In this Issue

• Message from Sandra Shaw, President 2024-2026, Ontario Council
• February Wishes
• February Speakers Series - Artificial Intelligence & Education
• Advocacy Reports
• Black History Month
• International Women's Day
• Request for Warming Centres Data
• OC Membership Fees
• Disinformation & its Impact on Canadian Society
• Carolyn Day Environmental Action Award
• OC AGM & Conference - Women Leading Change
• OC Member Proposals
• Nominations for OC Board
• Ontario Council Clubs Interest Group Data
• Speakers Series YouTube Recordings
• NGO CSW70
• University Women Helping Afghan Women
• Ontario Coalition for Healthy School Food Program
• Let's Celebrate Longtime CFUW Members!
• Club News & Events

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A Message from Sandra Shaw

• You only need one more vote than the person in second place to win the seat. If Candidate A gets 35%, Candidate B gets 33%, and Candidate C gets 32%, Candidate A wins.
• The 65% of people who voted for B and C now have zero representation from that riding. When this happens across the province, a party can win a "majority government" (100% of the legislative power) with as little as 38–40% of the total vote.

Other contributors to a democratic deficit include snap elections. Although provinces have fixed dates for provincial elections, a loophole allowing the provincial premier to use the constitutionally enshrined Royal Prerogative to ask the Lieutenant Governor to dissolve Parliament early exists. This is often used when a party’s polls show a high acceptance or when opposition parties are unprepared or leaderless.

Strict party discipline and the concentration of power in the premier’s office also add to a democratic deficit. In this case, the party leader dictates how the member will vote so the will is now in the hands of the premier rather than in the hands of the constituents. Even if a majority of the population oppose a specific bill (like Ontario’s Greenbelt development or healthcare privatization), the government can pass it easily because its MPPs prioritize party loyalty over local representation to keep their jobs. Premiers will argue that the concentration of power amongst a few unelected advisors or by the premier her/himself is more efficient, allowing the government to ‘get things done’. 

Voter apathy exemplified by low voter turnout is both influenced by the above factors and contribute to them. It rewards the incumbent government. Apathy and low voter turnout can be manufactured, as well, when a government calls an election during a time when the population is distracted, for example during a holiday.

It seems an indomitable task to fight all or even any of the above. Nevertheless, there are ways to mitigate a government’s power when they no longer represent the true will of the people. For example, the citizenry can make it politically expensive for the government to ignore the will of the majority (using civil society groups to form coalitions that cross party lines) by raising the status of the issue so that even the governing party’s own elected officials fear for their seats. Capitalizing on the power that swing ridings hold (for example by sending personalized letters from the constituents to back benchers in particular), pressuring the currently elected official to buck the party trend can make a difference. 

However, the two most important strategies citizens can use to ensure no democratic deficit is possible are to encourage voter engagement through education of the issue and what they mean to the voter, their children, and their children’s children, and to make the voting system fair by advocating for proportional representation (if the party gets 35% of the vote they get 35% of the seats).

CFUW Ontario Council members are in a unique position to educate our citizenry about the myriad issues we face as Ontarians, Canadians and world citizens. All Clubs have speaker programs that can be open to the public where appropriate speakers can outline the issues and encourage those attending to step up to educate others.

Moreover, we can advocate to change our voting system to ensure that the true voices of the citizens are represented properly. We can explain and advocate for proportional representation in which every vote DOES count. The more people understand this concept, the more we, as a society, can get what we want from our elected officials.

Neither education nor proportional representation will happen overnight. Nor are they ‘sexy’ issues in the eyes of the voters. But they are both what will make every one of our votes count and ensure that our politicians are accountable to us and us alone.

It doesn’t matter which party you support or what your political values are. To protect Canadian democracy, to stop democratic backsliding into the democratic deficit, to ensure we can hold our place in the world as the strongest democratic middle power leading the Third Path, we need CFUW and CFUW Ontario Council Clubs to do what they do best – educate and advocate, and we need to start now.

