Five Ways Your Funeral Home is a Community Center

Support Local Programming and Events 

Funeral homes have been a mainstay for community programs, such as preplanning seminars, bingo nights, and local educational and professional events. Some locations have a local college or library where they support cultural events such as a remembrance ceremony, or a historical exhibit. With today’s enhanced technologies, it is important to ensure your support extends beyond those nearby. Consider providing a “hybrid option” or virtual-only events for families that are snowbirds, those who may be traveling, or may simply be unable to attend in person. Expand your reach and share your program or event highlights on social media including Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

In addition, funeral homes continuously work with allied professionals, such as financial planners, T&E attorneys, elder care attorneys, and adult care facilities. These are all excellent resources for funeral homes and hosting or sponsoring a panel discussion to provide families with a breadth of information is a great way to build connections and reach your community. 

Fraternal Meetings and Organizations

Many funeral homes participate in fraternal organizations, such as the Knights of Columbus, and the Freemasons, and while meetings in the funeral home used to be the norm in some areas of the country, we have seen them shift to alternate locations. Why not invite an organization you are part of or familiar with, or local law enforcement agencies, to use one of your family rooms to hold their meetings? It is a great way to bring exposure to your location and showcase your beautiful facilities including any catering spaces. 

Strong Relationships with Clergy and Leadership 

When a family needs clergy to officiate their funeral service, funeral homes are the connection. When a family requires a police escort to the cemetery, the funeral home acts as a liaison. When a veteran passes, the funeral home arranges for the Honor Guard and flag. The relationships between a funeral home and its local enforcement, government agencies, and clergy are vital. Funeral homes are the connection point to ensure all necessary parties are in communication and the family receives appropriate services.

As a personal anecdote, I always put a lot of thought when referring a clergyperson to a family as it should be a fit for both parties, and I am a resource to many family and friends in need of someone to officiate a funeral, unveiling, baby naming/bris, or a wedding. During hard times, the clergy can provide immense support and guidance, and the relationship formed can last a lifetime. 

Continuous Service - Pre-Need, At-Need, & Aftercare 

If you have ever heard me speak about the role of the funeral director, you will know I look at us as guides. We are there to guide a family through the worst day of their lives and understand that no matter how many times they have planned a funeral, it is their first time arranging for this individual, whether in advance or at-need. 

Perhaps your funeral home has a monument department, provides information for bereavement groups, or creates a Yahrzeit calendar for families of the Jewish faith. These are all examples of Aftercare and create further engagement with the families your location serves. I often hear from funeral homes that they wish to develop or expand their Aftercare services. As a first step, jot down all of the services your funeral home provides to families, and you may find you already have a program in place! 

History within the Community 

Many funeral homes have been around for fifty years or longer, cementing their place in the community. They have provided families and professionals in their local area with all of the services previously mentioned and much more. The reputation your funeral home has built is why families repeatedly enter your doors - think about how often you have had to pull information from a family you served previously. In addition, funeral homes around the country have connections with one another, whether from a family referral or relationships built throughout the years. Just like an individual, your funeral home has a story, and you should ensure you are telling it.