People Inc., an Essential Employer, is Hiring

Seeking People to Work in Human Services March 27, 2020: During this challenging time, many people locally have been displaced from their places of employment. In response, People Inc. encourages fellow Western New Yorker’s to consider a career in human services. As an essential employer, People Inc. provides supports 24/7 for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, special needs and their families throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. Currently, People Inc. is hiring Direct Support Professionals and Behavior Technicians for its community-based residential locations. These employees play an integral part assisting people with developmental disabilities to live as independently as possible by supporting them with personal care, household duties, and recreational activities. People Inc. is currently hiring throughout the region, with immediate opportunities in Angola, Boston, East Aurora, Evans, Farnham, Grand Island and Orchard Park, NY. Full time, part time and temporary positions are available to work mainly evening, overnight and weekend shifts (offering additional pay for overnight and weekend shifts). People Inc. provides comprehensive paid training and various benefits. Direct Support Professionals work in a number of different settings and often have opportunities to share their own passions and talents with the people they support. Compassionate job seekers who have a desire to assist people with intellectual and developmental disabilities can apply online at people-inc.org/careers . Recruiters will work with candidates in a timely manner through the hiring process. 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 people 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.

People Inc. Jefferson Avenue Apartments Mural Project Call for Art

February 21, 2020: People Inc., in collaboration with the WNY Urban Arts Collective, is requesting local visual artists to submit proposals for murals to be installed on the newly constructed Jefferson Avenue Apartments, located at 1140 and 1166 Jefferson Avenue, Buffalo, NY. Artists are encouraged to be creative and to use any resources available. Images should be captivating, engaging and reflective of the theme, Historic Jefferson Avenue. Proposals are due by Sunday, April 12. Details and guidelines are available online .  For questions and proposal submissions, contact John Baker, president of WNY Urban Arts Collective, at jonbak@112@yahoo.com or 716.994.3584. For apartment rental information for People Inc. Jefferson Avenue Apartments, contact housing@people-inc.org or call 716.880.3890. 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 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.

Apartment Application Day for North Tonawanda Apartments

February 13, 2020: Currently under construction, People Inc. Grant Street Apartments is accepting applications for a spring move-in. Located at 25 Grant Street, North Tonawanda, NY, in a suburban setting/school zone, the apartments are ideal for a single person, couple or young family. An Apartment Application Day will be held on Saturday, February 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at People Inc. Highland School Apartments, 105 Highland Avenue, Tonawanda (an additional Affordable Income Housing location managed by People Inc.).  The apartments are for people who are age 18 or older and meet the federally-mandated household income guidelines; rental vouchers accepted. The Application Day event will be held for those interested in these apartments and to address any eligibility questions.  Apartment features include: Professional on-site management; kitchen with stainless steel appliances; secure entrance with intercoms, security cameras, grab bars in bathrooms and sprinkler system; on-site laundry facilities; central air conditioning; two blocks from a major bus route and smoke-free living. Additionally, tenants may have one small pet.  Some apartments are designed for people who are mobility and vision/hearing impaired; the remaining apartments are handicapped adaptable.  Located in the heart of North Tonawanda, People Inc. Grant Street Apartments is close by to shopping, restaurants, grocery stores, theatre, banks and schools. For more information about eligibility or to RSVP for the Apartment Application Day, email housing@people-inc.org or call 716-880-3890. 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.

People Inc. Receives $13,900 Grant from the Health Foundation for Western & Central New York

Funds will support project that aims to reduce social isolation among older adults February 3, 2020: People Inc. is proud to announce that it has been awarded $13,900 from the Health Foundation for Western and Central New York. The funds will support “Ready, Set, Click and Learn,” a project that aims to reduce social isolation among older adults by increasing their use of technology to become socially and emotionally connected to friends and family.  Through an interactive five-week program, older adults, will learn how to safely connect with loved ones and access information through video chat, Google search, electronic calendaring and social media outlets such as Facebook. Sessions will be taught by an instructor, with mentoring provided by volunteer students from the D’Youville College Occupational Therapy Program. They will take place at People Inc. Sunflower Senior Living in Lackawanna, NY, and the Akron Newstead Senior Center in Akron, NY. “We are so thankful to the Health Foundation for making these sessions possible,” said Concetta Ferguson, senior vice president, People Inc. “Many older adults experience social isolation and do not have the tools to stay connected with loved ones and friends. Through ‘Ready, Set, Click and Learn,’ we look forward to providing people with these interactive resources.” The Health Foundation is an independent private foundation that advocates for continuous improvement in health and health care by investing in the people and organizations that serve young children and older adults. 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 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.

