family Reunion Institute (NFRI) will host its final Virtual Family Reunion Planners Workshop on Saturday, October 24th, ahead of the organization's permanent closure on December 31, 2026. After 36 years of serving the family reunion planning community, the NFRI is concluding its operations. This final workshop serves as both a valuable educational session and a meaningful farewell to the planners who have supported our mission over the decades.

"We are deeply grateful for the years we spent learning and growing alongside reunion planners," said Suzanne Vargus Holloman, co-Director of NFRI. "While it is hard to say goodbye, we want to celebrate our final chapter by offering one last workshop that reflects our core mission."

Workshop Details:

· What: Free and Virtual workshop, with presentations on AI & Genealogy; Reunion Activities and Plays; Out of the Box Fundraisers; and Budget Saving Tips. We’ll also celebrate the NFRI's legacy and explore how all of us can continue Dr. Vargus’ vital work—beyond the workshops and NFRI.

· When: Saturday, October 24, 2026 – 12pm to 2:30pm ET

Founded in 1990 by Dr. Ione Vargus, the National Family Reunion Institute (NFRI)—originally organized as the Family Reunion Institute (FRI) before rebranding in January 2021—is dedicated to strengthening extended family relationships, using reunions as the tool. NFRI leverages family reunions to foster a deeper sense of belonging, identity, and shared values. NFRI inspired reunion planning, provided educational resources, and advocated for the preservation of family history and traditions.

Known as the "Mother of Family Reunions," Vargus established reunions as "more than a picnic.” Understanding their economic power and potential, she adopted a unique approach that bridged the gap between family reunion planners and the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. Vargus said, “Caring for the family structure (and reunion) is to be valued. Family Reunion Planners develop that value by working effectively to keep reunions growing strong. NFRI provided opportunities to come together to learn, exchange ideas and contribute to successful planning.”

For more details about the final workshop, CLICK HERE. To register, CLICK HERE.

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