Angel Belford | PEACE, Inc.

Seniors Welcome New Lunch Spot at Syracuse Community Connections

by Angel Belford | Oct 21, 2025 | News and Information

The PEACE, Inc. Senior Nutrition Program now serves lunches at The Syracuse Community Connections! On October 21st, County Executive Ryan McMahon, the Onondaga County Department of Adult & Long Term Care Services, and PEACE, Inc. staff joined together to celebrate the opening of this new senior dining site.

The Senior Nutrition Program plays a vital role in supporting the health and well-being of older adults in our community. By providing nutritious meals in a welcoming environment, the program helps seniors maintain a balanced diet, socialize with peers, and stay engaged in community activities. These meals are designed to meet the dietary needs of older adults, helping them stay strong, healthy, and independent.

The new Syracuse Community Connections site offers a convenient location for seniors to enjoy a hot, nutritious lunch and connect with others. This expansion reflects PEACE, Inc.’s ongoing commitment to serving the needs of older adults and fostering a sense of community.

For more information about the Senior Nutrition Program and other PEACE, Inc. services, visit www.peace-caa.org/programs/senior-nutrition

Keeping Kids Safe: Lead Poisoning Prevention at Head Start

by Angel Belford | Oct 21, 2025 | News and Information

The Onondaga County Health Department visited PEACE, Inc.’s Sumner and Merrick Head Start classrooms to share important information about the Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.

The visits were part of National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, an annual effort to raise awareness about protecting children from lead exposure. Families learned how to keep their homes and children safe, while the kids had a blast meeting Leo, the friendly mascot who helped make learning fun!

Parents received practical tips on reducing lead risks at home and accessing community resources for lead testing and prevention. Staff and families had the opportunity to ask questions, engage in hands-on activities, and learn strategies to support children’s health and safety. Events like these reinforce PEACE, Inc.’s commitment to fostering safe, healthy, and informed communities.

Thank you to the Onondaga County Health Department for partnering with us to promote healthy, safe environments for our children and families.

Girls Show Appreciation to Arby’s Foundation at Be-YOU-tiful Bash

by Angel Belford | Oct 18, 2025 | News and Information

During the recent Be-YOU-tiful Bash hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters, the participating girls expressed their gratitude to the Arby’s Foundation for supporting their experiences.

PEACE, Inc. would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Arby’s Foundation for providing funds to support the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program in Onondaga County. These generous contributions help make programs like the Be-YOU-tiful Bash possible, giving young girls opportunities to learn, grow, and feel celebrated.

If you would like to learn more, or be involved in the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program, Click Here

Pampering, Positivity, and Peer Connections at the Be-You-tiful Bash

by Angel Belford | Oct 18, 2025 | News and Information

Recently, our Big Brothers Big Sisters Program hosted the Be-You-tiful Bash — a special day dedicated to empowering our Little Sisters and building their confidence and self-respect.

The Littles were treated to a spa-like experience, complete with hair, nails, and makeup pampering and photo shoot. More than just a day of fun, the event fostered positive peer interactions and helped the girls form new friendships with fellow Littles.

A heartfelt thank you to our incredible Bigs for always showing up with support and encouragement. Thanks to Macy’s Lancome Destiny USA and Five Below Cicero for providing supplies and goodies for the day! We are also deeply grateful to our amazing volunteers from Syracuse University and PEACE, Inc., for making the day unforgettable.

If you would like to learn more, or be involved in the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program, Click Here

Foster Grandparents Back in the Classroom: A New Year of Mentoring & Impact

by Angel Belford | Oct 15, 2025 | News and Information

Earlier this month, Executive Director Carolyn Brown attended the in-service training for the Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) to personally thank our AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers for their patience and steadfast dedication during the recent pause in program operations.

We are delighted to announce that our Foster Grandparents are now returning to schools and child-care settings, ready to make a positive impact in the lives of young students across our community. Welcome back, and best wishes for a wonderful and rewarding school year!

The Foster Grandparent Program, part of AmeriCorps Seniors, engages adults age 55 and older in meaningful volunteer service, mentoring and supporting local children who need extra attention and care. Through one-on-one time, encouragement, and friendship, Foster Grandparents help students build confidence, improve academic skills, and thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Beyond helping children, the program also offers volunteers a strong sense of purpose, community connection, and additional supports — including training, transportation reimbursement, and a modest tax-free stipend for eligible participants.

We’re so grateful to our Foster Grandparents for their compassion and commitment. Their presence continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families throughout Central New York.

For more information about the Foster Grandparent Program, visit www.peace-caa.org/programs/fostergrandparent/