People Inc. Expands Services to Include Programs for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Deaf Services and Advocacy Efforts Across the Region to be Strengthened Deaf Access Services has merged with People Inc., expanding People Inc.’s comprehensive suite of human services programs. Sharing a common mission to serve the community where needed, the merger was part of a long-term plan when Deaf Access Services affiliated with People Inc. in 2018. The merger adds another element to People Inc.’s portfolio of programs that includes senior services, affordable housing, health care, as well as services for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. It also strengthens and sustains Deaf services and advocacy efforts throughout the Buffalo and Rochester areas. Since the affiliation, there has been a substantial increase in services provided. “The Deaf services People Inc. now provides were built from the ground up by the Deaf and hard of hearing community through Deaf Access Services. People Inc. took that foundation very much to heart with this affiliation, and now with the merger,” said Anne McCaffrey, People Inc. president and CEO. “It has been rewarding to expand these unique access efforts and we expect that growth to continue.” “The merger ensured no interruption in quality essential programming,” McCaffrey said. “Increased communication access, awareness and opportunities are the focus of the programs and central to People Inc.’s mission of helping people live a fulfilling life.” Additions to People Inc. services through the merger include: American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreting, Captioning Access Real-Time Translation (CART), assistance with long-term employment, ASL classes, support groups, deaf refugee services, connections to resources, and more. “We are working to build a bridge that allows equity in communication and all levels of access for Deaf and hard of hearing people,” said David Wantuck, director of deaf community services. “With the merger, we have the momentum necessary to meet, and even exceed, our goals.”   ABOUT PEOPLE INC.: People Inc. provides an array of support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, as well as health care services, senior services, services for the Deaf and hard of hearing, and affordable housing. Built on a strong foundation of innovation, collaboration, community and inclusion, People Inc. helps people throughout Western New York and Rochester achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity.

Construction Starts on Blocher Apartments

People Inc. Plans 93 Units in Williamsville Project People Inc. broke ground recently on Blocher Apartments, an affordable living complex at 135 Evans St., Williamsville. The $42 million development will provide 93 rental apartments for adults who qualify based on income.   The project includes renovations to the former Blocher Homes senior residence, as well as construction of three additional buildings. The complex will include one- and two-bedroom apartments and rents will range from $704 - $918 per month for one-bedroom units and $1082 - $1,157 per month for two-bedroom apartments. There will be 23 apartments designated for people with developmental disabilities. Up to five apartments will be accessible for people who are hearing and/or vision impaired. The Evans Street location is just off Main Street, providing close access to the many village and town amenities. “The Blocher project is an exciting and unique opportunity to add and sustain housing options in an area where the need for affordable housing has been well documented,” said Anne McCaffrey, president and CEO of People Inc. “Providing these choices, including opportunities for people with disabilities, can be life-changing for residents.” People Inc. manages over 30 affordable housing complexes with over 1,300 residents. The development of Blocher Apartments will mark the 8th residential construction project that the organization has developed through the use of tax credits.  “Our goals with the development of Blocher Apartments will be consistent with our other housing initiatives: to provide safe and affordable living environments where there is an unmet need, to create aesthetically pleasing and welcoming buildings, and to have a positive impact on the communities in which we are located,” McCaffrey said. Funding for the Blocher Apartments comes from several sources, including federal and state Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, New York State’s Homes and Community Renewal, Office for People With Developmental Disabilities, Federal Home Loan Bank Affordable Housing Program, Supportive Housing Opportunity Program and the Town of Amherst HOME Investment Partnerships American Rescue Plan. Features available to residents include a new playground, activity rooms, multiple community rooms and a patio. There will be a parking lot for residents and visitors, and a live-in superintendent. The project also includes new walkways and landscaping. “At the core of People Inc.’s mission is responding to the needs of the people of Western New York,” McCaffrey said. “There continues to be high demand for healthy, affordable and safe living environments and we are grateful to all our government and other collaborators and funders who are working with us to answer that call.” Construction of Blocher Apartments is expected to be completed by mid-2026.   ABOUT PEOPLE INC.: People Inc. provides a diverse array of support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, as well as health care services, senior services, services for the Deaf and hard of hearing, and affordable housing. Founded more than 50 years ago and built on a strong foundation of innovation, collaboration, community and inclusion, People Inc. helps people achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity, providing superior programs throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester regions.  

