Breakfast, Bingo, and Big Smiles

Breakfast, Bingo, and Big Smiles

The PEACE, Inc. Big Brothers Big Sisters Program recently enjoyed a special edition of Breakfast Bingo thanks to the generous hospitality of Chick-fil-A Cicero. Bigs, Littles, and their families gathered for a morning filled with laughter, friendly competition, and quality time together in a welcoming community setting.

Participants shared breakfast while playing bingo, cheering each other on, and celebrating exciting prizes throughout the event. More importantly, the morning provided an opportunity for mentors, youth, and families to strengthen their connections and create lasting memories together. The joyful atmosphere made it easy for everyone to relax, have fun, and enjoy one another’s company.

Community partnerships like this help create meaningful experiences that support the positive relationships at the heart of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program. PEACE, Inc. is grateful to Chick-fil-A Cicero for their generosity and warm hospitality in making this special event possible.

If you would like to learn more, or become involved in the program visit: peace-caa.org/programs/bbbs/

Celebrating Service, Compassion, and Community

Celebrating Service, Compassion, and Community

“I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people.” ~ Maya Angelou

Each year, the PEACE, Inc. AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program Recognition Luncheon provides an opportunity to celebrate the dedicated volunteers who make a meaningful difference in the lives of children throughout our community. This year’s luncheon embraced a Super Heroes theme, recognizing the everyday heroes whose kindness, compassion, and commitment help create brighter futures for young people.

While superheroes are often imagined wearing capes and possessing extraordinary powers, the Foster Grandparents in our program demonstrate that true heroism is found in acts of service, encouragement, and care. Through their willingness to share their time, wisdom, and support, these volunteers help children build confidence, strengthen important skills, and feel valued and supported.

During the luncheon, PEACE, Inc. proudly recognized all of our Foster Grandparents for the positive impact they make each day. Special recognition was given to volunteers celebrating 10 years of service, including Grandma Ellie, Abuelo Nidia, and Grandpas Steven and Willie. Their dedication has touched countless young lives and strengthened connections throughout our community.

The AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program continues to demonstrate the power of intergenerational relationships and volunteer service. Through their unwavering commitment, these remarkable volunteers help make our community a better place for children and families, proving that some of the greatest heroes are those who serve others with open hearts.

To learn more about The AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program visit: peace-caa.org/programs/fostergrandparent/

Bigs and Littles Build Connections Through Meaningful Farm Sanctuary Experience

Bigs and Littles Build Connections Through Meaningful Farm Sanctuary Experience

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/

Mentors Inspire the Next Generation of Caring Leaders

Mentors Inspire the Next Generation of Caring Leaders

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/

Building Skills for Confident Financial Planning

Building Skills for Confident Financial Planning

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/

Early Learners Discover Emotional Awareness Through Theater Experience

Early Learners Discover Emotional Awareness Through Theater Experience

PEACE, Inc. Sumner Head Start recently welcomed Syracuse Stage for an engaging and interactive performance of “Tiny Martians, Big Emotions.” The visit brought storytelling and theater directly into the classroom, creating a meaningful learning experience for our UPK students.

During the performance, students joined a pair of curious Martians as they discovered emotions for the very first time. With support from the children, the characters explored feelings such as excitement, frustration, and joy, while learning how colors and textures can help express different moods. The students were active participants throughout the story, helping guide the Martians as they navigated their new emotional world.

This creative experience supported early emotional learning by showing children that feelings are natural and can be expressed in many ways. It also reinforced the importance of empathy, communication, and supporting one another. Through partnerships like this, Sumner Head Start continues to create opportunities that help young learners grow socially, emotionally, and academically.

If you would like to learn more about the Head Start Program visit: peace-caa.org/programs/hs/
To learn about the “Tiny Martians, Big Emotions” preformance visit: www.syracusestage.org/engage

Bigs and Littles Reach New Heights Together

Bigs and Littles Reach New Heights Together

“The only good reason to climb is to improve yourself.”

PEACE, Inc. Big Brothers Big Sisters Program, Littles and their Bigs recently spent an afternoon at Central Rock Gym Syracuse, where they challenged themselves to reach new heights through rock climbing.

Participants worked together to build confidence, practice trust, and support one another on the wall. With encouragement from their Bigs, Littles learned the importance of steady progress, perseverance, and knowing someone is there to support them along the way.

Experiences like this reflect the heart of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program. They help youth grow confidence, strengthen relationships, and discover what they can achieve with guidance and support.

Want to become part of the program? peace-caa.org/programs/bbbs/

Bigs and Littles Make Rainbows

Bigs and Littles Make Rainbows

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/

Movies with Mentors

Movies with Mentors

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/

Guiding Young Learners: Our New Foster Grandparents

Guiding Young Learners: Our New Foster Grandparents

PEACE, Inc. is proud to welcome the newest class of AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparents, who recently completed their volunteer orientation.

Foster Grandparents Cynthia, Joyce, Mary, and Brenda will soon be supporting students in the classroom, providing one-on-one guidance, encouragement, and mentorship to children who need extra help. Their presence helps strengthen learning, build confidence, and create meaningful connections with students.

We are excited to see these dedicated volunteers making a positive impact and supporting the success of our young learners every day.

Learn more about the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparents program: https://peace-caa.org/programs/fostergrandparent/

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