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: Wednesday, March 21, 2018 9 a.m. to 11 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: In recognition of World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), the Museum of disABILITY History encourages people who live with Down syndrome to tell the world, “What I bring to my community,” and to show people across the country how much people with Down  syndrome contribute to the community.  The Museum of disABILITY History has partnered with the Down Syndrome Parents Syndrome Group of WNY to showcase its “In Celebration of Down Syndrome” exhibit. Family members will be available between 9 to 11 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. “People with Down syndrome can and do bring so much to the community, when given the opportunity.” Featuring vibrant multimedia and Hollywood memorabilia, the Museum’s “In Celebration of Down Syndrome” exhibit explores medical history, myths and facts, success stories and popular culture. 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 WDSD, 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. Follow along on social media at #WDSD2018. 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.

Phone Screenings in Progress to become Ombudsman Volunteer to Advocate for Seniors in Long-Term Care Facilities

Volunteers Needed for Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties Motivated people who are skilled and compassionate are needed to advocate for seniors in long-term care facilities. Through the People Inc., the New York State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program and the Center for Elder Law & Justice, volunteers called ombudsmen, promote the rights of residents who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities in Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties. Phone screenings are now available to review eligibility to join the program’s upcoming spring training session. Ombudsmen bring problem-solving skills as they visit long-term care facilities to help residents resolve and/or refer complaints. Volunteer opportunities are available for those who work in professional fields, such as paralegals, human service staff, social workers and business professionals. Many ombudsmen are also recent retirees, ranging from those who have worked within education systems, administration or engineering fields. Schedules are flexible with a minimum of two hours per week.  If enrolled into the program, there are two training locations available in the northtowns and southtowns. People Inc. provides comprehensive training and ongoing support for ombudsmen. To be screened and to learn more about becoming an ombudsman volunteer, call 716.817.9222.  People Inc. provides programs and services to more than 12,500 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 .

Workshop Focuses on Methods Parents and Educators can Help Young People Living with Tourette Syndrome Reach their Full Potential

Registration due by February 9 The Museum of disABILITY History will host its 2018 workshop session of Tourette Syndrome (TS) and Associated Disorders in the Classroom on Saturday, February 17, 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 ways parents and educators can help accommodate young people with TS and associated disorders, so that they can reach their full potential. 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 Learning Partners, 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 $40 for those pursuing CEUs. A continental breakfast and lunch will be served. Wi-Fi available (bring your own laptop). Registration with payment is due by February 9. Registration forms are available online at museumofdisability.org or call 716.629.3626 with payment information.  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.

Registration Open for Chronic Disease Self-Management Program for Older Adults

Workshop to be held at West Seneca Location The start of the new year is often the time when people like to make positive changes for their health. Through People Inc.’s Living Healthy Program, a Chronic Disease Self-Management Workshop will be held for older adults who are living with or caring for someone with a chronic or ongoing health condition. The free workshop will be held each Tuesday from January 23 to February 27, from 1 to 3:30 p.m., at People Inc. Burchfield Commons Senior Living, 2290 Union Road, West Seneca. Workshop topics include: How to enhance your ability to better manage your health, tips to maintain an active lifestyle and learn new skills, which enable you to confront challenges of living with a chronic disease.  Registration is required. To register or for more information, call Becky Orton, peer leader trainer and manager of People Inc. Marigold Senior Living, at 716-773-0907. People Inc., a not-for-profit health and human services agency, provides programs and services to more than 12,500 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 .

“A Conversation about Mental Health” Panel Discussion

Three speakers will share personal experiences about bipolar disorder and ways that the stigma of mental health can be eliminated As part of its Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series, the Museum of disABILITY History will host a free presentation called, “A Conversation about Mental Health,” on Friday, December 1, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at its location, 3826 Main Street, Buffalo, NY. The panel discussion will feature Keith O’Neil, former NFL football player who wrote a memoir titled, Under My Helmet: A Football Players Lifelong Battle with Bipolar Disorder ; Karl Shallowhorn, who contributed to the book, Buffalo State Hospital: A History of the Institution in Light and Shadow ; and Stephen Nawotniak, author of Handbook for Healthy Living with a Mood Disorder .  The speakers will share their personal stories, discuss key components of getting help and maintaining health, along with helpful tips for relationships and the workplace. They will also discuss ways that the stigma of mental health can be eliminated.  O’Neil is a former NFL football player who played for the Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts and New York Giants. During his professional career, he served as team captain and was a member of the Colts Super Bowl XLI Championship team. O’Neil played in the NFL with an undiagnosed mental illness of bipolar disorder. He is the president and founder of the 4th and Forever Foundation, which brings awareness to mental health and funds research for mental illness. He is passionate about helping others with mental health issues and is devoted to erasing the stigma of mental illness. Karl Shallowhorn is the director of Community Advocacy for the Mental Health Association of Erie County and Compeer of Greater Buffalo. He is a New York State Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse counselor, a certified Mental Health First Aid instructor and a mental health consultant. Shallowhorn serves on the Board of Directors for the Mental Health Association in New York State and the Erie County Mental Hygiene Services Board. Shallowhorn’s diagnosis of bipolar disorder and his role as clinician have given him unique perspectives.  Stephen Nawotniak was diagnosed in 2012 with bipolar disorder after a weeklong hospitalization for severe depression and is in the process of recovery. In his book, Nawotniak offers an experienced-based sharing of skills and tools. Relying on his expertise as a licensed occupational therapist, he focuses on constructing a meaningful quality of life using skills that are effective and important, while addressing the needs unique to bipolar disorder. He is also the author of the Mubu the Morph children’s book series, which speaks to the inner journey people face as they discover their purpose.  During the event, there will be books for sale and each presenter will be available for book signings. Event registration is encouraged. For more information or to RSVP, 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.