Autism Services Programs & Services To Transition to People Inc., The Summit Center

Separate Agencies to Provide Programs Based on Specialties Two local nonprofits that support people with developmental disabilities are working together to ensure the continuation of educational, residential, and other services currently provided by Autism Services Inc. Autism Services supports approximately 175 people in day programs, group homes and other programs funded and regulated by the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). It also operates two New York State Education Department-certified school age special education programs located in Buffalo and Amherst, serving about 100 students. As a result of insurmountable financial challenges, beginning Feb. 1, 2024, Autism Services’ OPWDD-funded programs will transfer to People Inc. The Summit Center will expand its school services on or about Feb. 1, 2024, providing school age educational programs to current students attending Autism Service’s schools. Autism Services faces significant operational and financial challenges, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this year, Autism Services approached People Inc. seeking an affiliation to provide assistance with administrative, back-office, and managerial support. As part of its strategic assessment of the agency, People Inc. hired an outside accounting firm to determine Autism Services’ financial viability. The findings revealed an operating deficit that threatened the continuation of Autism Services’ programs and services. Despite aggressive and deliberate efforts over the last several months to stabilize operations, Autism Services’ Board of Directors has determined the only way to preserve these vital services is to transition the operation of its programs to other agencies with the capacity and expertise to support them. “Since Autism Services came to us for assistance, the goal has been to ensure the continuation and consistency of high-quality services,” said Anne McCaffrey, President and CEO of People Inc. “After the results of our due diligence, we are grateful to have arrived at this best-case scenario, with The Summit Center taking on what they do best, and People Inc. doing what we do best. In the end, the people served and their families remain the focus.”  People Inc., a leading provider of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and The Summit Center, well known for its expertise in educational programs for people with autism, are working together with Autism Services to ensure a smooth and seamless transition as Autism Services ceases operation. McCaffrey and Lisa Foti, CFO and incoming CEO of The Summit Center, said they are thoughtfully planning for little or no disruption to the day-to-day services currently provided, including affording employment opportunities to Autism Services employees and keeping the schools and programs in the same locations. “We know that change can be very disruptive for students with autism, so our initial focus is on the seamless continuation of educational services provided by staff members they know and trust,” said Foti. “On the financial side, when these additional students come under Summit’s umbrella, we will be able to take advantage of higher reimbursement rates while continuing to provide a high-quality educational program.”  The OPWDD services moving under the auspice of People Inc. include 12 group homes with a total of 53 residents, two day programs serving 64 people, and other programs for neurodiverse adults and children. All Autism Services employees who work as direct support professionals in these programs will have employment opportunities at People Inc.   ABOUT PEOPLE INC.: People Inc. provides a diverse array of support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, as well as health care services, senior services, services for the Deaf and hard of hearing, and affordable housing. Founded more than 50 years ago and built on a strong foundation of innovation, collaboration, community and inclusion, People Inc. helps people achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity, providing superior programs throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester regions. ABOUT THE SUMMIT CENTER: The Summit Center provides educational, clinical, adult, and community-based programs and services to more than 1000 Western New York children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities. Its specialized school, Summit Academy, provides a 12-month educational program to 340 students from 38 WNY school districts at two locations in Amherst, 150 Stahl Road and 165 Creekside Drive.

