Traumatic Brain Injury Survivor and Author Ryan Young to Present about Determination and Not Giving Up

As part of its Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series, the Museum of disABILITY History will host a free presentation called, “Ryan Young: Determine Not to Give Up” on Wednesday, March 27, from 11:30 to 12:30, at its location 3826 Main Street, Buffalo, NY. Young will discuss his life of living with a traumatic brain injury and about his book, “Thankful, Blessed Individual: Never Stop Believing in Miracles.” Young’s story is one of initial tragedy, growing strength and perseverance. Life has its ups and downs and Young’s life has been no different. However, it is Young’s belief in himself and his faith which allows him to be a source of motivation and inspiration. The event will also feature a presentation from Ronald Fernández, RRDS, CRC, LMHC, director, Headway of WNY, Inc., an affiliate of People Inc. He will focus on what a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is and its causes, history of services in New York State and treatment options. The free presentation is ideal for people with traumatic brain injuries and their families, teachers and educational staff, nurses, students, medical and human services agencies and child care providers.  Registration encouraged. To RSVP or for more information, email David Mack-Hardiman at dmack@people-inc.org or call 716-629-3626. 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. 

Book Presentation and Signing in Rochester Featuring David Mack-Hardiman and Diana Katovitch

As part of its Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series, the Museum of disABILITY History will provide a free presentation with two authors with a Book Presentation and Signing on Wednesday, March 27, from 10:30 a.m. to noon, at the People Inc. Rochester Administrative Office at 1860 Buffalo Road, Rochester.  David Mack-Hardiman will present the newly released book, “The Colony Chronicles.” He will speak about this rare account of life inside the Craig Colony for Epileptics, a unique health institution in New York State. Additionally, he will discuss the history of Craig Colony and his partnering with photographer Char Szabo-Perricelli, who captured the essence of Craig Colony.  Diana “Dee” Katovitch will present her book, “Beautiful Children: The Story of Elm Hill School and Home for Feebleminded Children and Youth.” The book and discussion are about the Elm Hill School, which was the first school for children with intellectual disabilities in 1848 in Barre, Massachusetts. Katovitch will review her research, the progressive nature of early special education and the importance of disability history.   The presentation is ideal for historians, teachers and educational staff, medical professionals, students, mental health providers, human services agencies and child care providers.  Both books will be available for purchase. Registration encouraged. To RSVP or for more information, email David Mack-Hardiman at dmack@people-inc.org or call 716-629-3626. 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.

Celebrating Abilities on World Down Syndrome Day: March 21

Families from Down Syndrome Parents Syndrome Group of WNY Available for Interviews Free admission at Museum of disABILITY History    What: World Down Syndrome Day is March 21 Families to share their stories and free admission throughout the day at the Museum of disABILITY History.   When: Thursday, March 21, 2019 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.: Families from the Down Syndrome Parents Syndrome Group of Western New York to be available 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Free admission to the Museum of disABILITY History, open to the public  Where: Museum of disABILITY History, 3826 Main Street, Buffalo, NY Who: Families of the Down Syndrome Parents Syndrome Group of Western New York and community members. <> Why: According to the Down Syndrome International website, the global awareness day calls upon every person with Down syndrome to tell the world to “leave no one behind.” The Museum of disABILITY History’s “In Celebration of Down Syndrome” traveling exhibit will be on display. The exhibit explores medical history, myths and facts, as well as success stories and popular culture of people with Down syndrome. Family members of the Down Syndrome Parents Syndrome Group of Western New York will be available between 9 to 10:30 a.m. during an informal reception to share their stories.  “All people with Down syndrome must have opportunities to live valued lives, included on a full and equal basis with others, in all aspects of society,” said Amy Monson, president of the Down Syndrome Parents Group of Western New York. A resident of West Seneca, Monson added, “People with Down syndrome can and do bring so much to the community, when given the opportunity.” Free admission to the public will be offered to the Museum’s gallery space between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 716-629-3626. The date for World Down Syndrome Day, being the 21st day of the third month, was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome. 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.

Sign the Pledge to Spread the Word to End the Word

Sign the Pledge to Spread the Word to End the Word will be held on Wednesday, March 6,  from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Museum of disABILITY History, 3826 Main Street, Buffalo. Spread the Word to End the Word is a national effort to end the use of the R-word to describe people or things which they deem strange or less than. It has been used in a derogatory way socially. During the Spread the Word to End the Word event at the Museum of disABILITY History, attendees will have an opportunity to sign a pledge to personally end the use of the R-word and to politely assist in spreading awareness of this movement.  Free admission to the Museum of disABILITY History will be granted for the day to those who sign the pledge. To confirm attendance, call 716-629-3626.  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.