As an organization, we may be non-partisan, but we are not apolitical.

Sandra Shaw

Ontario Council President (2024-2026)

February Wishes

Dear Member,

As we move into the heart of February, I want to take a moment to reflect on two important observances that define this month: Valentine’s Day and Black History Month.

While Valentine’s Day is often associated with romance, within CFUW, it serves as a wonderful reminder of the power of purposeful connection. Our advocacy and friendship are built on a foundation of mutual respect and a shared commitment to improving the lives of women and girls. I wish you all a day filled with the warmth of community and the appreciation of those who support your journey.

February also marks Black History Month in Canada. This is a vital time for us to honor the legacy of Black Canadians, past and present, who have shaped our nation’s identity. This year’s theme reminds us to not only celebrate historical triumphs but to acknowledge the ongoing work required to dismantle systemic barriers.

Education is at the core of our mission. I encourage each of you to take this month to engage with Black history through literature, local exhibits, or community events, ensuring that these stories remain a central part of our Canadian narrative year-round.

Yours in service,

Sandra Shaw,

CFUW Ontario Council President (2024-2026)

Speakers Series February 21st 

Please join us for our next Speaker Series Event:

Saturday, February 21^st, 2026

10 AM to 12 Noon

on Zoom

This is a free event but please register to attend.

REGISTER HERE

The event is free but please register to attend.

REGISTER HERE

Please visit the CFUW Ontario Council website

for more information on our guest speakers

Some Background Info on AI

By Metroland Staff insidehalton.com

The truth about AI: Powerful tools, not magic solutions

From customer service chatbots and search engine summaries to self-driving vehicles, artificial intelligence (AI) suddenly feels everywhere. But how does it actually work — and is it accurate?

In a recent survey, you told us you were curious about this evolving technology, but also deeply concerned.

That is why Metroland, this publication’s parent company, is partnering with Trusting News to launch a new AI literacy series to help you separate fact from fiction.

Read the complete article here. 

Picture Generated by ChatGPT

February is Black History Month

Every February, people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and festivities that honour the legacy of Black people in Canada and their communities.

Article submitted by Kathy Wosnick, Advocacy Chair, CFUW Ontario Council

Each year, Black History Month honours the experiences, achievements and enduring contributions of Black communities in Canada, while deepening our collective understanding of their history and impact on Canadian society.

Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, unveiled this year’s theme: “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.” This theme celebrates three decades of Black History Month in Canada and recognizes the enduring legacy of Black Canadians, whose leadership, creativity, innovation and resilience have shaped our past, continue to influence our present, and will inspire future generations.

Throughout February, Canadians are invited to learn more about and celebrate the diversity and accomplishments of Black Canadians across the country. Black History Month is also a time to reflect on Canada’s painful history and the systemic barriers that Black communities continue to face, including anti-Black racism and discrimination, and to reaffirm our shared responsibility to address them. Read more ...

March 8, International Women's Day

Submitted by Kathy Wosnick, Advocacy Chair, CFUW Ontario Council

March 8 is International Women's Day (IWD). It’s a global day to recognize and celebrate women’s and girls’ social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. It’s also a time to highlight the progress made in advancing women’s rights and the ongoing efforts needed to ensure their (our) full participation in all aspects of society.

Government of Canada - International Women's Day

The IWD 2026 Give to Gain Campaign emphasizes the power of reciprocity, collaboration, and support. In a world where gender inequity continues to affect our lives, families, and workplaces, it is crucial to come together to address these pressing issues.

When we uplift, support, and invest in one another — we all rise. The IWD 2026 Give To Gain Campaign encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration. When we contribute to women's advancement, we help create a more supportive and interconnected world.

Women & Children's Shelter Barrie

The Ontario Federation of Labour is excited to launch the 2026 International Women's Day March 8 Project with the powerful theme:

International Women’s Day is a powerful moment to celebrate women’s achievements, reflect on progress, and recommit to building a more equal and inclusive world. This year, our theme is “Give to Gain” a reminder that when we give support, opportunity, respect and equity to women, everyone gains. Give to Gain is about understanding that progress grows through generosity and collective effort.

