Mission of Peace and Service Takes Root in Tarrytown, New York, USA
Posted: July 14, 2025
The Peace Poles bear the message, “May Peace Prevail On Earth,” displayed in eight languages.
Larah Alami, a longtime Tarrytown resident, optometrist, and passionate community volunteer, has quietly but powerfully brought two meaningful projects to life — each rooted in her core belief that small acts of kindness can lead to lasting change.
In May 2025, a new Peace Pole was unveiled at Sleepy Hollow High School, with a second one to be installed at Washington Irving School once renovations are completed. Spearheaded by Alami and funded by the Rotary Club of the Tarrytowns, the Peace Poles bear the timeless message, “May Peace Prevail On Earth,” displayed in eight languages, including English, Spanish, and Braille.
Inspired by an article in the international Rotary magazine and surprised to learn that Westchester County had none, Alami brought the idea to her Rotary Club in the summer of 2024. With support from Superintendent Dr. Ray Sanchez, Assistant Superintendent Brian Fried, and fellow Rotarians, the ten-month project came to fruition on May 29, when the first Peace Pole was dedicated in a heartfelt school ceremony.
“The Peace Poles inspire unity among people of all cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds,” said Alami. “Their presence in our schools furthers one of Rotary’s goals: to build a culture of peace throughout the world.” The poles serve not just as physical monuments, but as daily reminders to students, faculty, and visitors that peace and respect are foundational values.
Dr. Sanchez echoed this sentiment, saying, “This Peace Pole will stand as a silent witness to our shared values. It will remind every passerby—student, neighbor, visitor—that this is a place where kindness matters, where respect is practiced, where peace is possible.”
Assistant Superintendent Fried, who helped coordinate logistics, had previously overseen a Peace Pole installation in another district. “The value of the message cannot be overstated,” he said. “For me, ‘peace prevailing on Earth’ is about belonging. If all cultures and all people within those cultures felt they belonged, the human condition would be significantly different.”
Beyond the Peace Pole project, Alami is also the driving force behind the Little Free Pantry initiative, which she launched in 2023 with the Rotary Club. Located near Village Hall in Tarrytown and the Senior Center in Sleepy Hollow, the pantries are open 24/7 and stocked weekly with food, hygiene items, books, and small toys. “We check them a few times a week to restock and clean,” she said. “Sometimes, a little thing like a toothbrush or a snack can really make someone’s day.”
The project was promoted through a grassroots social media campaign and is now sustained in part by local residents who post updates and contribute supplies. As they’re her babies, Alami continues to drop in on the pantries every week to make sure they’re okay.
“Service above self” isn’t just a Rotary motto for Alami—it’s a way of life. From peace monuments to food security, her efforts reflect a deep commitment to making the community more inclusive, compassionate, and connected.
With two transformative projects under her belt and more ideas in mind, Alami continues to look for new ways to uplift and serve her neighbors—one small, powerful act at a time.