Lothlorien Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc. Becomes an Affiliate of People Inc.

Collaboration to provide increased services to a wider audience February 3, 2020:  Lothlorien Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc. (Lothlorien) recently became an affiliate of People Inc. The affiliation with People Inc., the region’s largest health and human services agency, will expand Lothlorien’s reach and mission of assisting people to develop their highest potential through therapeutically-based equine activities. The services will continue to be provided through trained volunteer facilitators and instructors who translate time spent with a horse into a meaningful, healing relationship that enhances overall health. Working together since 2005, this new partnership allows Lothlorien and People Inc. to provide the best possible outcomes for people receiving support and the staff who assist them. This affiliation allows both organizations to pool resources to meet growing demands, enhance collaborative power and expand services for a broader geographic reach. Additional benefits of the affiliation include increased stability, added capacity and expertise and improved prospects for growth. It will also provide cost benefits by efficiently combining office operations, such as administration, finance and human resources. Thanks to the forward-thinking Lothlorien board, the partnership will showcase the effectiveness of collaboration and makes both entities stronger together. At the same time, it allows the Lothlorien name and legacy to continue within the community, while maintaining the intimate culture that people value from this important local resource. “This affiliation is very exciting for all of us at Lothlorien. This is an opportunity for us to honor the history created by the Lothlorien leadership, while developing new services and reaching more people,” said Maggie Keller, Lothlorien executive director. “We’re looking forward to embracing this new level of partnership with Lothlorien to help create new opportunities for the people our agencies support,” said Rhonda Frederick, president and CEO, People Inc. “The long-lasting benefits of the program will continue to help people thrive and achieve significant physical, emotional and cognitive milestones.” In 2019, Lothlorien served over 700 people with all abilities, challenges and special needs. A transition team from both agencies has been formed and agency supports will be integrated and strengthened, in addition to creating synergy through the partnership. Established in 1983, Lothlorien Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc. is a non-profit, therapeutic horseback riding facility providing horsemanship and horseback riding opportunities for people with cognitive, physical, emotional and learning disabilities. Lothlorien delivers therapeutic equine services with the help of specially trained instructors, 200 volunteers and two staff. Located at a 10-acre facility outside the Village of East Aurora, NY, Lothlorien is the longest running therapeutic program in Western New York, serving ages three and up. Programs can be modified to accommodate school, community and church groups, civic organizations, families, couples and more. For more information, go to lothlorientrc.org or call 716-655-1335. 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.

People Inc. Receives $100,000 Quality of Life Grant from Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation for Elmwood Health Center

