Two Hawaii families are keeping big multi-generation reunions alive, a hopeful counterweight to the way family ties are fading elsewhere.

• The Ching family has gathered in Honolulu every other year for 40 years, drawing relatives from across the mainland.
• The tradition started after a niece failed to recognize her own first cousin at a family home.
• On Oahu, the Nakazato-Yamashiro family held their first large reunion this past summer, organized by cousins.
• More than 100 volunteers pitched in, and the best part turned out to be simply sitting and talking, not the activities.
• Organizers say busy modern life is loosening family bonds, making a sense of origin and connection matter more.

Outlook: The older generation is now pressing younger relatives to take over the planning and keep the reunions going.