By Barb Lockard
A former “secret society” is now one of Hardin’s County’s best kept secrets when it comes to promoting educational opportunities for women. 

The Ada Chapter of P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) is part of a 150-year-old national organization that was initially labeled as secret because only members knew what the three letters stood for. 

In the past two decades, P.E.O. International has re-branded itself as an inclusive, forward-moving organization focused on creating opportunities for women students in higher education. 

According to Ada Chapter former vice-president Amanda Raines, the local club of nearly 45 members isn’t 150 years old but has been around for a very long time. 

Member Louise Miller just celebrated her 50th anniversary with the Ada P.E.O.  Although the international P.E.O was originally founded in an affiliation with the Methodist Church, the international and local organizations are now non-sectarian. 

Raines said that the Ada Chapter isn’t affiliated with Ohio Northern University, but the institution has been very supportive of P.E.O.’s programs.

“On August 9th, we held a garage sale fundraiser at the home of President Daniel DiBiasio,” added Raines.  “It was really successful, and the proceeds will benefit P.E.O.’s international projects.”  (Chris Burns-DiBiasio is also a member of the Ada Chapter).

Locally, the group’s focus is providing support for the Stambaugh Loan Fund.  The fund makes low-interest loans available to Hardin County women who want to begin or continue their college education. 

Students can borrow up to $2,000 which doesn’t have to be re-paid until after graduation.  Applications are available from any member and member-sponsorship is required.   

The P.E.O. Sisterhood was founded in 1869 at Iowa Wesleyan College with just seven members.  Today, membership has grown to 230,000 worldwide with headquarters near the organization’s roots in Des Moines, Iowa.  P.E.O. International officially supports six projects which include:
• Cottey College – a women’s college located in Nevada, Missouri
• Educational Loan Fund
• International Peace Scholarship
• Program for Continuing Education
• Scholar Awards
• STAR, a merit-based scholarship

Raines explained that, like most letter organizations, potential members must be sponsored by a current member.  The group meets twice a month during the academic year and will resume meetings in September. 

For more information, visit PEOintl.org