Headway of Western New York Hosts Annual Spring Fundraiser to Benefit People with Brain Injuries

Headway of WNY will host its 19th annual gala, “Spring Carnevale,” on Thursday, May 17, from 6 to 9 p.m. at The Atrium @ Rich’s, 1 Robert Rich Way, Buffalo, NY. The event includes games, food stations, an open bar, music, entertainment, silent auction and raffle with more than 100 baskets.  For the last 18 years, this fundraiser has raised important funds in support of Headway of WNY, an affiliate of People Inc. Headway’s mission is to ensure that individuals in Western New York with brain injuries, other disabilities and seniors have access to advocacy, resources and support systems to enable them to live as independently as possible. Headway seeks to educate the broader community about the causes, consequences and means of prevention of brain injury. General pre-sale tickets are $55 each until May 16, and may be purchased online, headwayofwny.org . Tickets may be purchased at the event for $60 each. Proceeds from this event support Headway of WNY to ensure that individuals in Western New York who have brain injuries and other disabilities have access to advocacy, resources and supports to enable them to live as independently as possible. To learn more about the event or to make a donation, contact Christine Melchiorre at cmelchiorre@headwayofwny.org or call 716.408.3117.   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 and the Regional Resource Center/Single Point of Entry for the New York State Department of Health’s Nursing Home Transition and Diversion Waiver and the Traumatic Brain Injury Waiver.

Headway of Western New York Walk, Run and Wheel 5K

Raise awareness for those living with traumatic brain injuries and other disabilities What: Headway of Western New York “Walk, Run and Wheel 5K When: Sunday, September 8, 2013 Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and Walk begins at 9:30 a.m. Three mile scenic walk through Buffalo’s waterfront or one mile available. Where: Erie Basin Marina at The Hatch, 329 Erie Street, Buffalo The event course provides participants a journey along Buffalo’s majestic waterfront. A post-race party at The Hatch will include an award ceremony with lunch and an auction. Participants can run, walk or wheel the course. The goal of the fundraiser is to raise awareness for those living with traumatic brain injuries and other disabilities. The Headway Walk, Run and Wheel is held on Buffalo’s beautiful waterfront and co-sponsored with The Hatch Restaurant. There will be an approximately 1 mile walk and a 5K run, with registration for both starting at 8:30 a.m. and stepping off at 9:30 a.m. The cost on the day of the event is $20. For more information, call 716-408-3100. Like Headway of WNY on Facebook at . Headway of Western New York Inc., an affiliate of People Inc., supports and advocates for individuals with brain injuries and other disabilities. Headway of Western New York Inc. is a volunteer non-profit agency that provides support groups, advocacy, educational materials, recreational opportunities, resource and referral services as well as linkage for case management, educational in-services for students, healthcare professionals and service providers. Through advocacy and education, Headway supports people with brain injuries and their families, for their right to dignity and enjoyment of life. Headway promotes prevention through community awareness. People Inc. is a not-for-profit health and human services agency providing programs and services to more than 12,000 people with special needs, their families, and seniors throughout Western New York. Since 1971, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. “Traumatic brain injury isn’t an event that you recover from. It is an event you live with for the rest of your life.”

Headway of Western New York’s Hosts Annual Spring Fundraiser

Headway of WNY, a not-for-profit agency and an affiliate of People Inc., will host their annual fundraising event called “Healing, Growing, Celebrating Life” on Thursday, May 10, from 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. It will be held at Westwood Country Club, Windows on the Green, 772 North Forest Road, Williamsville (corner of North Forest Road and Sheridan Drive). The event includes music, food and auctions. Support of this event assists Headway of WNY continue support and advocacy for persons with brain injuries and other disabilities. Headway of WNY strives to help a variety of people, from young adults to seniors, in their journey after injury and disability. Services include: advocacy, direct support groups, a resource directory, community education program and a partnership with the Veteran’s Hospital to support veterans who are injured and their families. Tickets for the event are $40 each and include food and two hours of beverages (beer, wine and soda) and a chance to win door prizes. For more information, call 716-408-3100. Brain injury is often referred to as the unseen epidemic. Every 21 seconds one person in the U.S. sustains a brain injury 1.5 million people in the U.S. suffer brain injuries each year. Half of these are children. 30 years ago, most people with severe injuries would have died. Now with improved trauma care, the majority survive. The cost is over $60 billion annually and more than 7 million people in the U.S. live with a lifelong disability as a result of a brain injury. Headway of WNY, a not-for-profit agency and an affiliate of People Inc., provides resources, support groups, recreational programs, training and educational programs to both survivors and caregivers of brain injury. Headway of WNY, Inc. is a volunteer support, advocacy and resource organization that was founded in 1985 by caring families and individuals who have survived brain injury and other disabilities. “Traumatic brain injury isn’t an event that you recover from. It is an event you live with for the rest of your life.”

