P.E.O. Record
Together We Can...
Soon the calendar will turn and we will welcome another new year. People will greet friends and neighbors everywhere wishing goodwill, health and happiness. Gifts will be given to celebrate; perhaps a regional delicacy or homemade treats. Giving gifts and receiving them are an important part of our cultural tradition of celebration. We remember birthdays, passages and important events with gifts. Large or small, a gift represents a thoughtful remembrance of a special occasion.
How often have you heard a member refer to becoming a P.E.O. as having received a gift? Giving this special gift to a friend or a member of your family becomes a celebration for the entire chapter. It is beautiful, a memorable occasion. Do you remember when you became a P.E.O.? Have you given the gift you received to another? Consider those you know who would appreciate membership and introduce them to your chapter.
If a friend or relative lives in another city and you know that they would welcome P.E.O., Form FR 
will help you introduce her to a chapter in the area. A copy of this form is found on page 16 of this issue. The form is available on the P.E.O. website or ask your chapter president for a copy. Chapters have gained valuable, committed members through this introduction process. Giving this opportunity to others to join with us strengthens not only our relationships and chapters but our influence in the community. United in strength we can accomplish more.
January 21, 2009, P.E.O. will mark 140 years as an organization. We are one of the oldest, continuously meeting women’s organizations in North America. Chapters will be planning celebrations to commemorate this auspicious event perhaps even giving the gift of membership. Seven young women gave us our start, but it has been women throughout the years who have believed in our mission bringing us to this day. The next generation will lead us even further — in greater service to women and accomplishment of their educational goals. What part will you play?
In this anniversary year, make a commitment to bring in two new members. Many of you will have friends in common but have not considered them because they’re busy women. Don’t make the decision for her; let her decide. Busy women are good members—they know how to get things done and how to organize time for the important things.
If she accepts your chapter’s invitation, assign a mentor—someone who will help teach her about P.E.O., call her on meeting day, offer to pick her up and sit with her at meetings to answer questions. Teach your new members what it means to be a P.E.O. Becoming a P.E.O. is a lifetime commitment. A favorite quote states it very simply, “Make good habits — they’re as hard to break as bad ones.” Building good habits of participation is important to success as a chapter and to your new member by experiencing all that P.E.O. can give. It is the gift that keeps on giving!
Together We Can Do It!
Barbara Andes, President
International Chapter