Local Author to Debut Latest Book at Museum of disABILITY History

Presentation to Focus on Facts and Fiction Behind Orphans and Inmates Book Series October 9, 2015: Local author and anthropologist, Rosanne Higgins, PhD, will debut her latest work of historical fiction, The Seer and the Scholar , on Friday, November 6, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Museum of disABILITY History, at 3826 Main Street in Buffalo. The novel is the third installment in Higgins’ Orphans and Inmates series, which tells the tale of three sisters who were orphaned on their way from Ireland to Buffalo and sought refuge at the Erie County Poorhouse.  The Seer and the Scholar takes place during the cholera epidemic of 1849, and incorporates pieces of local history, including Bishop Timon’s attempts to establish a school for the deaf in Buffalo. Higgins’ presentation, which is part of the Museum’s Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series, will include information about the books’ characters and their progression throughout the series. She will discuss the facts and themes that have shaped her work, and will also sign books for attendees. Rosanne Higgins is an adjunct professor of anthropology at the University at Buffalo. Her research focuses largely on the nineteenth century’s Asylum Movement and its impact on disease specific mortality. In the spring of 2012, she was invited to join the Erie County Poorhouse Cemetery project, undertaken by the Department of Anthropology at the University at Buffalo. This project, paired with a longstanding desire to tell a side of the ‘Poorhouse story’ that was accessible to more than just the scholarly community, resulted in her novel, Orphans and Inmates. The book is the first in a series chronicling fictional accounts of poorhouse residents inspired by historical data. The series’ second installment, A Whisper of Bones, was released in October 2014. Admission for the book presentation and signing is $6 for adults, $3.50 for students, seniors and human service employees and free for Museum members. For more information or to register, call 716.629.3626. Established in 1998, the Museum of disABILITY History 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. The Museum’s exhibits, collections, archives and educational programs create awareness and a platform for dialogue and discovery.

Local College Student Contributes to Program for Individuals with Disabilities

People Inc. provides internship opportunities for college students, allowing them to gain practical experience working within the agency, to the mutual benefit of both students and agency programs. This past summer, Amherst resident Katy Sloan, who is a junior at SUNY New Paltz in the school’s art education program, lent her talents to People Inc.’s Arts Experience, a fine arts day habilitation program for individuals with developmental disabilities. By utilizing her teaching and artistic skills, Sloan led program participants in painting their own unique squares that would, when pieced together, create a portrait of Rhonda Frederick, People Inc. president and CEO. Sloan worked one-on-one with the program participants, sharing her artistic skills and encouraging them to be creative.  “It was so beneficial to have Katy be part of our Arts Experience Program,” said Anne Paulk, senior day supervisor, People Inc. “She gained valuable work experience while developing relationships with the program participants. We were so fortunate to have her share her skills. She brought fresh and creative ideas to the table, allowing our program participants to develop large scale projects like this one.” This was Sloan’s second internship with the program, with plans to return in the future during college breaks. To learn about internship experiences with People Inc., email internships@people-inc.org or call 716.322.7050. 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, visit people-inc.org . Like us on Facebook at People Inc . and follow us on Twitter @PeopleIncNews .


Local Landmarks Lighting Up Blue

On Friday, August 14, 2020, local landmarks will light up blue in recognition of our anniversary! Keep an eye out for these sights: Niagara Falls* at 10 p.m. for a duration of fifteen minutes ( live cam link to view from home).  Buffalo, NY City Hall to be illuminated at night through the Buffalo LIT (Landmark Illumination Team) initiative. Downtown Buffalo, NY Electric Tower Building to be illuminated at night. If you spot any of these landmarks, safely snap a photo and send your pictures to communications@people-inc.org ! We will share them in future communications and across our social media channels. Remember to wear a face mask and adhere to social distancing procedures when viewing the landmarks. *Please note that all Illumination times are approximate and subject to change according to light conditions. Niagara Region, Ontario is currently in Stage 3 of the reopening of the Province and the Niagara Falls Illumination Board would like to reiterate that social gatherings are limited to 100 people and physical distancing remains a requirement for all people who are not from the same household or established social circle of 10 people. In all instances, no more than 10 people are permitted to be closer than 2 meters (6 feet) and when not possible, a face mask must be worn. On behalf of the Niagara Falls Illumination Board we feel it is everyone’s responsibility to ensure all measures are taken to reduce the transmission of COVID-19.

Local resident, Crystal Ohnmeiss promoted to Senior Program Manager at People Inc.

