Three dedicated staff members from PEACE, Inc. — Jacki Evans, Jenn Gaffney, and Karen Barry — recently participated in the second Kresge Foundation NextGen Frontline Innovators Learning and Action Institute, a prestigious national convening of human services professionals leading transformation on the ground.

Held at the Harvard Faculty Club, the event brought together frontline workers from across the country to share strategies, confront common challenges, and explore innovative practices focused on racial equity and multi-generational family success. Participants engaged in deep learning and cross-organizational collaboration, with an emphasis on human connection and collective leadership.

Jacki Evans:

“Feeling inspired and energized after my experience with the Next Gen Frontline Innovators!

At a time when the world feels uncertain, this journey offered strength, purpose, and connection. The leadership, collaboration, and unwavering passion among individuals and organizations doing this work is nothing short of breathtaking.

I’m incredibly grateful to be part of the team at PEACE, Inc., and honored to bring back fresh insights and renewed energy to our agency. Here’s to building stronger communities—together.”

Jenn Gaffney:

“From the beginning, the Frontline Innovators Cohort was a family. I’m grateful for the skills and knowledge gained, but also for the supportive connections forged that will help me carry it into the future”

Karen Barry:

“Being able to learn alongside other innovators from across the country was an experience I will never forget. Attending the seminars at the Harvard Faculty Club was a once in a lifetime event. Feeling grateful and excited to build our programs even stronger! Thank you Kresge Foundation, APHSA, Harvard! and PEACE, Inc.!”

This national platform gave frontline professionals a rare space to lead, learn, and grow together. The PEACE, Inc. team returned to Central New York equipped with fresh perspectives, new strategies, and a strengthened commitment to building more just and resilient communities.

September 18th was a special evening, as nearly 180 guests enjoyed one of the last official days of summer. Visitors were treated to delicious BBQ and drinks, great music, and beautiful sunset views of the city. Community and staff ambassadors also shared their passion for PEACE, Inc. and what makes the agency’s work so impactful. As you can see from the photos, smiles were plentiful, and a real sense of community emerged from the night.

Certainly, the community was critical for the night’s success. First, we’d like to thank the Center for Community Alternatives and the members of its line cook training program, who were great partners and provided wonderful food. We couldn’t recommend their catering service more! If you are looking for quality food and great service for your next event, reach out to Chef Joe Bilecki at jbilecki@communityalternatives.org.

Special thanks go to the team at Washington St Partners, who donated the venue and provided critical support along the way. Additional donations were made by Delaney Farms, Ice Company of Elmira, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, and Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery. Great music was offered by Sebastian Escribano and DeVaughan Jackson. Adam Sudmann, Karl Dawkins, Rollin Mincher, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. Kaptivating Kappa Xi Zeta, as well as community and staff volunteers, also went above and beyond the call to make the event a successful one. We can’t wait to do it again next year!