Monticello PEO Chapter FP celebrates 100 years of history

     Feb. 16, 1921, shortly after the influenza pandemic, an organization of women helping women was founded in Monticello.

     Chapter FP of PEO was founded in Monticello with several ladies joining. Members on that day in February included names such as Doxsee, Ricklefs, Koob, Matthiesen, and Stimson. Familiar names to the community of Monticello with a long history of community pride.

     The purpose of the organization was to help women in their educational pursuits and assist others in need.

     One hundred years later, the ladies’ organization in Monticello has continued in the same manner. With a robust membership of 73 community members and 15 non-resident members, Chapter FP is still assisting others in educational pursuits and others in need.

     The organization has been very successful in supporting several families brought to their attention with the Sarah Porter Beckwith Award. This award especially assists with health issues in a monetary fashion.

     The International Chapter of PEO will award (upon the local chapter’s recommendation) a grant of up to $5,000 for purposes as a needy family/individual sees fit. Chapter FP, in the last 10 years, has been fortunate to receive this grant approximately five times.

     There are also several grants concerning educational supports that can viewed on the PEO website (www.peointernational.org).

     Chapter FP has also personally awarded a $1,000 scholarship to a senior girl pursuing a degree in the educational field from Monticello High School every year.

     Commitment to service and community is an important part of Chapter FP.

     Chapter FP is very fortunate to have two 70-year members in Marge Lubben and Margaret Ann Ritchey. Both joined in 1950. This year, Chapter FP will celebrate another 70-year member, Judy Tuetken, who joined in May of 1951.

     The youngster of the group is Phyllis Hunt, at a 60-year membership.

     Although Chapter FP honors their experiences members, they have at least seven or more members in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s. This diversity of age and experience affords Chapter FP new ideas and approaches.

     After 100 years of activity in Monticello, Chapter FP looks forward to another 100 years assisting women in their educational goals and assisting people in need. Hopefully in the spring, Chapter FP will properly celebrate 100 years.

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