Crystal Ohnmeiss of Buffalo has been promoted to Senior Program Manager at People Inc. Crystal has been employed at People Inc. since 2006. In seven years she has held positions of IRA Specialist, Fine Arts Instructor of Dance, Teaching Artist-Visual Arts, and Program Manager. She is a graduate of SUNY Fredonia College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Psychology. Crystal’s new position as Senior Program Manager will involve supervising the staff, managing program instruction, attending program meetings, acclimating new staff, seeking volunteering opportunities, and engaging the community. Crystal enjoys the opportunity for shared growth, but the most rewarding is an individual’s own personal growth. According to Crystal, “my job at People Inc. was predestined when my mom taught a special education class.” She recalls volunteering in her mom’s class in her spare time. “I even recruited my friends and liked to help build friendships amongst all of my peers in the school to foster mutual respect and acceptance.” she said.   Denise Litz, Program Director at People Inc. said, “Crystal’s a hard worker that takes the initiative, is creative, service minded, and as a manager is committed to help others achieve their greatest degree of individualized success.”

Local Resident, DeWan Stroud promoted to Career Development Manager at People Inc.

DeWan Stroud of Cheektowaga, NY has been promoted to Career Development Manager at People Inc. DeWan has been an employee of People Inc. since 2009, and will celebrate four years in September. DeWan learned about People Inc. from a friend who worked at People Inc., and stated, “Finding out that I had gotten the position was very exciting…and of course with my recent promotion it is just wonderful!” Throughout his time at People Inc. DeWan has held positions as a HR Analyst and EE Development Analyst. He has his Bachelor Degree in Business Administration with a Specialization in Human Resources at Daemen College.   DeWan’s new position will involve supervising and managing programs to facilitate employee career development, supervising projects for Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS) and career development, volunteering opportunities, and engaging the community. When asked what makes the job so special DeWan said, “This was and is an amazing place that kick started my career!”   DeWan wants people to know that health and human relations at People Inc. can offer so much and so many opportunities. He said, “If you are just beginning a career, People Inc. is an incredible place to start, and if you started here it is a great place to grow and advance with hard work.” According to Trisha Duke, Director of Human Relations,” DeWan has an exceptional work ethic and is always eager to take on new responsibilities. It is great to see him accomplish his career goals as he assists employees with achieving theirs. DeWan is truly committed to providing People Inc. employees with the necessary tools to succeed in their roles.”      

Local resident, Elysa Maurer promoted to Senior Program Manager at People Inc.

Elysa Maurer of Lockport has been promoted to Senior Program Manager at People Inc. Elysa has been employed at People Inc. since 2009. In four years she has held positions of ICF Specialist, Cook, Team Leader, and Primary Program Instructor/Family Care Home Liaison. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Health and Human Services. Elysa’s new position as Senior Program Manager will involve supervising the staff, managing direct-care instruction at four hourly afternoon respites, Activities Daily Living (ADL) implementation, acclimating new staff, medication administrations, seeking volunteering opportunities, and engaging the community. Elysa is motivated by the mission of People Inc., and sees Respite as a wonderful provision for individuals, and a break for families. She said, “I have been humbled working here, because I get to meet so many people that have different cultures, beliefs, personalities, experiences…it made me step back and see the whole picture when it comes to society.” Elysa is inspired by the people she works with daily. “The individuals we serve families, co-horts, colleagues, senior management, and especially the kids I work with are so amazing!” she said.   Andrew Hall, Assistant Program Director at People Inc. said, “Elysa is a very hard worker who goes above and beyond to ensure all individuals’ needs are met. Elysa is also diligent in making sure that all individuals are enjoying their time at the respite programs by either participating in fun in-house activities or community based outings.”   

Local resident, Janet Lus promoted to Senior Living Program Administrator at People Inc.

Janet Lus of Buffalo has been promoted to a Senior Living Program Administrator at People Inc. Janet has been employed at People Inc. since 2007. In six years she has held positions of Senior Living Site Manger. She was the manager for Lilly Senior Living in Blasdell. She is a graduate of Hilbert College, with Associates Degree in Criminal Justice and also attended Buffalo State College. She is a Certified Occupancy Specialist through the National Center for Housing Management. Janet’s new position as Program Administrator will involve ensuring our Senior Living Sites adhere to HUD's regulations, supervision of Senior Living Managers, train staff, be a resource for staff, volunteering opportunities, and engaging the community. She finds the most rewarding aspect of this job is to know our seniors are safe and have a beautiful home.   Janet first heard about the job from a relative, she said, “My niece April Caggiano was a Manger for the Senior Living Department almost seven years ago. She was and is a very happy employee.  She spoke of all of the programs People Inc. has to offer. She is now the Seior Program Manager for Seniors Unlimited with People Inc. She will be an employee for 25 years this June. I thought if April really enjoys working there, I will try and see what happens. So here I am a little over six years.”   In that time she has experienced much and one of the best stories she recalls, “The best story I have that stands out in my mind and heart is when Lilly Senior Living celebrated my tenant Lola's 100th birthday. We even had an Elvis impersonator at her party. Sadly Lola died three months after her 100th birthday. She was a joy for all who knew her. I also say I want to be just like Lola. Next would be, enjoying when my tenants share their personal life stories with me and what they have endured in their lifetime. I treasure those moments.“ Janet loves her job because of all the interesting people. She said, “There is never a dull moment. We have great tenants and staff.”     People Inc. continues to be a leading employer in health and human relations with over 2,000 employees. 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.  

