Angel Belford | PEACE, Inc.

Working Together to Better Serve Our Community

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

PEACE, Inc. is always looking for opportunities to build partnerships and strengthen connections throughout the community. PEACE, Inc. and the Central New York Community Foundation hosted Syracuse Community Connections, a nonprofit speed networking event designed to bring local organizations together and encourage collaboration.

Nearly 80 human service professionals, nonprofit leaders, and community partners participated in the event. Many attendees met one another for the first time, exchanging information about their programs, services, and resources. The fast-paced format created opportunities for meaningful conversations and helped participants identify new ways to work together in support of community members.

Beyond making new connections, the event encouraged participants to think creatively about how organizations can collaborate to address challenges facing Central New York. By sharing knowledge, building relationships, and exploring partnership opportunities, attendees helped lay the groundwork for future initiatives that can better meet the needs of individuals and families throughout the region.

PEACE, Inc. and the Central New York Community Foundation are grateful to everyone who participated. Events like Syracuse Community Connections demonstrate the power of collaboration and highlight what is possible when organizations come together with a shared commitment to strengthening our community.

Building Skills for Confident Financial Planning

by Angel Belford | Apr 22, 2026 | News and Information

Fatherhood with PEACE, Inc. and Thriving Not Just Surviving recently welcomed Broadview Federal Credit Union for a meaningful financial literacy workshop led by Nancy Cassella. This session brought parents together to learn practical strategies for strengthening their financial well-being in a supportive and engaging environment.

During the workshop, participants explored key skills for managing personal finances with greater confidence. Families learned how to create a clear financial action plan and gained a better understanding of how everyday financial decisions can impact long-term goals and stability. The discussion encouraged open learning and provided tools parents can begin using right away.

Opportunities like this help us empower families with knowledge that supports lasting stability and success. We are grateful to Nancy Cassella and Broadview Federal Credit Union for investing in our community and supporting the growth and success of our parents.

To learn more about the parent support groups visit: peace-caa.org/programs/frc/fatherhood/

Strengthening Community Connections at SUNY ESF Engagement Fair

by Angel Belford | Apr 21, 2026 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. was proud to join the SUNY ESF Community Engagement Fair, where students, faculty, and community members came together to explore and connect with valuable local resources. The event created a welcoming space for conversation and collaboration, helping attendees learn more about the many organizations working to support individuals and families across the region.

Following the fair, a community panel brought together nonprofit leaders for a thoughtful discussion on the impact of their work. Mayor Sharon Owens opened the conversation by sharing her perspective on the importance of strong community connections and the vital role nonprofit organizations play in strengthening those connections. Panelists included Todd Goehle of PEACE, Inc., Lisa Steinberg of Onondaga County Public Libraries, Kat Resanovic of Baltimore Woods Nature Center, Gwendolyn of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and Andy Mager of Neighbors of Onondaga Nation.

Together, the panelists explored how their organizations address community needs, build partnerships, and support long-term growth across the region. The discussion was engaging and insightful, highlighting how collaboration between nonprofits helps expand access to resources and strengthens the overall fabric of the community.

Celebrating Camillus Senior Center Volunteers

by Angel Belford | Apr 20, 2026 | News and Information

The PEACE, Inc. Senior Nutrition Program recently visited the Camillus Senior Center to recognize and thank the dedicated volunteers who help keep the center running smoothly and support daily operations for older adults in the community.

Guests gathered for a Tuscany-themed lunch featuring spaghetti and meatballs, with sparkling juice served at each table. The event created a welcoming space for connection, conversation, and shared appreciation among participants. We were also joined by County Legislator Ken Bush Jr. and Councilor Chris Cesta, who both expressed gratitude for the volunteers’ ongoing commitment. Councilor Chris Cesta also led an engaging session focused on the importance of using and caring for the right tools in the kitchen, adding a practical learning component to the day.

We are grateful for the time, care, and dedication our volunteers bring to PEACE, Inc. each day. Their support strengthens our programs and helps create meaningful moments like this, where community connection, learning, and appreciation come together.

To learn about the Senior Nutrition Program, or to find locations, visit: peace-caa.org/programs/senior-nutrition/

Honoring Our Home Visiting Team During National Recognition Week

by Angel Belford | Apr 20, 2026 | News and Information

Celebrating Our Home Visiting Heroes!

April 20–24 marks National Home Visiting Week, a time to honor the dedicated professionals who bring the Head Start mission directly to the front doors of our community.

Our home visiting team here at PEACE is a powerhouse of multidisciplinary expertise. Comprised of teachers, nurses, social workers, and mental health professionals, these individuals consistently go above and beyond the call of duty. While many educators work within four walls, our team finds their “classrooms” at kitchen tables and on living room floors. They travel across the entire county to meet families where they are, literally and figuratively.

Through their work, language, literacy, math, and science skills are built in the heart of the home. These voluntary, evidence-based services do more than just teach; they are a lifeline for maternal and infant health, child development, and the strengthening of family bonds during a child’s most critical early years.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Carrie, Kim, Eileen, Jessica, Sherry, and Beth for the wonderful service and unwavering heart they provide to our families every day.

Please join us in celebrating these Home Visiting Heroes for their tireless commitment to our community!

To learn more about the Home-Based program visit: peace-caa.org/programs/hs/