Learn how to get along with people you disagree with... in hours—not years.
without heated arguments, awkward small talk, or compromising your beliefs.
Be part of the 250+ people FREE EVENT
Join FUNFest 2025—a live experiment in Finding Unity Naturally.
Featuring NBA legend Thurl Bailey and Studio C’s James Perry, bringing hope, laughter, and a framework you can actually use.
Learn how to get along with people you disagree with... in hours—not years
without heated arguments, awkward small talk, or compromising your beliefs.
Be part of the 250+ people FREE EVENT
Join FUNFest 2025—a live experiment in Finding Unity Naturally.
Featuring NBA legend Thurl Bailey and Studio C’s James Perry, bringing hope, laughter, and a framework you can actually use.
Let’s Face It…
The World’s Divided. We Don’t Have to Be...
Politics Divide Us
It’s not debate anymore—it’s a deal breaker. Even lifelong friends feel like enemies.
But it doesn’t have to stay that way.
Families Growing Apart
The laughter around the table has turned into small talk—or silence.
Imagine bringing the laughter back.
Walking on Eggshells
One wrong word and you’re labeled, unfriended, or written off.
We can do better than walking away.
Introducing...
This isn’t a lecture. It’s an experience.
You’ll laugh, connect, and discover the F.U.N. Framework (Finding Unity Naturally)—a simple, powerful way to stay true to your values and strengthen your relationships.
“Absolutely mind-blowing. I didn’t realize how much division I was carrying until the FUN framework helped me name it, face it, and start finding unity—first within myself, then with others. And once you get it, you can’t unsee it. Your relationships shift, and you start creating positive change just by showing up differently. Healing the world starts with healing you.” ❤️
- Whitney Gram
“This is a movement we truly need right now. FUN has helped me slow down, reflect, and approach conversations—even tough ones—with more empathy and purpose. It’s completely shifted the way I engage with people, whether we agree or not. In a time of division, this framework is a reminder that unity is still possible—and it starts with how we show up for each other.”
- Lori Taylor
Testimonials
What People Are Saying:
FUN has helped me evaluate my thinking... it has made me realize how my thoughts and actions can have a better impact on my relationships.
- Whitney Gram
This is a movement for our times! We can surely use FUN to remind and encourage us all to spread empathy and unity in 2025!
- Lori Taylor
Pause, reflect, retry. Those 3 words have greatly impacted me... so that I can move forward in one positive direction.
- Kelsey Bell
This event is designed to show you how to turn disagreements into opportunities for connection while experiencing laughter, inspiration, and great food.
Saturday, September 27, 2025
4:30–7:30 PM
Marriott Hotel, Provo, Utah
Dinner Provided
Support a cause worth fighting for
Saturday, September 27, 2025
4:30–7:30 PM
Marriott Hotel, Provo, Utah
Dinner Provided
Support a cause worth fighting for
It's not like any other event you’ve ever been to before
It’s an opportunity to walk away with 3–5 practical ways to get along with people you disagree with, strengthen family bonds, and be inspired by leaders like NBA legend Thurl Bailey and Studio C’s James Perry.
WHO could benefit...
Anyone who cares for their family, their future, and is concerned by the rising division in the world and wants to do something but doesn't know where to start
🍽️ Dinner + Dessert Social
Guests can expect a warm, relaxed evening filled with great food, laughter, and heartfelt connections.
We'll enjoy a delicious buffet-style meal that includes your choice of salad, protein, sides, and a delicious dessert.
Meet the leaders guiding you through the night:
DaRREN NIELSON
(Founder)
Darren Nielson is the founder and Executive Director of FUN.NGO Inc (Finding Unity Naturally), a non-profit movement built on kindness, accountability, and second chances. With a heart for connection and community, his passion is creating the frameworks and tools that protect the space where unity grows naturally.
Author of Mining for FUN in the Neighborhood – What Mr. Rogers Taught (and We Forgot) About Finding Unity Naturally.
Founder of WhyFUN.org and the Novilify Movement
Over 30 years of Corporate experience, leading workgroups in Telecom and Healthcare.
Thurl Bailey
Thurl Bailey is a retired NBA star, motivational speaker, and musician known not only for his achievements on the court but also for his commitment to unity, leadership, and personal growth. He inspires audiences around the world by blending sports wisdom with real-life lessons on faith, resilience, and purpose.
