Save a Family Story
Every family has stories that live only in someone's memory. Ask a parent, grandparent, aunt, or old friend to tell you one, and record it. Their voice and their story will become a treasure for generations.
How to do it
- Choose someone whose stories you'd hate to lose.
- Ask if you can record a conversation.
- Use your phone's voice recorder or camera.
- Ask open questions, then let them talk.
Why this chance matters
So many people say, "I wish I'd asked my mother about that," after it's too late. Recording a loved one's stories preserves their voice, their laugh, and the history that made your family who it is. For the storyteller, being asked is a gift too. It tells them their life matters and is worth remembering.
Questions to get the stories flowing
- What was the house you grew up in like?
- How did you meet the love of your life?
- What was your first job, and what did you earn?
- What's something you were brave about when you were young?
- What do you want your grandchildren to know about life?
Tips: Find a quiet spot, keep the phone close to the speaker, and don't worry about getting it perfect. Pull out old photos to spark memories. If a topic is painful, gently move on. Save the recording in two places so it's never lost.
Only have five minutes? Ask one question over the phone and write down the answer.
Make it fun: Turn it into a holiday tradition. Each year, record one family member's story and share the recording with everyone.
Want to reconnect with someone first? Try the Reach Out card.
Did you take the chance? Tell us how it went on the Wall of Chances. Your story might inspire someone else to try.