Building a Bridge Through Communication

It’s hard to predict where in the Western New York or Rochester areas you’ll find American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters providing services contracted through People Inc. You may see these industry experts at press conferences, on local tours or awards ceremonies. Or, they may be offering more individual ASL services, such as assisting with medical appointments, court proceedings or trainings. Either way, People Inc. is providing a crucial bridge to communication and independence for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing. One very busy ASL interpreter, Karen Gambino, turned her experience of being a child of a Deaf adult into a lasting career that she is passionate about. “Put yourself in the shoes of a person who is Deaf, who is reliant on others to provide information or a service,” Gambino said. “People just want to be understood, maintain their autonomy and be part of the communication process. That is the main point of engaging an interpreter.” ASL is a rich, complex language with its own grammar structure and cultural context. It is surprising to people that it is not equivalent to spoken English and therefore requires interpretation. When using ASL – attitudes, emotions, tone and meaning must be conveyed simultaneously as each person is communicating. Gambino feels her role is to paint a picture using her hands and her facial expressions. She also shared that life experience is an invaluable part of the interpreter’s skill set. In other words, Gambino says she needs to keep up with current events and sometimes learn new technical language, because you can’t interpret what you don’t understand. For instance, when interpreting at a legal closing for a property, she had to expand on the word “deed” – spelling out the word and showing in ASL: “The paper that shows you own the house.” There are several interpreting and translation services offered by People Inc. to make meetings, appointments, trainings and events accessible for Deaf and hard of hearing communities. By providing interpreters in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), businesses, organizations and medical practices can ensure that all people benefit from their services and that reasonable accommodations are provided. Jodie Chibi, an interpreter and Director of Language Services at People Inc., said she believes confidentiality and ethics are at the core of providing interpreter services. The interpreter must always remain respectful and neutral to properly build the pathways of communication. The interpreters offered through People Inc. are evaluated by highly qualified staff and adhere to the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) Code of Professional Conduct, an industry standard. Gambino and Chibi agreed that the code of professional conduct is deeply ingrained and informs every interaction. Reflecting on her work, Gambino shared that it is fulfilling to know that she is helping not only to provide interpreting services, but to also bring awareness to the hearing community. She has often found herself educating people on what her role is and is not. Along with education, Chibi said that over her career the importance and acceptance of using interpreters has greatly expanded. “It’s all about seeing access being enabled for people, empowering them, and helping to break down barriers."

Anne McCaffrey Named to Buffalo Business First Power 200 List

Each year Buffalo Business First creates a list of the inspiring women who are shaping the communities of Western New York and beyond. People Inc. President & CEO Anne McCaffrey was named to the eighth spot on the distinguished 2024 Buffalo Business First "Power 200 Women" list. "Philanthropists. Lawyers. Businesswomen. Bankers. These women's talent and influence are fueling economic, social and cultural growth throughout Western New York. Every woman on the list has strengthened the community in their own unique way. They have grown thriving companies and built vibrant nonprofits. These leaders have paved the way for more women to ascend to our region's highest positions. With the doors they've opened and the opportunities they have created the next generation of women will build on this enduring foundation. " - Buffalo Business First

West Herr Subaru Donates to People Inc. Youth Transition Program

West Herr Automotive Group celebrated the grand opening of their Lockport Subaru dealership with a desire to give back to the community. They donated a 2025 Subaru Forester to People Inc.'s Young Adult Life Transitions (YALT) program . Anne McCaffrey, President & CEO of People Inc., members of the agency leadership team and people who participate in the YALT Program were on hand to accept the vehicle. McCaffrey spoke about this innovative program and its impact in the WNY community. YALT offers people with developmental disabilities transitioning from high school the opportunity to experience life on a college campus, participate in internships and volunteer at area organizations. These educational and social activities promote independence, offer employment preparation and support continued learning and development. The vehicle will help transport the YALT volunteers to many of the Lockport-area non-profits and businesses who benefit from their assistance, including the food pantry, Whispering River Donkey Rescue, Dale Association, Goodwill, I Thrift, Kith and Kin, and the Cornell Cooperative Extension Veggie Van.

