Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center

Let Me Be Great Explores Birds of Prey

by Angel Belford | Jul 29, 2026 | News and Information

The Let Me Be Great summer program out of the Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center recently enjoyed an exciting day of outdoor learning at Green Lakes State Park. As part of the Ladders to the Outdoors program, organized by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, the group attended a live birds-of-prey presentation led by Cindy Page of the Page Wildlife Center.

During the presentation, the children met five remarkable birds of prey, including a kestrel, eastern screech owl, barn owl, barred owl, and turkey vulture. They also learned how the Page Wildlife Center rehabilitates injured birds and helps many return to their natural habitats. The hands-on experience gave the children a unique opportunity to learn about wildlife conservation while exploring the outdoors.

Programs like this encourage children to ask questions, appreciate nature more, and better understand the importance of protecting local wildlife. Through meaningful experiences outside the classroom, the Let Me Be Great program continues to help young people grow, learn, and discover the world around them.

To learn more about the summer program, visit: peace-caa.org/programs/esfrc

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.

Supporting Families Through Community Kindness

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

Strong community partnerships help create meaningful opportunities to support local families, and a recent collaboration between the PEACE, Inc. Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center and Team Halo, part of the Synergy! Program at Onondaga Community College, is a wonderful example of that commitment.

Working together, PEACE, Inc. and Team Halo welcomed women and children from across the community for a special event that offered essential items, valuable resources, and a warm, welcoming environment. Families were able to receive needed supplies, enjoy special treats, and connect with services designed to support their well-being.

The partnership highlighted the impact that can be made when community organizations and dedicated volunteers come together with a shared purpose. PEACE, Inc. is grateful to Team Halo for their generosity, compassion, and commitment to giving back. Together, this collaboration helped create a positive experience for local families and strengthened the connections that make our community thrive.

Canoes, Campfires, and Curious Minds

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

Participants in the Girls Circle Group at the PEACE, Inc. Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center recently spent an exciting day at the Taconic Outdoor Education Center, where they embraced the outdoors through a variety of fun and educational activities. The trip encouraged exploration, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation for nature.

Throughout the day, the girls enjoyed canoeing, making s’mores, spotting turtles, and participating in hands-on learning experiences. Each activity offered opportunities to build new skills, gain confidence, and strengthen friendships while enjoying the beauty of the natural environment. The combination of adventure and education made the outing both meaningful and memorable.

Experiences like these help young people develop confidence, curiosity, and strong connections with one another. By providing opportunities to learn outside the classroom, the Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center continues to support youth as they discover new interests, build lifelong skills, and create 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.

Health and Wellness Fair Brings Valuable Resources to the Community

by Angel Belford | May 7, 2026 | News and Information

The PEACE, Inc. Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center recently hosted a Health and Wellness Fair, bringing together a variety of community agencies and organizations to connect residents with valuable resources and services. The event provided an opportunity for community members to learn about programs available to support their health, well-being, and everyday needs.

Attendees were able to visit with representatives from local agencies and gather information about the services they offer. In addition to resource materials, participants had access to clothing, food, household supplies, hygiene items, and seed packs to help start home gardens. Guests also enjoyed a BBQ lunch, creating an inviting atmosphere where neighbors could gather, connect, and learn about the resources available throughout the community.

The event showcased the power of community partnerships. By bringing multiple organizations together in one location, residents were able to explore a wide range of services and supports without having to travel to different agencies. These connections can often lead to new opportunities, increased access to assistance, and stronger support networks for individuals and families.

Events like the Health and Wellness Fair play an important role in connecting individuals and families with resources they may not know exist. By bringing community partners together in one place, the fair helped strengthen local connections and provided residents with tools and resources that can support their long-term success and well-being. Through events like this, PEACE, Inc. continues its mission of helping people in the community realize their potential for becoming self-sufficient.

For more information on the Family Resource Centers visit: peace-caa.org/programs/frc/

Egg-citment at the Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center

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

The youth group at the Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center had an egg-citing time celebrating together! Staff prepared giant gift eggs filled with fun surprises, and the children eagerly searched the community room to find them.

Inside the eggs, students discovered fidgets, tasty snacks, and even some silly string, adding extra excitement to the hunt. The event ended with laughter and a playful silly string fight, creating memories that the youth will remember for a long time.

Events like this highlight the importance of community, creativity, and fun in supporting youth engagement and building strong connections among participants and staff.

Learn more about the Viola G. Chisholm Eastside Family Resource Center here: www.peace-caa.org/programs/frc/esfrc/