Governor Cuomo Announces Grand Opening Of $10.5 Million Affordable And Supportive Housing Development In Tonawanda

Highland School Apartments Provides Homes and Support Services for 38 Individuals and Families Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the grand opening of a $10.5 million affordable housing development in the City of Tonawanda. The development, known as Highland School Apartments, is the adaptive reuse and substantial rehabilitation of a three-story century-old former school building that provides 38 homes for low-income individuals and families. People, Inc. will provide support services. "The opening of this new development will help expand opportunity and provide much-needed services for some of the most vulnerable among us," Governor Cuomo said. "Every New Yorker deserves a safe, decent affordable place to call home and this investment puts us closer this this goal while also strengthening this community and Western New York as a whole." Located at 105 Highland Avenue, Highland School Apartments has a total of 38 affordable apartments. Ten units are designated for developmentally disabled adults, and of those units, four will be for individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. An additional five units are designated for homeless adults with a traumatic brain injury. Rents will range from $533 to $866 a month, and will be affordable to households with incomes at or below 70 percent of the area median income. "This is a truly collaborative effort that gives a vacant school a new lease on life and provides a home for those who otherwise might struggle to afford one," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, who attended today's ceremony. "Under Governor Cuomo, New York State is committed to combating homelessness and making affordable housing a reality for those in need, and I'm proud that we are a partner in making the future brighter for those who now call the Highland School their home." Supportive services for the special needs tenants will be provided by People, Inc., and will include service coordination, independent living skills training, day/residential habilitation, employment training, medical services, transportation to appointments, programs and employment, and recreational facilities. Highland School was originally built in the 1920s and closed in 2009. People Inc. acquired the property at an auction two years later. Funding for Highland School Apartments included $432,672 in Low Income Housing Tax Credits from New York State Homes and Community Renewal that will generate 4.2 million in equity. HCR also provided $2.4 million in NYS HOME funds and $39,207 in State Low Income Housing Tax Credits that will generate $218,000 in equity. In addition, $1.9 million was provided from the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance's Homeless Housing and Assistance Program; $1.4 million in capitalfunding, in the form of debt service, and ongoing housing subsidies from the New York State Office of People With Developmental Disabilities; $76,000 from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, as well as funding from the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York and People, Inc.  Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, "Highland School Apartments is the result of the combined efforts of many state and local partners. This development has transformed a vacant school property into a residential community that will provide 38 affordable and supportive homes and also continue the Governor's efforts to revitalize the City of Tonawanda." Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Samuel D. Roberts said, "The Governor continues to lead the way forward in ensuring our most vulnerable New Yorkers have a safe, affordable place to live. With the creation of these supportive housing units, not only are individuals and families provided with stable housing, but given access to the support services they need to succeed."  Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Acting Commissioner Kerry A. Delaney said, "Secure, affordable, supportive housing is a firm stepping stone as we work to help people achieve fulfilling lives in their communities. We are pleased to have the opportunity to partner with our sister agencies in New York to expand and improve supportive housing throughout the state. Housing communities like this one build richer lives, more cohesive and diverse communities, and ultimately, an even better and stronger New York." Senator Chris Jacobs said, "Today's opening of the Highland School Apartments is welcome news given the tremendous need for affordable housing across our region. The collaboration between the state, the City of Tonawanda and People Inc. is a great example of how public-private partnerships can drive positive changes in our community."  Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz said, "Affordable housing is critical to vibrant, diverse communities and helps to build neighborhoods that are not only more inclusive but that also reuse old buildings as part of new development. The Highland School Apartments bring a former school building back to life and will bring new opportunities to low-income families and individuals with developmental disabilities as they grow into their new community. This is an inclusive, exciting reuse of our existing infrastructure and I thank Governor Cuomo, People, Inc. and all the parties involved in making it happen." City of Tonawanda Mayor Rick Davis said, "Over the years we have had closed schools that have become eyesores in our community. This is why I pushed hard for this project. Many thanks to Governor Cuomo and People Inc. for investing into our community and for giving low to moderate income residents a safe place to live." Rhonda Frederick, president and CEO, People Inc. said, "The innovative program model is one element of our agency's strategic development as we continue to provide quality housing to a diverse community. This integrated living community project offers a unique opportunity to revitalize a vacant building, improve neighborhood appeal and provide much needed housing. Not only can we help people in our community live affordably without the burden of maintaining a home, but we can do so in a way that benefits the surrounding community," added Frederick. "The State of New York, Governor Cuomo, Lieutenant Governor Hochul and the State Legislature have made affordable housing a key component of the State's revitalization and we are glad to be a part of it. We are grateful for their support, along with the support of City of Tonawanda and all the nearby neighbors and businesses."

