Whether or not the family stories they grew up with are true or factual. They want to document their past for entrance into a Society such as The Daughters of The American Revolution or The Mayflower Society. Or, they just want to preserve their heritage and ancestry for future generations. However, they don't have the time or an idea of where to begin. By analyzing any records, documents or photographs you currently have and establishing a research plan for the ancestor you are searching for, a professional genealogist can help gain the information you are seeking. Unfortunately, due to fires, planned document destruction, as well as wars or changes in boundaries and time, there can be no guarantees that the documentation or records still exist today. The advantage of hiring a professional is that they have the knowledge and experience to know what to ask, where to look and how to find the information that you are seeking. Nothing can match the excitement of getting in touch with your personal history; the insight of knowing where you came from the discovery of your roots, and the sense of connection that it provides you and your family. You have only to take the first step in the discovery of your own personal history.