CA-AFCS, the California Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, is devoted to quality of life issues.
Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) is the comprehensive body of skills, research, and knowledge that helps people make informed decisions about their well-being, relationships, and resources needed to achieve optimal quality of life. In other words, we have an in depth focus on individuals, families, and communities. We use our expertise to help them recognize challenges and assist with best practices for healthy living. Our field includes many areas: human development, personal and family finance, housing and interior design, food science, nutrition and wellness, textiles and apparel, hospitality, and consumer issues.
The expansiveness of our field spills over into our professional practice. Our members are found in the following settings: early childhood, elementary, secondary, university/college, Extension, management and administration, human services, research, community volunteerism, business, and consultation.
As a state affiliate of the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS), our members serve the needs of Californians, in particular, while upholding the basic mission and purpose of the national body. Our logo includes a flame symbol designed to reflect what was commonly referred to as a Betty Lamp. The lamp produced comparatively good light for its time and was used widely by American colonists. Its name comes from the German words “besser” or “bête” meaning “to make better” which is the chief aim of CA-AFCS professionals and members in relation to California individuals, families, and communities today.