O - Outreach That Opens Doors

Social media has completely redefined what “outreach” means for us as genealogists and family historians. It’s no longer just about who’s in our immediate circles. It’s about stepping beyond our local neighborhoods and societies and into a virtually limitless world of connection and into webinars, libraries, new cultures, and shared history. What once took months of letter writing, a research trip, or chance meetings at reunions can now begin with a single post, a thoughtful comment, or a shared ancestor.

One of the most meaningful results of putting myself out there has been the opportunity to connect with so many cousins, literally thousands, that I never would have found or connected with without social media and the courage to reach out. Our paths likely never would have crossed otherwise. Now, we’re actively sharing research and stories about our mutual ancestors. These collaborations add a whole new depth to my research, because it’s no longer just my project - it’s our shared legacy. Without that one ancestor, we wouldn’t have this bond. Outreach turned our common roots into real, living connections.

And here’s the truth: almost the entire world is available to us now. That’s an incredible gift. Yes, there are safety considerations. We should always be cautious and thoughtful when reaching out, but that doesn’t mean we have to stay silent. The reality is, people we meet in person can be just as dangerous as those we meet online. That’s why we have boundaries, awareness, and safety measures in place. When we use these tools wisely, social media becomes a powerful bridge, not a barrier.

It’s also a gateway to projects we might never have discovered otherwise. From virtual transcription efforts and community DNA projects, to historical collaborations with folks halfway across the country or globe, social platforms let us contribute meaningfully even when we can’t show up in person. Our ancestors’ stories deserve to be told, and sometimes that telling happens from a laptop at a kitchen table.

Outreach has also become a lifeline for historical and genealogical societies. These organizations are using social platforms to connect with the broader genealogy community, including seeking out stories for their blogs and newsletters, building collaborative programs, and helping us uncover our ancestors’ histories by pointing us toward new resources, local experts, and meaningful events. They’re not just helping us share our ancestors’ stories to keep them alive. They’re helping us discover those stories in the first place.

That’s the magic of outreach. When we stop overthinking and start researching, we’re opening doors to collaboration, community, and connection. It becomes less about “marketing” and more about meaning.

📣 Who’s someone unexpected you connected with through outreach?

🧭 Challenge: This week, reach out to one person or group with your passion project. Maybe it’s a cousin you’ve never messaged before, a local historical society, or a newspaper that might love your story. Share a memory, offer a resource, or simply say hello. You never know what doors it might open.