CCWO spreading joy, faith, community impact

The Columbus Christian Women’s Organization (CCWO) continues its legacy of service and spiritual fellowship under the leadership of its first Black president, Cynthia Alley.

Since stepping into her role in January, Cynthia has energized the organization with vision and dedication. Partnering with Vice President and Annual Luncheon Chairperson Shirley Isbell, the CCWO leadership team is building strong momentum for the year ahead.

This news comes as Columbus Christian Women’s Organization wraps up its 2025 Credit for Life Program with its fourth seminar for seniors at Texas ChalleNGe Academy in Eagle Lake.

The CCWO committee, headed by Jane Oncken, produces a two-hour interactive seminar each year in county high schools to give graduating seniors an idea of the financial decisions they’ll make and how it will affect their credit and their lifestyle.

Since the first of February, CCWO members and community business leaders have visited Columbus, Weimar, Rice Consolidated High Schools and as mentioned earlier, Texas Challenge Academy.

Another shining example of CCWO’s outreach is the Senior Smiles program, where volunteers plan monthly visits to three area retirement centers. Led by Alice Berry and her dedicated team, these visits include thoughtful activities, gifts, and entertainment that bring joy to elderly and infirm citizens.

Their behind-the-scenes planning and heartfelt service continue to be a cornerstone of CCWO’s ministry.

On Thursday, May 1, CCWO will join the Ministerial Alliance in promoting the National Day of Prayer at noon on the east side of the courthouse square. Committee leaders Mary Stavinoha and Shirley Isbell are coordinating logistics, from distributing posters to hanging banners — ensuring this spiritual gathering remains a vital expression of faith and unity for the entire community.

Looking ahead, CCWO’s annual fundraiser is set for September 20, at the RO Manor, a beautiful venue east of Columbus on Schultz Road. Shirley Isbell will chair the event with the theme “Passports,” and this year’s luncheon promises an exciting journey through food, auctions, shopping, and creative tablescaping.

Tables are available for purchase at Grand Oaks Antiques and Gifts in downtown Columbus. Last year’s event drew over 200 guests, and this year’s is expected to build on that success.

Funds raised help support a wide array of local organizations. The 2024–25 grant recipients include: Columbus Food Pantry, Youth & Family Services, Boys & Girls Clubs, Habitat for Humanity, The Wellness Council, Turtle Wing Foundation, The Columbus Hospital, The Gabriel Project, Columbus Education Foundation, and more.

CCWO warmly welcomes new members from across the region—including Alleyton, Altair, Cat Spring, Columbus, Eagle Lake, Frelsburg, Fayetteville, Glidden, New Ulm, Sheridan and Weimar. Monthly luncheon meetings are held at 11:30 a.m. on the first Thursday of each month at the Glidden Baptist Church Annex, with different church groups rotating as hosts.