This year, the Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) Orillia proudly celebrated 70 years of fostering education, advocacy, and friendship in our community. Since its founding in 1955, the club has brought together women who share a commitment to learning, equality, and community service, creating a lasting impact on Orillia and beyond.
Part of a national organization with clubs across Canada, CFUW Orillia is dedicated to promoting women’s rights, lifelong learning, and social responsibility. Members come from diverse backgrounds—retired teachers, business professionals, healthcare workers, volunteers, and community leaders—but they are united by a passion for supporting education and giving back.
One of CFUW Orillia’s most meaningful contributions is through the CFUW Orillia Education Foundation, a registered charity and the separate charitable arm of CFUW Orillia. Since 1955, $485,475 in scholarships have been awarded to 807 local students pursuing post-secondary education. Each year, women from the Orillia school attendance area who are graduating from a publicly funded secondary school, the Learning Centre and Mature students, benefit from this support, helping them to achieve their academic goals and build brighter futures.
In addition to fundraising for scholarships, CFUW Orillia members volunteer their time and talents in many ways. The club organizes speaker series, community events, and awareness campaigns on issues such as gender equality, literacy, and violence prevention. Recent initiatives have included hosting educational forums, supporting local charities, and collaborating with organizations that share a vision of equity and opportunity for all.
But CFUW is not only about service—it’s also about friendship and connection. Members enjoy a variety of interest groups, from book clubs and hiking groups to dining, cooking, and bridge. These gatherings provide a welcoming space for women to share experiences, learn from one another, and build lasting relationships.
The club’s 70th anniversary was marked with special celebrations, recognizing the remarkable women who have led CFUW Orillia over the decades and the many students whose lives have been transformed by scholarships. Looking ahead, the club remains committed to advocacy, education, and supporting women and girls in our community.
New members are always welcome, whether you’re recently retired, new to the area, or simply looking to make meaningful connections while giving back. To learn more about CFUW Orillia, its programs, and membership opportunities, please visit www.cfuworillia.org.
For 70 years, CFUW Orillia has shown how women, working together, can make a difference. Our members look forward to continuing this legacy by supporting education and empowering women for many years to come.