November 25, 2019: People Inc. is proud to announce that it has been awarded $100,000 from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation National Paralysis Resource Center (PRC) Expanded Effect Quality of Life Grants cycle. The award was one of seven grants totaling $663,946 given to nonprofit organizations that empower individuals living with paralysis. Since the program’s inception, 3,153 grants totaling over $26 million have been awarded. Funding for this new pilot program of expansion grants was made possible through a cooperative agreement with the Administration for Community Living (ACL grant #90PRRC0002-01-01). The Expanded Effect Quality of Life grants is a brand new initiative for the Quality of Life Grants program, joining others like the Direct Effect and High Impact grants. With the program being in existence since 1999, the new Expanded Effect grants also marks the first time the Reeve Foundation has specifically awarded a cohort of grants that support significant expansion of strategies and programs previously supported by the Reeve Foundation, that are evidence-based, have proven innovative practices, and/or best practices in the field they serve to improve quality of life for people with paralysis, their families, and caregivers. In this cycle, the Reeve Foundation funded a wide variety of projects from education programs to arts programs for veterans, and adaptive sports programs.  “It is an exciting time for our grants program as we continue to innovate new avenues to provide greater opportunities to our applicants,” said Mark Bogosian, director, Quality of Life Grants Program. “The Expanded Effect grants program promises greater impact. The program truly embraces both Christopher and Dana Reeve’s vision and legacy to advance the quality of life of those living with paralysis.” People Inc. will use the grant to purchase specialty equipment at the Elmwood Health Center (EHC). “We are so thankful for this generous donation from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation,” said Frank Azzarelli, executive director of the Elmwood Health Center. “The equipment, including a new Quantum Q6 Edge power wheelchair, pressure mapping system, ceiling tracks, exam tables, wheelchair scales and a Power Wheelchair Driver Training System, will greatly benefit our 500 patients living with paralysis. Through use of these resources, patients will be able to access exceptional health care, increase their health and enhance their quality of life.” About the Reeve Foundation: The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation is dedicated to curing spinal cord injury by funding innovative research and improving the quality of life for people living with paralysis through grants, information, and advocacy. The Paralysis Resource Center (PRC) is the support side of the Reeve Foundation’s twin missions to provide “Today’s Care” and to strive for “Tomorrow’s Cure” and offers a free, comprehensive, national source of informational support for individuals living with paralysis and their caregivers. We meet all 20 of the Better Business Bureau’s standards for charity accountability and hold the BBB’s Charity Seal. For more information, please visit our website at www.ChristopherReeve.org or call 800-539-7309. About People Inc.: 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. About the Elmwood Health Center: Founded in 1994, the Elmwood Health Center, an affiliate of People Inc., is a health care facility that provides a wide range of medical, rehabilitative therapies and counseling services for the general public. Specially designed services for people with developmental disabilities are provided. The Elmwood Health Center is located at 2128 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, NY (North Buffalo, border of Kenmore).

WNY Coalition Pooled Trusts Receive Award from Network in Aging of WNY, Inc.

WNY Coalition Pooled Trusts is a collaboration between People Inc. and the Center for Elder Law & Justice November 19, 2019: On November 7, the Network in Aging of Western New York, Inc. presented the “Program Award of Excellence” to the WNY Coalition Pooled Trusts. The award showcases a program that has been successfully implemented to enhance the Western New York geriatric citizenry and meet a clearly identified need within the community. The WNY Coalition Pooled Trusts is a collaboration between People Inc. and the Center for Elder Law & Justice. Established in 2004, the trusts now serve hundreds of beneficiaries, including more than 750 older adults and are provided as a service to the community. The two partners originally created the program to enhance the quality of life of people with developmental disabilities. Since its inception, they have expanded the types of trusts offered to include people over age 65 years with qualifying disabilities.  Today, three distinct Supplemental Needs Trusts (SNT) assist people to secure their financial future, without causing them to lose their government benefits. Through depositing their income directly into the trust, purchases of additional items and services not adequately covered by governmental benefits are possible. Beneficiaries pool their money together to take advantage of better investment opportunities. From humble beginnings, millions of dollars are now expertly managed. KeyBank is the financial partner and manages the investments as well. The “Over 65 Self-funded Trust” was created specifically to meet the needs of area older adults – especially those with no circle of support – who want to remain in their residence of choice as long as possible. This allows them to avoid premature nursing home placement. The physical, emotional and mental changes that accompany aging often create a frustrating experience for seniors and their families. The hope is to provide a continuum of quality care and supports (including medical coverage, home care/long-term care), which enables each person to maintain their dignity. Through use of the pooled trust, older adults now have a resource to protect their financial future while paying for their ever-increasing healthcare, medications and living expenses. Being able to remain in their residence of choice also permits these seniors to continue to participate in and contribute to the local communities. A hallmark of this program is the personal attention provided to beneficiaries and their families. A local representative meets with each person, builds a relationship in order to better offer assistance with the process of opening a trust and continues through the life of the trust. For more information, go to wnypooledtrust.org or call 716.817.7484. The Center for Elder Law & Justice is a non-profit civil legal services agency, providing free legal representation in eight Western New York counties. 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.

