FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT

Dear Members and Friends,

Welcome to 2026! The start of a new year is the perfect time to recommit to our core values and step up our efforts to make a difference in our communities and beyond. Let’s build on our successes and tackle new challenges with the spirit of innovation and collaboration that defines CFWC. 

Thank you for embracing the theme for the 2024-2026 administration “Ignite Your Volunteer Spirit” with my special focus on Civic Engagement and Outreach, particularly supporting our military personnel and veterans. You truly got involved and made a difference! I am looking forward to reading the reports this year and learning about all the great things that were accomplished in 2025.

The California Federation of Women’s Clubs needs our members to begin considering taking a leadership role in all levels of our Federation. If you see potential in others, say so! Encourage them to say “Yes” to being a chairman or running for an office. Ask members to attend a meeting to learn more about the different positions. Having committees under chairmanships gives members the opportunity to participate and often move up to be the chairman so give it a try. It is important to keep our traditions, but new perspectives bring new life to projects and give others the opportunity to learn leadership skills.

May the New Year bring you joy, health, and endless possibilities.

In Federation and Love, Sonya

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT and OUTREACH - ANNE COCHRAN, Chair

The new year brings continued support from organizations like the American Legion and VFW, focusing on benefits, community, and the ongoing 250th Anniversary of American Independence celebrations, alongside the annual COLA increase in VA disability pay (2.8% for 2026). Local events, national initiatives, and community gatherings emphasize gratitude, resilience, and ensuring veterans receive earned care, with special observances planned throughout the year. 

SPECIAL NOTICE REGARDING CFWC FEBRUARY EXECUTIVE BOARD

Date: February 26 – 28, 2026

Location: Delta Hotel Santa Clara, Silicon Valley

                      2151 Laurelwood Road, Santa Clara, CA 95054

HOTEL INFORMATION:

Phone Number: 408-988-8411 or toll free 888-236-2427

Singles and Doubles are the same rate of $149 per night plus taxes (one or two guests)

Call the Hotel and give our organizations name to receive this special rate.

NOTICE: RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE BY FEBRUARY 10, 2026 IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THE SPECIAL BLOCK PRICING!

Complimentary Self-Parking!

The Hotel is less than 3 miles and 10 minutes away from the San Jose Airport

This notice can be printed HERE

LEADERSHIP - VICKI HOLDEN, CHAIR

IT’S TIME !!!

District Presidents,  Please remember to have the information for your LEADS candidate to me by January 15th, 2026.  No late entries will be accepted,

Email the completed application/packet to   cfwcleadership@gmail.com.

Questions?      Call or text  me at 526.305.5759  or email at the above address.

Birds are keystone to species in our ecosystem’s signifiers of health and vitality. Food insecurity is not just in humans, but in birds as well. Pesticides, lack of trees, water, air pollution, lack of protection can hurt and damage the lifespans of birds.



National Bird Day is scheduled to coincide with the annual Christmas Bird Count, which lasts three weeks, and is the largest citizen science survey in the world, keeping track of America’s wild birds.

With thanks to GFWC Environment Chair Sharon Oliphant

Just a thought ......

"Never give up on a dream just because of the time it will take to accomplish it.

The time will pass anyway."

—Earl Nightingale