Angel Belford | PEACE, Inc.

KeyBank and PEACE, Inc. Bring Free Tax Prep to the Community

by Angel Belford | Mar 3, 2026 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. and KeyBank teamed up for their annual “Super Saturday Free Tax Prep Event” at Beauchamp Library in Syracuse. Serving only walk-up filers, nearly 30 staff and volunteers prepared and submitted 45 federal returns in 4 hours! Together, we returned $106,075 to the community. Thanks once again to all of the KeyBank volunteers for continuing to make this event such an impactful one.

45 total federal returns
$106,075 total in returns ($82,732 in Federal; $23,343 in State)
EIC: $34,781 total (11 recipients)
CTC: $14,122 total (6 recipients)
Average age: 51
Average Income: $28,927
Total number of individuals assisted through tax returns: 67
Total KeyBank personnel hours for the day of and training: 116
Total volunteer/staff hours day of w/KeyBank training: 238.25

If you would like to learn more about the Free Tax Preparation program, visit: www.peace-caa.org/taxes

Young Learners Explore Black History Month

by Angel Belford | Feb 28, 2026 | News and Information

The children at Merrick Head Start celebrated Black History Month by learning about important African Americans who have shaped history, culture, and the world around us. Through age-appropriate lessons, classroom discussions, and creative projects, students explored important themes such as leadership, creativity, courage, and perseverance.

Each classroom selected a person to honor and created posters that reflected what they learned. Room 102 and Room 201 focused on Michael Jackson, while Room 103 learned about artist Alma Thomas. Room 104 celebrated the musical legacy of The Temptations, and Room 106 explored the life and music of Nat King Cole. Other classrooms honored civil rights leader Rosa Parks in Room 203, musician Jimi Hendrix in Room 204, actor Chadwick Boseman in Room 206, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Room 211.

Through art, storytelling, and guided conversations, students learned about the lasting impact these individuals have made. We are proud of our young learners for their curiosity, creativity, and thoughtful engagement as they celebrated Black History Month and the powerful contributions of Black leaders and artists.

For more information about the Head Start program visit: www.peace-caa.org/hs

Seniors Strike Up Fun at Destiny USA

by Angel Belford | Feb 26, 2026 | News and Information

Seniors from the Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center recently enjoyed a fun outing to APEX Entertainment at Destiny USA. The group spent the day bowling together, sharing pizza and lemonade, and celebrating friendly competition. Betty emerged as the winner of the match with an impressive score of 91.

After bowling, the seniors took a leisurely walk around the mall, reflecting on changes since their last visit and enjoying each other’s company. The outing provided a wonderful opportunity for social connection, laughter, and community engagement, highlighting the importance of programs that support seniors’ well-being and social participation.

Events like this help foster meaningful relationships, create joyful experiences, and strengthen the bonds between participants at the Family Resource Center.

To learn more about Family Services here: www.peace-caa.org/programs/frc/

Exploring Community Health with SUNY Upstate Medical Students

by Angel Belford | Feb 26, 2026 | News and Information

Members of PEACE, Inc.’s Community Engagement and Head Start departments recently led medical students from SUNY Upstate Medical University on a walking tour of Southside Syracuse. The tour provided students with a firsthand look at the neighborhood and a deeper understanding of the social and environmental factors that can impact health outcomes for city residents.

During the visit, students learned about the health barriers many families face, including access to resources, transportation, housing, and nutritious food. They also heard about the many governmental and nonprofit organizations working together to strengthen the community and create meaningful, long-term improvements.

By connecting future healthcare professionals with the lived experiences of local residents, opportunities like this help foster greater awareness, empathy, and collaboration in addressing community health needs.

Community Partners Create a Day of Fun and Fitness

by Angel Belford | Feb 17, 2026 | News and Information

The children who visit PEACE, Inc.’s County West Family Resource Center enjoyed an exciting winter break adventure filled with movement, teamwork, and fun. The group spent the morning at Sullivan’s MMA for Winter Break Camp, where Dylan and his dedicated staff created an energetic and welcoming environment for all participants.

CWFRC children joined studio students for a full day of activities that kept everyone active and engaged, including dodgeball, gaga ball, kickball, obstacle courses, and games like “the floor is lava.” The Sullivan’s MMA team fostered an inclusive space where every child felt supported and encouraged, with activities that met children where they were at, in terms of their individual interests and abilities.

After camp, the children returned to the Family Resource Center to enjoy pizza for lunch and share their favorite moments from the day while looking ahead to the rest of their winter break. Experiences like this highlight the power of community partnerships in keeping children active, connected, and smiling.

To learn more about the County West Family Resource Center, visit: www.peace-caa.org/cwfrc