NFDA Meet the Mentors Returns in 2026 to Inspire and Prepare the Profession’s Rising Leaders

NFDA is now accepting entries for its transformational Meet the Mentors program.

Brookfield, Wis. – The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) is pleased to announce that the 2026 Meet the Mentors program will take place April 14-16, 2026, in Washington, D.C. This signature NFDA experience, which is held in conjunction with NFDA’s annual Advocacy Summit, offers early-career funeral professionals an unparalleled opportunity to learn directly from celebrated leaders and engage in advocacy on behalf of the funeral service profession. 

Since its debut in 2011, Meet the Mentors has been fully funded and supported by the Funeral Service Foundation, whose steadfast commitment has enabled more than a decade of transformative mentorship, learning and leadership development. The Funeral Service Foundation covers the registration fees for Meet the Mentors and the Advocacy Summit, three nights of lodging, and a $500 travel reimbursement stipend for selected participants. This generous support ensures the program remains accessible to the profession’s next generation of leaders. 

“For 15 years, Meet the Mentors has offered emerging funeral service professionals a rare opportunity to learn directly from leaders who generously share their experience, wisdom and perspective,” said Sara Moss, MS, FT, LFD, NFDA Associate Director of Education. “This program consistently helps participants build confidence, strengthen their skills and fosters a sense of purpose that supports them throughout their careers.” 

The 2026 Meet the Mentors program will bring together 25 NFDA-member participants – funeral directors and embalmers aged 40 and under, or within their first five years of licensure in the profession – to learn from a distinguished group of mentors who are recognized for their leadership, dedication and impact on the funeral service profession. NFDA is finalizing this year’s mentor panel and will announce the selected mentors very soon.

As in past years, participants can expect to learn from accomplished professionals representing a range of backgrounds, specialties and experiences. These mentors will share candid insights about career development, leadership and the evolving landscape of funeral service, offering invaluable guidance to those at the beginning of their professional journeys. Participants have high praise for NFDA’s Meet the Mentors program.

“NFDA’s Meet the Mentors Program was an incredible experience,” said one 2025 participant. “I gained valuable knowledge and insights that I will be able to use throughout my career. I would highly recommend the program to all newly licensed professionals.” 

In addition to presentations by the mentors, small-group roundtable discussions will enable participants to ask questions, explore career pathways and receive actionable advice they can take home immediately. Many mentees cite these conversations as some of the most meaningful moments of their professional lives. 

One 2025 participant noted, “The roundtables were my favorite part of this experience. It was really great to sit down and ask questions [of] each presenter and be able to have them share their experience on a more personal level.” 

Advocacy in Action 

An exciting component of Meet the Mentors is the opportunity to participate in the 2026 NFDA Advocacy Summit. Participants will join experienced colleagues for a full day on Capitol Hill, meeting with members of Congress to discuss federal issues impacting funeral service. By sharing their stories during these meetings, mentees will help federal legislators understand how their decisions affect, not just funeral professionals, but also grieving families. 

“I enjoyed the Congressional meetings so much and am looking forward to attending the Advocacy Summit again,” a 2025 mentee noted. “I was surprised how much I truly enjoyed doing this!” 

How to Apply 

Prospective participants can enter for their chance to participate in the 2026 Meet the Mentors through 11:59 p.m. CT on January 12, 2026. Thanks to the exclusive support of the Funeral Service Foundation, the program award covers registration fees for the Meet the Mentors program and Advocacy Summit, three nights of lodging and a $500 travel reimbursement stipend. Eligible applicants must be licensed funeral directors or embalmers who are NFDA members and either 40 years old or younger, or within their first five years of licensure in the funeral service profession. For complete details and to apply, visit NFDA.org/Mentors.

For questions, call NFDA at 262-789-1880. Selected participants will be announced in February 2026. NFDA is the world’s leading and largest funeral service association, serving 20,000 individual members who represent nearly 11,000 funeral homes in the United States and 49 countries around the world.

NFDA is the trusted leader, beacon for ethics and the strongest advocate for the profession. NFDA is the association of choice because it offers funeral professionals comprehensive educational resources, tools to manage successful businesses, guidance to become pillars in their communities and the expertise to foster future generations of funeral professionals. NFDA is headquartered in Brookfield, Wis., and has an office in Washington, D.C. For more information, visit www.nfda.org. 