People Inc., NYSID and NFTA kicked off National Disability Employment Awareness Month and Celebrated $22,000 Matching Grant to Support Employing People with Disabilities

The combined nearly $44,000 will additionally create strong community partnerships to support more people with disabilities in their work. People Inc., New York State Industries for the Disabled (NYSID), and the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) shared details at a news conference about a nearly $44,000 investment to assist with a People Inc. program that employs people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The funds have been used to purchase janitorial equipment, used by People Inc. employees to perform their jobs efficiently and effectively. The Carpet Cleaning Done Right program is one of the People Inc.  business solutions offered to the public that provides high quality work in integrated settings. This funding is through NYSID’s Matching Grant Program, which benefits its member agencies and partners such as People Inc. and the NFTA. NYSID provides financial support to its statewide network of chapters and other rehabilitative programs which help people with disabilities and qualified veterans succeed in rewarding employment. “NYSID is thrilled to assist its Member Agency organizations and partners by awarding matching grants that boost productivity and inclusivity,” said Maureen O’Brien, president and CEO of NYSID. “The grant funds will be used to improve cleaning services at the Buffalo airport and other customers. We hope this support grows jobs locally for people with disabilities and qualified veterans.” People Inc. will use the $22,000 matching grant to support a new carpet cleaning machine at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. “People Inc. is very grateful to NYSID and the NFTA for their support to ensure people with developmental and intellectual disabilities secure and maintain meaningful employment,” said Anne McCaffrey, President and CEO of People Inc. “We are lucky to have these organizations stand with us in our efforts to help people live independent, fulfilling lives.” The NFTA has shown a significant commitment to the employment of people with disabilities. “The NFTA is proud of its long-standing partnership with People Inc., and fully supports programs and services that promote inclusivity in the workplace.” said Kim Minkel, executive director of the NFTA. National Disability Employment Awareness Month is observed throughout October to highlight and celebrate the many contributions of workers with disabilities. The unemployment rate for people with disabilities in New York state is close to 70 percent and can be improved by businesses and organizations providing more opportunities for people to work in meaningful jobs. James Kuzon, who is a day porter at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport for People Inc., spoke about why his job is important and why it is important to support those with disabilities in their work. According to his supervisor, James was driven to learn all aspects of carpet cleaning. He learned that completing work quickly was not as important as completing it thoroughly. Additionally, James overcame previous workplace challenges and operates very professionally in his role. Armed with the confidence of excelling in his long-term position, James purchased a car and got married. Area state legislators and local dignitaries are supportive for many reasons, including the impact that people with disabilities have on the Buffalo region. US Congressman Brian Higgins (D, NY-26) said: “Employment opportunities allow for people to showcase their skills and value, while furthering self-sufficiency and independence. I applaud this collaboration between People Inc., NYSID, and the NFTA. This is what an inclusive workforce is all about.” NYS Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes (D, 141st District) said: “I’m proud to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month with People Inc. and the NFTA, which includes highlighting the importance of the ability of our friends and family members with developmental disabilities to have real opportunities for gainful employment. The dignity, independence, and chances for personal growth and professional development gained from working are experiences that they will keep with them forever.” NYS Assembly Member Monica Wallace (D, 143rd Assembly District) said: “It’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and I applaud People Inc., New York State Industries for the Disabled, and the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority for marking the occasion by working collaboratively to create job opportunities for people with disabilities. We need to ensure there are opportunities for everyone to participate in the workplace to the fullest extent of their abilities. Doing so is good for people with disabilities, good for businesses, and good for the overall economy.” People Inc. was founded from a humble beginning in 1970 by a small group of parents and professionals, who were concerned and passionate about addressing the needs of people with intellectual disabilities. Since then, People Inc. has remained forward-thinking and expanded its mission to include a wider variety of supports that address the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, families, older adults and the community.     

