- Gary, IN 46408
- paceconnects.official@gmail.com
Empowering Lives Through Action, Mentorship & Leadership
Through mentorship, leadership development, and community engagement, we create opportunities that transform lives and inspire excellence.
About Us
Creating Opportunities for Growth & Impact
We empower individuals of all ages by providing mentorship, leadership training, and access to valuable community resources that drive real change.

Empowering Through Mentorship

Leadership Development Programs

Community-Based Support Systems
Our Core Values
Where Purpose Meets Action.
Purpose Driven
We are committed to driving positive change and making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and communities.
Passion
We approach our work with enthusiasm, dedication, and a genuine love for helping others reach their full potential.
Perseverance
We are resilient in the face of challenges and remain steadfast in our mission to create excellence through positive actions.
Partnership
We believe in the power of collaboration and actively seek to build strong relationships with stakeholders, mentors, and community members.
Personal Growth
We value continuous learning, mentorship, and leadership development to empower individuals at all stages of life.
Patience
We understand that meaningful change takes time and are committed to exercising patience in our approach, allowing for thoughtful growth, understanding, and sustainable impact.
Performance Excellence
We strive for excellence in all we do, setting high standards and continuously improving to achieve outstanding results.
Our Categories
Explore Our Focus Areas
Ready to Make a Difference?
Join us in empowering communities and creating lasting impact through action.
- Support individuals through mentorship programs
- Encourage leadership and personal growth
- Strengthen communities through engagement
Our Impact
How We Make an Impact

Mentorship & Guidance
Providing personalized mentorship to help individuals grow, gain confidence, and achieve their goals.

Leadership Training
Equipping individuals with the skills and mindset needed to lead with purpose and make a positive impact.

Community Support
Building strong communities through collaboration, engagement, and meaningful support initiatives.

Educational Resources
Offering access to learning opportunities and tools that promote continuous growth and development.
Awards & Recognition
Recognized for impactful leadership.
2024
PNW Black Excellence Award
2015–2019
21st Century Collegiate Scholar
2017–2019
McNair Scholar
2019
Lambda Pi Eta Honor Society
2016
National Society of Leadership and Success
2015
Upward Bound Alumni
2017–2019
PNW Women’s History Honors Nominee
2021
PNW Founder’s Day – Outstanding Student
The P.A.C.E. Creed
I am P.A.C.E. – I embody Positivity, Action, Change, Excellence! I embrace my journey with passion and purpose. I grow through mentorship and leadership. I shine through service. Together, I P.A.C.E. forward, unlocking my potential and building a brighter future!
Our Commitment to Families
As a parent of a P.A.C.E. participant, I am dedicated to supporting my child's journey with unwavering encouragement and guidance. I believe in the transformative power of positivity, action, change, and excellence. I commit to fostering a nurturing environment that promotes personal growth, leadership development, and community service. Together, we empower our children to embrace challenges, cultivate resilience, and achieve their fullest potential. We P.A.C.E. forward, united in building a brighter future for our children and our community.
Our Testimonials
What Our Community Says
Real voices from individuals and leaders who have experienced the impact of P.A.C.E. — empowering youth, supporting communities, and creating lasting change.
Volunteering with Positive Actions Create Excellence (P.A.C.E.) has changed my perspective on what it truly means to give back. Feeding the less fortunate isn’t just about providing meals — it’s about connection, respect, and humanity. Seeing the smiles and genuine gratitude from those we serve is something I will never forget. P.A.C.E. is making a real difference, one meal at a time, and I’m honored to be part of a mission that turns positive actions into lasting impact.
My name is Aaliyah Stewart, and the work I’ve seen Ms. Julia Cook Jones do with PACE (Positive Actions Create Excellence) is truly inspiring. She has an incredible ability to adapt and meet the needs of youth in meaningful ways. Watching her transform a home-based curriculum to better support children changed my entire perspective on youth work. She didn’t just impact the youth—she changed my narrative.
I am writing to highly recommend Julia Cook as an exceptional individual with a heart of gold. Julia has been volunteering at the Restoration House in Gary, IN, where she wholeheartedly serves in various roles and warmly welcomes all individuals that come through the doors. Julia’s dedication to helping others shines through in her willingness to serve wherever she is needed. She approaches each task with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to make a positive impact. Her readiness to lend a helping hand and her compassionate nature make her a valuable asset to any team. In my experience working alongside Julia, I have witnessed her kindness, reliability, and genuine care for others. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that those in need feel welcomed, supported, and cared for. I have no doubt that Julia’s selfless attitude, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment to helping others make her an outstanding candidate for any role that requires compassion, dedication, and a willingness to make a difference in the lives of those around her.
Julia is incredibly passionate about helping others pursue their dreams, and it shows in everything she does. She’s determined, focused, and genuinely invested in seeing people succeed. No matter the situation, she’s always willing to go the extra mile, whether that means offering guidance, encouragement, or hands-on support. She’s always willing to find the resources to get someone to the next step! Her dedication and selflessness make her someone people can truly rely on, and she has a natural way of inspiring others to believe in themselves and keep pushing forward.
Julia offered me ample guidance on scheduling and course flow coming into college, she gave me great insight on what to expect coming into my first year of college. She encouraged me and many others to build community within our fellow peers and assisted us in networking. She remained consistent with check ins to further encourage me and ensure I had all the tools needed to be successful during my under grad. She offered a great deal of information to resources to better equip me in any areas needed. -Lonzhane Coleman
PACE is truly a standout organization that makes a meaningful impact in the community. Through thoughtfully organized workshops and events, PACE creates opportunities for individuals to grow, connect, and thrive. What sets PACE apart is their genuine dedication to empowering people at every stage of their journey. Whether it’s providing guidance through mentorship or teaching you how to start a business, they consistently create an environment that inspires excellence and positive action. Witnessing the work of PACE is both motivating and rewarding. They are not just building programs—they are building confident, capable individuals and an even stronger, more connected community.
Your Questions, Answered
Find quick answers about our programs, involvement opportunities, and how P.A.C.E. creates impact.
P.A.C.E. (Positive Actions Create Excellence) is a community-driven organization focused on empowering individuals through mentorship, leadership, and service.
You can volunteer, partner with us, attend events, or support our mission through donations.
Individuals of all ages who are passionate about growth, learning, and community impact.
Upcoming events
Ready to Join our New Upcoming Events
Every man must decide whether he will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of eritdestructive selfishness. Ut porttitor et lectus ut tempus. Aliquam lacinia justo.
Why You Should Donate?
Your donation to P.A.C.E. (Positive Actions Create Excellence) makes a significant difference in our ability to empower individuals of all ages through mentorship, leadership development, and community service. By supporting us, you are investing in a brighter future, where every individual has the opportunity to reach their full potential and make a positive impact in their community. Together, we can create lasting change and build a world where positivity and excellence thrive. Join us in making a difference today!
Thank You For The Donations
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed partners, dedicated stakeholders, esteemed board members, selfless volunteers, and generous donors. Your unwavering support and commitment propel our mission forward, enabling us to make a profound impact in our community and beyond. Together, we are transforming lives, fostering leadership, and creating positive change. Thank you for standing with us as we continue to P.A.C.E. forward towards a brighter future.
