Sessions at Federation of Genealogical Societies 2011 Conference about Focus on Societies on Thursday 8th September

On the evening of September 8, 2011, a rich variety of genealogical, historical and family societies will participate in one of the largest genealogical conferences in the country at the Federation of Genealogical Societies (FGS) Conference held at the Prairie Capital Convention Center in Springfield, Illinois. The conference is hosted by the Illinois State Genealogical Society. A much anticipated evening affair, the Thursday night Society Showcase brings together FGS member societies, other societies, and conference attendees in the exhibit hall for an evening of extended hours, door-prizes, networking and fun!

Attendees will be able to browse tables and exhibits of countless societies. New this year is the Ideas Exchange Table where society members can swap ideas with others societies, learn what benefits others offer, what publications they provide, how they select speakers, and more. This is an opportunity for societies to join forces and start joint ventures that could benefit both societies. Consider, for instance, societies that fall along a migration path pooling their information. The potential is endless!

Society Showcase exhibitors receive a free listing in the Onsite Conference Guide and are encouraged to sell membership in their organizations at these tables. Sales of publications and other items, however, will only be done from regular vendor booths in the Exhibit Hall. Showcase exhibitors can bring display items and giveaways, such as membership brochures, sample publications, bookmarks, and event fliers. Tables will be staffed by members of those societies.

If you are looking for a way to connect with potential members for your society, this evening will give you a jump-start. And if you are a researcher seeking to extend your knowledge of records in new areas, this is the place to be. Don't miss this fun evening of learning, networking and socializing.