Giving is not a sacrifice it is a powerful step toward shared growth and a better future for all.

International Women's Day 2026: Give to Gain

Data Request re Warming Centres

OC Membership Fees

Ontario Council Membership Fees



Reminder - Ontario Council Membership Fees & Insurance due February 9, 026. Invoices have been sent to the Club Treasurers by the Ontario Council Treasurer. The invoice is also posted on the website. Payment can be made by cheque or e-transfer. Please contact the OC Treasurer at treasurer@cfuwontcouncil.org with any questions.  



Disinformation and its Impact on Canadian Society

By Kate Ciceri, CFUW Guelph, published over three editions of Guelph Line. Reprinted with permission.

Disinformation is defined as false information that is intentionally spread to mislead and manipulate, to deceive the public and/or to cause public harm. Malinformation refers to information based on truth but exaggerated or presented out of context. Malinformation is shared with the intent to attack an idea, individual or organization.

Disinformation has arguably existed in some form throughout history. However, in 2013, the World Economic Forum identified it as a trend to observe and by 2016 – only three years later – numerous journals and organizations engaged in research on the topic have identified disinformation as an existential threat to democracy, climate change, public health, and safety, and human rights. Read more ...

Ms. Ciceri's article references on online misinformation susceptibility test offered by the University of Cambridge. If you wish to take the test, here is the link:

https://yourmist.streamlit.app/

OC Carolyn Day Environmental Action Award for 2026

Applications from clubs for the Carolyn Day Award for Environmental Action are now being accepted. This award for environmental action was created in honour of Carolyn Day who was OC’s policy adviser for many years. You may download an application form here. Complete the application and e-mail it to advocacy@cfuwontcouncil.org. Applications must be submitted on or before April 30, 2026. This year, the Carolyn Day award also includes a $500 grant!

Carolyn Day Award recipients will be recognized for their work at the AGM on May 23, 2026.

Ontario Council 2026 AGM & Conference

The conference will take place at the Peterborough Golf and Country Club, 1030 Armour Rd., Peterborough. The cost to attend the full conference will be $135. Registration will open in early February. When you register, you will also be selecting the breakout sessions you would like to attend.

ACCOMMODATIONS – Early bird special!

A block of rooms, at a preferred rate for conference attendees, has been reserved at the Best Western Plus Otonabee Inn, located at 84 Lansdowne Street East, Peterborough.

Guests can book their accommodations by clicking this link or by contacting the hotel directly at 705-742-3454 and referencing “CFUW Ontario Council AGM”.

The room block reservation and special rate expires on April 8th.

Please book as soon as possible!

Member Proposals

Each year CFUW Ontario Council members can propose bylaw amendments or other motions for consideration at the AGM or policy sessions. This year, proposals must be received by CFUW by March 15th, 2026, in order to be considered at the AGM. This year, our AGM will be an in-person meeting held on the morning of May 23, 2026.

What are member proposals? Motions of any kind – not just Resolutions – that Member Clubs would like Ontario Council to consider at its AGM in May.  Clubs can submit motions on a variety of topics. As long as they propose action that is within the purposes of Ontario Council or that addresses how CFUW conducts business (bylaw amendments, amendments to procedure, resolutions, dues motions, nominations), member proposals can be considered at the AGM or a policy session.

The Guidelines for Member Proposals and Amendment forms are posted on our website here.

MEMBER PROPOSAL GUIDELINES

1. Final submissions for proposed Amendments (Form 1) or Amendments to proposed Amendments to the Bylaws (Form 2), must be fully completed and submitted by email to president@cfuwontcouncil.org.
2. All proposed amendments or amendments to the amendments must be properly received, on or before March 15, 2026 or they will not be considered.
3. A package of the Proposed Amendments will be posted on the Ontario Council website for clubs and members of the CFUW OC Board of Directors for study and evaluation.
4. Members will be invited to submit Amendments to the Proposed Amendments (Form 2) on or before April 15, 2026.
5. At the AGM, only proposed amendments and amendments to the amendments properly received and deemed compliant, will be allowed from the floor. Bylaw elements that are legally required by the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act must be instituted and any amendments to these clauses must be legally consistent.   

