Event Admission Now on Sale for “The Roaring Twenties” Gala to Support People with Brain Injuries

Pre-sale admission price available April 5, 2019: Headway of WNY will host its 20thAnnual Gala, “The Roaring Twenties,” on Thursday, May 16, from 6 to 9 p.m. at The Atrium @ Rich’s, 1 Robert Rich Way, Buffalo, NY. The 1920s-themed event will feature: Live music by the Bobby Militello Quartet, silent auction, basket raffle, food stations, two-hour open bar, dancing and a costume contest. Attendees are encouraged to dress as they choose in their favorite outfit or in attire from the era, whether it is a 1920’s flapper dress, accessories, suit, pinstripes, bowtie, screen star or a literary personality. Event admissions may be purchased online at people-inc.org/headwaygala. Event proceeds benefit Headway of WNY to ensure that people in Western New York with brain injuries and other cognitive disabilities have access to advocacy, resources and support systems to enable them to live as independently as possible. Pre-sale admission is $65 per person, which ends at midnight on May 14. Admission may be purchased at the event for $70 per person. Sponsorship opportunities are available and auctions items are accepted prior to the event.  For more information about event admissions, to become a sponsor or to donate items, contact Christine Melchiorre at cmelchiorre@people-inc.org or call 716-408-3117. Information is also available on the Headway of WNY website, headwayofwny.org.  Headway of WNY, a not-for-profit agency and an affiliate of People Inc., provides support groups, trainings and educational programs to both survivors and caregivers of brain injury. Headway of WNY is a support and advocacy agency for persons with brain injuries and other disabilities.

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.

Exhibit Finds Permanent Home at Museum of disABILITY History: The Lives They Left Behind: Suitcases from a State Hospital Attic

Exhibit inspires dialogue about the treatment of those with mental illness When Willard Psychiatric Center in New York’s Finger Lakes closed in 1995, workers discovered hundreds of suitcases in the attic of an abandoned building. Since their discovery, an incredible exhibit was created that showcases the moving stories behind these suitcases. “The Lives They Left Behind: Suitcases from a State Hospital Attic” exhibit has found a home at the Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc. A grand opening, which will include the unveiling of a suitcase, will be held on Saturday, October 20, at 11 a.m., at the Museum of disABILITY History, 3826 Main Street, Buffalo, NY.  One of the suitcase and its contents, once belonging to a man named Mr. Lawrence Mocha, will be displayed as part of the exhibit, thanks to support from his family and the New York State Museum. During the grand opening event, Max Donatelli of the Erie County Anti-Stigma Coalition will speak about the stigma surrounding mental health. Attendees are encouraged to join the conversation with a question and answer session. “The Lives They Left Behind: Suitcases from a State Hospital Attic” was curated by Darby Penney and Peter Stastny for the Community Consortium. Copies of their compelling book, by the same name, will be available for purchase. The goal of the exhibit is to bring the stories of the suitcase owners and a patient-centered view of the history of psychiatry to a wider audience. For almost ten years, the exhibit traveled the country from coast to coast, hosted by 30 venues in 11 different states and seen by thousands of people. The event is a fundraiser for the Museum of disABILITY History. Admission is: Adults $10, Seniors (60+) $6, students and human service employees with identification $6, children under 6 free and members of the Museum of disABILITY History are free. For more information or to register, contact David Mack-Hardiman at dmack@people-inc.org or call 716-629-3606. Refreshments provided. Reservations for the event are required. “The Lives They Left Behind: Suitcases from a State Hospital Attic” exhibit was created by The Community Consortium, an organization that works to promote the full citizenship and civil rights of people with psychiatric disabilities. Established in 1998, the Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc., is the only one of its kind in the United States and is dedicated to advancing the understanding, acceptance and independence of people with disabilities. Located in Buffalo, NY, the Museum’s exhibits, collections, publications, archives and educational programs create awareness and a platform for dialogue and discovery.

Expanded Medical Services and Partnerships Celebrated at New People Inc. Health Services Building