Led NC State to an NCAA Championship
12-year NBA career with the Utah Jazz
International speaker and recording artist
James Perry
James Perry is a comedian, writer, and actor best known as a founding cast member of the hit sketch comedy show Studio C. With his sharp wit and creative storytelling, he brings humor and heart to every performance.
Original cast member and writer on Studio C
Experienced live performer and inspirational speaker
Co-creator of viral comedy sketches with over 2 billion views
3 Reasons to Attend
Unity—Without Compromise
The FUN framework helps you stay grounded in your values while creating space for others. It’s not about avoiding conflict—it’s about approaching it with curiosity and care. With FUN, unity doesn’t mean agreement. It means connection, even when it’s hard.
Rebuild Family Relationships
Whether there’s distance, old wounds, or just years of unspoken disconnect, you’ll gain practical tools to rebuild trust, open communication, and restore warmth in your closest relationships. Conversations feel safer. Bonds get stronger. And your home feels more like home again.
New Way to Handle Conflict
Conflict won’t feel like a threat—it’ll feel like a turning point. You’ll leave with a new mindset and method for handling disagreement without shutting down, blowing up, or walking away. You'll turn tension into understanding—and disconnection into deeper connection.
Everything You’ll Experience at
Inspiring Mainstage Moments
From the court to the comedy stage, NBA legend Thurl Bailey and Studio C’s James Perry will inspire you with stories that uplift, entertain, and bring people together.
A F.U.N. Framework
Discover Finding Unity Naturally (F.U.N.)—a simple, practical framework that shows you how to connect with people you disagree with, strengthen relationships, and bring more peace and joy into your daily life.
A F.U.N. Framework
Discover Finding Unity Naturally (F.U.N.)—a simple, practical framework that shows you how to connect with people you disagree with, strengthen relationships, and bring more peace and joy into your daily life.
Dinner + Dessert Social
Enjoy a delicious meal with your choice of:
Salad: Caesars or Fresh Berry
Main Entree: Lemon Prosciutto Chicken or Roasted TriTip
Sides: Garlic Whipped Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables.
Dessert Options: Key Lime Tart or Chocolate Pot de Creme
Choices & Chances
an interactive way to win prizes
Choices & Chances is part strategy, part bluff, and all fun. With prizes on the line, you’ll need to balance bold risks with smart decisions to outplay the competition. Do you go all in on one prize, or spread your bets?
Choices & Chances
an interactive way to win prizes
Choices & Chances is part strategy, part bluff, and all fun. With prizes on the line, you’ll need to balance bold risks with smart decisions to outplay the competition. Do you go all in on one prize, or spread your bets?
Giveaways
Whether it's something to wear, display, or laugh about, guests can look forward to some awesome giveaways as our way of saying thanks for being part of the story—and for showing up to help write the next chapter.
A way to be part of F.U.N.
F.U.N. isn’t just an event—it’s a movement. Share your story, engage with us online, and invite others to join in creating a world where differences bring us closer.
Members of FUN win exclusive prizes, get featured on our page, and most importantly, inspire others to find unity naturally.
A way to be part of F.U.N.
F.U.N. isn’t just an event—it’s a movement. Share your story, engage with us online, and invite others to join in creating a world where differences bring us closer.
Members of FUN win exclusive prizes, get featured on our page, and most importantly, inspire others to find unity naturally.
Keynote #1
Thurl Bailey
Thurl Bailey is a retired NBA star, motivational speaker, and musician known not only for his achievements on the court but also for his commitment to unity, leadership, and personal growth.
He inspires audiences around the world by blending sports wisdom with real-life lessons on faith, resilience, and purpose.
Led NC State to an NCAA Championship
12-year NBA career with the Utah Jazz
International speaker and recording artist
KEYNOTE #2
James Perry
James Perry is a comedian, writer, and actor best known as a founding cast member of the hit sketch comedy show Studio C.
With his sharp wit and creative storytelling, he brings humor and heart to every performance.
Original cast member and writer on Studio C
Experienced live performer and inspirational speaker
Co-creator of viral comedy sketches with over 2 billion views
🎁 Giveaways
Guests can look forward to a few fun and meaningful giveaways designed to celebrate and bring a little piece of the reunion home.
Whether it's something to wear, display, or laugh about, these giveaways are our way of saying thanks for being part of the story—and for showing up to help write the next chapter.
💡 Moments of Meaning & Connection
Reuniting with old friends is more than just a walk down memory lane—it’s a chance to rekindle connections that shaped who we are.
Whether it’s been a few years or a few decades, there’s something powerful about being in the same room again, swapping stories, laughing at shared memories, and catching up on where life has taken each of us.