CFUW Ontario Council - Opportunities Await You!

One of the purposes of Ontario Council, established 48 years ago, is to “encourage and enable women to apply their knowledge and skills in leadership and decision -making in all aspects of their lives.”

Ladies, your time has come and the opportunities are here – to serve on a very dynamic Ontario Council Board!

Your varied experience and skill sets are needed for the following positions:

• Secretary
• Treasurer
• Regional Director(s) – East and Huron
• Chair, Status of Women and Human Rights

Please take a moment to think how you can amplify your own amazing abilities to work with Ontario Council – the largest (and independent) cohort under the CFUW umbrella.

Ontario Council accomplishes great things for the women and girls in our province. Be engaged in that experience! For more information, please click on the following link:

Board of Directors & Elections | CFUW Ontario Council.

Or please contact me via e-mail.

Looking forward to speaking with you!

Sandy Thomson

Chair, Nominations Committee

Ontario Council

Nomination Forms:

·        Word format

·        PDF format

Analysis and Interpretation of Ontario Council Clubs Interest Group Data

Twenty-four (24) of Ontario Council’s 48 Clubs participated in a request from CFUW National (for all Clubs across the country) in October of 2025 to provide a list of their Club’s Interest Groups. This information was collected subjectively, that is, National did not require Clubs to use a particular format while inputting their information, making analysis more than challenging. Through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to compare, contrast and collate results, however, the information has been analyzed and the results used as the basis for this report.

To view the report in its entirety including the raw information Clubs in Ontario provided and from which the data is reported on, click here.

Executive Summary/Overview

The data from the Interest Group information reveals a vibrant network of individual Clubs that balance traditional social activities with modern wellness trends and serious civic engagement. The quantitative analysis examined the data to identify and describe:

• Core pillars of the CFUW experience
• Civic impact and advocacy
• Strategic diversification and modernization, and
• Operational observations

The analysis also includes a section devoted to the qualitative information that was collected through notes taken at the January 2026 National Monday Membership Moments ZOOM meeting. To view the complete Executive Summary/Overview, please click here.

Ontario Council Speakers Series Recordings

DID YOU KNOW…

CFUW Ontario Council’s Communications team records all of our ZOOM presentations. After the event, these recordings are uploaded to a private YouTube channel. We began this process last year to be able to preserve the presentations and make them available in perpetuity. 

These recordings are private and unlisted. However, they are available for viewing by CFUW members by sending a request to communications@cfuwontcouncil.org. 

The YouTube format makes these recordings more accessible. They can be viewed by members, either in part or in their entirety. They can make excellent meeting presentations when your speaker cancels! Here is a list of our currently available recordings.

NGO CSW70

To view this message in your browser, click here.

We are excited to announce registration access to our virtual portal is now open!

In the portal, you can browse the agenda and add events to your personal schedule. Additional features, such as Exhibit Booths, Sponsor Pages, and Discussion Forums, will be rolled out as they become available.

IMPORTANT: Instructions for Parallel Event Lead Organizers

If you are a Parallel Event Lead Organizer, please register using the same Name and Email address provided in your Parallel Event Application. Failure to do so will prevent your account from being linked to your event, and you will not have access to manage it. If you are unsure of which email address and name was used, please email us at parallelevents@ngocsw.org.

We look forward to your participation and can’t wait to connect with you!

For more information about NGO CSW70, visit their website.

University Women Helping Afghan Women

CFUW Ottawa

Submitted by Fran Harding, Co-Convenor, University Women Helping Afghan Women, CFUW-Ottawa

Most Canadians know that Afghanistan is ruled by the Taliban extremist group, and that the women and girls are denied education. In fact, Afghanistan is ranked the worst place in the world to be a woman.