Winter funerals in the UK present unique challenges due to the colder weather and shorter daylight hours. Despite the sombre nature of the occasion, careful preparation can ensure a respectful and comfortable service for all attendees. Here’s how you can prepare for a winter funeral and pay your respects with dignity.

Dressing Appropriately

The key to dressing for a winter funeral is balancing respect with warmth. Opt for classic funeral attire in darker shades such as black, navy, or charcoal. Choose heavier fabrics like wool to keep warm. Layers are advisable, with a smart overcoat, scarf, gloves, and even thermal undergarments if necessary. Sensible footwear is essential, especially in case of rain, snow, or icy conditions.

Venue Considerations

Winter weather can affect both indoor and outdoor funeral services. If the service is held in a chapel or crematorium, confirm in advance that heating will be sufficient. For graveside services, consider providing portable heaters or a covered marquee to shelter mourners from the elements.

Travel and Accessibility

Poor weather conditions can make travel more difficult. Check weather forecasts and advise attendees to allow extra travel time. Providing directions and information on parking availability is helpful. If snow or ice is expected, the venue should arrange for pathways to be gritted to ensure safety.

Floral Arrangements

Cold temperatures can affect the longevity of floral tributes. Opt for hardy winter blooms such as roses, lilies, and carnations, or consider artificial arrangements that can withstand harsher weather conditions.

Catering and Refreshments

Offering hot refreshments after the service can be a comforting gesture. Traditional options such as tea, coffee, and soup can help attendees warm up. Ensure the reception venue is adequately heated and can accommodate the expected number of guests.

Memorial Tokens

Winter funerals often feel more intimate. Consider giving mourners a small keepsake, such as candles, personalised ornaments, or hand warmers, as a token of remembrance.

Emotional Support

The winter months can be especially difficult for those grieving. Encourage the sharing of memories and offer ongoing support. Providing details for bereavement counselling or local support groups can be a thoughtful addition to the service.

By carefully planning and considering these factors, you can ensure a respectful and comforting winter funeral, honouring the memory of the deceased while supporting their loved ones through a difficult time.

If you are looking to arrange a Derbyshire funeral in Ripley, Heanor, Belper, Crich or the surrounding areas of Derbyshire, please do not hesitate to contact Archway Funeral Service.