This reunion is about more than nostalgia—it’s about celebrating the bonds that never really faded, and reminding ourselves that no matter where we go, we’ll always be part of something special.
🌀 Choices & Chances
an interactive way to win prizes
Choices & Chances is a lighthearted, interactive game designed to spark memories, laughter, and maybe a little friendly competition.
BONUS Gift Inside!
(Click the link to see who receives exclusive Bonus Gift)
Pictures, autographs, and interaction with Thurl Bailey and James Perry
Free Copy of Darren Nielson's Book (founder of FUN)
30 Extra Choices in our interactive game
First to Eat Dinner
FUN VIP gift bag
Mystery BONUS Gift Inside!
(Click the link to see who receives exclusive Bonus Gift)
Pictures, autographs, and interaction with Thurl Bailey and James Perry
Free Copy of Darren Nielson's Book (founder of FUN)
30 Extra Choices in our interactive game
First to Eat Dinner
FUN VIP gift bag
What People Are Saying:
WHAT
FUNFest 2025: An Event To Rediscover Connection, Purpose, And Unity In A Divided World!
WHEN
SEPTEMBER 27TH
4:30 - 7:30 PM
PROVO UTAH
MARRIOT BALLROOM
WHY
So you can find unity without compromise, strengthen family relationships, and have a new approach to handling conflict.
📢 A way to be part of F.U.N.
a movement for Finding Unity Naturally
This is more than just a reunion—it’s a movement to honor the people, stories, and spirit. Whether you were there for a season or a lifetime, your presence helped shape something meaningful.
Now’s the time to come together, share in the memories, and help carry that legacy forward. Be part of the movement by showing up, reaching out, and reminding each other what it felt like to belong.
MEET THE FOUNDER
Hi, I'm Darren Nielson!
I believe: Unity despite differences is not only possible, but a necessity for healthy families, organizations and communities. It can't be achieved by force or coercion, but that with awareness and FUN frameworks it is
Over the last five years, I have been quietly building an eco-system of tools and frameworks rooted in kindness, personal accountability, and second chances. At the core, a heartfelt invitation to pause, reflect, and try again—together.
I started FUNFest because I want my kids and grandkids to grow up in a world where people can disagree without tearing each other apart.
This night is about experiencing what Finding Unity Naturally could look and feel like. A memorable and better way forward—together.
STILL GOT QUESTIONS?
FUNFest FAQs
What exactly is FUNFest?
FUNFest is a one-of-a-kind gathering where laughter, legacy, and reconnection come together. Think part reunion, part celebration, part launch party for a better future — all wrapped in a spirit of joy and unity.
Who is it for?
It’s for families, friends, former ward members, and anyone who’s been part of our story. Whether we’re related by blood, faith, or shared memories — if you’ve received this invite, you’re part of the family.
Where and when is it?
📍 Marriott Hotel, Provo, Utah
📅 Saturday, September 27, 2025
⏰ 4:30–7:30 PM (Doors open at 4:00, and we’ve got the space for visiting until 9:00 PM)
What should we expect?
- Dinner, stories, music, and surprises
- A warm welcome and message from Darren
- Special guests including Thurl Bailey and James Perry (Studio C)
- The first public unveiling of WhyFUN: Finding Unity Naturally
- Meaningful moments, light games, and a few raffle prizes
How much does it cost?
Free for people who are truly ready to show up with heart, curiosity, and intention.
Can we bring kids?
Yes! We love kids. The main event is geared toward adults and teens, but younger children are welcome — especially if they’re comfortable in a seated dinner setting.
For those little ones who might get restless, we’ll have a nearby FUN Zone — a dedicated space with coloring, games, and a movie playing. It’s a great place for them to hang out and have their own kind of FUN.
What should we wear?
Dress nicely — but no need to go full formal.
Think: “Sunday best meets family reunion.” Comfortable, presentable, and FUN.
What if we can’t attend in person?
We’ll miss you, but you can still be part of the movement!
Visit WhyFUN.org/FUNFest2025 to RSVP, leave a note, or make a donation to support the cause.
What’s WhyFUN?
It’s a growing movement rooted in one powerful belief:
Unity is worth working for — and FUN is the way.
WhyFUN.org is the new home for ideas and tools that help people reconnect across divides and rediscover what brings us together.
What can I do to help?
- RSVP early so we can plan
- Invite others you know from the old days
- Sponsor someone’s seat if you’re able
- And most of all — bring your whole self. That’s what makes it FUN.
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