Mt. Olive, People Inc. Mark Groundbreaking for Affordable Housing in East Buffalo

Mt. Olive Development Corporation, People Inc., and several government and community leaders celebrated the start of construction of a $27 million affordable apartments initiative on property adjacent to the Mt. Olive Baptist Church, located at 701. E. Delavan Avenue on Monday, September 18. Mt. Olive Senior Manor will provide 65 apartments for people aged 55 and older who meet income requirements. Mt. Olive and People Inc. are development partners and co-owners of the project, which addresses a substantial need for affordable housing in the City of Buffalo. The building will include 1- and 2-bedroom apartments for households earning at or below 60% of the Area Median Income. Approximately 20 units will be designated for frail older adults with housing instability, as well as some set aside for people who need support due to mobility, vision, or hearing challenges. People Inc. will offer support services to those who qualify. Funding for the project comes from several sources, including federal and state Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, New York State Homes and Community Renewal, New York State Homeless Housing and Assistance Program, and the City of Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency. Rents will range from $540 - $640/month for a 1-bedroom apartment and from $630 - $755/month for a 2-bedroom. The project was first envisioned by the late Rev. Dr. William Gillison Jr., the beloved pastor of Mt. Olive Baptist Church, who recognized a need for safe, affordable senior housing in the area and then worked tirelessly to make his dream become a reality.   People Inc. was selected by Mt. Olive Development Corporation following an extensive RFP process to serve as its development partner. “It has been 28 years since the vision of Mt. Olive Manor was given to Pastor William Gillison. It is truly a blessing to see it come to pass with the construction of Mt. Olive Senior Manor,” said Pastor Dwayne R. Gillison Sr., the son of Pastor William Gillison and current pastor of Mt. Olive Baptist Church. "Mount Olive Senior Manor development continues my administration’s dedication to equitable development and affordable housing in our city. The city is proud to contribute more than $2 million to this project,” said Buffalo Mayor Byron W. Brown. “I thank New York State Governor Kathy Hochul for her support and partnership in my mission to achieve 40 percent affordable housing in our city. I also thank Mt. Olive Development Corporation and People Inc. This is the second time the city has partnered with Mt. Olive on affordable housing and the fifth time we’ve partnered with People Inc. I’m proud of the work both organizations do, and I’m proud to continue our successful partnership.” For nearly 30 years, People Inc. has been recognized for its leadership in the development of affordable housing and the delivery of services to residents, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the frail and elderly, and those at risk of homelessness. Today, People Inc. has more than 30 affordable housing properties, which includes 1,300 units across Western New York. “People Inc. is proud to join Mt. Olive Development Corp., federal, state and local government in launching this project,” said People Inc. President and CEO, Anne McCaffrey. “We will provide new, affordable housing opportunities and offer critical services to vulnerable populations, which is central to our mission of helping people live fulfilling and productive lives while maintaining their independence.” The building will include an on-site management office, off-street parking, a large community room, laundry facilities, indoor storage space and a courtyard with covered patio.  

People Inc. Celebrates Opening of Folwell Senior Apartments

New York State Governor Kathy Hochul and several other elected officials and community partners joined People Inc. President and CEO Anne McCaffrey today in celebrating the opening of People Inc. Folwell Senior Apartments, a $15.3 million conversion of the former Women and Children’s Hospital building into affordable house for seniors.  The People Inc. development, at 140 Hodge Ave., Buffalo, includes 44 affordable and supportive apartments for qualifying residents aged 62 and over and is part of the Elmwood Crossing project in the historic Elmwood Village neighborhood. The complex includes seven units for seniors in need of supportive services to live independently. “Folwell Apartments will provide safe, stable homes for seniors while breathing new life into Buffalo’s Elmwood Village neighborhood," Governor Hochul said. Hochul's comprehensive Housing Plan for New York includes creating approximately 100,000 new or repurposed affordable homes across the state. “Today we celebrate another step in the right direction in expanding access to affordable housing for seniors in the City of Buffalo,” McCaffrey said. “It has been well-documented that our region is in need of additional affordable housing options, especially for some of our most vulnerable citizens.”  Folwell is People Inc.’s seventh affordable housing initiative using Low Income Housing Tax Credits, including 413 new housing units in Western New York. “The housing we have created is life-changing for many of our residents who have been moving in over recent weeks,” said McCaffrey.   New Folwell resident Michael Cureton agreed his life has changed, telling the audience, “I love my apartment,” he said. “From Day 1, people here have been just fantastic. Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown thanked Governor Hochul and other partners in the project and mentioned the city’s longstanding relationship with People Inc. “I’m honored to continue our collaboration and to see yet another affordable housing initiative flourish,” Mayor Brown said.  Approximately 30 of the 44 apartments are currently occupied.  For more information about Folwell Senior Apartments, click here . 