Primary Care Transitioned to Evergreen Health and People Inc. Rehabilitative Health Services Provided, both specializing in services for people with developmental disabilities. September 14, 2021: A celebration was held earlier today to announce the opening of the new People Inc. Health Services Building, offering multiple medical services for people of all abilities and ages. Enhanced care will be provided through innovative partnerships, enabling medical physicians, nurse practitioners, clinical support staff and social workers to work as a team all under one roof offering a coordinated approach to the delivery of health care. The People Inc. Health Services Building, a newly-constructed medical facility, located at 800 Hertel Avenue in Buffalo, NY, corner of Elmwood and Hertel Avenues, is a culmination of a goal set years ago through fundraising and seeking the best partners. Known for its innovative services, People Inc. is moving its patient-base from its affiliate, the Elmwood Health Center, to the new building and is proud to embark on a new partnership with Evergreen Heath. This partnership will help ensure sustainability for primary and specialty medical care, all under one roof for thousands of patients, while also opening opportunities for continued collaboration. Primary healthcare (Adult and Pediatric Medicine, Gynecology, Podiatry and Neurology Services) will be transitioned to Evergreen at the People Inc. Health Services Building. Evergreen will move to the new location on October 1 and begin seeing patients at that location on October 4. There will be no interruption in the delivery of patient care, as the Elmwood Health Center medical providers will become Evergreen providers. Rehab Services (Article 16 Clinic), formerly Elmwood Health Center Rehab, will also be offered at this new building through People Inc. Rehabilitative Health Services. Effective October 4, People Inc. Rehabilitative Health Services and Evergreen will begin providing their services. Pharmacy services through Evergreen will also be offered at a later date. This building will continue to be owned by People Inc., with the primary care clinic and pharmacy operated by Evergreen. The building will include: People Inc. Rehabilitative Health Services and Counseling Services, as well as People First Mobility, a medical business providing durable medical equipment and wheelchairs. Additionally, ECMC Dental is part of the expanded health services, offering dental services opening later this year. The new $10 million health center and 32,000 square feet facility, replaces the 13,000 square feet that comprised the Elmwood Health Center, at 2128 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo. The new building, located just a few blocks away and on a bus route, will offer more services and patient parking. Growing from 500 patients in 1994, when People Inc. established the Elmwood Health Center to more than 5,000 patients, the new location will have the capacity to provide specialty services to over 7,000 patients. For more than 50 years, People Inc. has established a reputation for its innovative services and exceptional healthcare supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, families and older adults. The health and human services agency is pleased to partner with Evergreen. Prior to the global COVID-19 pandemic, People Inc. began identifying potential partners and selected Evergreen for its similar mission, values and experience supporting those who are underserved by the healthcare system. Evergreen is an FQHC-Look-Alike, which will bring in rates that can sustain operations, whereas the Elmwood Health Center has had unsustainable rates for years. Patients will continue to benefit from the same exceptional service provided, as the Elmwood Health Center Primary Care team (Article 28 Clinic) staff will transition to become employees of Evergreen. People Inc. continues to operate various health services, including Early Intervention, People Certified Home Health, Consumer-Directed Personal Assistance Program and telemedicine. The People Inc. Health Services Building project is funded by: NYS Department of Health, Congressman Chris Jacobs NYS Senate Funding, People Inc. Foundation, First Niagara Foundation, John R. Oishei Foundation, B. Thomas Golisano Foundation, Independent Health Foundation, KeyBank, M&T Bank Foundation, Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, James H. Cummings Foundation, Garman Family Foundation, J. M. McDonald Foundation, Maria Love Convalescent Foundation and Josephine Goodyear Foundation. The celebration event featured remarks from several prominent officials, along with acknowledgments from agency leadership, a ceremonial ribbon cutting and guided tours of the new medical building. People Inc. President and CEO Rhonda Frederick: “After years of planning, we are excited to move forward with our new partnerships. An emphasis on quality and patient-focused care are the trademarks of what the community can expect from the services that will be offered at our People Inc. Health Services Building. I want to thank everyone – our healthcare associates, funders and community supporters, who have come together to provide enhanced medical care. To all of the staff, we appreciate their dedication and the tremendous work they do every day. This new medical facility is a great example of the work that we are all doing to ensure that medical care is accessible – all in one place – creating a more inclusive community.” Evergreen Health President and CEO Raymond Ganoe: “I’m thrilled to be here today to celebrate the grand opening of 800 Hertel Avenue and our partnership with People Inc., a partnership that benefits patients, impacts health outcomes, keeps our organizations financially viable and improves the health of our community. People Inc. and Evergreen are both local organizations with long histories of serving populations that have been underserved by the healthcare system, and we welcome patients to 800 Hertel Avenue and the Evergreen family with an unwavering commitment to judgment-free, affirming and patient-centered care.” Dr. Elizabeth Kapral, DDS, MS, director, Special Needs Dentistry, ECMC Dental/Oral Oncology: “The dental team at ECMC is excited to continue to provide the highest level of care to some of our most vulnerable patients at 800 Hertel Avenue in Buffalo. The new state-of-the-art dental center will offer the full range of general dentistry, from routine cleanings to comprehensive restorative care. Dental care will be offered for patients of all abilities.” Buffalo Mayor Byron W. Brown: “People Inc. is one of our City’s great partners, be it providing affordable housing on Jefferson Avenue or ensuring that our residents have access to high quality, affordable health care in our community. As our City continues to grow, change and deal with this next phase of the pandemic, continued access to healthcare is a critical component of our social and economic success. I thank People Inc. and Evergreen Health for continuing to invest in Buffalo with an expansion of services in new Health Services Building on Hertel Avenue. While this expansion in North Buffalo is great news, I also want to thank the talented medical staff and support team of both People Inc. and Evergreen Health, who are at the forefront of providing care to our residents, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This expansion will play an important role in helping us further strengthen the health and wellness of our community.”  U.S. Congressmember Brian Higgins: “This is a great project that brings together some of the best service providers in the region in a collaborative way to improve access to care for patients and to also build a holistic synergy around how our community helps people.” U.S. Congressmember Chris Jacobs: “I am excited to finally welcome the new People Inc. Health Services facility and I want to thank them for their steadfast commitment to our Western New York community. I made it a priority to secure them $1 million in funding as a State Senator, and I look forward to continuing a strong partnership together at the federal level. This is a very unique facility in that People Inc. and Evergreen health will provide a wide range of critical health care services to residents in the surrounding community, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities – a truly inclusive and comprehensive health care model.” Senator Sean Ryan: “For decades, People Inc. has provided a wide range of health and human services to the people of Western New York. The opening of the Health Services Building kicks off an exciting new chapter for People Inc. and Evergreen Health, and brings a variety of important physical and mental health services to one convenient location right in the heart of North Buffalo.” Assemblyman Bill Conrad: “The pandemic has not only taxed American healthcare providers, it has also exposed longstanding inequities in our healthcare system. I am grateful that here in Western New York, we have an agency like People Inc., which – since well before we’d even heard of COVID-19 – has been tending to the health and wellness needs of our most vulnerable citizens, including the residents of traditionally underserved areas and individuals with developmental disabilities. The new People Inc. Health Services Building, offering a ‘one-stop’ center for the holistic care of each patient, with more space in an easy-to-reach location, is a testament to the mission of People Inc. and its partner, Evergreen Health. I commend People Inc. and Evergreen Health for their continued commitment to our community, and I thank its team of loyal supporters, both public and private.” People Inc., a multispecialty non-profit health and human services agency, provides programs and services to thousands of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, special needs, families and older adults throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted people to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. With nearly 4,000 employees, People Inc. is one of the region’s largest employers. To learn more, visit people-inc.org, follow People Inc . on Facebook or Twitter @PeopleIncNews . Evergreen Health fosters healthy communities by providing medical, supportive and behavioral services to individuals and families in Western New York – especially those who are living with chronic illness or who are underserved by the healthcare system. People First Mobility, a durable medical equipment division of People Inc., is Western New York’s premier provider of mobility, seating and home medical equipment to assist people with disabling conditions reach their functional potential in their home and community. The ECMC Center for Dental Care provides general dental health services for families, including people with special needs, providing a variety of treatments and procedures. Services are provided for patients who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, traumatic brain injury and dementia, among other complex medical conditions.