April 4, 2025

Losing a loved one is an emotional and challenging time, and navigating the funeral process can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s your first time making funeral arrangements or you’re unsure about certain aspects of the process, it’s natural to have many questions. Understanding the typical procedures and options available can help ease the burden during this difficult time. Here are some of the most frequently asked funeral questions and their answers to guide you through the process. 1. What is the difference between a funeral and a memorial service? A funeral typically involves a ceremony held with the body of the deceased present, either before or during burial or cremation. It often includes a viewing or wake, where family and friends can pay their respects. A memorial service , on the other hand, takes place after the body has been buried or cremated and does not involve the presence of the body. Memorial services may be held in various settings, such as homes, churches, or other venues, and can be personalized to reflect the life of the deceased. 2. What is embalming, and is it required? Embalming is a process that involves preserving the body to delay decomposition, usually for viewing purposes. It is not legally required in most places but may be necessary if the body is to be displayed at a public service or transported over long distances. In cases where there will be no viewing, embalming is typically not needed. However, certain states or countries may have regulations about embalming or the timing of burial. It’s important to check with the funeral home to determine what’s required in your area. 3. How much does a funeral cost? The cost of a funeral can vary greatly depending on factors like location, the type of service, and the funeral home you choose. There are options to help manage funeral expenses, such as cremation (which can be less expensive than burial), choosing a less elaborate service, or purchasing a funeral plan in advance. 4. What is cremation, and how does it differ from burial? Cremation involves the process of reducing the body to ashes. Many people choose cremation for its simplicity, lower cost, and flexibility in how the ashes can be kept, scattered, or interred. Some people opt for a cremation memorial service, where the ashes are present but there is no body. Burial , on the other hand, involves placing the body in a casket and then burying it in a cemetery. This option may include the purchase of a grave plot, headstone, and other related services. The choice between cremation and burial depends on personal, cultural, and religious preferences. 5. What are the steps in planning a funeral? Planning a funeral typically involves the following steps: Notify family and friends : Reach out to close family and friends and inform them of the passing. Choose a funeral home : Select a funeral home to help with arrangements, including embalming (if applicable), obtaining necessary permits, and coordinating transportation. Select the type of service : Decide on whether you want a funeral, memorial, or graveside service. You’ll also need to choose the location and any religious or cultural elements to incorporate. Choose a casket or urn : Select a casket for burial or an urn for cremation. There are many styles and price ranges to choose from. Plan the ceremony : Work with the funeral director to plan the service, including music, readings, eulogies, and floral arrangements. Arrange for transportation : The funeral home will coordinate the transportation of the body to the service and burial or cremation site. 6. Should I pre-plan a funeral? Pre-planning a funeral is a personal choice. Many people choose to pre-plan to relieve their loved ones of the burden of making arrangements during a time of grief. Pre-planning allows you to specify your wishes for the service, casket, burial, and other aspects of the funeral, ensuring your desires are respected. Additionally, pre-paying for a funeral can help protect your family from rising costs in the future. However, it’s important to carefully consider pre-planning options, as funeral costs can vary, and you’ll want to ensure that the plan is flexible and fully understood by the family members who will carry out your wishes. 7. What are the options for scattering ashes? If you choose cremation, there are many options for what to do with the ashes: Scattering : Many people choose to scatter the ashes in a location that had significance to the deceased, such as a favorite park, beach, or nature spot. Keepsake urns : Some families choose to keep a portion of the ashes in a special urn or piece of jewelry. Interment : Ashes can be interred in a family plot or at a cemetery, either in a niche or within a memorial garden. Other creative options : There are many creative options for commemorating the deceased, including turning ashes into diamonds or using them to create a memorial reef. 8. What is a death certificate, and why is it important? A death certificate is an official document issued by a governmental authority that confirms the death of a person. It is essential for handling legal and financial matters, such as settling the deceased’s estate, claiming life insurance, and closing accounts. The funeral home typically assists in obtaining several copies of the death certificate. 9. Can I personalize a funeral service? Absolutely! Many families choose to personalize the funeral service to reflect the deceased’s personality, passions, or hobbies. You can incorporate meaningful music, photos, special readings, or even display personal items that were important to the deceased. The funeral director can help guide you through creative options for personalization. 10. What should I do if I can’t attend the funeral? If you’re unable to attend the funeral in person, consider sending flowers, a sympathy card, or making a charitable donation in the deceased’s honor. If the family holds a memorial service, they may also offer the option to participate virtually, such as through a livestream. It’s always thoughtful to express your condolences in any way possible. Funeral planning can be complex, but understanding the answers to these frequently asked questions can help make the process easier to navigate. Whether you are arranging a funeral for a loved one or pre-planning your own, it’s important to take the time to make informed decisions. By doing so, you can create a meaningful, respectful ceremony that honors the life and memory of the deceased, while providing comfort to those who are grieving.

December 23, 2024

Grief is a journey that no one wants to traverse, yet it is a path many will find themselves on when a loved one passes away. As we contemplate the profound impact of loss, it’s vital to recognize how we can reach out and support our friends during their times of sorrow. Understanding our role can foster connection and compassion, especially in a world filled with emotional challenges. When we think about navigating this sensitive subject, finding the right balance between offering support and respecting personal space is essential, particularly as families often seek services from adjacent resources, such as Rochester, NY funeral homes. Understanding Grief and Its Phases Before we can effectively support our grieving friends, we should take time to understand the grieving process itself. Grief is not linear and encompasses various emotions and phases: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. The upheaval following a loss can bring about tumultuous feelings, and it’s important to remember that your friend may oscillate between these stages throughout their journey. A critical way that we can help is by being present. Sometimes, your friend may need a listening ear more than they need advice. Allowing them the space to express their thoughts and feelings without judgment can be incredibly beneficial. It may be helpful to encourage them to share funny or touching memories they have of their loved one, a practice that can provide moments of solace amidst the turmoil. Offering Practical Support Helping a friend through grief also means offering practical assistance. Grieving can be an exhausting and overwhelming experience, leaving little energy for everyday tasks. Offer to help with simple chores—cooking meals, running errands, or helping keep things organized at home. Sometimes, just knowing someone is there, offering to shoulder some of life’s burdens, can alleviate the stress your friend is feeling. In addition to offering tangible help, suggesting options from local services can also ease the burden. For instance, if your friend needs support in navigating funeral logistics, it’s wise to mention reputable funeral homes, that they could consider, like Rochester Cremation. Knowing that compassionate professionals are available can bring reassurance and peace to their difficult journey. Creating a Comfortable Environment for Healing When it comes to helping a grieving friend, creating an environment that allows for open conversation is critical. While checking in on them is appreciated, remember to approach them sensitively. Each day might feel different for your friend, so the time you spend together should evolve based on their needs and feelings. Inviting your friend out for a walk—some fresh air can aid in emotional healing—might help distract them from their grief, although it’s essential not to force social interaction if they seem disinterested. The simplest gestures, like a text message to let them know you’re thinking of them, can go a long way, even if they don’t respond immediately. Respecting Boundaries and Understanding Signs of Need While offering support, it’s just as vital to acknowledge when to step back. Everyone’s process is unique, and not everyone is comfortable discussing their grief openly. Pay attention to their cues; if they seem withdrawn or if they indicate a desire for solitude, honor that choice. Encourage professional support if needed. Whether it’s suggesting a grief counselor or attending a support group together, prioritizing their mental health by finding professional help can be a game changer. Informing them about available local resources shows that you care and are looking out for their well-being. The road following a loss is fraught with challenges. Yet, knowing we can play a role in transforming a friend’s grief reality can inspire hope. In conclusion, as we support our friends during these heartbreaking times, let’s embrace compassion and understanding, remembering our larger community as we navigate the journey together. If you have questions regarding resources or services through Rochester, NY funeral homes, reach out for help. The existence of compassionate professionals at places like Rochester Cremation highlights that support is always within reach.

