P.E.O. Sisterhood, Educational organization in Des Moines, United States
P.E.O. Sisterhood is an educational organization headquartered in Des Moines that provides financial support to women through multiple programs. The group operates thousands of chapters across the United States and Canada, delivering scholarships, grants, and loans to eligible women members and applicants.
Seven women founded the organization in 1869 at Iowa Wesleyan University, and it gradually expanded to establish a continental presence. The headquarters relocated to Des Moines, where it became the central hub for coordinating activities across North America.
Members wear a five-pointed star emblem and incorporate marguerite daisies into their gatherings and celebrations. These symbols create a shared identity that connects the group across different chapters.
Women interested in learning about funding opportunities can connect with local chapters to explore available programs and application processes. Chapters meet regularly throughout the year and provide guidance for those seeking educational support or membership.
In 2005, the organization publicly revealed that P.E.O. stands for Philanthropic Educational Organization, while keeping its original meaning a secret known only to members. This dual identity creates an intriguing mystery that has persisted for over a century.
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