Fall Informational Sessions Planned

The People Inc. Foundation is launching its Charitable Gift Annuity program. This is a tool that allows you to make an investment, get a tax deduction, and receive guaranteed monthly/quarterly or annual payments back to you in your retirement, for the rest of your life. Two informational sessions have been scheduled this Fall to explain in straight language and address any questions. We've engaged two certified financial planners to be available, and our COO, General Counsel and Foundation Director will also be available to discuss. Come learn a lot in a short session, either: Tuesday, September 28, 2010 6:00 PM (Light Dinner will be served) 3131 Sheridan Drive Southwestern Blvd (Northtown Plaza) Tuesday, October 5, 2010 6:00 PM (Light dinner will be served) (Orchard Park Day Program) *Please RSVP to Jolene Stanek at 716.817.7262, for dinner and materials count.

Family & Friends Tours Return In-Person

People Inc. proudly announces the return of the in-person Family & Friends Tours for people who want to learn more about our services. These tours may be of interest to: a person seeking supports, family seeking services for a loved one, teacher/school transition coordinator, or a care coordinator.

Family Advisory Presentation Rescheduled

March 15, 2021: There are technical difficulties with the Family Advisory presentation on Legislative Issues, scheduled for 4:30 p.m. today on Microsoft Teams. The session will be rescheduled. We apologize for any inconvenience. Thank you.

Family Education & Training Series 2009

July - December 2009 The following series are for families of children with developmental disabilities. These programs are provided through the funding of the Home and Community Based Waiver schedule. Click here for the full list of programs & how to sign up!

Family Education & Training Series 2009

Family Education and Training Series  January - June 2009 The following series are for families of children with developmental disabilities. These programs are provided through the funding of the Home and Community Based Waiver schedule. Click here for the full list of programs & how to sign up!