Newest People Inc. Site in Buffalo Creates Synergies

People Inc. is always looking for the best and most efficient ways to utilize the many properties we operate. Over the last year, the transformation of what was once a medical practice and offices on Elmwood Avenue serves as a shining example of innovation and teamwork, with the creation of unique space for both employees and people receiving services from People Inc. After the relocation of the agency’s rehabilitative health, social work and counseling services to 800 Hertel Avenue, a remodel of the Elmwood Avenue building made room for offices for People Inc.’s Learning & Development, Human Resources, and Advocacy departments, which are now all housed alongside a day program for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Called the “Center of Excellence in Employment and Training,” the building at 2128 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, provides unique synergies. Communication, collaboration, development of the HR Team, cross-training, and efficiencies of many processes are just a few of the highlights that People Inc. Senior Vice President of Human Resources Kathryn Alterio has noticed in the new location. “Bringing the entire HR team from talent acquisition , retention, benefits and more into one place has been tremendously helpful,” she said. “Plus, it is easier to now work much closer with staff from Learning and Development and Advocacy – streamlining the ability to respond to the needs of our employees.” She also noted the importance of hiring the best employees and the important role that members of the Advocacy Team play in providing vital feedback during the interview process. Advocacy staff, including some who also receive services from People Inc., work with the Human Resources team, Learning & Development, as well as with people attending the day program, housed in the building. Members of People Inc.’s Advocacy Department are also involved with every new employee orientation and help facilitate several training segments, said Vice President, Learning & Development David Squires. “This has a great impact on new employees,” he said. “Additionally, having HR in the building has been invaluable for us in that they are there to provide us with guidance when situations arise with new employees.” Working with the day program, the Advocacy Team has initiated programs including sexuality training, an “Art of Advocacy” program, and more. A bonus, according to Associate Vice President for Advocacy Rick Banner, is the example set for new and existing employees by our staff with disabilities who work in the building. Funded in part by the Empire State Development division of New York State, the creation of the Center of Excellence in Employment and Training is a critical investment in our workforce, said People Inc. President and CEO Anne McCaffrey. “The Center for Excellence in Employment and Training allows us to present an inclusive and accessible high-tech space to meet the needs of prospective job applicants, new hires and our staff in every step of their recruitment, training and career development.”

Anne McCaffrey, People Inc. President & CEO featured in Business First

Buffalo Business First’s ongoing series with area business leaders, VISION Buffalo – Executive Insights, interviewed People Inc. President & CEO Anne McCaffrey. John Tebeau, Buffalo Business First publisher, spoke to McCaffrey about how her diverse experiences in government and healthcare uniquely positioned her to lead People Inc. at this time in its more than 50-year history. They also delved into important issues facing non-profit agencies such as People Inc., reflections on highlights of McCaffrey’s first year and the direction and hopes for the future of the agency. The video interview and accompanying article are available here .

