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Classrooms Shine in Merrick Head Start Pumpkin Contest

by Angel Belford | Nov 4, 2025 | News and Information

Merrick Head Start recently hosted a pumpkin decorating contest, and the classrooms brought incredible creativity and imagination to the event.

Room 211 took home first place with a pumpkin inspired by The Old Lady Who Swallowed the Fly, while Room 206 earned second place with a Snoopy pumpkin based on It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.

All the classrooms participated enthusiastically, making the activity a fun and festive experience for children and their families. Events like this help foster creativity, teamwork, and community at Merrick Head Start, providing children with joyful learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom.

For more information about PEACE, Inc. Head Start programs, visit: https://www.peace-caa.org/hs/

Volunteers Celebrated Birthdays at Meadow’s Apartments

by Angel Belford | Oct 30, 2025 | News and Information

Senior Nutrition recently celebrated two very special birthdays during a senior luncheon at Meadow’s Apartments. Becky and Nancy, longtime volunteers, were recognized for the care and dedication they bring to every gathering.

Becky makes sure every senior with a birthday near a luncheon is celebrated, adding a personal touch to each event. Nancy generously volunteers her time to serve meals with kindness and attention, ensuring every participant feels valued and welcome.

At this luncheon, the spotlight was on Becky and Nancy, celebrating them for the same care and support they provide to the community day after day. Their efforts make the Senior Nutrition program a welcoming and meaningful space for seniors.

To learn more about PEACE, Inc.’s Senior Nutrition program, visit: https://www.peace-caa.org/programs/senior-nutrition/

Westcott Seniors Gather for Festive Halloween Lunch

by Angel Belford | Oct 30, 2025 | News and Information

Senior Nutrition brought the Halloween spirit to Westcott Community Center with a lively celebration filled with creativity, connection, and seasonal fun. Seniors arrived in an array of festive costumes, transforming the room with bright colors, imaginative outfits, and joyful energy. Their enthusiasm set a warm tone for the day and reminded everyone how meaningful it is to create spaces where older adults can express themselves and enjoy shared traditions.

The morning featured rounds of BINGO, a favorite activity that encouraged friendly competition and plenty of laughter. Participants cheered one another on and celebrated each win with excitement. Once the games concluded, everyone gathered for a warm and delicious lunch served by our Senior Nutrition team. This time together provided an opportunity to relax, exchange stories, and reconnect with friends. It also highlighted how important social interaction is for the well-being of older adults in our community.

Events like this demonstrate the value of bringing seniors together in a fun and welcoming environment. We are grateful to everyone who joined the celebration and helped make the day memorable. To learn more about Senior Nutrition programs, upcoming activities, or ways to get involved, please visit:

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

Little Heroes Learn Big Lessons: Fire Prevention Day at Genesee Head Start

by Angel Belford | Oct 24, 2025 | News and Information

In awarness of Fire Prevention Month, Genesee Head Start welcomed local firefighters for a special visit with students and staff. The firefighters engaged the children in a fun and educational experience, reading a story, discussing important fire safety tips, and giving the students the exciting opportunity to explore one of their fire trucks up close.

The visit offered hands-on learning that reinforced fire safety lessons in a way children could easily understand. Students were able to see the firefighters’ gear and ask questions about the work firefighters do in their community.

Each child left the event with a fireman’s hat and a sticker, making the day both memorable and meaningful. Events like this help instill important safety habits while encouraging curiosity, respect, and admiration for community helpers.

To learn more about PEACE, Inc.’s Head Start program, visit here

Senator May Connects with Children and Community Needs

by Angel Belford | Oct 23, 2025 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. was honored to welcome NYS Senator Rachel May and a team from Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins’ office to Sumner Head Start yesterday. The group joined a lesson in Room 202, observing children’s learning in action, and spent time connecting with one of our dedicated Foster Grandparent volunteers.

During their visit, they also met with the PEACE, Inc. team to discuss important community needs, including housing, weatherization and rising energy costs, food access, and other local priorities. The conversation highlighted the vital role programs like Head Start play in supporting children and families, and we greatly appreciate their interest and commitment to our community.

Thank you to Senator May and the team for taking the time to see our work firsthand and engage with the children and staff who make it all possible.

Learn more about our Head Start programs and register your child at www.peace-caa.org/programs/hs/

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/

Midweek Fun and Lunch at Bob Cecile Senior Center

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

Each Wednesday, the Bob Cecile Senior Center hosts a lively morning of BINGO followed by lunch, bringing local seniors together for a fun and social midweek tradition. The weekly gathering is part of PEACE, Inc.’s Senior Nutrition Program, which offers healthy, affordable meals and opportunities for community connection.

Lunch is served Monday through Friday at noon for adults ages 60 and older. Seniors are invited to stop by the Bob Cecile Senior Center, 174 W. Seneca Turnpike in Syracuse. The suggested contribution is $3.50 for seniors ($7.00 for guests). To explore menus and find other Senior Nutrition locations, visit the senior nutrition information page.