10/18/2026
Fall festival of knowledge
Area C Conference
On October 17, 2026, approximately 150 lovely ladies representing all four districts—Areas A, B, C, and D—gathered at The Grand in Long Beach for a wonderful and informative CFWC Area C Conference. It was a beautiful event filled with fellowship, learning, inspiration, and opportunities to strengthen our clubs and our commitment to community service.
The venue was beautifully decorated, with gorgeous centerpieces adorning the tables. The thoughtful decorations, welcoming atmosphere, and well-organized agenda made the area C conference a memorable experience. The event also featured an opportunity drawing and a variety of vendors selling their products. It was a wonderful turnout, and the room was filled with enthusiastic women eager to learn and share ideas.
Learning, Leadership, and Club Participation
The conference provided a wealth of knowledge and practical information to take back to our clubs. Área C VP Marcia Willet led an exercise before introducing us to the state president. GFWC President 2026-2027 Chris Herzog shared valuable information to help members become more involved in their local clubs, understand how to conduct meetings effectively, and recognize the importance of following and focusing on the agenda.
These presentations reminded us that strong leadership, active participation, and organized meetings are essential to the success of our clubs.
Reporting Our Service: Telling Our Story
An important topic was report writing, with an emphasis on the slogan “Slow and steady wins the report race.” We were encouraged to approach our reports as a way to tell the story of our service.
The key questions to consider when writing a report are:
* What did we do?
* Why did we do it?
* Where did the service take place?
* How did our efforts make a difference?
We also learned about the importance of including numbers to demonstrate the scope and impact of our work. Having an editor in each club can help ensure that reports are written clearly, accurately, and correctly.
Members were encouraged to obtain the reporting manuals and forms available through GFWC and CFWC to help guide their reporting efforts. Our reports are more than paperwork; they document our accomplishments, recognize our volunteers, and share the difference we make in our communities.
Membership: Growing Our Clubs and Our Impact
The CFWC 2nd Vice President Mickie Reed spoke about membership and ways to attract new members and strengthen our clubs. One highlight was the membership recognition pin for recruiting the most members.
The importance of family connections was also discussed, including mothers and daughters becoming involved in club service and the possibility of creating a fifth generation of women continuing a tradition of volunteerism.
We were encouraged to embrace membership challenges, shine in our communities, and develop effective strategies and alliances to grow our organizations. One practical suggestion was to attend city council meetings and share information about the projects and services our clubs provide. By making our work visible and building relationships with community leaders, we can increase awareness, establish partnerships, and expand our impact.
Special Presentations and Recognition
The conference also included a special presentation by Cindy DeMint and the Ataxia Foundation, highlighting another opportunity to learn about a cause and how our clubs may be able to help.
Several clubs received certificates recognizing their many years of service to their communities. This recognition was a wonderful reminder of the dedication, commitment, and lasting contributions of our clubwomen.
A Day of Fellowship and Inspiration
From the beautiful table decorations and engaging presentations to the vendors, opportunity drawing, and recognition of community service, the conference offered something for everyone.
It was a privilege to join approximately 150 women from Areas A, B, C, and D for a day dedicated to learning, leadership, membership development, and service. We returned with valuable information and ideas to share with our clubs.
The conference reinforced an important message: when we work together, tell the story of our service, welcome new members, and remain engaged in our communities, we strengthen our clubs and make an even greater difference.
Together, we continue to learn, lead, serve, and make a difference—one club, one community, and one act of service at a time.
