Bigs and Littles from the PEACE, Inc. Big Brothers Big Sisters Program recently spent a sunny Saturday at The Haven at Skanda, a farm animal sanctuary in Cazenovia. The visit provided youth with a unique opportunity to connect with animals while learning about compassion, resilience, and the importance of caring for others.

During their tour, participants learned about the sanctuary’s mission to rescue and care for abused and neglected farm animals. They met a variety of animals and heard stories of recovery and healing. Through the sanctuary’s commitment to providing safety, care, and a second chance, many of the animals have been able to overcome difficult circumstances and thrive in a supportive environment.

The experience offered valuable lessons that extended beyond the farm. The animals’ journeys demonstrated the impact of kindness, patience, and perseverance, reinforcing the goals of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program to build empathy, confidence, and positive relationships. Activities like this help young people broaden their perspectives, strengthen connections, and discover the positive difference they can make in their communities.

If you would like to learn more about the Big Brother Big Sister program visit: peace-caa.org/programs/bbbs/

This year, the PEACE, Inc. Big Brothers Big Sisters Program is placing a strong emphasis on civic engagement, helping youth learn the importance of kindness, respect, and service to others. Through hands-on experiences, Bigs and Littles are exploring how they can make a positive impact in their community while developing valuable leadership skills.

Earlier this month, several Bigs and Littles volunteered with We Rise Above the Streets Inc. during their Sandwich Saturday event. Working together, participants assembled sandwiches, packed lunch bags, and helped distribute meals to community members. The experience gave youth an opportunity to see firsthand how volunteer efforts can support individuals and families in need.

The event provided a meaningful learning experience that demonstrated how even small acts of service can make a lasting difference. By participating in community service projects alongside their mentors, Littles gain a deeper understanding of civic responsibility and the importance of helping others. PEACE, Inc. is grateful to the Bigs who continue to lead by example and inspire the next generation of compassionate and engaged community leaders.

If you would like to become involved with the PEACE, Inc. Big Brother Big Sister Program visit: peace-caa.org/programs/bbbs/

In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, the Big Brothers Big Sisters school-based program at Central Square Central School District celebrated with a fun, hands-on activity. Bigs from Paul V. Moore High School teamed up with their Littles from Millard Hawk Elementary School to create edible treats, following the rainbow all the way to the pot of gold.

The activity was both festive and engaging, allowing Bigs and Littles to spend quality time together while practicing teamwork, creativity, and friendship. It was a sweet and memorable day that highlighted the joy and connection mentoring can bring to students of all ages.

To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters visit: www.peace-caa.org/programs/bbbs/

PEACE, Inc.’s Big Brothers Big Sisters program recently hosted a special evening for Bigs and their Littles, giving them the chance to connect, have fun, and strengthen their mentoring relationships. The event featured a movie screening, a variety of snacks, and plenty of opportunities for laughter and shared experiences.

The evening provided a relaxed, enjoyable setting where mentors and mentees could spend quality time together outside of their usual activities. Events like these not only create lasting memories but also help build trust, confidence, and meaningful bonds between Bigs and Littles.

PEACE, Inc. is proud to offer programs that encourage connection, support personal growth, and positively impact the lives of young people in our community. Through experiences like this, mentors and mentees alike gain valuable moments of joy, learning, and friendship.

Want to be part of Big Brothers Big Sisters? Visit: www.peace-caa.org/programs/bbbs/

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/

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

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.