Summer Programs | PEACE, Inc.

Exploring New Challenges at Orenda Springs

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

Children from the OPWDD After School Program at the PEACE, Inc. Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center recently spent an exciting day at Orenda Springs Experiential Learning Center. The visit gave participants the opportunity to challenge themselves through a variety of outdoor adventure activities, including obstacle courses and an exhilarating ride down the zipline.

Throughout the day, the children encouraged one another as they climbed, balanced, and worked their way through each challenge. Many of the activities pushed them beyond their comfort zones, giving them the chance to try something new in a supportive and encouraging environment. Their excitement and sense of accomplishment grew with every obstacle they completed, making the experience both fun and rewarding.

Experiences like these help children build confidence, resilience, and trust in their own abilities while creating lasting memories with their peers. For many participants, the trip also provided the opportunity to enjoy activities they may not otherwise have the chance to experience, reinforcing the value of expanding horizons through positive, hands-on learning and adventure.

Growing Through Outdoor Experiences

by Angel Belford | Jul 17, 2026 | News and Information

Children participating in the PEACE, Inc. Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center’s Let Me Be Great Summer Program enjoyed a beautiful day at Green Lakes State Park, where they had the opportunity to learn how to kayak while exploring the park’s scenic waters.

With guidance and encouragement, participants practiced paddling, built their confidence on the water, and experienced the excitement of trying something new. The outing also gave them the chance to enjoy the outdoors, work together, and create lasting memories with friends.

Experiences like this are an important part of the Let Me Be Great Summer Program. By introducing children to new activities and encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones, the program helps foster confidence, teamwork, and a lifelong appreciation for the many recreational opportunities available throughout our community.

Summer Adventures That Spark Imagination

by Angel Belford | Jul 15, 2026 | News and Information

The County South Family Resource Center Summer Youth Group recently visited Stone Quarry Art Park in Cazenovia for a day of creativity, exploration, and outdoor adventure. Surrounded by beautiful summer weather, the group wandered the park’s scenic trails while discovering the many unique sculptures thoughtfully placed throughout the landscape.

As they explored, participants admired the artwork, took in the natural beauty of the park, and experienced art in an interactive setting. The creative sculptures sparked curiosity and imagination, with several becoming favorite stops for fun photos and memorable moments. The combination of art and nature encouraged youth to see the outdoors through a new perspective while enjoying time together.

Experiences like this help young people build creativity, confidence, and an appreciation for the world around them. Through opportunities to explore new places and engage with art in meaningful ways, the County South Family Resource Center Summer Youth Group continues to inspire learning, friendship, and lasting memories.

Summer Adventures Start at Fair Haven State Park

by Angel Belford | Jul 14, 2026 | News and Information

The Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center’s Let Me Be Great Summer Program is back for another exciting season, and participants are already making lasting memories. The first adventure of the summer took the group to Fair Haven State Park, where the children enjoyed a refreshing day outdoors surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Participants spent the day cooling off in the lake, splashing in the water, and enjoying time together in the summer sunshine. The trip gave children the opportunity to explore a new environment, stay active, and build friendships while having fun in a safe and supportive setting.

This visit is just the first of many exciting experiences planned throughout the summer. Through educational outings, recreational activities, and opportunities to explore the community, the Let Me Be Great Summer Program helps young people develop confidence, create meaningful connections, and discover new interests while making memories that will last long after summer ends.

Generations Come Together for a Day at Letchworth State Park

by Angel Belford | Jul 9, 2026 | News and Information

The Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center’s Let Me Be Great Summer Program joined together with the Golden Age Group for a fun-filled trip to Letchworth State Park. This special outing gave participants of all ages the opportunity to spend time together, enjoy the outdoors, and experience the beauty of one of New York’s most scenic parks.

Throughout the day, both groups enjoyed breathtaking views, a delicious BBQ, and a friendly game of kickball. The children had the chance to run, play, and explore while building friendships and making memories with their peers. Members of the Golden Age Group helped prepare the meal, supported the activities, and cheered on the children as they enjoyed their time together.

