Frequently Asked Questions
What do the letters P.E.O. stand for?
P.E.O. stands for Philanthropic Educational Organization.
The original meaning of the letters, as established by the P.E.O. Founders, is reserved for members only.
Where do I find out more about becoming a P.E.O.?
The best way to find out about P.E.O. and how to become a member is talking to P.E.O. members. Ask around in your community to see if anyone you know is a member of P.E.O. or if she knows someone who is.
P.E.O. members are proud of their organization and are committed to helping women pursue higher education. Talking to a P.E.O. in your community will give you an opportunity to find out more about their chapter and what P.E.O. means to them.
If you do not know a member of P.E.O., please contact us.
Who is considered an active member?
To be considered an active member, dues must be paid to the member's local chapter by the end of February. If you do not have a contact person for the chapter, please contact us.
Even if a P.E.O. member is no longer able to participate, P.E.O. members still support the ongoing work through educational projects by paying annual dues.
By maintaining active membership, if desired, a copy of the bimonthly P.E.O. Record will be received to help a member stay connected.
How do I apply for a scholarship, grant or loan?
With the exception of the IPS program, all P.E.O. scholarships, grants and loans require the applicant be sponsored by a local chapter of the P.E.O. Sisterhood. Click here for more information about the P.E.O. Projects.
What is the P.E.O. emblem?
Following a member's initiation, she receives an emblem. It is engraved with the member's name, chapter identification and date of initiation. In the event of a member’s death, the emblem may be buried or cremated with the member, remain with her family or be collected by the chapter president who will then return it to the Sisterhood.
Where should I send an emblem?
To return an emblem, send it to:
P.E.O. Executive Office
Attn: Emblem
3700 Grand Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50312
For additional questions about the official P.E.O. emblem, call 515-255-3153 or emblem@peodsm.org.
Can the P.E.O. emblem be used on a headstone?
The official P.E.O. emblem may be engraved on a member's headstone. A replica of the emblem to affix to a tombstone and a star marker may be purchased. If you need contact information, please contact: contactus@peodsm.org.
How do I donate to P.E.O.?
To make a donation to P.E.O., click here to use our online donations (Giving Opportunities) page.
