Angel Belford | PEACE, Inc.

From Vision to Impact: Turning a Passion for Children into a Community Resource

by Angel Belford | Mar 5, 2026 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc.’s Early Childhood Career Pathway Program (ECCPP) is proud to celebrate the dedication, vision, and growth of local childcare providers who are making a meaningful impact in their communities. Two inspiring examples are Amanda Maddison, owner of Magical Mischief Daycare in Clay, and Lakeva Williams, owner of Parent-cation, LLC in North Syracuse.

Amanda opened her New York State–registered family daycare with a clear mission: to create a nurturing, structured environment where children could feel safe, supported, and inspired to learn and grow. Her daycare stands as a reflection of resilience and hard work, providing families in Clay with high-quality home-based childcare that supports children, working parents, and the local economy. Amanda’s journey demonstrates how passion, paired with guidance and resources, can turn a personal goal into a valuable community resource.

Similarly, Lakeva has expanded her program from a Registered Family Daycare to a Group Family Daycare, allowing her to serve more children and strengthen support for families in North Syracuse and Cicero. With a remodeled space designed for both comfort and learning, Lakeva’s program exemplifies her commitment to creating a safe, engaging environment. Parent-cation, LLC is also looking to hire a Teacher Assistant, opening new opportunities for those interested in early childhood education.

Both Amanda and Lakeva’s stories highlight the power of the ECCPP in supporting early childhood professionals, fostering quality childcare, and building stronger communities. Their successes are reminders of the difference that dedication, vision, and support can make—not only for children, but for families and the communities they serve.

To learn more about the Early Childhood Career Pathway Program, visit: www.peace-caa.org/programs/frc/eccpp/

Head Start is Wacky, Wonderful and Full of Learning!

by Angel Belford | Mar 4, 2026 | News and Information

Head Start students at Merrick and Sumner had a fun-filled week celebrating Dr. Seuss and the joy of reading. At Merrick Head Start, Rooms 106 and 211 explored the playful rhymes and imaginative stories that have made Dr. Seuss a favorite for generations. Students participated in hands-on activities such as painting colorful hats and dressing up as The Cat in the Hat, bringing the stories to life in the classroom. The celebration was made even more special when one student’s dad joined the class to lead a fun activity, strengthening family engagement and making the week memorable.

Meanwhile, Sumner Head Start, Room 107, celebrated Wacky Wednesday with playful surprises and creative activities that encouraged early literacy and learning. Students dressed in wacky outfits and engaged in fun classroom challenges that made the day exciting while supporting social-emotional growth, imagination, and creativity.

These celebrations highlight how Head Start programs foster a love of learning through engaging, hands-on experiences. By connecting reading, creativity, and family involvement, students not only build early literacy skills but also develop confidence, social skills, and a lifelong excitement for learning.

To learn about the Head Start Program at PEACE, Inc. visit: peace-caa.org/programs/hs/

KeyBank and PEACE, Inc. Bring Free Tax Prep to the Community

by Angel Belford | Mar 3, 2026 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. and KeyBank teamed up for their annual “Super Saturday Free Tax Prep Event” at Beauchamp Library in Syracuse. Serving only walk-up filers, nearly 30 staff and volunteers prepared and submitted 45 federal returns in 4 hours! Together, we returned $106,075 to the community. Thanks once again to all of the KeyBank volunteers for continuing to make this event such an impactful one.

45 total federal returns
$106,075 total in returns ($82,732 in Federal; $23,343 in State)
EIC: $34,781 total (11 recipients)
CTC: $14,122 total (6 recipients)
Average age: 51
Average Income: $28,927
Total number of individuals assisted through tax returns: 67
Total KeyBank personnel hours for the day of and training: 116
Total volunteer/staff hours day of w/KeyBank training: 238.25

If you would like to learn more about the Free Tax Preparation program, visit: www.peace-caa.org/taxes

Young Learners Explore Black History Month

by Angel Belford | Feb 28, 2026 | News and Information

The children at Merrick Head Start celebrated Black History Month by learning about important African Americans who have shaped history, culture, and the world around us. Through age-appropriate lessons, classroom discussions, and creative projects, students explored important themes such as leadership, creativity, courage, and perseverance.

Each classroom selected a person to honor and created posters that reflected what they learned. Room 102 and Room 201 focused on Michael Jackson, while Room 103 learned about artist Alma Thomas. Room 104 celebrated the musical legacy of The Temptations, and Room 106 explored the life and music of Nat King Cole. Other classrooms honored civil rights leader Rosa Parks in Room 203, musician Jimi Hendrix in Room 204, actor Chadwick Boseman in Room 206, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Room 211.

Through art, storytelling, and guided conversations, students learned about the lasting impact these individuals have made. We are proud of our young learners for their curiosity, creativity, and thoughtful engagement as they celebrated Black History Month and the powerful contributions of Black leaders and artists.

For more information about the Head Start program visit: www.peace-caa.org/hs

Seniors Strike Up Fun at Destiny USA

by Angel Belford | Feb 26, 2026 | News and Information

Seniors from the Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center recently enjoyed a fun outing to APEX Entertainment at Destiny USA. The group spent the day bowling together, sharing pizza and lemonade, and celebrating friendly competition. Betty emerged as the winner of the match with an impressive score of 91.

After bowling, the seniors took a leisurely walk around the mall, reflecting on changes since their last visit and enjoying each other’s company. The outing provided a wonderful opportunity for social connection, laughter, and community engagement, highlighting the importance of programs that support seniors’ well-being and social participation.

Events like this help foster meaningful relationships, create joyful experiences, and strengthen the bonds between participants at the Family Resource Center.

To learn more about Family Services here: www.peace-caa.org/programs/frc/