Holiday Sale at Museum of disABILITY Store Offers Unique Gifts

Discounts for teachers, students and veterans  November 18, 2019: Looking for a unique gift on your shopping list this holiday season? Look no further than the charming store located inside the Museum of disABILITY History. A Holiday Store Sale and Book Fair will be held on Saturday, November 30, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 3826 Main Street, Buffalo (Amherst border, near University at Buffalo South Campus).  The sale includes special discounts: Buy one children’s book, get the second half off. Students and teachers receive 20% off with valid employee ID. Military active duty, reservists and veterans receive 20% off with valid ID. Popular children’s books, like Olivia the Bully , Kyle and the Cape of Courage and the Mubu the Morph series, make great gifts and learning tools for kids. Plus, books in the Museum of disABILITY History’s Abandoned History Series are available, including The Colony Chronicles , Buffalo State Hospital: A History of the Institution in Light and Shadow and J.N. Adam Memorial Hospital: Her Inside Voice .  The Museum Store offers merchandise made by people of People Inc. Day Habilitation program participants. People with developmental disabilities have created unique items like wooden pens and wine stoppers, hand painted wine glasses and pillows, among other items. Each item is hand-made and no two items are the same. Additionally, DVDs, CDs, jewelry and more are for sale. In addition to the store items, membership to the Museum of disABILITY History makes a beneficial gift for family and friends. There are five different levels of memberships, with each receiving a variety of perks. Museum of disABILITY History members receive a 10 percent discount on store merchandise during this holiday sale and throughout the year. Store proceeds benefit the Museum of disABILITY History. For more information, call 716-629-3626. The Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc., is dedicated to the collection, preservation and display of artifacts relating to the history of people with disabilities. The only museum of its kind in the U.S., the Museum of disABILITY History offers educational exhibits, programs, publications and activities to create awareness and a platform for dialogue and discovery. The mission is to tell the story of the lives, triumphs and struggles of people with disabilities as well as society’s reactions.

Deaf Access Services Hosts “A Magical Homecoming” Event to Recognize the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community and its Supporters

Award-winning Deaf Magician Matthew “Magic” Morgan to Perform November 7, 2019: Deaf Access Services, an affiliate of People Inc., is hosting “A Magical Homecoming” event on Wednesday, November 13, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Joseph’s Country Manor and Grove, 275 Columbia Avenue, Depew, NY. The event welcomes the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, along with people from the Hearing community who support them.  The event includes a performance by Matthew “Magic” Morgan, an award-winning Deaf magician. During his highly visual performance, Morgan combines the art of illusion and comedy to give audiences a program of wholesome family entertainment by using humor, magic and mime.  Deaf leaders, volunteers and community partnerships will be recognized during the event. Award winners include: Mark Schroeder, NYS DMV Commissioner and former board member; Yann Spindler, community advocate; Best Self Behavioral Health and Deaf Access Services Advisory Council Members. The keynote speaker is Rhonda Frederick, president and CEO of People Inc. Deaf Access Services, which became an affiliate of People Inc. earlier this year, serves over 600 people through various programs. “We look forward to recognizing the people who have worked so hard this year to support the Deaf community in Western New York, said Pamela Kefi, executive director, Deaf Access Services. “We will also be celebrating our first year as an affiliate of People Inc. and all that our new partnership has to offer.” Event admission is $55 per person. For tickets, go to bit.ly/DASHomecoming. For more information, contact Stacy Allen at sallen@wnydas.org or call 716-335-9192. Services provided by Deaf Access Services include: In-Person Interpreting, Video Remote Interpreting (VRI), American Sign Language classes, community services navigation and advocacy, Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART), assistive technology supports, employment placement, specialized Deaf refugee services, and Life Skills and Literacy adult education classes. Formed in 1983 by a group of dedicated Deaf leaders and volunteers concerned about the welfare of the Deaf community, Deaf Access Services is the only local non-profit community organization solely dedicated to serve the Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities. Deaf Access Services envisions a community where all people experience equality, empowerment and inclusion to lead lives full of possibilities.