Community | PEACE, Inc.

Honoring History, Celebrating Community at the Juneteenth Parade

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

PEACE, Inc. was proud to participate in the 108th Annual Syracuse Juneteenth Parade, joining community members from across Central New York in a celebration of freedom, history, and culture. The parade brought together residents, organizations, businesses, and community leaders to honor the significance of Juneteenth and recognize the enduring contributions of the Black community.

PEACE, Inc. joined dozens of local clubs, companies, non-profits, organizations, and community groups in the parade. Leading this year’s celebration as Grand Marshals were Syracuse Mayor Sharon Owens and Parks Commissioner Syeisha Byrd. Their participation helped highlight the importance of community leadership, unity, and continued progress.

Throughout the day, there was a strong sense of pride, reflection, and celebration. Families and friends lined the parade route, cheering on participants and enjoying the opportunity to come together in recognition of a significant moment in American history. The event served as both a celebration of freedom and a reminder of the ongoing work to build stronger, more equitable communities.

At PEACE, Inc., strengthening communities means recognizing and celebrating the diverse histories and experiences that shape Central New York. Participating in the Syracuse Juneteenth Parade was a meaningful opportunity to honor the past, celebrate the present, and support a future where all people can thrive.

Community Action Month Highlights Local Efforts to Build Stronger Futures

by Angel Belford | May 1, 2026 | News and Information

Each May, Community Action Month highlights the important role Community Action Agencies play in helping individuals and families move toward greater economic stability. PEACE, Inc. has proudly served as the Community Action Agency for Onondaga County since 1968, and we remain committed to supporting families as they work toward self-sufficiency. During this month, we join a nationwide effort to bring attention to the challenges many families face and to celebrate the progress and success that come from community-based support.

Through programs rooted in the Promise of Community Action, we connect individuals and families with resources that support education, employment, housing stability, and overall well-being. Our work is guided by the belief that people closest to the challenges should also have a voice in the solutions. By providing opportunities, guidance, and support, we help community members build skills and confidence to create positive change in their lives.

Community Action Month also reflects the long history of the national Community Action movement, which began as part of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 during the War on Poverty. Today, we continue that mission by working alongside residents and partners to strengthen neighborhoods and expand opportunity. Each success story represents progress not only for individuals and families, but for the community as a whole.

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.

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.

Community, Connection, and Holiday Cheer at Eastwood Community Center

by Angel Belford | Dec 18, 2025 | News and Information

The Frank DeFrancisco Eastwood Community Center recently welcomed seniors to a joyful Holiday Party, bringing neighbors together to celebrate the season. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal, lively conversation, and the comfort of spending time with friends and familiar faces.

Laughter and holiday cheer filled the room as seniors connected with one another, creating meaningful memories and moments of togetherness. Events like these provide an important opportunity for older adults to socialize, strengthen community ties, and feel valued and supported during the holiday season.

The Frank DeFrancisco Eastwood Community Center continues to foster a welcoming environment where seniors can gather, share experiences, and celebrate life’s special moments together.

To learn more about the Senior Nutrition program visit: www.peace-caa.org/programs/senior-nutrition/

PEACE, Inc. Teams up With Home Headquarters Annual Block Blitz!

by Angel Belford | Sep 19, 2025 | News and Information

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the dedicated PEACE, Inc. staff for their hard work and commitment during the 2025 Annual Neighborhood Block Blitz on South Avenue in Syracuse, organized by Home HeadQuarters. Our team joined forces with other community members to remove brush and complete landscaping work at the Brady Faith Center. It was a powerful demonstration of what can be accomplished when individuals and organizations come together to create lasting, positive change in our neighborhoods.

The Home HeadQuarters Annual Neighborhood Block Blitz is a long-standing community event that brings together homeowners, volunteers, and local stakeholders to improve up to 50 properties in a single day, regardless of weather. Held in various Syracuse neighborhoods, the initiative focuses on property repair, landscaping, and painting—all offered at no cost to residents or property owners. With support from more than 300 volunteers representing area businesses, schools, churches, and government agencies, the Block Blitz helps enhance neighborhood appearance, spark community involvement, and encourage homeowner investment. It also plays a key role in supporting Home HeadQuarters’ broader mission of affordable housing, purposeful lending, and sustainable homeownership.