First Annual P.E.O. Walk Today for Women
By nan cashon
The inaugural Walk Today for Women Tomorrow, organized by Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.) Chapter X of the Western Maryland Reciprocity Group, brought together members of Chapters AB, AG, AI, T and X on Saturday, August 1, at Baker Park in historic downtown Frederick. The event celebrated P.E.O.’s mission to motivate, educate, and celebrate women while raising community awareness of the organization and its support of women’s educational goals.
“It was so inspiring to see members of five chapters coming together to participate in the inaugural Walk Today for Women Tomorrow in Baker Park,” said Kathryn Bayne, P.E.O. International Organizer and member of Chapter X, Frederick. “We were delighted to connect with so many local residents and share the P.E.O. story, including the many ways P.E.O. International helps women pursue their educational dreams through our projects and stewardship of Cottey College. It was a wonderful day!”
For more information regarding the event, or chapters in Frederick, Cumberland, Hagerstown, Eldersburg, or Westminster, please contact Nan Cashon, Secretary, Western Maryland Reciprocity Group (WMRG), ncashonpeo@gmail.com.
P.E.O. has been motivating, educating, and celebrating women for more than 156 years. Since its inception in 1869, and as of July 2026, the nonprofit organization has helped more than 132,000 women pursue educational goals by providing over $490 million in grants, scholarships, awards, and loans. The Sisterhood is also the primary support for Cottey College. Through membership over the years, the P.E.O. Sisterhood has brought together more than half a million women in the United States and Canada who are passionate about helping women advance through education while supporting and motivating them. In addition to the educational philanthropies, the P.E.O. Sisterhood provides a framework of support and community for all members.
What started with a bond of friendship among seven women in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, is now one of the oldest women’s organizations in North America with over 5,200 chapters.
To learn more about P.E.O., its powerful educational philanthropies, and see stories of women who have benefited from the programs, visit peointernational.org.
Members from Chapters AB, AG, AI, T and X participate in the P.E.O. 1st Annual Walk Today for Women Tomorrow.