Headway of WNY 2nd Annual 5K Run

Looking for something fun to do outside while summer weather is still around? Then bring your friends or family down to The Hatch at the Erie Basin Marina on Saturday, September 10, 2011 for the 2nd Annual 5K run to benefit Headway of Western New York, Inc., an affiliate of People Inc. Entrance fee for participants will be $20 if pre-registered by September 6 or $25 on the day of the race. Everyone is invited to walk, wheel or run to help raise money for Headway of Western New York, an agency that supports and advocates for individuals with brain injuries and other disabilities. Race day registration begins at 7:30 a.m. and runners will begin at 9 a.m. with walkers and wheelers following shortly after at 9:30 a.m. The course will run through Buffalo�s gorgeous waterfront and a commemorative t-shirt will be given to the first 150 registrants. After the race, everyone is then invited to enjoy the post party with an award ceremony that will include food, music, pop, water, beer and an auction. Any non-registrants for the race can attend the post party by purchasing a $5 admission ticket. The day is sure to be fun for all ages and we hope to see everyone there to help support a great cause. For more information or to register, visit or email headway@headwayofwny.org or call 716.408.3100.

Health and Human Services Careers Open Interview Day at People Inc.

People Inc. is hosting an Open Interview Day on Wednesday, March 16, from noon to 5 p.m., at 692 Millersport Highway, Amherst. Full-time, part-time, plus seasonal jobs for career opportunities in the health and human services field are available.   Employees receive numerous benefits, including health insurance, tuition reimbursement, 401(k) pension plan and paid training. Additionally, holiday incentives and other benefits are provided.   Candidates should dress professionally and be prepared for an interview with a resume. Descriptions for specific jobs are listed on the agency’s website. No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome   For more information, call, 716-322-7050. For those who cannot attend, but are interested in applying may do so online at people-inc.org/careers .   People Inc. provides programs and services to more than 12,000 people with special needs, their families and seniors throughout Western New York and Rochester. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. To learn more, please visit www.people-inc.org . Like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/people-inc and follow us on Twitter @PeopleIncNews .

Health and Wellness Fair at People Inc. Lilly Senior Living in Blasdell

UNYTS Blood Drive Available People Inc. Lilly Senior Living will host a Health and Wellness Fair on Saturday, August 22, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 36 Arthur Avenue, Blasdell. Neighborhood businesses will be participating. Free flu shots will be provided by Foresters Pharmacy. There will be a UNYTS blood drive. Every three seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Attendees can help by donating blood through UNYTS. All donated blood stays in Western New York to help patients in local hospitals. People Inc. Senior Services information will be available, along with apartment tours. Whether thinking of downsizing or removing the burden of household maintenance, People Inc. Lilly Senior Living provides older adults the chance to live affordably. Apartments are for seniors, age 62 and up, who meet federally mandated income guidelines. Apartment applications are being accepted and staff can address eligibility questions at the event. To RSVP or for more information, call 716-821-1230. People Inc. manages 19 senior apartment locations throughout Western New York. For more information about other locations, call 716-817-9090. People Inc. is a not-for-profit health and human services agency providing programs and services to more than 12,000 people with special needs, their families and seniors throughout Western New York. Since 1971, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity.

Health and Wellness Open House Event at People Inc. Marigold Senior Living in Grand Island