Senior Apartments in Lockport Offer Affordability and Safety Features

Tours provided during open house event People Inc. Pine Senior Living will host an open house on Tuesday, November 14, from noon to 5 p.m., at 6231 Tonawanda Creek North, Lockport. Seniors and family members who may be interested in affordable senior housing are encouraged to attend. Tours of the apartments will be provided, which are for independent seniors age 62 and over who are income eligible. Two benefits of People Inc. Pine Senior Living are the affordability and safety features. Monthly rent is based on the tenant’s and/or couple’s adjusted income. 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. Additionally, a presentation will be made at the open house event by Pets in Peaceful Rest, a family-owned-and-operated pet memorial and cremation center, offering pet loss services, special pet tribute products and grief support materials. Event attendees will have a chance to win a $25 gift card to the Fieldstone Country Inn Restaurant in Lockport. The event is free; registration encouraged. For more information, call 716-433-3381. People Inc. provides programs and services to more than 12,500 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.

People Inc. Receives $7,035 in Grant Funds from J.M. McDonald Foundation, Inc. and Maria M. Love Convalescent Fund for Elmwood Health Center

People Inc. is proud to announce that it has received a $5,000 grant from the J.M. McDonald Foundation, Inc. and a matching grant of $2,035 from the Maria M. Love Convalescent Fund. The awards, totaling $7,035, were used to purchase an additional NuStep recumbent cross-trainer machine and accessories for use at the Elmwood Health Center (EHC), an affiliate of People Inc. The EHC provides a number of services, including rehabilitative care. Since so many rehabilitation clients have limitations caused by developmental disabilities and aging, the NuStep recumbent cross-trainer is a high demand piece of equipment for many undergoing physical therapy. Over the last five years, the EHC has maintained one NuStep, which has benefitted 100 individuals. The purchase of this additional machine allows at least another 50 people to make use of the NuStep and reap the benefits of low-impact, total body workouts for people of all ability levels. The NuStep recumbent cross-trainer accommodates the wide range of needs of individuals, regardless of cognitive and physical impairments, age, fitness level and health status. It is ADA compliant and wheelchair accessible, making the machine a fitting addition to the EHC, which serves approximately 2,500 patients with developmental and physical disabilities. “We are so thankful to the J.M. McDonald Foundation, Inc. and the Maria M. Love Convalescent Fund for this generous grant,” said Shelley Curl, acting director of the Rehabilitation Department at the Elmwood Health Center. “With the additional NuStep, we are able to meet the needs of even more patients, allowing us to provide an even greater quality of care.” About the J.M. McDonald Foundation The J.M. McDonald Foundation, Inc. is a trust whose income is used as donations to deserving charities. Primary interests of the Foundation are education, humanities, health, and a variety of social and human services. About the Maria M. Love Convalescent Fund The purpose of the Maria M. Love Fund is to provide interim financial assistance in order to promote independence and enhance the quality of life of Erie County residents with medically related conditions who may be temporarily ineligible for aid from traditional sources and to provide such additional assistance in the area of basic human needs as may be specifically approved by the Board. About People Inc. People Inc. provides programs and services to more than 12,500 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  . Like us on Facebook at  and follow us on Twitter  @PeopleIncNews .

People Inc. Interviewing for Staff Members During Open Interview Event

Dedicated employees needed to support individuals with disabilities People Inc., Western New York’s largest and most experienced health and human services agency, is now hiring and training full- and part-time employees. An Open Interview Event will be held on Wednesday, October 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the agency’s recruitment office, 692 Millersport Highway, Amherst. People Inc. is actively recruiting for people seeking life-changing careers to work as a direct support professional, RN or LPN. Attendees will have the chance to learn about People Inc. and interview on-the-spot with a recruiter. No appointments needed. Applicants are encouraged to bring copies of their resumes, dress professionally and be prepared for an interview.  With a staff of 3,860, People Inc. is one of Western New York’s largest employers and offers a number of employee benefits including tuition reimbursement and 401(k) plan with employer match, along with generous paid time off and health insurance for full-time employees. Descriptions for specific jobs are listed on the agency’s website. Those who cannot attend, but are interested in applying may do so online at people-inc.org/careers . For more information, call 716.322.7050. People Inc. provides programs and services to more than 12,500 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 .