Renovation Project for Oxford Square Community Lot Announced

Transformational Enhancements to Community Gathering Space Made Possible by State Grant Through NYS Senator Sean Ryan with Additional Financial Support from People Inc. Foundation On May 24, 2024, New York State Senator Sean Ryan and representatives from People Inc. announced plans for an estimated $600,000 in enhancements to the Oxford Square Community Lot in Buffalo. The renovation of the lot will add new amenities for visitors of all ages to enjoy in order to create a versatile, multigenerational community gathering space at the corner of Oxford Avenue and Lafayette Avenue on the land adjacent to People Inc.’s Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments. The preliminary design for the reimagined lot includes plans for an accessible playground, additional seating, and new shade structures. The design is the culmination of a year of close coordination with the Oxford Square Block Club to gather community feedback and determine which amenities would best benefit the surrounding neighborhood. Anne McCaffrey, President and CEO of People Inc., said, “People Inc. is committed to doing all we can to uplift and enhance the communities in which we offer housing and other services. Creating safe and accessible areas for people of all ages to enjoy is part of that commitment and at the core of our mission to improve lives. We are grateful for the seamless collaboration with Sen. Ryan and the Oxford Square Block Club and very excited to move forward with these important improvements to the Oxford Square Community Lot.” The project will be funded primarily through a state grant secured by Senator Ryan, which will cover the site preparation costs as well as the cost of the playground and other amenities. The People Inc. Foundation has generously committed an additional $75,000 to cover expenses that are not covered by the state grant. Senator Sean Ryan said, “Neighborhood gathering spaces are integral to maintaining vibrant communities. Having a dedicated space for neighbors of all ages to interact and pass the time provides a safe recreation option in urban environments and helps build lifelong relationships. The residents of Oxford Square have done a wonderful job maintaining the community lot for well over a decade. The addition of an accessible playground and new areas for visitors to sit and relax will make an important community amenity even more welcoming to all residents.” Jenifer Kaminsky, President of Oxford Square Block Club, said, “For nearly two decades, the Community Lot has been a project of purpose and pride for the Oxford Square Block Club. Our neighbors have committed countless hours, their personal resources and creativity to build this valued space for all of our families. We are honored and incredibly grateful to State Senator Ryan, our ‘forever partners’ People Inc., and our community of advocates for this transformational investment in the families of Oxford Square and our surrounding neighborhoods.”

Celebration Honors 100-Year-Old Volunteer

‘Mr. Prince’ Still Visits Seniors 4 Days a Week, 4 Hours a Day When Prince Whitstone decided in 2000 to fill his time in retirement by volunteering, his goal was to stay active while giving back. As he turns 100 years old this week, it seems this remarkable volunteer has found a secret to longevity we all may be looking for. For 24 years, he has been a stellar and well-loved volunteer with People Inc. Four days a week, Whitstone, who lives alone, takes a bus to his volunteer “job” on Delaware Avenue in Buffalo. Day in and day out, he arrives well before his 9:00 a.m. start time and works until 1:00 p.m.  providing companionship and support to seniors as part of People Inc.’s Senior Companion program. He provides socialization and conversation for seniors, does some housekeeping and keeps people and facilities in order. Why does he do it? “I have to keep moving,” Whitstone said. “And it keeps me out of trouble.” Volunteers and staff from People Inc.’s Senior Companion program honored “Mr. Prince,” as he is known there, with a surprise “celebration of aging” for his 100th Birthday. A soft-spoken and private man who was born and raised in Memphis, Tenn., Whitstone worked at Acme Steel in Buffalo for 29 years and then at National Gypsum for 10 years. While he was employed full time, he also worked as a barber. Alissa Yax, Senior Companion Program Coordinator, describes Whitstone as “very independent.” “He is a great volunteer, and he is full of energy,” she said. “If someone asks if he needs help, he politely declines. He often serves as a role model for other volunteers. Everyone here really appreciates him.” “We are grateful for ‘Mr. Prince’ and his incredible dedication to People Inc.,” said Anne McCaffrey, People Inc. president and CEO. “He is an example of the strides people can make at any age when they have a purpose and others around them who care. That is true for both our volunteers and the people supported through the Senior Companion program. We are so pleased to celebrate with Mr. Prince and wish him a very Happy 100th Birthday!”

