Who We Are, What We Do
The P.E.O. Sisterhood is a nonprofit organization that has helped more than 125,000* women pursue educational goals by providing more than $432 million* in educational assistance, making a difference in women's lives through six philanthropies and a foundation.
*As of April 2024
Mission Statement
P.E.O.—Where women motivate, educate and celebrate women.
Our Legacy: Over 150 Years of P.E.O. History
P.E.O. was founded on January 21, 1869, by seven students at Iowa Wesleyan College in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. This circle of kindred spirits, bonded by friendship and their enthusiasm for educational opportunities for women, eventually expanded to include women off-campus as well. Through membership, the P.E.O. Sisterhood has brought together more than a half a million women in the United States and Canada who are passionate about helping women advance through education.
Our Commitment to Inclusion and Belonging
The P.E.O. Sisterhood is a nonprofit volunteer women’s organization grounded in our loving concern for each other and our mission of supporting women to pursue their educational goals. Joined by a shared commitment to these two foundational tenets, P.E.O. strives to offer a sense of belonging to current and future members by embracing each person’s unique talents, background and perspective.
International Chapter Leadership
Get to know the leadership of the International Chapter of the P.E.O. Sisterhood. These dedicated volunteers lead the Sisterhood by serving in officer roles at the international and state/provincial/district levels and as chairs for each of our philanthropic projects and boards/committees.
Contact P.E.O.
Need assistance or have a question? The staff at the
P.E.O. Executive Office is here to help!
Careers at the P.E.O.
Executive Office
P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) is a philanthropic organization where women motivate, educate and celebrate women. Our beautiful office, friendly staff and dedicated volunteer leaders make working at P.E.O. an ideal opportunity to add positivity to the world.
