How to Create a Family Reunion Newsletter

A family reunion newsletter lets family members stay in touch between family reunions. It can be used to share exciting events, plan activities for the next reunion and share new genealogy finds. The type of newsletter you choose will depend on the type of family reunions you have. You should consider having the option to receive a mailed copy or an emailed copy of the newsletter, since older family members may not be able to access newsletters that are online.

• 1

  Pass around a clipboard with a sign-up sheet at your next family reunion. On the clipboard list the number of times you will issue the newsletter during the year as well as deadlines for submissions on announcements and other articles to be included in the newsletter. If you are going to charge a small fee to cover the cost of printing and mailing, collect it now.

• 2

  Assign volunteers to be in charge of specific sections of your newsletter. For example, you may ask the genealogist of the family to share one family history article each newsletter, while the committee in charge of reunions may submit an announcement regarding the next reunion.

• 3

  Assemble a database with names and addresses of subscribers to the newsletter. You can print out address labels for the newsletter using the database. Compile an email list for people who prefer to receive the newsletter through email.

• 4

  Send out reminder emails two weeks before the articles are due to everyone who wants to put in an announcement or submission.

• 5

  Compile the articles together into one document. A word processing program would work or you can use a publishing program for the final copy.

• 6

  Save the file as a PDF and email it to the people who signed up for an email copy of the newsletter. Print out paper copies for family members who requested a paper copy. Mail the copies to them once you have finished having the newsletter printed.