P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) has been celebrating women helping women reach for the stars for more than 150 years.

Through membership, the P.E.O. Sisterhood has brought together more than half a million women in the United States and Canada who are passionate about helping women advance through education while supporting and motivating them. In addition to the educational philanthropies, the P.E.O. Sisterhood provides a framework of support and community for all members.

What started with a bond of friendship among seven women in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, is now one of the oldest women’s organizations in North America with nearly 5,600 chapters. Headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, members are passionate about P.E.O.’s mission: to celebrate the advancement of women; educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans and stewardship of Cottey College; and motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations. The P.E.O. Sisterhood is a nonprofit organization that has helped more than 122,000* women pursue educational goals by providing nearly $415 million* in educational assistance, making a difference in women’s lives through six philanthropies and a foundation.