2021 marks Peace Neighborhood Center’s 50th Anniversary!
Over the last 50 years, Peace Neighborhood Center has helped over 16,000 people across Washtenaw County change the trajectory of their lives, including mine.
I’ve been at Peace most of my life, and have had the privilege of meeting thousands of remarkable people. Each with their own personal story that reflects the hard work they’ve put in to overcome extraordinary obstacles and create a brighter future for themselves. Many of our former “Peace kids” have gone on to careers to give back and pay it forward by helping others. All continue to remind me every day that we really do have the power to help people change their lives.
Know that while Peace has grown over the last 50 years, we have stayed true to our core values, family-style approach, and unwavering commitment to helping people find their greatness. I never get tired of sharing the miracles we witness at Peace every day.
Over the next six months, we will be celebrating “#50yearsofPeace” by sharing a series of 50 Stories & Snapshots here on our website and over our social media channels—to reconnect with our extended Peace Family and to highlight the impact we’ve had on thousands of people’s lives. We hope you share your own story with us.
To mark this milestone, we are looking to raise $1 million and beyond to ensure Peace’s financial future and to invest in three program areas:
- Academic support for Peace youth, including early literacy and reading support
- Transformational road trips, college visits, and other educational activities that seed future possibilities for Peace youth
- Licensed clinical counseling to address the increased need for mental health support among Peace youth and families
I’m extremely grateful for our entire Peace Family—the young people, adults, and families we serve; our talented and committed staff; our dedicated volunteers; and our generous community of donors. Thank you all for playing a role in Peace’s continuing success these last 50 years!
I continue to have faith that together, we can build a more just and equitable community. For all of us.
Peace and Blessings!
Bonnie Billups, Jr.
Executive Director
Peace Family,
As we face the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent economic impact, we continue to work with our youth and families—many of whom have experienced extraordinary hardships. We have prioritized programming in these four major areas:
- Academic support for students
- Expanded food distribution opportunities
- Emergency assistance to support those facing lost wages and other financial hardships
- Mental health support to meet the increased need of our youth and families experiencing anxiety and/or depression
Please consider a gift to Peace Neighborhood Center to support our annual programming and/or 50th Anniversary Campaign. We count on your continuing support. Donations can be made through the secure link below. Thank you!
Serving
Children, Families, and Individuals
affected by social and economic problems
Our close friends and partners at Girls Group Ann Arbor are hosting their annual fundraiser virtually on Saturday, October 16th from 10-10:30 am. Tune in to the virtual program to hear transformational stories from the very first cohort of Girls Group participants, many of whom were also "Peace kids" who participated in Rose Martin's "Good Girlfriends" group.
Executive Director Sue Schooner discovered her passion for mentoring young women as a volunteer at Peace. She and Bonnie Billups have maintained a close partnership ever since. Every Friday, Girls Group still hosts a weekly workshop and gathering at Peace Neighborhood Center.
Learn more about Girls Group and register for their annual event: www.girlsgroup.org/celebrating-18-years/
In addition to academic support, Peace middle schoolers have the opportunity to dive into an onsite special interest club during our After School programs. From piano lessons to dance to creative writing to sports, these activities encourage creative expression and/or exercise. We're all about establishing fun hobbies and healthy habits at a young age! #50yearsofPeace
It's the first day of After School Programs at Peace! We were so excited to welcome our middle and high schoolers today. They enjoyed a nutritious snack, selected their Peace enrichment clubs for the school year, and worked on individual plans for academic success. Elementary schoolers will be onsite tomorrow.
Even with kids back at school for in-person learning, we know the uncertainty and stress surrounding COVID continues. Peace will be spending substantial staff time and resources this school year to help our youth get back on track academically and to help our families recover financially and emotionally.
As we did last year, Peace will continually reevaluate our community’s needs and stand ready to adjust or pivot programs—especially if there's a shift back to virtual learning for any of our students. Our highest priority is ensuring the safety, health, and emotional well-being of our youth and families. Our goal, as always, is to make sure Peace kids stay engaged in their education, remain on track to graduate, and prepare for college or trade school. And we will provide our families with the support and resources they need to keep moving forward toward a bright and better future. #50yearsofPeace
Our impact on
Your Community
16,000 individuals
helped through Washtenaw County
13,000 meals
in youth service
60 young adults
guided into college
The Peace Center is like a home away from home. It really is special, both in the summer and during after school programs. This place feels like it is our roots. Even as you grow, you still are with your roots.
Lauren
Locations
We are in your neighborhood
Main Facility
1111 N. Maple Rd.
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
(734) 662-3564
Maple Meadows Satellite Center
880 S. Maple Rd.
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
West Arbor Satellite Center
717 N. Maple Rd.
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Peace House
1111 N. Maple Rd.
Ann Arbor, MI 48103