Winter funerals in the UK present unique challenges due to the colder weather and shorter daylight hours. Despite the sombre nature of the occasion, careful preparation can ensure a respectful and comfortable service for all attendees. Here’s how you can prepare for a winter funeral and pay your respects with dignity.

Dressing Appropriately

The key to dressing for a winter funeral is balancing respect with warmth. Opt for classic funeral attire in darker shades such as black, navy, or charcoal. Choose heavier fabrics like wool to keep warm. Layers are advisable, with a smart overcoat, scarf, gloves, and even thermal undergarments if necessary. Sensible footwear is essential, especially in case of rain, snow, or icy conditions.

Venue Considerations

Winter weather can affect both indoor and outdoor funeral services. If the service is held in a chapel or crematorium, confirm in advance that heating will be sufficient. For graveside services, consider providing portable heaters or a covered marquee to shelter mourners from the elements.

Travel and Accessibility

Poor weather conditions can make travel more difficult. Check weather forecasts and advise attendees to allow extra travel time. Providing directions and information on parking availability is helpful. If snow or ice is expected, the venue should arrange for pathways to be gritted to ensure safety.

Floral Arrangements

Cold temperatures can affect the longevity of floral tributes. Opt for hardy winter blooms such as roses, lilies, and carnations, or consider artificial arrangements that can withstand harsher weather conditions.

Catering and Refreshments

Offering hot refreshments after the service can be a comforting gesture. Traditional options such as tea, coffee, and soup can help attendees warm up. Ensure the reception venue is adequately heated and can accommodate the expected number of guests.

Memorial Tokens

Winter funerals often feel more intimate. Consider giving mourners a small keepsake, such as candles, personalised ornaments, or hand warmers, as a token of remembrance.

Emotional Support

The winter months can be especially difficult for those grieving. Encourage the sharing of memories and offer ongoing support. Providing details for bereavement counselling or local support groups can be a thoughtful addition to the service.

By carefully planning and considering these factors, you can ensure a respectful and comforting winter funeral, honouring the memory of the deceased while supporting their loved ones through a difficult time.

If you are looking to arrange a Derbyshire funeral in Ripley, Heanor, Belper, Crich or the surrounding areas of Derbyshire, please do not hesitate to contact Archway Funeral Service.

For many people, the first thing that comes to mind when running across an article like this is that you have no intention of dying anytime soon. We agree! But, and it’s a big but, as much as you don’t want to think about it, you don’t want to wait until it’s absolutely necessary to make sure that your family has everything they need when the unthinkable happens.

NOT SURE IF YOUR FAMILY IS PREPARED FOR YOUR END OF LIFE?

Take our 5-minute quiz to find out.

We do get it; preparing your family for your end of life can be difficult and emotional. However, it is important to ensure that your loved ones will have the support they need when the time comes. That means you need to make sure they have access to the emotional, legal, and financial resources they need so they can get on with grieving.

Regardless of your age or personal situation, you can help your family prepare by taking a few simple steps.

