In 1999, James LeVoy Sorenson envisioned creating a genetic map of the world that would show relationships shared by the entire human family. Mr. Sorenson contacted Brigham Young University professor Dr. Scott R. Woodward to discuss how to implement this vision.

In January, SMGF's founder and friend, Mr. Sorenson, passed away at the age of 86. Today, true to his vision, we have collected over 90,000 DNA samples. These samples have already led to 6 million ancestral names from over 170 countries and we continue to receive samples daily from around the world. SMGF's Executive Director, Scott Woodward, said, "We plan to continue to make Mr. Sorenson's vision a reality, reaching distant parts of the world as well as communities in our own backyard while educating the public on the rich potential of the Sorenson Database." Thank you for your help in growing the world's genetic family tree . . . one branch at a time!
  To read our tribute to James LeVoy Sorenson, click here.

SMGF is proud to announce a new partnership with the Granite Technical Institute (GTI), a work-based learning institute that helps high school students gain technical experience in fields such as animation, art and biotechnology. This partnership will introduce the field of molecular genealogy to the GTI students in a variety of ways. SMGF will provide internships, teach the newest developments in DNA technology and collaborate to create educational tools for the public. We look forward to this partnership and are eager to introduce the GTI students to the exciting world of molecular genealogy. 

One of the goals at SMGF is to educate individuals about the exciting field of molecular genealogy. For this purpose, we have developed a set of animation tools that will provide a fun and interactive introduction to the basics of DNA and its application to genealogy. These animations are easy to understand and follow, and we are confident that they will be valuable tools to both beginner and advanced molecular genealogists alike.  Click here to watch the animations.

Aside from the Sorenson Database, one of our website's key resources is our Sample Collection Map which provides information about the number of samples collected from each country in the world. By clicking on the dots in each country, you can view how many samples we have collected in that area of the world. Consider your own unique heritage -- is it represented in the Sorenson Database? Whether the answer is yes or no, you should consider getting involved! Become a representative of your ancestral geographic heritage.  Click here to visit the Sample Collection Map.

In collaboration with SMGF, the family networking site GeneTree has announced a special offer that enables past SMGF participants who have contributed DNA samples and genealogical pedigree charts to SMGF to receive their DNA profiles at a discounted rate. "SMGF has not been able to provide individual DNA results back to study participants," said Dr. Scott Woodward, Executive Director of SMGF. "The collaboration with GeneTree allows us to return results in a compelling, confidential way and we're pleased to be able to offer this exceptional opportunity. Many SMGF participants have expressed the desire to make greater family connections and collaborate on family history research using DNA tools; SMGF's arrangement with GeneTree enables this."  To find out more about this offer, click here.

Participation in the Sorenson Molecular Genealogy Foundation is free, simple and makes an invaluable contribution to future generations with the preservation of your genetic and genealogical information. Participation in the project is given through three simple steps: 1) a signed consent form, 2) a pedigree chart and 3) a DNA sample obtained through a simple mouthwash swish. Request a kit online today at www.smgf.org. You may also request additional kits for your friends and family members directly on our website or by contacting an SMGF representative at info@smgf.org.