Interest Groups
This year we have nineteen confirmed Interest Groups to choose from. See below or click here to download a PDF of these Interest Group Details.
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In the coming year, CFUW Orillia Interest Groups will be flexible as we modify for COVID. Some groups will meet in-person, some using Zoom or other applications. These groups form the foundation to allow one on one interaction among our members in a relaxed and friendly environment. The Interest Groups encourage club members to socialize together with those who share a common interest. The success of these groups is a result of your participation. Please feel free to suggest a new group, perhaps crafts, cycling, or virtual coffee hour.
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Advocacy Group – via Zoom
This group meets the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. September – June to discuss current events, write letters to the editor and/or prepare op-ed pieces for local papers. Speakers occasionally provide information and insight on issues of interest. Resolutions from National and Ontario Council are vetted through this group for presentation at the March General Meeting.
Book Club – via Zoom or at member’s homes
The CFUW Orillia Book Club meets at 1:30 p.m. on the second Thursday from September to June (with the exception of December). Books chosen during our June planning meeting cover a range of topics and genres generating lively and interesting discussions.
Bridge Group 1 (2nd & 4th Mondays) – via Trickster
The group consists of 8 experienced bridge players who meet twice a month at 1:00 p.m. for friendly yet competitive games. Although the group is full, we welcome members who would like to be added to our substitute list
Bridge Group 2 (every Monday) – via Trickster
This Bridge Group meets every Monday at 1:30 p.m. The group is full, but we always need experienced players as spares. Be sure to check us off as an interest group if you would like to be called when needed
Bridge Group 3 (1st & 3rd Thursdays) – via Trickster
This Bridge Group meets the first and third Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. The group is full, but we always need experienced players as spares. You might be surprised how often you get called.
Bridge Group Evening – via Trickster
The Evening Bridge Group meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 7:00 p.m., September - June. CFUW members will experience camaraderie and laughter within the group. The Wednesday Bridge Group welcomes new and experienced bridge players.
Cocktail Hour / Dinner Out – meeting for cocktails via Zoom with possibility of moving to in-person Dinner Out
We meet on the third Friday of each month, except December, July and August to enjoy good camaraderie and conversation. Cocktail Hour via Zoom has become very popular. We’ll move forward with meeting in person as members are comfortable trying local area restaurants. Significant others are welcome.
Dinner Club – meeting via Zoom if unable to meet in person
Members will meet in person at 5:00 p.m. on the 4th Tuesday of the month (prior to the monthly CFUW meetings) or gather via Zoom on the 4th Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Dinner Club meets monthly September – November and January - April. This is a great networking opportunity and a chance to enjoy the company of members.
Exploring Art – TBD
The Exploring Art group will do several events throughout the year. Members will be encouraged to suggest and lead an activity to encourage full participation. The dates and times for meetings will be determined by the group. All COVID safety protocols will be followed.
Friendship, Fun & A Book Club – meeting at member’s homes or via Zoom
This group meets the first Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m., 12 months of the year. Books chosen cover a range of topics, authors, and genres, while generating stimulating and lively discussions
Garden Group – casual format
If you are a gardener or simply enjoy the beauty of flowers and gardens, this group is for you. Opportunities are provided for members to share gardening techniques, horticultural knowledge, and plants. Garden tour suggestions and demonstrations are done virtually on an ad hoc basis.
Golf Group – meeting outdoors while practicing social distancing
The Golf Group plays 9 holes every Monday morning during the season. We usually play at Couchiching Golf & Country Club, but once a month we organize a field trip to another local course. Players of all levels are encouraged to join in a relaxed game.
Lunch Bunch – meeting while practicing social distancing
The Lunch Bunch is held the third Tuesday of the month, twelve months of the year. This group gives a great opportunity to socialize with other members. Currently we are meeting ‘en plein air’ and will move forward with locations as members are comfortable.
Mah Jongg – meeting via realmahjongg.com with possibility of moving to in-person
To all those who are interested in an afternoon of Mah Jongg in the company of a fun-loving group we meet the 2nd and 4th Wednesday at 1:30 p.m., September – June. We have members participating at various skill levels and all enjoy learning together. Join us via realmahjongg.com. We’ll move forward with meeting in person as members are comfortable.
Skiing-Downhill – meeting in person outdoors while social distancing
The Downhill Ski Group meets at Mt. St. Louis/Moonstone every Wednesday at 9 a.m. during January, February and March. Some take a lunch (or buy a lunch) and ski all day; others just stay for the morning. Everyone has a great time together and enjoy some slope watching. Partners are welcome to join
Tech Club – meeting via Zoom
Members meet the first Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. for an hour, September - June. The group decides what topics they would like to learn about each month. No matter your skill level, you are sure to learn some new tips to get more from your tablet, computer, and phone. Partners are welcome to join
Wake Up Call – Breakfast & Discussion – meeting via Zoom with possibility of moving to in-person
Members meet for discussion of current events on the first Wednesday of the month at 8:15 a.m., September – June. Members take turns suggesting the topic to be discussed. We usually finish around 9:30 a.m. It is a stimulating and pleasant way to begin the day
Walking/Snowshoeing – meeting outdoors while practicing social distancing
From September to June this group meets every Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. to walk or snowshoe for 60-90 minutes. The walks take place on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at Tudhope Park and on the other Tuesdays at forest trails near Orillia. Partners are invited on all walks
Zoom-Licious – meeting via Zoom
This group meets via Zoom the 1st Monday of each month at 4:30 p.m,, September – June. We take turns doing a cooking demonstration of a favourite recipe while the other members participate in their own kitchens. Be prepared for lots of laughter and a fun social time culminating in yummy culinary treats!