Workshop Focuses on Methods Educators, Healthcare Staff and Parents can Assist People Living with Tourette Syndrome in School and Community

The Museum of disABILITY History will host its 2019 workshop session of Tourette Syndrome (TS) and Associated Disorders in the Classroom on March 30, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at its location, 3826 Main Street, Buffalo, NY. The workshop will be presented by Susan Conners, MEd, president and founder of the Tourette Syndrome Association of Greater New York State. The workshop will focus on: What is TS, coping with challenging behaviors, classroom tips for working with children on the TS spectrum, practical ideas for helping to manage school work at home and in the classroom, proven suggestions for advocating for a child on the TS spectrum and the use of technology in assisting students. The workshop is recommended for parents; educators; school administrators; social workers and health and human service professionals, such as occupational, physical and speech language therapists. Held in association with Associated Physical and Occupational Therapists, PLLC, the workshop offers Continuing Education Units (CEUs). The cost is $40 for professionals and parents and $10 for students. There is an additional fee of $20 for those pursuing CEUs. A continental breakfast and lunch will be served. Wi-Fi is available and attendees are to bring their own laptop. Registration forms are available online at museumofdisability.org. To register by phone with a credit card payment for more information, call 716-629-3626.  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.

Deaf Access Services Becomes an Affiliate of People Inc.

Collaboration to provide increased services to a wider audience  February 21, 2019: On February 12, 2019, the Board of Directors for Deaf Access Services (DAS) voted to become an affiliate of People Inc. in preparation for a more competitive service delivery environment. The affiliation with People Inc., the region’s largest health and human services agency, will provide the best possible supports to people receiving services from DAS and the staff who support them. This partnership allows both organizations to pool resources to meet growing demands, enhance collaborative power, expand services for a broader geographic reach, improve capacity to deliver more services and enrich Deaf services already delivered through People Inc.  As an affiliate of People Inc., Deaf Access Services will continue to provide services through their experienced staff and interpreters. The partnership will showcase the power of collaboration and will allow continuation of the legacy created by the Deaf community. It will also provide cost benefits by efficiently combining office operations, such as administration, finance and human resources.  “This affiliation is very exciting for the board and staff of Deaf Access Services. This is an opportunity for us to honor the history created by Buffalo’s Deaf leaders, while developing critical new services and reaching more people,” said Pamela Kefi, executive director, Deaf Access Services.  This affiliation is mutually beneficial. Together, the agencies will explore improved access to health and mental health services for the Deaf community, enhanced services for older adults and increased employment opportunities for the Deaf community. “By addressing our key audiences, in particular for people who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing, we will be able to enhance the awareness of our services and strengthen our community outreach,” said Rhonda Frederick, president and CEO, People Inc.  DAS serves over 600 people through various programs, has 12 employees, 100 contract interpreters and partners with over 700 service providers. 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 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. People Inc., a multispecialty non-profit health and human services agency, provides programs and services to more than 12,000 people, not only with developmental disabilities, but other 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.

Contract Manufacturing Benefits Local Businesses

Since its inception in 1970, People Inc. has grown to offer more services than any organization in the region, assessing and addressing the needs of the communities where we operate and providing innovative, person-centered, creative and cutting-edge options for program participants and their families. During this time, People Inc. has established several business services that offer high-quality work, ranging from janitorial and carpet cleaning to workforce solutions. A work center that is dedicated to Contract Manufacturing has been added to the list as one of People Inc.’s complete Business Solutions. Ensuring that people with developmental disabilities secure and maintain meaningful and competitive employment is an important part the agency’s goals.  Contract Manufacturing offers complete assembly/disassembly, packaging, inspection or mailings in a timely and cost-effective manner to community business partners. The program is a beneficial alternative to temp agencies that provides a quality-driven, flexible workforce with on-site supervision to ensure all jobs are done to a business’s expectations and satisfaction. This valuable service provides meaningful employment for hardworking people and positions People Inc. as an important partner in the community. Whether it’s working at a company’s location or bringing the work to our site, Contract Manufacturing benefits companies. Some of valued customers share why they are so pleased with the service, including: “We at Great Lakes have depended on the work center to assemble and package various products that we sell worldwide. Our business relationship is a strong one and, I believe, will continue for many years to come.”  - Terry Cowles, Great Lakes Orthodontics LTD “The work center is basically an extension of our company on certain projects. We can always trust them to represent our company in the most efficient and competent way as possible.”  - Tony Cirelli, RMF Print Management Group People Inc. is currently looking to expand its services to more companies across Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. If you know of any companies that may benefit from innovative and customized solutions to their current workforce challenges, referrals are happily accepted. High-quality work with quick response times at a very reasonable cost may be an important extension of any local business. For more information, email contractmanufacturing@people-inc.org or call 716.683.7100.

