by Angel Belford | Jul 22, 2025 | News and Information
In early July, the young participants in our County South Family Resource Center Summer Program embarked on an extraordinary adventure that left an indelible mark on their summer memories. They visited the renowned Rosamond Gifford Zoo, where they had the opportunity to observe and learn about a diverse array of animals from around the world, including majestic elephants, playful penguins, and graceful giraffes. This educational outing not only offered them a chance to connect with nature but also sparked their curiosity about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting endangered species.
Following their zoo excursion, the children immersed themselves in a thrilling experience at the Escape Room in Tully Public Library.
The sense of camaraderie and teamwork that developed among the participants was heartwarming, illustrating the program’s success in fostering not only fun but also essential life skills. As the summer progresses, we encourage everyone to keep an eye out for more exhilarating summer escapades that promise to create lasting memories and valuable learning experiences for our young adventurers!
by Angel Belford | Jul 18, 2025 | News and Information
PEACE, Inc. County West Family Resource Center (CWFRC) recently hosted its yearly Neighborhood Advisory Council (NAC) gathering, an event dedicated to discussing community insights and proposals. During this occasion, the Pastor Joe Folckemer Scholarship, valued at $500, was bestowed upon Rhyan Egan. Rhyan’s mother attended the event to join in the celebration of this achievement.
To learn more about the CWFRC at Baldwinsville, click here.
by Angel Belford | Jul 17, 2025 | News and Information
Join us in celebrating Corisha M., who opened her brand-new Family Daycare in the Valley this past June.
After completing 120 hours of coursework to earn her Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential, Corisha is now bringing her passion for early childhood development to life.
She is dedicated to creating a warm, supportive environment where children can thrive and grow. Corisha also values building strong, meaningful relationships with both the children in her care and their families.
We’re proud to support Corisha on this exciting new chapter in her journey.
by Angel Belford | Jul 15, 2025 | News and Information
We are pleased to introduce Alicia Mustafa as the new owner of Alicia’s Little Bowz and Tiez Daycare, located in East Syracuse. Alicia brings a deep passion for childcare and a strong commitment to creating a warm, personalized environment where children can learn, play, and grow.
With training in Health and Safety as well as Pediatric CPR, Alicia ensures that the wellbeing and safety of every child remain a top priority. Her home-based daycare offers the unique benefits of a smaller group setting, providing a cozy, family-like atmosphere that encourages meaningful connections and individual attention. Parents can also appreciate the flexibility that a family/home daycare setting can offer.
Please join us in congratulating Alicia as she begins this exciting new chapter. We look forward to seeing the positive impact she will have on the children and families she serves.
by Eddy Luce | Jun 21, 2025 | News and Information
During the Senior Awards presentation at Paul V. Moore High School, the Big of the Year Award was presented to Larkin, who consistently went above and beyond in demonstrating extraordinary mentorship in PEACE, Inc.’s school-based Big Brothers Big Sisters Program. Larkin spent time with 5 different Littles between April 2023 and June 2025. By developing positive relationships with the young students in the Central Square Central School District, her dedication and commitment will have a lasting effect on her hometown! Larkin also received a $500 scholarship from the Dimmock Fund. Congratulations and good luck with your future endeavors Larkin!
Consider investing into a child’s future by volunteering today! Click here!
by peaceinc | Aug 7, 2023 | News and Information
The Eastside and Westside Family Resource Centers had fun-filled summers for city youth.
At Eastside, the “Let Me Be Great” Program blended fun and education, taking field trips to locations such as Montezuma Nature Preserve and receiving valuable financial, CPR, and Stop the Bleed trainings.
At Westside, elementary school-age youth engaged in similar educational activities such as arts and crafts and even some yoga!
Both groups enjoyed time by the water at Skaneateles Lake too. Once again, we thank Joe Hucko and the Washington Street Partners for opening his home to our youth!
by peaceinc | Jul 8, 2022 | News and Information
The Big Brothers Big Sisters program received a $10,000 donation from the Moore Agencies of New England to serve local youth. The funds will be used to enrich current BBBS-related services and to support their special events, including holiday and back-to-school events.
A team-oriented agency in the financial services industry, The Moore Agencies of New England have offered family protection plans for unions, credit unions, and both large and small associations across North America for more than 65 years. Its purpose is “to serve and protect others and help people achieve their potential personally and professionally.”
by Eddy Luce | Jun 28, 2022 | News and Information
Foundation to allocate proceeds from national Make A Difference fundraiser to support PEACE, Inc.’s Big Brothers Big Sisters Program
Syracuse, New York, June 24th, 2022– As part of the annual in-restaurant fundraising program, the Make a Difference campaign, Arby’s restaurants raised nearly $3.4 million to support national organizations dedicated to providing kids the future they deserve.
In Syracuse and Onondaga County, New York, $25,200 will be granted to PEACE, Inc.’s Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) Program. The funds will be used for special events -including holiday parties, back-to-school events, and more- as well as for program staffing.
“These funds will provide additional supports to help our community’s youth reach their full potential.” said John Bruzdzinski, Director of PEACE, Inc.’s Big Brothers Big Sisters. “We’re thrilled to have Arby’s give back and reinvest funds for our Central New York Youth.”
Additional funds will be granted to Arby’s Foundation national non-profit partners: Big Brothers Big Sisters, No Kid Hungry, and Junior Achievement (3DE) to support programs focused on childhood hunger, youth leadership, and career readiness.
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About the Arby’s Foundation
The Arby’s Foundation, the independent charitable arm of Arby’s, helps America’s kids dream big and pursue their dreams with confidence. Building on a philanthropic heritage that has contributed more than $90 million to youth-related causes since its inception in 1986, the Arby’s Foundation is committed to helping kids build, expand and pursue their dreams as we focus our efforts in childhood hunger, youth leadership and career readiness initiatives. The Arby’s Foundation is part of the Inspire Brands Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) organization headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. For more information, visit www.foundation.arbys.com.
About PEACE, Inc., PEACE, Inc.’s Big Brothers Big Sisters
Incorporated in 1968, PEACE, Inc. is a federal designated Community Action Agency (CAA) that serves nearly 8,000 clients in Syracuse, Onondaga County, and portions of Oswego County. With a guiding principle of “Maximum Feasible Participation,” or the concept that those who are served by the CAA must also be involved with the organization’s decision-making processes, the agency pursues a mission to “help people in the community realize their potential for becoming self-sufficient.” It does so through 9 antipoverty services: Free Tax Prep, Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS), Family Services (FRCs) Head Start and Early Head Start (HS, EHS), its Department of Energy and Housing, Foster Grandparents, Eastwood Community Center, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Support Services. For more information, visit www.peace-caa.org.
Since its founding in 1904, Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) has been recognized the nation’s preeminent 1-to-1 mentorship program. Research shows that 1-to-1 mentoring improves a child’s confidence, academic performance, and decision making. Through Community-, School-, and Corporate-Based mentoring, PEACE, Inc.’s BBBS branch continues doing this important work in matching kids (Littles) with mentors (Bigs).
Media Contact
John F. Bruzdzinski, Director
PEACE, Inc. Big Brothers Big Sisters
Email: john.bruzdzinski@peace-caa.org
Phone: 315-470-3369 ext 362