The trip was a wonderful example of the positive connections that can be created when generations come together. By sharing experiences, stories, and moments of fun, youth and seniors were able to learn from one another and strengthen their sense of community. Experiences like these help children grow in confidence while creating meaningful relationships that extend beyond the day’s activities.

Let me be Great Summer Camp Recap

by Angel Belford | Aug 15, 2025 | News and Information

This summer, the Let Me Be Great summer camp offered campers a season full of exploration, education, and fun. Each week began with a financial literacy class led by professionals like Mr. Thom Dellwo from Cooperative Federal, who helped campers build financial plans, understand loans, and practice budgeting through interactive role-playing activities. These sessions laid a strong foundation for understanding money management and accountability in a hands-on, age-appropriate way.

Campers also participated in a series of exciting college and environmental tours, including visits to Le Moyne College, Syracuse University, and SUNY ESF. At ESF, campers explored plant biodiversity, soil erosion prevention, and sustainable forestry practices. They learned about climate change and conservation through engaging discussions and interactive activities that deepened their awareness of environmental issues and their role in protecting the planet.

Outdoor adventures were a major highlight of the camp. Campers hiked through Delaney Farm, Bachar Nature Preserve, and Joe Hucko Camp, and even took on kayaking at Green Lakes State Park. The summer wouldn’t have been complete without some healthy competition—a kickball match against Huntington at Green Lakes brought out the team spirit, followed by time to cool off at the beach.

The fun continued with memorable day trips to Verona Beach, Bowman State Park, Letchworth State Park, and Pratt’s Falls, where campers bonded, played games, swam, and explored nature. The summer wrapped up with a joyful Fun Day Carnival, a perfect ending to a season filled with learning, friendship, and unforgettable experiences.

Empowering Youth with Financial Skills: Highlights from the ‘Let Me Be Great’ Summer Camp

by Eddy Luce | Jul 22, 2025 | News and Information

Exciting updates from the “Let Me Be Great” summer camp at the PEACE, Inc. Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center!

On July 22nd, Mr. Thom Dellwo from Syracuse, representing Cooperative Federal, visited the Eastside Family Resource Center to enlighten young attendees on the importance of crafting and maintaining a strong financial plan. During this educational event, the children were introduced to the fundamentals of financial literacy, a crucial skill set that will serve them well into adulthood.

Mr. Dellwo involved the children in engaging role-play activities designed to improve their understanding of loans and financial transactions. In this hands-on exercise, the children alternated roles as lenders and borrowers, mimicking real-world scenarios. Their challenge was to “purchase a car” while adhering to a budget, prompting them to remain within their financial boundaries.

These activities offered the children valuable insights into the complexities of financial decision-making. They learned to scrutinize loan offers, assess interest rates, and grasp the responsibilities that come with borrowing money. The session also highlighted the necessity of financial discipline and the potential consequences of overextending one’s finances.

Through participation in these exercises, the children not only gained practical knowledge but also fostered a sense of empowerment and confidence in their capacity to handle future financial hurdles. This educational effort by Cooperative Federal emphasizes the significance of early financial education in equipping young people with the essential tools for achieving financial autonomy and success. If you would like to learn more, click here.

A Day of Discovery: County South Summer Program Visits the Zoo and Escape Room

by Angel Belford | Jul 22, 2025 | News and Information

In early July, the young participants in our County South Family Resource Center Summer Program embarked on an extraordinary adventure that left an indelible mark on their summer memories. They visited the renowned Rosamond Gifford Zoo, where they had the opportunity to observe and learn about a diverse array of animals from around the world, including majestic elephants, playful penguins, and graceful giraffes. This educational outing not only offered them a chance to connect with nature but also sparked their curiosity about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting endangered species.

Following their zoo excursion, the children immersed themselves in a thrilling experience at the Escape Room in Tully Public Library.

The sense of camaraderie and teamwork that developed among the participants was heartwarming, illustrating the program’s success in fostering not only fun but also essential life skills. As the summer progresses, we encourage everyone to keep an eye out for more exhilarating summer escapades that promise to create lasting memories and valuable learning experiences for our young adventurers!