Author with Autism Hopes Newest Book Will Help Others Connect to People Inc.

When Robert Kneitinger was a child, he was teased and bullied. Classmates made fun of his social awkwardness and communications challenges.  Eventually, Kneitinger was diagnosed with a developmental disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder. Now, at age 58, Kneitinger has turned the pain of his childhood into lessons for children with disabilities, in the hopes that their lives will be easier. With some help from staff at People Inc., Kneitinger is now an author and illustrator of 15 children’s books – all with positive messages and an underlying theme of overcoming obstacles and the value of all people, no matter their abilities.  Kneitinger said his hope is to inspire families like his. “My mission is to help children get their independence, like I did,” he said. “What I want is that someday, parents of children who read my books say to me, ‘Thank you for helping my child!’” The books are fictional, but many of them come from stories about Robert’s own experiences and include ways he navigated the world despite his disability. This includes his latest book soon to go on sale on Amazon, “My Journey with People Inc.,” about ways that connecting with the People Inc. staff who offer services such as a broker, a life coach and a self-directed assistant have changed his life forever, including helping him to find and nurture his writing and artistic talents. Kneitinger started as an artist after attending classes at Starlight Studios in Buffalo. Working with People Inc. Self-Directed Assistant Don Jackson, he found that he had the ability to create artwork that people admired, and to come up with stories that he hopes will make a difference in people’s lives. After just finishing his 17th book, Don said the benefits he has seen for Robert in this work go well beyond the creative. Running the business of trying to sell books and do readings and presentations at schools, community organizations and more have pushed Robert far beyond where he and others thought he could go, said Jackson, who has a background in art education and has worked side-by-side with Kneitinger through all of his book writing and illustrating. “He has come so far,” Jackson said. “All of this stretches his cognitive abilities. We have seen so much improvement socially, emotionally and in his self-confidence. He is now constantly interacting with people – it’s been an incredibly well-rounded experience.”  Kneitinger will be selling his books at the upcoming Developmental Disabilities Awareness Day on August 1 at the Niagara Falls Convention Center.

Nick Kilpatrick Shares Talents with Jamestown Community

Nick Kilpatrick is proud to be a part of his Jamestown community. The 42-year-old, who is enrolled in People Inc. Self-Directed Services, is a skilled string musician who brings people together with his tunes. Known by many as “Traveling Nick, the Guitar Guy,” he shares his talents with residents at Heritage Park Skilled Nursing and with shoppers at the Ashville General Store. One of Nick’s biggest advocates is his Self-Determination Assistant Ron Matson. Ron has worked with Nick to find meaningful avenues for his time and music. Together, they research opportunities and get in touch with local businesses. In 2021, Nick decided to participate in the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign as a way to share his talents and give back to the community. He enjoyed it so much that he decided to take part again in 2022, playing guitar and encouraging donations from holiday visitors to Chautauqua Mall in Lakewood. For Nick, it’s all about making connections with those around him. “I like the people who come to see me,” he shared. In addition to his musical endeavors, Nick has also been able to develop skills as a craftsman with Ron’s guidance. He repairs vintage fans and builds cigar box string instruments in his own workshop using a number of tools, as well as a plan for each project to help keep him organized. Recently, Nick has been expanding his skillset, while refurbishing a credenza for his apartment. He’s learned how to use a few different tools and is thankful for all the opportunities he’s received through People Inc. Self-Directed Services. “I would like to thank all the people that have helped me to get here,” said Nick. “I like to make new friends, along with the people I work with. I really enjoy learning new things and playing my music for everyone.” Learn more This story was part of the 2022 Annual Report.