It has never been an easy place to be female, but before the return of the Taliban in 2021, things had been turning around. Women were working as lawyers, judges, doctors, nurses, teachers, journalists, business owners, public servants, politicians, and attending school.

It was in 2010, when Canadian soldiers were fighting there, that CFUW- Ottawa became engaged with the country and created University Women Helping Afghan Women (UWHAW).

That small group of members determined they would learn all they could about the circumstances of Afghan women and girls, advocate on their behalf and help low-income women attend Gawharshad University.  Through annual fundraising more than 100 students were supported with four-year scholarships with several continuing to post-graduate studies. Sadly, many could not graduate when university education was banned.

The monthly meetings with experts on Afghanistan continued (see Zan Times report following). The Annual Saffron Tea brings authentic Afghan culture and a marketplace to the community. Advocacy work ensures that Afghan women are not forgotten. And fundraising efforts continue to support education.

UWHAW's Online Education Program

UWHAW has been providing online education to young university-level women in Afghanistan since September 2023, following the closure of universities to females by the Taliban. Currently, we are supporting 36 students with plans to expand to 50 students by March 2026. Each student is equipped with a laptop, backup power supply and internet access, and they are enrolled in online English language programs which they access from the safety of their homes. The goal is to improve their English language skills which will open opportunities for them, such as scholarships to universities outside Afghanistan so they can continue their education and online employment.

In addition to the online programs, a tutor-student program has been established. Tutor volunteers from CFUW and outside the club (currently 17 in total) spend one hour a week by Zoom with two or three students to help them improve their verbal, listening, reading and writing skills. Two tutors also hold one-hour classes focused on advanced and beginner English grammar.

If you are interested in learning more about volunteering for the tutor-student program, please contact Karen Shigeishi-Waite (Program Leader).

To read the Zan Times report, please click here.

The Ontario Coalition for Healthy School Food Program

Submitted by Wendy Taylor, Education Chair, CFUW Ontario Council

The Ontario Coalition for Healthy School Food Program, which CFUW Ontario Council is a supporter of, has put out their pre-2026 budget recommendations to the Ontario Government. The highlights of the budget are:

Affordability, and in particular food affordability, continues to be the number one concern for Ontarians. In Budget 2026, Ontario has an opportunity to address this problem by increasing its school food investment. This will support parents and ensure that more children and youth can enjoy a nutritious and fulsome meal each school day. We recommend that the Government of Ontario:

• Increase Ontario’s investment by $210M per year to expand the (SNP) School Nutrition Program and (FNSFP) First Nations Student Nutrition Program so that participating children and youth have access to a nutritious and fulsome meal each school day. This investment will allow school food providers to invest in human resources, infrastructure, distribution, and evaluation to ensure programs can operate sustainably and efficiently. It will also offer providers greater flexibility to serve meal types that fit community and school needs and strengths. In regions that show readiness and interest, this could mean piloting or expanding programs that serve hot meals, sandwiches, and/or salad bars with a priority on local food procurement.”

Sarah Keyes (she/her)

Ontario Lead, Coalition for Healthy School Food

Food Literacy Lead, Farm to Cafeteria Canada

Ontario Coalition for Healthy School Food Programs activities include:

​

1. Advocating to Ontario and Federal Governments for public investment in school food programs and recommending provincial policy improvements.
2. Engaging with a wide variety of school food stakeholders in Ontario and growing the school food movement. 
3. Offering opportunities to connect, share information, network, and learn from diverse practitioners across Ontario and Canada.
4. Advancing knowledge and understanding of school food programs by sharing research on leading and innovative models, best practices, and program outcomes.

Honouring our Longtime Members for their

Tenacity and Wisdom

Dear Club Presidents,

If you have a Club member who has been with CFUW for 50 years or more and is a current member of your Club, we would like to honour her in the Ontario Council Newsletter. Please send a photo and a short biography to communications@cfuwontcouncil.org and we will include both in the next edition!

