NCFR was founded in 1938 by Paul Sayre, a law professor at the University of Iowa, Ernest Burgess, professor of sociology at the University of Chicago, and Rabbi Sidney E. Goldstein, Chair of the Central Conference of American Rabbis, New York City. It is the only professional organization focused solely on family research, policy, and practice.  NCFR conducts an annual conference, publishes three scholarly journals, provides the Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) credential program, and provides an opportunity for interaction and communication among members through a variety of publications and media.

From its inception, NCFR was organized by state and regional affiliates and by subject area sections related to the principal areas of family science. The national office is located in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  NCFR is governed by a Board of Directors that is composed of professionals from across the country.

The NCFR History Book

Starting in January 2011 and continuing over the next two years, a history of NCFR will be compiled as the organization approaches its 75th anniversary in 2013.

Mary Jo Czaplewski, past executive director of NCFR, and Cindy Winter, conference consultant and retired 40-year employee, are leading the history project, which will be an online "living" publication as material is created. Mary Jo is currently working on sections related to the formation and early days of NCFR that will be posted soon.

As the project continues, members will have the opportunity to contribute articles and materials.