Get Involved: How to Join a CFUW Committee or Campaign

If you’ve ever wondered how to move from simply supporting women’s advocacy to actually shaping it, joining a committee or campaign with the Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) is one of the most direct ways.

CFUW isn’t just a social club—it’s a national grassroots organization that’s been championing women’s rights, equality, and education since 1919. And like any strong advocacy group, its real power comes from members rolling up their sleeves and diving into the work.

Why Get Involved?

Committees and campaigns are where ideas turn into action. CFUW has a voice at the United Nations, participates in consultations with the Canadian government, and advocates on issues like gender-based violence, childcare, climate change, and pay equity. But all of that happens because individual members step forward.

By joining, you don’t just attend meetings—you help shape policies, draft submissions, and build the momentum for change.

The Different Ways to Contribute

CFUW offers plenty of entry points depending on your interests and availability:

Option	What It Involves	Time Commitment
Standing Committees	Ongoing work on specific themes like Education, Status of Women, or International Relations	Monthly or bi-monthly calls, ongoing projects
Advocacy & Policy Groups	Drafting resolutions, preparing position papers, lobbying government	Seasonal, heavier around policy submission deadlines
Campaigns & Initiatives	Focused efforts on urgent issues (e.g., national childcare, climate advocacy)	Flexible; often short-term and action-oriented
Local Club Committees	Grassroots projects, community partnerships, fundraising	Varies by club; usually more hands-on and local

Step 1: Become a CFUW Member

You need to be a member before you can join committees or campaigns. Membership is typically through your local CFUW club (there are over 95 across Canada) or as an independent member if you’re not near a club. You can start by exploring CFUW’s membership page.

Step 2: Explore Committees and Campaigns

Check out CFUW’s website or reach out to your local club to see which committees are active. National committees usually cover advocacy priorities (education, equality, climate, Indigenous rights, etc.), while local clubs may run grassroots initiatives like scholarships or mentorship programs.

Step 3: Express Your Interest

Once you’ve identified where you’d like to contribute, simply email the CFUW office or your local club president. Most committees are eager for volunteers—especially fresh perspectives. For campaigns, you’ll usually be invited to join working groups or mailing lists where calls to action are shared.

Step 4: Dive Into the Work

Depending on the committee or campaign, your contributions might include:

• Researching and writing background papers
• Drafting resolutions for CFUW’s annual general meeting
• Meeting with MPs or local representatives to advocate for policy change
• Organizing community events or educational sessions
• Helping with communications and social media outreach

Don’t worry if you’re new—most committees provide guidance and mentorship for newcomers.

Step 5: Stay Connected

CFUW’s advocacy work is dynamic, and issues shift with the political and social landscape. Regular meetings, newsletters, and the national AGM help members stay in the loop. It’s also a chance to network with women across Canada who share a passion for advocacy and community building.

The Payoff of Getting Involved

The tangible wins—like influencing childcare policy or securing commitments on gender equality—are rewarding. But there’s also the personal payoff: sharpening leadership skills, building lifelong networks, and knowing you’re contributing to a legacy of advocacy over a century strong.

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