August 28, 2019: Numerous activities will be available at the People Inc. Marigold Senior Living at the Health and Wellness Open House event on Thursday, September 12, at its location, 3026 Grand Island Boulevard, Grand Island, NY. The free event, geared for older adults and their families, will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Event features include: Mammography screenings provided by the WNY Breast Health Mobile Mammography Coach. To make an appointment, call 716-632-7465 (select option 3). Chiropractic mini-evaluations, five-minute chair massages and acupuncture information will be provided by Grand Island Chiropractic. Blood pressure screenings will be available courtesy of Island Prescription Center. Health and benefits consultations from Sheridan Benefits will be provided. Information about People Inc. programs will be available, including Senior Living, Senior Companion, Senior Outreach, Mixed-Income Housing and WNY Coalition Pooled Trusts. Additionally, the Weenie Wagon will be onsite for attendees to purchase lunch if they choose.  Older adults and their families are encouraged to take advantage of apartment tours of People Inc. Marigold Senior Living during the event. Apartments are for independent older adults, age 62 and over, who are income-eligible. Two benefits of People Inc. Marigold Senior Living are the affordability and safety features. As an added cost savings, some utilities are included. The one-bedroom apartments include a kitchen with appliances. For added safety, there is a day-time manager and a live-in caretaker for building emergencies. Safety features include stove fire prevention devices, grab bars in the bathroom, emergency pull-cords and a secure entrance. The apartment building includes a furnished community room, laundry facilities and a 24-hour response system.  Tenants are welcome to have one small pet. Service coordinators are available to provide tenants assistance to supports and services at no extra charge. Group transportation to grocery stores is provided. For tenants who like to socialize, there are a variety of social events and community outings held throughout the year.  Event registration is encouraged for the Health and Wellness Open House. To RSVP or for more information, call 716-773-0907. People Inc. Senior Living manages 19 senior apartment locations throughout Western New York. For information about other locations, call 716-817-9090. People Inc., a multispecialty non-profit health and human services agency, provides programs and services to more than 10,000 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, special needs, their families and older adults throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted individuals 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.

