The International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR) proudly announces the resounding success of its signature event, PROGRESS, held May 6-8 at the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in Riverside, California. This year's conference marked a transformative milestone, uniting independent funeral professionals and suppliers from around the world under a bold new vision of innovation, adaptability, and forward momentum. 

The International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR) is pleased to announce Gary Del Vecchio has been appointed as its new Director of Member Development. In this role, Del Vecchio will focus on building connections with current and prospective members, helping to strengthen the OGR community and amplify its voice within the profession. 

Indianapolis (April 18, 2025) - The International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR) Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of its prestigious Awards of Excellence for 2025. These scholarships, totaling $10,000, are awarded annually to mortuary school students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, funeral service experience, and a deep commitment to serving families with compassion, fairness, and dignity. 

From the Winter 2025 issue of The Independent magazine.

From the Winter 2025 issue of The Independent magazine. 

The International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR) is proud to announce this year's finalists for OGR's Professional Service Awards. We congratulate these funeral homes that have exhibited outstanding compassion for the families they serve and a commitment to their community. Nominees will be recognized at the Golden Circle Celebration on Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at OGR's signature event, PROGRESS, held in Riverside, California. 

The Order of the Golden Rule, the premier association of independently owned and operated funeral homes, is proud to announce a new partnership with My Grief Angels, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, peer-led grief support resources. This collaboration underscores OGR's commitment to ensuring that families receive compassionate and accessible grief support beyond funeral services. 

The world of independent funeral service is coming together this spring at PROGRESS, and we want you to join us! Register now before April 1 for a reduced rate, and don't miss this rare opportunity to reconnect with a diverse group of independent funeral professionals and suppliers to share ideas, ask questions, and participate in meaningful discussions. Here are 10 great reasons why you won't want to miss PROGRESS: 

From the Winter 2025 issue of The Independent magazine. 

Top 10 Reasons to Join the International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR)

The International Order of the Golden Rule extends its heartfelt support to those impacted by the devastating wildfires in California. We stand in solidarity with the brave first responders who are working tirelessly to protect lives and communities during this crisis.

We encourage our members to join us in supporting relief efforts by donating to the American Red Cross, which is providing vital assistance to affected families and businesses, or the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, which directly aids firefighters and emergency responders by providing critical resources and equipment.

Together, we can make a meaningful difference during this challenging time. For more information on how to donate, please visit www.redcross.org or www.supportlafd.org.

From the Fall 2024 issue of The Independent magazine. 

From the Fall 2024 issue of The Independent magazine. 

As funeral service professionals, we understand the dedication and empathy it takes to serve families in their most difficult times. At the International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR), we believe in supporting and empowering the next generation of leaders who will carry this mission forward. That's why we're thrilled to announce that the OGR Foundation Awards of Excellence scholarship program is now open for applications through December 31!

A federal rule banning fake online reviews is now in effect. The rule bans the sale or purchase of online reviews. The FTC's new rule on fake reviews is a game-changer for independently owned funeral homes. By cracking down on misleading online feedback, the rule ensures that consumers can trust the reviews they read. 

As we watch the devastating impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton unfold, our hearts go out to the families, communities and OGR members affected by these storms. At the International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR), we are more than just a network of independently owned funeral homes; we are a family united by a commitment to service and compassion. In times like these, we have the opportunity to extend our support to those in need. 

Twelve Order of the Golden Rule Funeral Homes were recently recognized by NFDA as part of their 2024 Pursuit of Excellence Program. The Pursuit of Excellence Program recognizes funeral homes for going above and beyond what is expected and acknowledges remarkable service, compassion and professionalism in the funeral home. 

From the Summer 2024 edition of The Independent magazine. 

From the Summer 2024 issue of The Independent magazine. 

From the Summer 2024 issue of The Independent magazine.