Local resident, Julie Barber promoted to Clinical Program Manager at People Inc.

Julie Barber of Grand Island has been promoted to Clinical Program Manager at People Inc. Julie has been employed at People Inc. since 2003. In 10 years she has held positions of Senior Living Program Administrator and Direct Care Specialist. She is a graduate of UB with a Masters in Social Work.   Julie’s new position as Clinical Program Manager will involve supervising one of the three forensic group homes that are currently under construction where individuals from Finger Lakes Developmental Disabilities Services Office (FLDDSO) will be moving, the IRA’s are scheduled to open by the end of December; as well as helping to create a smooth transition for the individuals as they move from the FLDDSO. Once the sites are open, Julie will then be responsible for site operations, staffing, as well as working as a team player to complete assessments and provide treatment to the individuals who reside in the IRA’s, including volunteering opportunities, and engaging the community.   Julie first heard about people Inc., and since then has grown with the agency and says her job is so rewarding because, “Although I have only been in my current role for a few weeks I already find it very rewarding. The three forensic IRA’s are new to People Inc., I find it very exciting to be part of the new development. The individuals who will be residing in the three IRA’s will be coming to People Inc. from the FLDDSO. Since being in this role I have been able to visit the FLDDSO on a weekly basis to begin to build relationships with the individuals. It is so heartwarming to be able to witness how excited the individuals are to be moving from the institution to a group home.”   Ten years ago when she started at Long ICF as Direct Care, Julie recalls, "I was scared the first few weeks and often found myself questioning if I was in the right line of work. After a few months I was able to get to know the individuals, as well as build positive working relationships with them and I was hooked! Many of the individuals did not have family involvement so they built strong relationships with the staff and often viewed them as their family, I found it rewarding to be trusted as well as welcomed into the individual’s lives.”   Julie recently started volunteering at The Institute on Trauma and Trauma-Informed Care at UB and enjoys attending workshops/ classes to continue my education in the Social Work field. Julie said, ”People Inc. is an amazing agency! I get excited when I have the opportunity to explain to others what I do and how People Inc. creates amazing opportunities for staff and awesome meaningful lives for those the agency serves.”    People Inc. continues to be a leading employer in health and human relations with over 2,000 employees. 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.  

Local resident, Kaamalal Robinson Recognized for Achievements and New Role at People Inc.

Ms. Kaamalal Robinson is a native of Buffalo, New York.  She is the daughter of Robert and Amanda Robinson and the mother of two beautiful daughters, Breona and Jayla.  Kaamalal is employed by People Inc. where she is a Case Management Coordinator. This is her second year connecting seniors with services and assistance through Erie County Department of Senior Services. Kaamalal’s new duties will have her overseeing the Senior Companion Program which connects seniors living at home alone an opportunity to have in home visits with other seniors to decrease isolation and lack of social activity. Kaamalal is a recent recipient of the 2013, 1490 Enterprises Black Achiever’s In Industry Awards. Kaamalal is a graduate of Buffalo Traditional High School and Medaille College where she earned a Bachelor of Arts Psychology Degree and a Master of Arts Mental Health Counseling Degree.  She is CPR, First Aid and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Certified through the American Heart Association, and has received certification from the AmeriCorps and American Red Cross to be an Emergency Preparedness Trainer. Throughout Kaamalal's career she has worked hard to help people of all ages to improve their quality of life physically, emotionally, intellectually and socially. She is a civic leader and has volunteered at Compeer of Greater Buffalo, Inc., Habitat for Humanity, Girl Scouts of Western New York and Schiller Park Community Services Board of Directors.  Kaamalal is currently a member of the Mount Olive Baptist Church and serves on the Greeters Ministry, under the leadership of Pastor William Gillison.  All of Kaamalal’s inspirations, influences, and motivations come from the support of many people whether it is spiritual, family, friends, and even educators.  She especially wants to thank People Inc., Erie County Department of Senior Services, Mary Anne Crapol (ret.), and Patricia Watson (ret.) who made it possible to get a connection with Anna Korus, Vice President and Sharon Plant, Associate Vice President of People Inc.  Anna Korus, Senior Vice President said, “Kaamalal has been overseeing the Erie County Case Management program and the Chore program for People Inc. and will soon be in charge of the Senior Companion program.  Her work in these programs exemplifies her commitment to assisting seniors to remain at home and improve their quality of life.  She is truly a compassionate, gifted woman who consistently gives of herself to ensure that vulnerable individuals receive services that will enhance their lives.” Kaamalal believes that if she helps someone along the way then her living will not be in vain.  One of Kaamalal’s favorite quotes is of Mahatma Ghandi, “My life is my message”. People Inc. continues to be a leading employer in health and human relations with over 2,000 employees. 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.