Cy-FARE History
Established May 1988

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Cypress-Fairbanks ARE in TRTA District 4 was established in May 1998, making 2023 their 25th anniversary, by two retired CFISD principals, Charlie Goodson and Jan Aragon. They both realized that although retired, they were still needed within the CFISD community and recognized that other retirees could continue to serve the CFISD community as well. Installed as President and Vice-President respectively by Shirley Kirk, namesake of Kirk Elementary School, Cy-FARE was put to work. “Corky” Pence, retired assistant superintendent, was installed as the Treasurer that first year, and Norma Ault, retired principal, as Secretary. They each served a two-year term.

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The beginnings of the organization were small, with only 10 to 15 members. However, by the following year in 1999, membership had grown five-fold. By the 2020-2021 school year, there were more than 500 members. 

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During the 2016 state convention held in Houston, Cy-FARE members helped by volunteering as greeters, providing assistance at check-in and registration tables, and helping with directions and general information throughout the convention area. They also gathered treats for goodie bags, including pens from the Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union, and helped stuff the bags for convention attendees.

In 2018, Dr. William R. “Corky” Pence was awarded the E.L. Gaylean Service Award by TRTA for his years of volunteering. He was heavily involved as a volunteer with TRTA, serving in Cy-FARE, District 4, state leadership positions, and the Texas Retired Teachers Foundation.

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In 2020, Cy-FARE was recognized as the District 4 local chapter with the highest growth by number. Sheila Wolf was President and Becky Riley was First Vice-President at the time.

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The true strength of the chapter, however, is the desire to give back to the community. Cy-FARE volunteers within the CFISD school district in several ways. This is accomplished by collecting books to share with five different organizations located within the school district, collecting stuffed animals and toiletries to share with those in need, collecting eyeglasses for the local Lion’s Club, supporting charitable organizations such as Cy-Hope, Cypress Assistance Ministries, and Cy-Fair Helping Hands through their support of the homeless population in the district, along with supporting a local school with student and staff needs. Several members of Cy-FARE volunteer their time in the schools as local and global volunteers. The hearts of the membership are huge, as evidenced by their giving spirit in time and money.