P.E.O. is a philanthropic organization where women 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.   P.E.O. has given over $344 million dollars to over 109,000 recipients.

P.E.O. was founded 150 years ago as a college society, similar to later sororities. Fellowship and philanthropic service are of great importance to its members. There are 69 chapters in The Land of Enchantment with over 2,300 members.