Supporting Choices at The Edge

It’s the beginning of the day, and everyone is greeted with great enthusiasm as they come in the door of The Edge, People Inc.’s new “Day Habilitation Without Walls” program. The group is excited to learn updates from each other since they were last together. Both the people who attend and the staff show enthusiasm for the start of their day at this space on 66th Street in Niagara Falls. The Edge offers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities opportunities to interact in the community. It does not literally mean there are no walls, rather, that there is maximum community integration and activities tailored to each person. After moving from the Golisano Center, the team at The Edge enjoys the flexibility provided in this new location. An array of activities are offered, including art, exercise, cooking, a stage with sound system, computers, use of the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Niagara Community Center, just to name a few. The staff work with each person’s needs and interests, while empowering choices, to create the activities for the day. On a recent Tuesday there was a flurry of activity and many people to meet, including: Donte Griffin, a direct support professional who has been with People Inc. for two years, is quick to explain all the different activities the attendees can select from, explaining that every day is different here. “We might be drawing, playing a board or card game, having a ping-pong tournament, cooking – especially for the holidays, playing a very competitive game of basketball, bringing lots of energy to the stage with karaoke or covering safety training skills in the community,” he said. When he noticed that one of the people attending the program was having a challenging morning, Donte invited her to take a walk outside.  He knew that the calming environment of the neighborhood would provide her a chance to talk and relax. Matthew Dinino, who welcomes you and introduces each person by name. He likes to play volleyball. Tiffany Carr enjoys all the room and choices they have both at this new location and when they are out in the community. Her favorite activities are basketball, tennis and kickball. Tiffany likes seeing her friends each day and how friendly the staff is. She also enjoys the opportunities to walk in the neighborhood and explore the mall. Tabitha Schuman says the staff are good listeners and very funny. She has many favorite activities, including doing research and word puzzles on the computer, singing rock music on the stage with karaoke and playing basketball. Corey Cunningham enjoys coming to The Edge and is helping to build a “Lego” town. She also likes going to the community center to get exercise. Marche Moody, a direct support professional who has been with the agency four years, is excited to be rebuilding the program after the COVID hiatus. “It is very refreshing to be in this new location where everyone can be themselves, and we have the room to work with each person. We have seen the people we support be more comfortable and really grow.” One of the activities Marche enjoys is accompanying the attendees to the Community Center for basketball, volleyball, kickball, and soccer, remarking on how competitive this group of people can be. The staff are busy preparing for a future talent show, softball tournament and working in the community garden. Through partnerships with other area organizations and businesses, the team at The Edge will be expanding community-based volunteer and other opportunities. “We have fun together and learn from each other,” Donte said. “We understand how difficult lives can be outside of here – so we work hard to create a safe place where the people we support can be themselves.” Learn more about People Inc. Day Programs A day at The Edge in photos:

People Inc. Employee Rick Banner Honored for DEI Advocacy

Buffalo Business First named Richard (Rick) Banner, People Inc. Associate Vice President of Advocacy one of the IDEA Award recipients. He was recognized for being a tireless champion helping people to find and utilize their voices for more than 20 years. He is responsible for developing and directing all advocacy initiatives in the agency, which includes promoting the idea that people have rights and can determine for themselves how to live as independently as possible. Rick leads a team of people tasked with supporting self-advocacy and educating others about advocacy. His work is unique and highly respected throughout Western New York, and includes networking, collaborating with and training staff at other agencies to strengthen the quality of advocacy programs and person-centered planning regionally, statewide, and nationally. He assures advocate perspectives and person-centered-thinking is integral throughout the agency.  Rick is actively involved in supporting the establishment and on-going work of several Advocacy groups and has put People Inc’s Advocacy Team on the map both locally and statewide. He not only supports, trains and guides others in facilitating communication and independence, but through his relationships and leadership he advises the entire agency on respectful and accepted language and practices, enhancing the execution of our mission. Rick does this through building relationships and then escalating questions and concerns to leadership, making true change that affects both employees and people served by People Inc. His groundbreaking work is the very definition of inclusivity. Rick shared his advice on making the workplace more inclusive, "Recognize that every employee has value in an organization and be mindful of a workplace that stives toward universal design." Buffalo Business First celebrates the people and companies around Western New York who make inclusivity, diversity and equity pillars of their business.