I am thrilled to welcome you to one of the most dynamic and fulfilling genealogical organizations in the country! Founded in 1993, we have grown to over 700 members strong, proudly standing as the largest local genealogical society in Florida and the second largest in the United States. Our unique location within The Villages – the largest 55+ retirement community in the world – affords our members with the time, resources, and opportunity to participate in arguably the most active family history community to be found anywhere. Whether you are a devoted genealogist striving to solve complex family puzzles or someone just beginning to explore your roots, you've found your home with us.
Discover the VGS Difference
At VGS, we believe our size, breadth of activities, and welcoming community create a one-of-a-kind environment for genealogical discovery and collaboration. Our members enjoy:
- Unrivaled Special Interest Groups (SIGs): With 18 SIGs meeting monthly, we cover an incredible variety of topics, from DNA research to regional ancestry studies. These groups dive deep into specialized areas, providing insights and support for every level of researcher.
- World-Class Speakers and Events: We frequently host nationally recognized genealogy experts at our monthly and annual meetings, bringing the best in genealogy education directly to you. Whether you choose to attend in person or via Zoom, you're always part of the discussion.
- A Wealth of Resources: Our monthly newsletter and vibrant website are packed with research tips, news, and valuable tools to guide and motivate your genealogical journey.
- Community and Fellowship: Most importantly of all – at VGS, you're never alone in your family history quest. You'll join a warm, supportive community eager to hear your brick walls and celebrate your breakthroughs and successes.
Your Voice Matters
What truly sets VGS apart is our unwavering focus on you – our members. I am deeply interested in hearing your input, ideas, and experiences as we strive to grow and improve. Whether you're a long-time member or considering joining us, your feedback is essential to ensuring VGS remains a premier resource for family historians.
Please don't hesitate to share your thoughts, questions, or suggestions by reaching out to me directly at president@vgsfl.org. Together, we can make VGS an even more rewarding community for our members.
Join the Journey
Genealogy is more than a hobby – it's a deeply rewarding journey of discovery that connects us to the past and shapes a legacy for future generations. At VGS, we're here to help you every step of the way by offering the tools, connections, and inspiration to make your journey as exciting and fulfilling as possible.
We invite you to join us as we explore the past, embrace the present, and preserve our stories for tomorrow – together.