1. Have an open and honest conversation.
   The first step in preparing your family is to have an open and honest conversation about your wishes and desires for the end of your life. This can be a difficult conversation to have. However, it is important to discuss your values, beliefs, and medical treatments or interventions you may or may not want.
2. Create a living will or advance directive.
   A living will or advance directive is a legal document that outlines your medical treatment preferences and end-of-life wishes. This document provides guidance to your family and healthcare providers to ensure that your wishes are respected.
3. Choose a healthcare proxy.
   A healthcare proxy is someone who can make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. Choose someone you trust and who understands your wishes and desires. To give your loved ones the legal authority to ensure your wishes are taken into consideration, create a healthcare power of attorney.
4. Consider hospice or palliative care.
   Hospice or palliative care can provide comfort and support to you and your family during the end of life. These services can also provide emotional and spiritual support to your family members. If you haven’t discussed your feelings about hospice or palliative care with your family, making the decision if it’s necessary can be extremely difficult.
5. Create a plan for your funeral or memorial service.
   Creating a plan for your funeral or memorial service can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty for your family after you pass away.

Get Started

Preparing your family for your end of life is a process, and you don’t need to do it all at once. It is critical though that you have ongoing conversations with your loved ones about your wishes and desires. Getting started might be hard, but once you do, you will likely find that your family is grateful for having the opportunity to talk with you about such an important topic.

Funeralwise specializes in helping people prepare for what’s to come. We have a network of advisors who can help you take the first steps. Our funeral planning tools are free, as is a consultation with an advisor. Let us know if you’d like to talk, and we’ll make our experts available at a time that is convenient for you.

We suggest that you take our brief survey by clicking on the link above. It will help you start thinking in the right direction. When you finish the survey, we’ll send you lots of free resources to help you take the first steps. If you have any questions, just let us know by emailing support@funeralwise.com.

Related Resources

>>Talking About Your Funeral Plan

>>Are you Taking the Right Approach to Funeral Planning

For many people, the first thing that comes to mind when running across an article like this is that you have no intention of dying anytime soon. We agree! But, and it’s a big but, as much as you don’t want to think about it, you don’t want to wait until it’s absolutely necessary to make sure that your family has everything they need when the unthinkable happens.

NOT SURE IF YOUR FAMILY IS PREPARED FOR YOUR END OF LIFE?

Take our 5-minute quiz to find out.

We do get it; preparing your family for your end of life can be difficult and emotional. However, it is important to ensure that your loved ones will have the support they need when the time comes. That means you need to make sure they have access to the emotional, legal, and financial resources they need so they can get on with grieving.

Regardless of your age or personal situation, you can help your family prepare by taking a few simple steps.

1. Have an open and honest conversation.
   The first step in preparing your family is to have an open and honest conversation about your wishes and desires for the end of your life. This can be a difficult conversation to have. However, it is important to discuss your values, beliefs, and medical treatments or interventions you may or may not want.
2. Create a living will or advance directive.
   A living will or advance directive is a legal document that outlines your medical treatment preferences and end-of-life wishes. This document provides guidance to your family and healthcare providers to ensure that your wishes are respected.
3. Choose a healthcare proxy.
   A healthcare proxy is someone who can make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. Choose someone you trust and who understands your wishes and desires. To give your loved ones the legal authority to ensure your wishes are taken into consideration, create a healthcare power of attorney.
4. Consider hospice or palliative care.
   Hospice or palliative care can provide comfort and support to you and your family during the end of life. These services can also provide emotional and spiritual support to your family members. If you haven’t discussed your feelings about hospice or palliative care with your family, making the decision if it’s necessary can be extremely difficult.
5. Create a plan for your funeral or memorial service.
   Creating a plan for your funeral or memorial service can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty for your family after you pass away.

Get Started

Preparing your family for your end of life is a process, and you don’t need to do it all at once. It is critical though that you have ongoing conversations with your loved ones about your wishes and desires. Getting started might be hard, but once you do, you will likely find that your family is grateful for having the opportunity to talk with you about such an important topic.

Funeralwise specializes in helping people prepare for what’s to come. We have a network of advisors who can help you take the first steps. Our funeral planning tools are free, as is a consultation with an advisor. Let us know if you’d like to talk, and we’ll make our experts available at a time that is convenient for you.

We suggest that you take our brief survey by clicking on the link above. It will help you start thinking in the right direction. When you finish the survey, we’ll send you lots of free resources to help you take the first steps. If you have any questions, just let us know by emailing support@funeralwise.com.

Related Resources

>>Talking About Your Funeral Plan

>>Are you Taking the Right Approach to Funeral Planning