The Philanthropic Educational Organization is a non-profit organization that helps women with educational assistance.
The organization is evolving, with an expansion on theirmission.They'removing into the digital world.
At its core, P.E.O. is about empowering women through education, with the simple yet powerful message: 'P.E.O.—Where women motivate, educate, and celebrate women.'
Founded on January 21, 1869, by seven students at Iowa Wesleyan University, the P.E.O. sisterhood has grown into an international organization with a strongpresenceintheUSand Canada. The organization has been a pioneer in promoting women's education and opportunities, and its impact is evident in the lives of over 122,000 women who have received educational assistance, totaling over $415 million.
Now, P.E.O. is taking its mission online with virtual chapters, including the newly formed 'Cyber-Sisters,' led by Marshall County resident Meg A. Watt, a 36-year member and IT consultant.
This digital expansion ensures that women from all walks of life in almost any situation can connect, support andempowereachother, regardless of their location or schedule.
P.E.O.'s six primary projects support women's education and empowerment: 1. Cottey College: A nationally ranked women's college in Missouri, owned by P.E.O. since 1927 2. Educational Loan Fund (ELF): Low-interest loans for women pursuing higher education 3. International Peace Scholarship (IPS): Scholarships for international women pursuing graduate study in the US and Canada 4. Program for Continuing Education (PCE): Needbased grants for women returning to education 5. P.E.O. Scholar Awards (PSA): Merit-based awards for women pursuing doctoral degrees 6. P.E.O. STAR Scholarship: Scholarships for exceptional high school seniors The P.E.O. Sisterhood is committed to inclusion, welcoming women from diverse backgrounds who share its mission. As P.E.O. evolves, its focus remains on helping women reach their goals through sisterhood and support.
The organization is seeking the next generation of women to motivate and celebrate. For any women who could benefit from these lifechanging projects, contact P.E.O. International or Meg A.Wattformoreinformation.
'It is essential that current and future sisters feel they have a place in our Sisterhood,' the organization has stated.
Whether meeting in person or online, every member is part of a collective effort to help women reach for the stars and achieve their goals with support throughout the journey.