Family history tells America’s story. As we commemorate America at 250 in 2026, NGS recognizes that each person whose ancestors contribute to the nation’s collective story should find a place to belong in the family history community. To support this, a new toolkit is available to help genealogy organizations offer meaningful experiences to anyone exploring their connections to the past.

Whether your organization is getting started or building on efforts to be more welcoming and inclusive, this toolkit includes:

• frameworks, templates, and ideas you can adapt and apply;
• practical steps and resources aligned with your mission; and
• inspiration to work within your organization and reach out to welcome more people into the genealogy community.

View the booklet or download the PDF below.

The United States has long been unique for the multitude of stories it contains, from the millions of Indigenous People here to the myriad people from around the world who have made this country their home under all manner of circumstances. The US has been shaped over generations as every family has added to—and continues to add to—the mosaic of American history.

We hope this toolkit helps your organization offer a rich and inclusive understanding of the people who embodied our American history. In doing so, you will provide a space where anyone might find belonging, community, and a deeper sense of themselves and others. May this lead to your organization’s growth and generate a passion for family history for generations to come.

More Resources from NGS

NGS is on this journey with you and here to provide support. Please check out additional resources and information that complement this Belonging toolkit.