Philanthropy

We are committed to fostering positive change through philanthropy. Together, we empower communities, support transformative initiatives, and inspire others to join us in creating a more equitable and compassionate world.

CFUW K-W Charitable Fund 

The CFUW K-W Charitable Fund was founded in 1985 to provide a means for CFUW members and the public to recognize and encourage educational excellence. The Fund is a registered charitable organization consisting of 13 endowment funds with a mandate to provide scholarships and awards at the secondary and post-secondary educational level in the K-W area.


As a result of CFUW K-W Club fundraising, mainly the spring used book sale, as well as donations from members, friends and families of club members, the Fund is now over $1.8 million. Investment earnings from these funds provides annual revenue to support over $65,000 in awards, scholarships and bursaries given out to high school students, undergraduate and graduate students in K-W each year.

Click here to learn more about the different awards we give out.

 Click here to support

CFUW K-W Charitable Fund.

Special Events 

A Magical Evening with Louise Penny and Shelagh Rogers in Support of Strong Start

On 13 June 2024, supporters of literacy and community gathered for a truly memorable evening to raise funds for Strong Start, an organization dedicated to helping children develop critical early literacy skills.

The highlight of the night was an intimate and engaging conversation between beloved author Louise Penny and celebrated broadcaster Shelagh Rogers. With humor, warmth, and candor, they discussed Louise’s creative process, the inspirations behind her Chief Inspector Gamache series, and the transformative power of books. Guests were captivated by the stories shared, from personal anecdotes to reflections on the role of community in fostering resilience and hope.

The event also featured a delicious three-course dinner, a lively auction, and a heartfelt appeal to support Strong Start’s impactful programs. Thanks to the generosity of attendees and supporters, the evening surpassed its fundraising goals, ensuring that even more children will gain the essential tools they need to succeed in school and beyond.

We are deeply grateful to Louise Penny, Shelagh Rogers, our sponsors, and everyone who contributed to making this event a resounding success. Together, we’ve helped open the door to brighter futures for countless children.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey!


An Inspiring Evening with Lisa LaFlamme and Jeff Hutchinson in Support of CW4WA and Journalists for Human Rights

On April 2023, a vibrant crowd gathered at Doubletree in Kitchener for a remarkable evening in support of Canadian Women for Women in Afghanistan (CW4WA) and Journalists for Human Rights (JHR). The event celebrated the power of truth, storytelling, and advocacy, raising vital funds to support education, freedom of expression, and human rights worldwide.

The evening’s centerpiece was an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation between award-winning journalist Lisa LaFlamme and acclaimed broadcaster Jeff Hutchinson. Together, they delved into pressing global issues, the challenges of reporting in today’s complex world, and the courage it takes to uncover and share stories that matter. Their candid discussion offered guests an insider’s view of journalism’s role in defending human rights and amplifying marginalized voices.

Thanks to the generosity of our attendees, sponsors, and supporters, the evening surpassed all expectations. The funds raised will empower CW4WA to continue their life-changing work in education and advocacy for Afghan women and help JHR to train journalists around the globe to report on human rights with accuracy and integrity.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Lisa LaFlamme, Jeff Hutchinson, and everyone who joined us for this extraordinary evening. Together, we are making a profound difference in the pursuit of equality, education, and justice.



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