Angel Belford | PEACE, Inc.

Summit Federal Credit Union & School Supplies

by Angel Belford | Sep 5, 2025 | News and Information

The Summit Federal Credit Union has generously donated backpacks and school supplies to support local youth. These supplies are kept at the Big Brothers Big Sisters office and BBBS continues to replenish school supplies for of our Littles throughout the school year, when a restock is needed.

A heartfelt thank you to The Summit Federal Credit Union and to everyone who donated to PEACE, Inc. and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Your contributions make a real difference in the lives of the children and families we serve!

AmeriCorps Senior Forster Grandparent Program Funding Released

by Angel Belford | Sep 5, 2025 | News and Information

We are excited to share that funding for the 2025 AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program has officially been released! This important milestone means our senior volunteers will soon be back in classrooms across the community, providing mentorship, guidance, and support to young students who benefit greatly from their presence. The program plays a vital role in bridging generational gaps and enriching the lives of both seniors and youth.

This achievement would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of those who reached out to elected officials and advocated for continued support of the program. Your voices made a difference. You can read more about the release of these funds here. Stay tuned—we’ll be sharing updates soon as our beloved Foster Grandparents return to inspire and mentor the next generation!

PEACE, Inc. Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for New Senior Nutrition Site in Skaneateles

by Angel Belford | Sep 3, 2025 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. is proud to announce the official grand opening of its 29th Senior Congregate Dining Site, located at the First Presbyterian Church of Skaneateles. The ribbon cutting celebration, held yesterday, marked a significant milestone in expanding access to nutritious meals and community support for seniors in Onondaga County. The event brought together local leaders, community partners, and residents to celebrate the launch of this important new site.

Distinguished guests included:

Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon
District 6 Legislator Julie Abbott
Mayor Mary Sennett
Commissioner JoAnne Spoto Decker
Deputy Commissioner Sarah Merrick
Town Councilwoman Sue Dove
PEACE, Inc. Executive Director Carolyn D. Brown
Food Services Director Karl Dawkins
Jean Clayborn
Representatives from the Onondaga County Department of Adult & Long Term Care Services
PEACE, Inc. staff, volunteers, and community members

The celebration was marked by joy and gratitude as 78 seniors gathered to enjoy a nutritious lunch, underscoring the importance of these congregate dining sites in promoting wellness, social engagement, and community connection.

“This site represents more than just a meal,” said Carolyn D. Brown, Executive Director of PEACE, Inc. “It’s a place where seniors can come together, share stories, and stay connected.”

PEACE, Inc.’s Senior Nutrition Program plays a vital role in combating food insecurity and isolation among older adults by offering balanced meals in welcoming, communal settings throughout the county.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who contributed to bringing this new site to life—your efforts ensure that our seniors continue to be supported, nourished, and valued.

To learn more about the Senior Nutrition Program and to find a site near you, visit:

https://www.peace-caa.org/programs/senior-nutrition/

Head Start Classrooms Kick Off a New School Year at PEACE, Inc.

by Angel Belford | Sep 2, 2025 | News and Information

The first day of school wasn’t just for the big kids—PEACE, Inc.’s Head Start classrooms are back in session, welcoming children ages 0 to 5 for a new year of learning, play, and discovery. With a strong commitment to nurturing the whole child, the Head Start program goes beyond early education by providing comprehensive support through health services and a focus on family well-being. Dedicated staff work closely with parents to ensure every child has the tools and support they need to thrive. Here’s to a successful and enriching school year for all our Head Start families!

Community Voices Lead the Way: PEACE, Inc. Presents at NCAP

by Angel Belford | Aug 28, 2025 | News and Information

At this year’s National Community Action Partnership (NCAP) Annual Conference, Todd Goehle and Maribel Arce of PEACE, Inc. presented “More than an Assessment: Community-Based Research for Planning & Results.” Their session explored how community-based research can drive meaningful change—moving beyond standard assessments to uplift community voices, guide strategic planning, and measure outcomes that truly reflect local needs. View their presentation slides here.

NCAP works to ensure that the causes and conditions of poverty are effectively addressed through collaboration, capacity building, and advocacy. Its annual conference brings together community action professionals from across the nation to share innovative strategies, research, and success stories that strengthen local efforts to reduce poverty and create lasting impact.

If you would like to review the other presentations, click here.