Future Leaders Forum

Own the Future at the 2025 OGR Future Leaders Forum!
Pollock-Randall Funeral Home in Port Huron, Michigan
August 25-27

The OGR Future Leaders Forum is where growing professionals, second-career staff, and emerging leaders gather to cultivate their potential within the funeral home profession. 

This year's theme, "Owning the Future," speaks to the ambitions of tomorrow's funeral service leaders. Through hands-on workshops, expert-led sessions, and real-world insights, attendees will gain both the hard and soft skills essential for owning and operating a successful funeral home. Don't miss this opportunity to connect, grow, and take the next step toward your future in funeral service!

This event provides a unique platform for attendees to share their experiences, exchange ideas, and collaborate on approaches to advance their careers while contributing to the growth and evolution of their respective funeral homes. With a focus on innovation thinking, participants will be encouraged to think ahead, envisioning ways to better serve the diverse needs of today's families while anticipating the evolving demands of tomorrow.

Once again, the OGR Foundation will be providing scholarships of $350 to the first 15 OGR member funeral homes that enroll a staff member in the Future Leaders Forum! Sign up now and secure your scholarship!

REGISTER NOW

 

Pricing

$199 for Future Leaders from OGR member firms
$249 for Future Leaders from non-member firms

Hotel Information

The 2025 Future Leaders Forum has a room block at the Doubletree by Hilton Port Huron! Read more about the room block below and click here to book your room now! The last day to book is August 4, 2025. The hotel is approximately a 6-minute drive from Pollock-Randall Funeral Home.

Doubletree by Hilton Port Huron
800 Harker St.
Port Huron, MI 48060
Phone: +1 810-984-8000

Room rate: $119 per night, plus taxes and fees.

Available Dates: August 25 (check-in) - August 27 (check-out)

Visitor Information

From boat tours and lighthouses to golf and fishing, Port Huron offers authentic coastal charm. Check out fun things to do in the area here!

Schedule Overview

Schedule is subject to change. Check back later for updates. 

Monday, August 25

  • Optional social activity

Tuesday, August 26

  • 8:00 AM: Check in and light breakfast
  • 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM: Education sessions
  • 3:00 PM: Activities
  • 6:00 PM: Dinner

Wednesday, August 27

  • 8:00 AM: Check in and light breakfast
  • 8:30 AM - 11:00 AM: Interactive closing session

 

Education Sessions Overview

Preneed Insurance Basics
Andy Weninger, Premier Preneed Marketing

Bridging the Generational Divide in the Workplace
Antonio Green, James H. Cole Home for Funerals

This presentation shows how to unite Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z at work by defining each generation's values and communication styles, outlining steps to analyze current dynamics, strategizing tailored engagement, and implementing solutions. By fostering continuous learning, open communication and inclusive collaboration, organizations boost efficiency, innovation, and retention. Attendees will be challenged to apply these strategies immediately to gain a competitive edge. 

Star Trek and Vikings..... At a Funeral? aka Dare to Use Your Imagination
Joe E. Pray, Pray Funeral Home

We will illustrate the mindset of today's "no service" or DIY consumer and look at possible ways to help them understand the benefit of memorialization. The program will then cover a simple multi-step plan to help develop meaningful and sometimes "Over-the-top" funerals, memorials, and life celebrations. And be prepared... the program will end with an exercise to practice using your imagination. 

Building a Strong Foundation: Financial Insights from Independent Funeral Homes
A panel discussion with OGR members

Join us for an interactive discussion with experienced funeral home owners as they dive into the financial strategies that drive successful, independently owned funeral homes. This panel will focus on the critical elements of managing operating budgets and creating diverse revenue streams to sustain growth and stability. Our expert panelists will share their insights on building a solid financial foundation, managing cash flow, and maximizing profitability through innovative revenue channels. Future leaders will gain practical tips, real-world examples, and actionable strategies that can be implemented immediately, empowering them to make informed financial decisions as they step into managerial or ownership roles within the funeral service profession. 

 

 

2025 FUTURE LEADERS FORUM PRESENTING SPONSOR

 

Who are Future Leaders?

OGR Future Leaders are members who are not yet in primary decision-making roles at their funeral homes, regardless of age. Whether you are just starting out in the funeral service, you're starting a second career, or have been employed at a funeral home for 20+ years, this group is for you.

Ways to get involved with the Future Leaders

  • Join the Future Leaders Facebook Group for ongoing discussions
  • Attend the Annual Future Leaders Forum
  • Serve on the Future Leaders Committee
  • Contribute thought content to OGR for its blog, newsletter and magazine
  • Take advantage of microlearning opportunities throughout the year with content geared towards future leaders
Find out about upcoming Future Leader events and other opportunities by subscribing to our emails. Take two minutes to fill out THIS FORM or contact a[email protected] for more information.