Peacemakers, a Christian nonprofit organization based in South Rocky Mount, is set to host its annual Picnic for Peacemakers fundraiser on October 5 at 6:30 p.m. at Englewood Baptist Church. The event, which has become a much-anticipated tradition, brings together the community to celebrate Peacemakers’ impact over the past year and to look ahead to what’s next.

“We really look forward to this event every year,” said Jesse Lewis, Executive Director of Peacemakers. “It’s a time when we can get together with friends and supporters to celebrate all that God has done in our community over the last year and get energized about what is coming next.”

Unlike many traditional fundraising events, the Picnic for Peacemakers offers a casual, relaxed atmosphere. Guests are encouraged to dress informally and enjoy a fun evening of fellowship. “This is not just another fundraising banquet,” Lewis said. “We want our friends to have fun and enjoy a relaxed evening of fellowship.”

Local caterer Smoking Backyard Barbeque will provide the dinner for the event, and table sponsorships are available for $300, which includes eight seats and recognition during the evening. Individual seats are also available for $40 each. The deadline for table sponsorship is September 24.

Board Chairman Steve Williams highlighted the importance of community support for Peacemakers’ mission. “The Board and staff of Peacemakers are truly grateful for all the support we receive from our friends across the Twin Counties. This is important work, and it wouldn’t be possible without their partnership.”

Peacemakers' Mission and Community Programs

Peacemakers focuses on serving the under-resourced areas of South Rocky Mount through educational and developmental opportunities that promote self-sustainability and family flourishing. With a mission grounded in faith, Peacemakers strives to create long-term positive change in the community by offering a range of programs for local families.

One of its flagship programs is the Freedom School, a six-week summer enrichment program designed to help young scholars improve their reading skills, boost self-esteem, and foster a love of learning. On average, students who participate in the Freedom School program improve their reading levels by 14 months or more. Scholars are also exposed to high-quality STEM clubs, field trips to museums and science centers, college tours, and interactions with professionals from various career paths.

Peacemakers also offers a free After School Program for 60 students ages kindergarten through 5th grade from neighborhood elementary schools. The program offers homework assistance, individual tutoring in specific subjects (if needed), and a snack. It is offered four days a week, for two hours each day. Interested in applying? Check out the application form here!

During the holiday season, Peacemakers takes a unique approach to empowering families with its Christmas Toy Store. Instead of traditional gift-giving programs, families are invited to shop for deeply discounted toys, allowing them to select, purchase, and wrap gifts for their children themselves. This method ensures that parents can provide gifts in a dignified way, fostering a sense of accomplishment and pride during a season that can be challenging for low-income families.

In addition, Peacemakers has recently launched Southside Academy, a private Christian school serving low-income students in grades K-3. With plans to add a grade level each year until reaching 8th grade, Southside Academy provides an alternative educational pathway, grounded in faith, for children in Rocky Mount and surrounding areas.

For more information about the Picnic for Peacemakers, to sponsor a table, or to purchase individual tickets, visit their website!