“Dad Read to a Child” at Sumner Head Start

“Dad Read to a Child” at Sumner Head Start

Sumner Head Start Room 102 recently celebrated male involvement in early learning with a successful “Dad Read To A Child” Literacy Event. Fathers, grandfathers, and other father-figures joined their children for a special storytime experience that highlighted the importance of reading together and building strong family connections.

The event provided a meaningful opportunity for children to share the joy of books with the important men in their lives while strengthening early literacy skills. Seeing families come together to support learning created a welcoming and encouraging atmosphere for both children and caregivers.

We are proud of our students and families for participating in this special event and for showing how shared reading experiences can support learning, confidence, and lifelong connections to literacy.

To learn more about becoming a volunteer visit: www.peace-caa.org/get-involved/

A Big Moment for a Big Making a Difference

A Big Moment for a Big Making a Difference

Congratulations to Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor Beth Losty on being recognized as the Amazon Community Hero during a recent Syracuse Crunch hockey game. Beth was honored in front of fans for her dedication and positive impact as a mentor, highlighting the important role volunteers play in strengthening our community.

The celebration was made even more special as Beth was joined at the game by her Little, her Little’s brother, and his Big, turning the recognition into a shared moment of connection and joy. A mutual love of hockey has helped keep these matches engaged and connected, both on and off the ice.

We are incredibly proud of Beth and the difference she makes through mentorship. Her recognition as an Amazon Community Hero is a powerful reminder of how meaningful relationships and shared experiences can inspire confidence, build bonds, and change lives.

To learn more about the Big Brothers, Big Sisters program at PEACE, Inc. visit: www.peace-caa.org/programs/bbbs/

Elephants, Easels, and Big Smiles

Elephants, Easels, and Big Smiles

Our Littles and Bigs recently enjoyed a fun and creative outing at Painting with a Twist, where laughter and imagination filled the room. This year’s featured painting was a cute elephant, and each pair brought it to life with their own colorful and creative touches.

Creative activities like painting play an important role in child development by encouraging self-expression, building confidence, and strengthening problem-solving skills. For our matches, the experience also provided valuable time to connect, collaborate, and support one another in a relaxed and encouraging environment. Everyone left with a brand-new masterpiece and big smiles, making it a memorable day of creativity, growth, and shared joy.

If you would like to sign up for the Big Brothers, Big Sisters program visit: www.peace-caa.org/programs/bbbs

Big Brothers Big Sisters Program Celebrates the Season Together

Big Brothers Big Sisters Program Celebrates the Season Together

PEACE, Inc.’s Big Brothers Big Sisters Program recently came together to celebrate the season with Bigs, Littles, and their families. The gathering was filled with laughter, connection, and shared moments as everyone enjoyed time together and created warm, lasting memories.

Events like this highlight the importance of building strong, supportive relationships and celebrating community. PEACE, Inc. wishes everyone merry everything and happy always as we head into the season ahead.

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

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

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

Big Brothers Big Sisters Kick Off New School Year

Big Brothers Big Sisters Kick Off New School Year

PEACE, Inc.’s Big Brothers Big Sisters Program kicked off the new school year with a fun-filled picnic bringing together Littles, Bigs, family members, and community partners. The event celebrated the start of another year of mentorship, friendship, and academic growth.

The day featured kickball games, creative crafts, great food, and plenty of laughs. It was a joyful way to mark the season ahead, reminding everyone involved just how powerful and positive these relationships can be. A blast was had by all as the Littles prepared to head back to school supported and encouraged by their Bigs.

Farewell to Welcome Back –  Foster Grandparents Picnic

Farewell to Welcome Back – Foster Grandparents Picnic

The AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program picnic turned into a surprise celebration after news broke that impounded federal funds had been released by the Office of Management and Budget on September 8. What was meant to be a farewell event quickly became a joyful “welcome back” gathering, filled with food, fun, and friendship as volunteers reunited with renewed hope.

With funding restored, the program is now focused on getting its dedicated volunteers back into classrooms within the next month. The return of these foster grandparents marks an important step in continuing their mission to support and mentor students through meaningful intergenerational service.

AmeriCorps Senior Forster Grandparent Program Funding Released

AmeriCorps Senior Forster Grandparent Program Funding Released

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!

Bigs and Littles Get Creative at the Everson

Bigs and Littles Get Creative at the Everson

Littles and Bigs from the PEACE, Inc. Big Brothers Big Sisters program recently took part in the Chalk Art Contest hosted by Tobacco Free CNY and Reality Check at the Everson Museum Plaza. The event combined creativity with a meaningful message, offering participants a chance to express themselves artistically while learning about the risks of tobacco use.

The day was filled with fun, color, and connection. Littles received free t-shirts and materials for both chalk art and tie-dye activities, sparking plenty of imagination and laughter. It was a joyful event where creativity ruled and mentorship relationships were strengthened in a vibrant, supportive setting.

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