Canadian Federation of University Women Parksville - Qualicum

The Canadian Federation of University Women Parksville-Qualicum (CFUW PQ) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to advancing equality, education, and opportunities for women and girls in Qualicum Beach, BC and beyond. Since its founding in 1981, CFUW PQ has been an active advocate for educational empowerment and social justice, offering members a robust range of programs and initiatives designed to support personal growth and community impact. The organization provides valuable scholarships and bursaries to local women pursuing post-secondary education, with applications accepted annually through May 31st for qualified candidates from School District 69 and mature women returning to education. CFUW PQ maintains connections with over 100 local clubs across Canada, representing more than 8,000 members who collectively advocate for critical issues including poverty reduction, homelessness prevention, and access to affordable early childhood education. The organization engages members through monthly meetings, speaker series, interest groups including book clubs, and the renowned annual book sale held each September-October at Arrowsmith Hall in Coombs, with proceeds supporting local scholarships, international educational initiatives, and community outreach projects. As an active liaison with the Federal Government of Canada, the United Nations, and Graduate Women International, CFUW PQ amplifies women's voices on issues affecting girls and women locally, nationally, and internationally. The organization operates as a voluntary, self-funded group committed to fostering friendship, collegiality, and meaningful engagement among members while advancing transformative change for women's educational and economic equality.