Thank you.

Three 50+Year Members from CFUW Burlington!

Eleanor Christie

I joined CFUW Burlington within a couple of years of moving there in 1968. The mental stimulation was wonderful and there were many young mothers like me.

Over the years I have held many positions on the Executive and been involved in many interest groups. I am still on the Leadership team.  I have thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship and friendship CFUW membership offers.

One of my passions has been to Co-chair the Advocacy Committee for probably 20 years and I am still doing this to this day. Fifteen years ago, as president, our club joined the online community. I also helped guide our club through Covid restrictions. After retiring from teaching, I ran a community kitchen in Burlington for 18 years until Covid hit. I have attended many AGMs over the years and I had the privilege of attending the GWI Triennial in Zambia in September.

Marianne Singh-Waraich

CFUW saved my sanity when I joined it in the early 70s while I was at home with four young children and in need of some intellectual stimulation. My book club led to 50 years of enjoyment. Within the club, I served as president in 1980 and again recently. After attending Ontario Council’s meetings, I became interested in the larger organization and became National Director of Resolutions in 2002.I moved from there to a term on OC as chair of the Education Committee and back to the National Board for two terms as chair of the Education Committee. Next I served on the Resolutions Committee of GWI ,then IFUW , first as a  member and then as chair in the next triennium. I followed this up with a term on the GWI Education Committee from which I retired this year. On the CFUW national level, I saw to fruition 5 resolutions, 3 by my club: on homecare, student debt and the extension of the CPP and two with the National Education Committee on Closing The Gap for  First Nations. I developed a template for all candidates’ meetings which was widely shared. I was the original chair of CFUW Burlington’s Advocacy Committee more than 20 years ago and continued in that position for most of that time. I attended 6 CSW meetings in NYNY and have not missed a national AGM since my first one in Wolfville Nova Scotia in 2002. Internationally, I attended IFUW and then GWI’s triennial meetings in Mexico City, Istanbul, Capetown, Geneva and Lusaka, Zambia. CFUW has enriched my life!

Helga McTaggart

I joined CFUW in 1975 after a friend took me to a meeting. We lived on a farm in Freelton Ontario. My husband was a cattle order buyer for several Packing Houses. My job was: Secretary/Treasurer of his company. Our telephone rang 7 days a week until 11.00 pm. We had 90 yearlings on 90 acres from April to October each year.

I was fortunate to use some of my time to volunteer in the community. We curled in Burlington. I worked my way through the ladies Executive. I took my turn for 3 years on the Games Committee. We were responsible to schedule 225 ladies playing 5 days a week. I finished as President of that section.

In 1982 a member of the Joseph Brant Hospital Auxiliary asked me to join their Executive, starting as Volunteer director. We had 500 to 600 volunteers. Their shift was 4 hours and each day we provided 146 volunteers for many services. I moved from Volunteer director through the VP chairs to President. That connection lasted for over 30 years. I stayed involved as an advisor after being President. In 2006 I was asked by CEO Don Scott to return to the Auxiliary as President. I had a committee of 6 auxilians; we were in charge until we found a new President. I kept involved as an advisor until my husband became sick.

During the same time I became involved with the CFUW activities. Being a volunteer in different places, taught me a lot. I was VP on our CFUW Executive when we had to replace our president due to illness. I was asked to step into that position of CFUW Burlington. I inherited 12 boxes containing our archives- not safe. The Burlington Library agreed to store them for us. Next I took on the CFUW Regional Chair for Ontario South. The meetings were at night - In bad weather the drive to the Niagara area was a challenge at times. Ontario Council Meetings in Toronto at the Club House once a month were also at night. Once again, I inherited a pile of boxes with records. I asked If I could make up a handbook - the Ontario Executive agreed. My next assignment for CFUW was Nominations Chair for all of Canada. I loved that job the best, because I had been to many national AGMs I knew alot of people . My son translated the English Application form into French. It was pre-e-mail; we had to use a fax machine. Voting deadlines and provincial representation were carefully arranged across Canada. I was able to complete 2 terms and found a replacement for nomination chair from BC.

