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PEACE, Inc. Celebrates Micron Groundbreaking and Local Childcare Partnerships

by Angel Belford | Jan 16, 2026 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. Executive Director Carolyn Brown and VP of Operations and Strategy Todd Goehle were pleased to attend the groundbreaking celebration for Micron’s new microchip factory in Clay. The event marked an exciting milestone for Central New York, highlighting the region’s growing opportunities in technology and manufacturing.

In partnership with Micron Technology and Child Care Solutions, PEACE, Inc. is working to ensure that the local workforce has access to quality childcare, helping families balance work and home life while supporting economic growth in the community. By strengthening childcare infrastructure, these partnerships help workers succeed and support the next generation of learners.

A Big Moment for a Big Making a Difference

by Angel Belford | Jan 16, 2026 | News and Information

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/

PEACE, Inc. Celebrates Child Care Solutions’ New Central Location

by Angel Belford | Jan 12, 2026 | News and Information

PEACE, Inc. was thrilled to join Child Care Solutions for the ribbon-cutting of their new offices at 1101 Erie Blvd E #100, Syracuse, NY. The move represents more than just a new address, it reflects a strong commitment to being a foundational support for Central New York’s childcare system and the families who rely on it.

The new location offers state-of-the-art training spaces and professional resources, providing childcare providers with a reliable home to grow their skills and strengthen the region’s early childhood workforce. By situating the offices in a central, accessible location, Child Care Solutions ensures families and providers alike have the support they need as the community continues to grow.

The ribbon-cutting celebration brought together Onondaga County partners, community leaders, board members, and early childhood providers, highlighting the collaborative effort to build a stable, thriving future for both the workforce and children in our region. PEACE, Inc. congratulates Child Care Solutions on this exciting milestone and looks forward to continuing this important partnership.

Elephants, Easels, and Big Smiles

by Angel Belford | Jan 10, 2026 | News and Information

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

Little Farmers in Action at Roxboro Head Start

by Angel Belford | Jan 8, 2026 | News and Information

Roxboro Classroom 106 enjoyed a fun-filled and imaginative day as children took part in a make-believe farm experience. The classroom came to life as students cared for pretend cows, chickens, dogs, and bunnies, feeding the animals and creating their own farm stories together. The children also pretended to use farm equipment, adding even more excitement and creativity to their play.

Activities like make-believe farm play support important early childhood development by building social skills, encouraging teamwork, and strengthening language development. As children shared roles, talked through their ideas, and worked together, they practiced cooperation and problem-solving in a joyful setting.

Moments like these are an important part of the Head Start experience at Roxboro, where learning happens through play in a nurturing classroom environment. Through imaginative activities like this, children are encouraged to explore, create, and grow while building skills that support their development both in and out of the classroom.

To learn more about the Head Start program visit: www.peace-caa.org/programs/hs/

Healthy Habits in Action at Baldwinsville JE Head Start

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

Parents and guardians recently gathered at the Baldwinsville JE Head Start location for an informational meeting focused on nutrition and healthy habits. The session was led by Leah Grace McCaskey, MPH, BS, Senior Nutritionist with Cornell Cooperative Extension, who shared practical guidance to support healthy eating and active lifestyles for young children.

Families learned more about the nutrition lessons their children have been exploring in the classroom, including the importance of balanced meals, limiting added sugar, and staying active through regular movement. The discussion helped reinforce how these healthy habits can be encouraged both at school and at home.

To make the experience hands-on and engaging, families sampled oatmeal balls that the children had prepared earlier in the day. Sharing this snack helped connect classroom learning with healthy choices at home. Events like this strengthen partnerships between families and educators while supporting children’s overall health and well-being.

WE DID IT! How 115 Donors and Agencies Transformed the Holidays for Local Families

by peaceinc | Dec 19, 2025 | News and Information

WE DID IT! We set some pretty lofty goals for this year’s Give-A-Holiday campaign. And the community stepped up! Through the charity of 115 agencies and individual donors, PEACE, Inc. ensured that 1215 Head Start/Onondaga County Youth under 5 had the winter hats, gloves, and books to make their learning a bit more fun and comfortable! 185 households served by the agency received basic needs baskets that eased burdens in a moment of rising costs and decreased supports. And last, we received and distributed more than $8000 in gift cards/monetary donations to our families in crisis.

A child enjoying a book with their parents. A family who doesn’t need to worry about gifts or cleaning supplies. A mother who can now rebuild after a fire left her and her children homeless. Real examples from this year, they speak of the generosity of Central New York. We thank everyone who participated (including those volunteers affiliated with Eastwood Community Center and area Fire Departments). We’re already planning for next year’s campaign!

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/

Grant PreK Classroom Hosts Family Pajama Day

by Angel Belford | Dec 16, 2025 | News and Information

Families from Grant PreK Classroom 1 recently joined their children for a special Pajama Day, filled with story time, crafts, and family fun. Students and families enjoyed listening to The Gingerbread Baby together, sparking conversation and excitement around the story.

After story time, the children decorated their own Gingerbread Babies to take home, adding a creative and hands-on element to the day. The event provided a cozy and engaging environment, fostering family connection, creativity, and a love of learning in the classroom.

For more information about our Head Start program, visit www.peace-caa.org/programs/hs/

Generosity Brings Comfort and Smiles to Sumner Head Start

by Angel Belford | Dec 16, 2025 | News and Information

Classroom 105 at Sumner Head Start recently received beautiful afghans from a generous anonymous donor. The children loved wrapping themselves up, carrying their blankets, and staying cozy throughout the day.

These thoughtful gifts brought warmth and joy to the classroom, creating smiles and comfort for the children. We are grateful to our kind donor for brightening the students’ day and supporting a nurturing, welcoming environment for learning.

PEACE, Inc. is always greatful for all the donations that the community provides. If you would like to support the work we do, visit www.peace-caa.org/get-involved/