Peace Neighborhood Center: A Community Hub for Growth and Support in Ann Arbor

Because this vibrant community hub offers more than just a meeting place—it provides a powerful atmosphere of support, growth, and unity. With a remarkable 4.6 rating from 87 reviews, Peace Neighborhood Center has built a reputation as a welcoming and inclusive environment that's ideal for gathering with friends or family. It’s a place rooted in decades of community service, dedicated to empowering individuals affected by social and economic challenges through a variety of enriching programs. Rallying here means engaging in a shared experience that fosters learning, compassion, and positive involvement—not just hanging out but participating in a purposeful, uplifting environment. Whether you want to support community efforts, engage in fun activities, or deepen your bonds with your friends while contributing to social good, Peace Neighborhood Center stands out as the perfect venue. The Center’s mission to promote equity, inclusion, and personal growth creates an inspiring backdrop for any gathering, making meetups meaningful and memorable for groups of all ages.

The Center offers a broad spectrum of programs designed to engage youth, adults, and seniors alike, making it perfect for group meetups. From after-school mentoring and youth camps that keep children constructively occupied during summer to workshops and workforce training for young adults, there's something for everyone. The Peace HUB Community Resource Center, a significant part of Peace Neighborhood Center, hosts weekly events like community dinners where you and your group can enjoy home-cooked meals together, fostering community spirit. You can also participate in the Senior Cafe for lunch and games such as Bingo, which is a great way for older groups to socialize. Additionally, community gardens and violence prevention programs promote group participation in activities that support neighborhood vitality and safety. Peace's food pantry services are open weekly, enabling your group to volunteer or even plan a food drive. These activities encourage cooperation, respect, and community involvement, making the space perfect for meaningful meetups that strengthen social bonds while benefiting a larger cause.

Several factors contribute to its suitability. Its multi-locational presence, including the main facility in Ann Arbor and the new 8,000 square-foot multi-use HUB in Ypsilanti Township, offers ample space and resources to accommodate groups comfortably. The Center’s commitment to openness, diversity, and inclusion ensures that all groups feel welcome and valued regardless of their background. The Center also emphasizes collaboration, employing trained, motivated staff dedicated to helping guests make the most of their visit. This means groups can easily get support for organizing events or participating in programs tailored to their interests. Peace serves over 5,000 people annually across Washtenaw County, demonstrating its trusted role in the community and its capacity to handle varied programming and large-scale events. Hosting your meetup here aligns with a mission-driven experience, empowering your group to engage beyond socializing and participate actively in community betterment initiatives.

Located at 1515 S. Harris Road, Ypsilanti Township, the HUB is designed as a Healing, Unifying, and Building center that fosters strong neighborhood connections. It provides services like case management, emergency assistance, and educational workshops that your group can explore together. Weekly community dinners offer a social and relaxed environment for your friends or family to share a meal and meaningful conversations. The Senior Cafe provides a unique social space for playing games and sharing meals with older adults, a wonderful setting for intergenerational meetups. The HUB’s food pantry allows your group to participate collectively in food security efforts or just benefit from nutritious options while you visit. Its schedule, which includes office hours and multiple programs through the week, gives flexibility to plan your meetups to fit your group’s availability, making it an accessible and accommodating venue for various needs and group sizes.

Peace is founded on exemplary principles such as respect, cooperation, inclusion, and personal responsibility—values that create a safe and nurturing environment for groups. Its five rules of success emphasize respect for everyone and everything, active listening, following directions, cooperation, and thoughtful responses. These principles provide a framework that enhances group dynamics, ensuring meetups are peaceful and productive. The Center’s vision of breaking cycles of poverty and inequality through opportunity and diversity resonates in all its programming, inviting groups to engage in positive social change. Peace Neighborhood Center also promotes a youth pledge to love and respect family, elders, and self, instilling a culture of respect and personal growth. This holistic community ethos makes gathering here a wholesome experience that can inspire your group to embrace shared values and foster stronger connections with each other.

Peace offers a wide array of programs targeting youth, families, adults, and seniors. Youth programs include educational support, mentorship, and summer camps aimed at helping children and teens develop skills and positive habits. Family programs often feature workshops on health, economic self-sufficiency, and violence prevention, ensuring a supportive network for all ages. Adults can benefit from workforce training and educational workshops that promote employment and personal growth opportunities. Seniors enjoy specialized programming such as the Senior Cafe social events, including Bingo and off-site outings. Peace also hosts seasonal community initiatives like holiday toy and food drives, which provide a chance for groups to volunteer together and make a tangible impact in the lives of local families. All these programs are accessible at various Peace locations and encourage group participation, making meetups not only enjoyable but also impactful.

With multiple locations, including the main facility at 1111 N. Maple Road in Ann Arbor and the HUB in Ypsilanti Township, the Center is well positioned to serve various neighborhoods. This geographic reach provides convenience for groups coming from different parts of Washtenaw County. The facilities offer extended hours throughout the week, including evenings for community dinners and other events, accommodating different schedules. Staffing at the Center ensures visitors receive assistance with program registration, volunteer coordination, or resource referrals, smoothing the logistics for group organizers. Peace’s collaboration with local agencies enhances resource availability, such as emergency assistance or housing support, making it a one-stop community hub for groups seeking diverse opportunities. Finally, the friendly and inclusive environment promotes easy social engagement, making each visit welcoming and fulfilling for all group members.

Beyond the space and activities, Peace Neighborhood Center embodies a spirit of community healing and empowerment. By rallying here, groups connect not only with each other but also with a broader purpose—supporting a community that champions social equity and personal growth. Sharing meals, participating in service projects, or simply enjoying games and social time in a place committed to positive change can create deep bonds and lasting memories. The Center’s long history, dating back over 50 years, reflects sustained community trust and success stories, giving visitors confidence in the value of their time spent here. Whether gathering with friends for fun, learning, or service, meetups at Peace Neighborhood Center foster connections that transcend the moment and contribute to stronger, more resilient communities. This enduring impact underscores why Peace is not just a venue but a meaningful destination for all kinds of group gatherings.