Every Purchase has a Purpose: People Shoppe is a store, and so much more!

People Inc. celebrated the grand opening of its newest vocational initiative to provide people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as people from the Deaf and hard of hearing community, the opportunity to engage with the community through meaningful activities and hands-on work experience through the People Shoppe. Every purchase supports the agency’s mission to provide inclusive experience, including training for a career in retail by exploring every aspect of operating a store from inventory to stocking to customer service to sales. Working toward achieving these skills at the store located at the Tri-Main Center, 2495 Main Street in Buffalo, is part of the individualized goals that each of the participants set for themselves. One of the Ambassadors, Brandon Mazur, was eager to become a part of the People Shoppe experience from the beginning and has emerged as one of the most recognizable people associated with the store. Every Wednesday, visitors will find him proudly wearing his People Inc. logo wear and hard at work setting up tables, turning on the lights, explaining about the various items for sale, stocking the shelves, greeting and listening to customers, working the cash register and helping with the bank deposit. “I am proud to be the first person customers see – it makes me and them feel happy,” Brandon offered. “My money skills have increased since I started working here,” he added. Brandon is known for interacting with the customers, listening to their concerns and suggestions for the store and recognizing repeat customers. Additionally, he helps his peers learn about their ambassador responsibilities and how to become successful. After reviewing the customer suggestion cards, Brandon helped to decide on ordering new products, such as the mouse pads, hair ties and hand sanitizer. He advocated to sell a couple of different types fidget spinners because, “Everybody needs to let their stress out!” Adding to his resume, Brandon accompanied People Inc. staff to the New York Association of Day Service Providers state-wide conference, where together they presented details about the People Shoppe and his experiences. He really liked answering all of their questions and felt it was an honor to represent People Inc. The staff who accompany Brandon commented on how they have seen his confidence increase over the past year, as well as how they have seen him take ownership of the store. He likes to make sure things are done efficiently, helps customers find just the right product or gift, checks dates on items, keeps an eye on the inventory and reconciles the bank deposit with the help of a People Inc. E.T.H.O.S AmeriCorps member. Additionally, they shared that Brandon creates the positive atmosphere of the store through his infectious and magnetic personality, bringing laughter to the team of Ambassadors and staff, complimenting people and always showing up fully energized. Being around Brandon – all people become more positive, you can’t help it! The Ambassadors really have a true integration into the Tri-Main community. In the future, Brandon would like to get a paying job in the community and shared that he is learning so much by being an Ambassador not only in the People Shoppe, but also through volunteering for People Inc. events, such as the golf tournament where he met a lot of golfers and got to talk to them. People Inc. President and CEO Rhonda Frederick reflected, “From an idea to a reality, this project has been a true collaborative journey with many people coming together to make this day possible, including Deaf Access Services, now a program of People Inc., Tri-Main Development, the Southeast Foundation Board, as well as all of the People Inc. support departments. The primary purpose of this space is not as a retail outlet, but instead a space for people to come and build relationships, engage with the community, and enjoy a hands-on experience.” Rhonda added, “Ensuring that people with developmental disabilities and varying abilities secure and maintain meaningful, competitive employment is an important part of what People Inc. does year-round. Hiring a qualified person with a disability brings greater benefits beyond just filling an open job – it means increased productivity, enhanced corporate culture and dedicated, loyal and efficient employees – all of which contribute to a company’s success!” People Inc. Vice President and Southeast Foundation Board Member Tim Pfohl shared, “The participants from the programs, our Ambassadors, have focused on engaging the Tri-Main’s business tenants and guests, asking for their suggestions for items to carry, increasing traffic and sharing information about People Inc. One group, using donated flowers, created arrangements and distributed them to all the building’s tenants.” Learn more This story was part of the 2022 Annual Report.