LuAnne Navarra, P.E.O. Chapter FL Corresponding Secretary, submitted this report.
On Tuesday, May 19, 2015, members of P.E.O. Chapter FL met for a dinner and meeting at the Prairie Ridge Golf Course Oak Room, 903 W, Morris Street, Morrison, IL.
The program theme for the evening, “To Seek Growth: Through Creative Therapy,” was given by Kendra Kophamer, at left, Marketing Director of White Oaks Therapeutic Equestrian Center, also known as WHOA.
White Oaks, located in Morrison, is a non-profit organization that was established in 1995 to provide educational, recreational, therapeutic, and social opportunities for individuals with special needs. Trained volunteers assist with the therapeutic riding by helping with the horses and riders, maintaining the stables, and helping with fundraising and special events. The benefits derived from what WHOA offers is evident in their mission statement. “Mission: White Oaks Therapeutic Equestrian Center provides equine assisted experiences to enhance the quality of life and cultivate personal growth through therapeutic, educational, recreational, and social development, for persons with disabilities ages four through adult. Interactions between horses and students have the ability to improve physical capabilities and skills, as well as social interaction, emotional stability, spiritual well-being, along with mental focus and processes.” More information can be found on the WHOA website www.rideatwhoa.org.
A business meeting followed the program.
P.E.O. Chapter FL met for a meeting in the home of Nancy Pannier on Tuesday, June 2. Nancy and co-hostess Lynn Knox served refreshments. Prior to the business meeting, a program titled “To Seek Growth: Through Good Government” was given by Everett Pannier, Mayor of Morrison. He led a question and answer session, informing chapter members about current and upcoming City government projects and activities. Following the program, Chapter FL President Jean Eggemeyer led the business meeting.
P.E.O. is one of the pioneer societies for women, and was founded on January 21, 1869, by seven students at Iowa Wesleyan College in Mount Pleasant, IA. Today, P.E.O. has grown from that tiny membership of seven to almost a quarter of a million members in chapters in the United States and Canada. 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; motivate women of all ages to achieve their highest aspirations.