One of the most powerful ways an association can deliver long-term value is by preparing the next generation of leaders. For the International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR), this commitment has evolved into a comprehensive, multi-layered strategy designed not only to develop emerging professionals, but to ensure the sustainability and continued excellence of independently owned funeral homes.
The initiative was intentionally designed to address one of the industry’s most pressing needs: growing the funeral profession workforce and developing the next generation of owners. With many independent funeral homes navigating ownership transitions and evolving business challenges, the OGR aims to expand access to education and strengthen long-term engagement within this group of funeral directors.
Building a Leadership Pipeline
At the center of this initiative was the creation of OGR’s Future Leaders Committee (formerly Young Professionals), a dedicated group tasked with shaping how the organization engages and develops emerging professionals. Rather than taking a top-down approach, OGR empowered these future leaders to help design programming for their peers—ensuring relevance, accessibility, and long-term impact.
This committee has played a critical role in:
- Designing and evolving OGR’s Future Leaders Forum
- Identifying gaps in leadership development and professional education
- Creating new, more accessible learning formats
- Ensure that future leaders have a voice in shaping OGR’s direction
Providing Innovative Hands-On Learning
The Future Leaders Forum has continued to grow and evolve over the past few years. It brings together emerging leaders, second-career professionals, and rising managers for hands-on, experience-driven learning. Participants engage in sessions focused on leadership, operations, financial stewardship, and team development. Just as importantly, they are encouraged to come ready to reimagine traditional practices and adapt to the evolving expectations of the families they serve.
Another critical component has been intentional efforts to increase accessibility. The OGR Foundation launched a scholarship program that now provides 15 annual awards, helping funeral homes offset the cost of sending a staff member to the Future Leaders Forum.
While the Future Leaders Forum remains a cornerstone program, OGR recognized that a single annual event is not enough to meet the needs of the next generation of funeral directors.
Introducing Micro-Learning
Understanding that time and accessibility are key barriers to engagement, the Future Leaders Committee has started developing micro-learning videos—short, focused educational resources that allow emerging leaders to learn in real time, at their own pace. The videos are released on a private, OGR Future Leaders Facebook page and on social media channels. They are also housed in the OGR Learning Library for 24/7 access.
These micro-learning opportunities ensure that leadership development is not confined to a single event but becomes part of an ongoing learning journey.
Recognizing and Elevating Emerging Talent
To further reinforce its commitment to future leaders, OGR introduced the Rising Star Award, which highlights individuals who demonstrate leadership potential, innovation, and strong commitment to the profession.
This initiative serves multiple strategic purposes:
- Elevates emerging leaders within the community
- Reinforces the value of leadership development
- Encourages firms to invest in their next generation
- Creates visible role models for peers
By celebrating these individuals, OGR is both recognizing achievement and actively shaping the leadership culture of the profession.
A Model for Long-Term Impact
What makes this initiative a true success story is not any single program. It’s the intentional, strategic alignment across all efforts.
Through the development of the Future Leaders Committee, expansion of the Future Leaders Forum, introduction of micro-learning, and creation of the Rising Star Award, OGR has built a sustainable framework for leadership development. By developing emerging leaders, fostering community and delivering practical, forward-looking education, OGR is helping ensure that independent funeral homes remain resilient, relevant and prepared for the years ahead.
Wendy King, CAE, CVA
Wendy King joined RGI in 2020 and currently serves as Executive Director of the International Order of the Golden Rule. In this role, she partners closely with the board of directors to guide strategic planning and advance the association’s mission. Bringing in extensive experience in marketing and public relations, event strategy, and fundraising across trade associations, her goal has always been to turn big visions into reality.