HIGGINS STANDS WITH RESIDENTS, BUSINESS AND NON PROFITS IMPACTED BY PROPOSED SHUTDOWN OF AMHERST SOCIAL SECURITY

On 74 th Anniversary of the First Social Security Payment Congressman Fights to Protect Services in WNY Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) stood with Western New York residents, businesses, and employees concerned that the proposal to close the Social Security office in Amherst, NY would have a serious impact on the population it serves.  “74 years ago today, January 31, 1940, Ida May Fuller became the first American to receive a Social Security Check and it was because she stepped into a field office like the one we have here in Amherst to speak one-on-one with a claims clerk and learn more about the program,” said Congressman Higgins.  “It is easy for Washington, DC decision makers to suggest people should just go online or visit another office, but this office, with its proximity to the University at Buffalo and a concentration of senior and social service facilities, helps a very specialized population that is best served right here in Amherst.”      History of Service Born on September 6, 1874, in 1939 Ida May Fuller visited the Rutland, Vermont Social Security office to ask about benefits.  Social Security Administration (SSA) employee Elizabeth Corcoran Burke transmitted the claim for adjudication and once approved it was sent to the U.S. Treasury Department for payment.  Ms. Fuller received the first Social Security check in the nation for $22.54 on January 31, 1940.  Steven Serrano, President of American Federation of Government Employees Local 3342, said “Thousands of people use this office every year and that number will grow as the population continues to age and apply for benefits.  Who will be here to answer the questions so many disabled people have about whether they qualify for the Social Security Disability Program?  Who will be here when a young person who just lost a parent comes here to find out about survivors benefits?  And who will be here for the many questions people have about their retirement benefits?  The answer is: if this office closes there will be no one to help any of these people. “ The Amherst facility serves a 268.9 square mile area with a population of 384,515.  The office has seen a 69% cut in staffing over the last 20 years - the largest reduction of the 20 Western New York regional offices – yet they continue to serve a large caseload.  In 2013 the Amherst office processed over 32% of all retirement, survivors and disability insurance claims in Erie County and assisted approximately 36,000 people through that site specifically. Impact on Business & Specialized Populations In 2006, People Inc., a non-profit human services agency that serves people with disabilities, deliberately opened a service coordination department in the same building as the Amherst Social Security office.  People Inc. helps to manage the expenses of 900 individuals that receive a form of Social Security and the agency’s 200 employees that work out of that site work on a daily basis with the 22 employees in the Amherst Social Security office to facilitate cases and expedite problems.  Every year there are over 400 Social Security reviews of individuals for which People Inc. serves as the payee.  A shutdown of this location would not only break an invaluable direct connection between People Inc. and Amherst SSA employees that meets the needs of people with disabilities, People Inc. and the individuals they serve would have to pay thousands of dollars in new transportation costs. A person living in Amherst taking public transit would have to take a bus, rail and walk over ¼ mile to reach the Social Security office in Buffalo – a trip taking over an hour one-way.    “Most of the individuals that our staff at this location assists have a disability.  We moved here almost 10 years ago so that our staff of almost 200 people could help the several hundred people we aid and advocate for at this location almost daily.  The Social Security workers at this location know our folks and are wonderful with servicing them.  Frankly, this move could be detrimental not only to our people with disabilities but the economic viability of this plaza,” said Rhonda Frederick, Chief Operating Officer, People Inc. The University at Buffalo (UB), whose North and South campuses are in close proximity to the Amherst field office, is home to 5,200 international students that rely on the Social Security office to assist with the necessary paperwork for on-campus employment or obtaining a New York State driver’s license.  Ellen Dussourd, Assistant Vice Provost and Director, International Student & Scholar Services said “The Amherst Social Security Office is a vital resource for UB’s international faculty, researchers, and students who need Social Security Cards for their employment at UB.  Since they often do not have cars, these individuals who teach UB’s classes and conduct research in its labs will be negatively impacted.  UB has long enjoyed a close working relationship with the Amherst Social Security Office and is quite concerned at the prospect that it may close, so we are very appreciative of Congressman Higgins’ efforts to keep it open.” During fall orientation UB busses over 200 students to the Amherst Social Security office in one day alone.  International students, many who work as teaching assistants, resident assistants, graduate assistants or visiting scholars, need to apply for Social Security cards to work in the United States.  In addition any international student or scholar applying for a New York State driver’s license must first obtain a letter from SSA.   “The Amherst Chamber of Commerce, representing over 2500 members and 107 zip codes in the Buffalo Niagara region, applauds Congressman Higgins efforts to maintain the full operation of the Social Security office located in Amherst.  This office location is accessible to over 200,000 residents in Amherst and the adjacent community of Tonawanda.  While we recognize the need for fiscal constraints as it relates to the dedication of tax dollars, closing a heavily utilized location that meets the needs of a significant portion of the constituent base is not good public policy.” Impact on Seniors In the Social Security Administration’s own Service Area Review, they note that “Amherst services 17 of the 36 nursing homes in Erie County” and “as a result, Amherst has a large amount of Centenarian cases for the area.” “Closing this social security office will unduly burden tens of thousands of Amherst seniors, forcing the elderly and disabled to travel further to access their essential and hard-earned social security services,” said Senator Charles Schumer. “That is why I’m urging the Social Security Administration to reverse course and keep the doors open at the popular Amherst Office, which serves over 36,000 seniors a year.  These seniors have worked hard their whole lives and earned these benefits, and they have earned first-class service.” Rev. Dr. William L. Wipfler, an 82-year old Western New Yorker, who has worked as a missionary and Episcopal clergy for over 50 years and served in various roles including board member with the Alzheimer’s Association, also spoke at the event expressing concern about the severe difficulties this closing would represent for the elderly.  Rev. Wipfler pointed out how although the region’s overall population has declined over the last decade, the senior population is growing.  According to 2010 census numbers: Erie County’s 85+ population has increased by 27.4% since 2000 The Town of Amherst has seen a 39% growth in residents 85+ and as well as a growth in the 60+ population which now represents nearly a quarter of the Town’s population (23.9%) In Clarence residents 60+ have increased by 40.5% and the 85+ group has increased by nearly 68% Grand Island residents 60+ represent over 21% of the Town’s population, a 51% increase over the last decade, and their 85+ residents have grown by more than 85%.  In the City and Town of Tonawanda, the 85+ population has grown by 63.6% and 51.5% respectively. Higgins pointed out that these numbers demonstrate that the very area served by the Amherst office far exceeds the national average which has seen a 10 year population increase of 15% for those over 65 and 29.5% for those over 85 years of age.  Social Security Administration Accountability Act When the SSA first announced plans to close the Amherst field office on January 15, 2014, Congressman Higgins pledged to fight it .  On January 21 st he sent a letter to the Acting Commissioner of Social Security objecting to the shutdown .  Congressman Higgins plans to introduce the Social Security Administration Accountability Act which would require the SSA to halt field office closings until SSA transmit to Congress a report which includes caseload data, service population and staffing levels at field offices as well as the process by which office closings are selected.   

Holiday Greetings from People Inc.!

We’re happy to share our People Inc. 2021 Holiday Electronic-card , featuring artwork by participants of the People Inc. Artisan's Edge Day Program. "From our People Inc. family to yours, we wish you a season that’s safe, merry and bright!"