Symposium Focuses on Potential Medical Cannabis Benefits for People with Traumatic Brain Injury and Cognitive Disorders

Headway of WNY hosts symposium as part of its community outreach and educational programs What: Educational Symposium presented by Headway of WNY: “Medical Cannabis: A Promising Therapy for TBI & Other Cognitive Disorders?” When: Wednesday, February 6, 2019, from 8 a.m. to noon Where: University at Buffalo Center for Tomorrow, 101 Service Center Road, Amherst, NY (North Campus, Flint Road entrance, off Maple Road) Who: The featured speaker is Dr. Laszlo Mechtler, medical director, Cannabis Clinic at DENT Neurologic Institute. Why: As part of its community outreach activities, Headway of WNY addresses current topics through its educational programs. The symposium will include up-to-date information about the current state of Medical Marijuana, including legal aspects and common misconceptions. The symposium will include a panel of experts from PharmaCannis, a local medical cannabis dispensary, along with a health and wellness fair. The symposium is ideal for people living with the after-effects of a traumatic brain injury, cognitive disorder or chronic health condition, as well as for caregivers, medical professionals and wellness specialists. Dr. Mechtler is professor of Neurology and Oncology at the State University of New York at Buffalo. He is UCNS certified in Neuroimaging, Neuro-Oncology and Headache Medicine. He completed his Neuroimaging fellowship at the Dent Neurologic Institute in 1990. He is currently participating in numerous clinical trials, which include neuroimaging research for traumatic brain injury and migraines, as well as brain tumors. He is publishing some of the first major retrospective research trials on medical marijuana in headaches and other neurologic disorders. Lecturing both nationally and internationally, he is recognized as a leader in the fields of neuroimaging, headache medicine, medical cannabis and neuro-oncology. Dr. Mechtler is the director of the DENT Cannabis Clinic, which has nearly 6,500 patients certified through the New York State Medical Marijuana Program. 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 in Western New York for the New York State Department of Health’s Nursing Home Transition and Diversion Waiver and the Traumatic Brain Injury Waiver. For more information, go to headwayofwny.org or call 716-408-3100.

Potential Medical Cannabis Benefits for People with Traumatic Brain Injury and Cognitive Disorders is Symposium Focus

Free Symposium Hosted by Headway of WNY January 24, 2019: Headway of WNY, an affiliate of People Inc., will host a free educational symposium, “Medical Cannabis: A Promising Therapy for TBI & Other Cognitive Disorders?” on Wednesday, February 6, from 8 a.m. to noon. The event will be held at the University at Buffalo Center for Tomorrow, 101 Service Center Road, Amherst, NY (North Campus, Flint Road entrance, off Maple Road). The featured speaker is Dr. Laszlo Mechtler, medical director, Cannabis Clinic at DENT Neurologic Institute. The symposium will include up-to-date information about the current state of Medical Marijuana, including legal aspects and common misconceptions.  The symposium will include a panel of experts from PharmaCannis, a local medical cannabis dispensary, along with a health and wellness fair. The symposium is ideal for people living with the after-effects of a traumatic brain injury, cognitive disorder or chronic health condition, as well as for caregivers, medical professionals and wellness specialists. As part of its community outreach activities, Headway of WNY addresses current topics through its educational programs. “The Medical Cannabis symposium is an opportunity for experts to share information for attendees to learn more about possible alternative therapies for people with traumatic brain injury and cognitive disorders,” said Ronald Fernández, RRDS, CRC, LMHC, director of Headway of WNY.  Dr. Mechtler is professor of Neurology and Oncology at the State University of New York at Buffalo. He is UCNS certified in Neuroimaging, Neuro-Oncology and Headache Medicine. He completed his Neuroimaging fellowship at the Dent Neurologic Institute in 1990. He is currently participating in numerous clinical trials, which include neuroimaging research for traumatic brain injury and migraines, as well as brain tumors. He is publishing some of the first major retrospective research trials on medical marijuana in headaches and other neurologic disorders. Lecturing both nationally and internationally, he is recognized as a leader in the fields of neuroimaging, headache medicine, medical cannabis and neuro-oncology. Dr. Mechtler is the director of the DENT Cannabis Clinic, which has nearly 6,500 patients certified through the New York State Medical Marijuana Program. Pre-registration for the symposium is strongly encouraged by January 28. To register, email support@headwayofwny.org or call 716-408-3100. The symposium includes breakfast. 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. For more information, go to headwayofwny.org or call 716-408-3100.