By Flor Garcia

As November unfolds and many of us reflect on gratitude, I find myself deeply thankful for the extraordinary community that makes Families in Global Transition (FIGT) what it is — a home for globally mobile hearts and minds. Gratitude, after all, knows no borders. It is expressed in countless ways across cultures, yet its essence is universal: the recognition of connection, generosity, and shared purpose.

This year, I am especially mindful of the transitions within our own community. We begin a new chapter with a newly elected Board, bringing fresh perspectives, renewed energy, and diverse lived experiences. To our incoming leaders: Welcome! Your voices, insights, and commitment will help guide FIGT into its next phase of growth and impact. We are excited to learn from your perspectives and to see how your leadership will help us continue to bridge cultures and generations within our global family.

At the same time, my heartfelt appreciation goes to those who have served before us, past Board members and volunteers who have given their time, talents, and care to nurture this organization. Your contributions have strengthened the foundation upon which we continue to build. FIGT stands as a testament to your dedication and belief in our mission: to connect, support, and inspire families and individuals crossing cultures and borders.

To our volunteers, who give freely of their time to keep our programs vibrant and our connections strong: Thank you! Your commitment often happens behind the scenes, yet its impact is visible in every event, every post, and every moment of community care and interaction.

To our members, individual, business, and lifetime, your continued engagement sustains FIGT’s heart. You are the storytellers, connectors, and advocates who remind us daily why this community matters. You represent the diversity of global experiences that make FIGT a tapestry of belonging.

To our sponsors and donors, your generosity fuels our work. You make it possible for FIGT to host events, develop resources, and reach those who most need connection and understanding during transitions. Your belief in our mission allows us to keep creating spaces where learning and empathy flourish.

And to our affiliates around the world, who localize FIGT’s spirit in your own regions, thank you for expanding our reach and reminding us that global truly means everywhere. You show us that community is not limited by geography but defined by shared intention.

As President, I often describe FIGT as a bridge. A bridge that connects people across cultures, languages, and experiences. Gratitude is the beam that strengthens that bridge. When we pause to acknowledge each other’s contributions, we reinforce the bonds that hold us together. In moments of uncertainty or change, gratitude reminds us of what endures: our shared purpose, our values, and our belief in the power of human connection.

As we move forward with a new Board and renewed momentum, I invite our community to keep supporting FIGT through participation, storytelling, volunteering, and giving. Your continued engagement ensures that we remain a thriving, inclusive space for those navigating global lives. Let us all carry a deep sense of gratitude that transcends place; gratitude for connection, for shared stories, and for the courage to keep effectively communicating across lines of difference and understanding.

From my heart to yours, thank you for being part of the FIGT family. Together, let’s continue to build bridges that connect cultures, nurture belonging, and remind the world that home is not a single place: it’s the community we create together.

With appreciation,

Flor García

President, Families in Global Transition

Flor is an intercultural and DEI consultant. She loves helping people to understand and appreciate one another and to harness their diversity for greater creativity and productivity. Her areas of expertise also include budgeting and cost control, leadership and peer support, conflict resolution and project management.

Born in Venezuela, Flor spent much of her life living in several countries around the world; she now calls New York City home. Her children now grown, Flor is once again dedicating herself more fully to FIGT (she served as FIGT's Communications Director from 2020-2022 and describes that opportunity as an incredibly positive ‘game changer.”)