Things change - I lost my husband in 2018. The pandemic happened . Most of our community activities disappeared. Since 2003 I have been a member of the Roseland Park and Country Club which is a Tennis and Social Club in Burlington. When all activities stopped I was on the ladies Executive Team as secretary. Sadly, our president was very sick and passed away. One more time I stepped up and restarted the club’s activities. The members were hesitant to attend gatherings, afraid of catching Covid again. 7 other members on that executive helped to start the process. It was the most difficult task I had ever taken on. I was older as well. I am happy to say, we increased our single ladies membership and the changed activities slowly built a new system for our gatherings.

Two 50+Year Members from CFUW Welland & District!

STELLA BUCK

Stella Buck joined CFUW Welland and District in 1965. She has been a longstanding valuable member for 60 years. Stella contributed to many projects and book sales undertaken by the club over the course of her 60 years. One special project tackled by the club in the year 2000 was when the club members wrote and published the book "Lives and Legacies". Stella was one of the members who wrote the stories of the women in Welland and District who contributed to community life in a significant way. Stella has had difficulty participating in the last year but has always been dedicated to the goals and mission of CFUW.

MARTHA CEPUCH

Martha Cepuch first joined CFUW Welland and District in 1965 and has been a valuable, involved member for over 50 years. These are Martha's own words about her time with CFUW.

"When our young family moved to the Niagara Region in the mid 1960s for my husband's work, I didn't know anyone. I had been a member in Ottawa and knew that it was a great platform for meeting interesting people. I have enjoyed all of the speakers, many social events and some of the various interest groups. The book sale each year was also a great way to be involved and help raise funds to support our scholarships."

Club News & Events

As always, there's lots going on with Ontario Clubs! Please send your club news & events to communications@cfuwontcouncil.org.

CFUW Leaside-East York Wassail Party Fundraiser

CFUW Leaside-East York held its annual Wassail party with refreshments and prizes. The event raised $3,870 for the YWCA East York Women’s Shelter. Two representatives from the Shelter spoke about their jobs there and were presented with the donated money, which will go to help at-risk women in the community. This is our way to honour the Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence that fall at the same time of year. It was an enjoyable and worthwhile celebration of the season.

Left to right: Amal (YWCA), Sydney (Co-president), Laxmi (YWCA), Jane (Co-president), Maralynn (Club and Shelter liaison.)

CFUW Nepean: Thrifting for a Cause!

CFUW Nepean member Teresa McCrory has turned her passion for thrifting into a fundraising effort for the club's Scholarship Trust. The trust helps provide scholarships and bursaries for women in science and technology, as well as Indigenous students. She's pictured below with Carole Baker (centre), President of CFUW Nepean, and Kathy Greiner, chair of the scholarship trust. Read the full article from the Ottawa Citizen here.

REGISTRATION WILL OPEN SOON FOR

THE CFUW ONTARIO COUNCIL AGM

Friday May 22 to Saturday May 23, 2026

Ontario Council’s 2026 AGM and Conference is going to be an in-person event! We look forward to welcoming everyone to Peterborough, beginning at 4 PM on Friday, May 22^nd through to Saturday, May 23^rd.

Club Newsletters

OC Communications would love to receive a copy of your newsletter to share with other clubs. Please email your newsletter to communications@cfuwontcouncil.org and we will post it on our website. You can see the newsletters here.

Ontario Council News is a newsletter for and about our Ontario Clubs.

• Because Ontario Council includes close to 50 clubs, we are not able to publish general club meetings, AGMs, scholarship winners and other charitable giving.
• Club newsletters are published on the OC website under Club Actions & Events
• To help you help us, click the link below for all the information you need about our publication schedule, submission deadlines, and preferred format.

Please share your club's social media posts to

Ontario Council's Facebook and Instagram accounts!