Activist Mohammed Saad to Present “Seeing Clearly Now” as part of Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series

As part of its Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series, the Museum of disABILITY History will host Mohammed Saad to present “Seeing Clearly Now: Creative Technology for the Blind in Saudi Arabia,” on Saturday, July 8, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Museum of disABILITY History, 3826 Main Street, Buffalo. In recent years, new adaptive technologies have been developed to allow people who are blind to fully utilize smart phones, tablets and computers. However, for Saad, there was a problem with these new programs as none of the apps designed to assist the blind were available in his native language of Arabic. Saad, who has been blind since early childhood, will share his story of how he has creatively transformed the available technology to design practical solutions for himself and others in his community. An activist, Saad aims to fight negative views of the disabled in his native Saudi Arabia and introduce people are blind to programs, technologies and skills that can help them live full lives. Saad’s work began with a campaign to translate restaurant menus in his native Saudi Arabia into braille. With no formal background in technology, he redesigned some of the most popular apps to work in Arabic, developed Arabic courses to teach people who are blind how to use Apple technology and founded MANHAL, an Arabic-language app that offers a wide range of educational courses targeted for the blind. The free event is co-sponsored by the Middle East Institute and the Museum of disABILITY History and. Registration is encouraged. For more information or to register, go to www.saad-modh.eventbrite.com , 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.

People Inc. Expands Health Services in Rochester Area for People with Developmental Disabilities

Expansion creates employment opportunities  People Inc.’s Elmwood Health Center, a primary care facility offering primary and specialty health care services, is expanding services into Monroe County, with two locations in Rochester. This expansion is through a partnership with Lifetime Assistance Inc., an agency providing services for people with developmental disabilities. The expansion will increase access to rehabilitation services, providing additional health care options for people with developmental disabilities, along with creating employment opportunities. The Elmwood Health Center provides Article 16 Clinic services at 11 locations throughout Western New York and now Rochester. Article 16 Clinic services are Office for People With Developmental Disabilities-certified treatment facilities providing clinical services to individuals with developmental disabilities.  The services provided enable people to remain in his/her current residential setting and enhance the individual’s quality of life. Services to be offered to patients at the Rochester medical facilities include physical and occupational therapy, psychology, speech and language pathology and social work.  The two satellite offices will be located at: 709 Weiland Road, Rochester, NY and The Lowry Center, 100 Horizon Park Road, Brockport, NY. For more information or to enroll as a patient for yourself, family member or for someone you assist, call 585.719.3420.  As a result of this expansion, various full and part-time employment opportunities are available, including: certified occupational therapist assistant, physical therapy assistant, speech language pathologist and treatment coordinator. With a staff of 3,860, People Inc. is one of the region’s largest employers and offers a number of employee benefits including tuition reimbursement and 401(k) with employer match for full and part-time employees and generous paid time off for full-time employees. For more information or to apply, go to people-inc.org/careers . 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 individuals with developmental disabilities are provided. 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 .

"Diffability Hollywood" Featured at Museum of disABILITY History Film and Speaker Series

Documentary captures Hollywood’s portrayal of people with disabilities in films throughout history June 2, 2017: The next movie to be featured in the Museum of disABILITY History Film and Speaker Series will be Diffability Hollywood , presented on Saturday, June 17, with two showings at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Museum of disABILITY History, 3826 Main Street, Buffalo. A reception with refreshments and a question and answer session will be held between screenings at 5 p.m. Produced by Espocinema and created by Adrian Esposito, Diffability Hollywood is a documentary about Hollywood’s portrayal of people with disabilities in films throughout history. A resident of Rochester, NY, Esposito will be the featured speaker during the event’s reception. Esposito’s main goal in making this film is to portray people with disabilities in a less stereotypical way and to advocate for the inclusion of more writers, directors and actors with disabilities in the movie industry. Esposito, an award-winning filmmaker, has autism and is a spokesperson who seeks to help the world accept people with disabilities as capable, seeing their disabilities as “diffabilities.” Diffability Hollywood features celebrities who have disabilities, actors and advocates, including: Edward Barbanell, Jamie Brewer, Chris Burke, Johnny Knoxville, Lauren Potter and Danny Woodburn. A portion of the footage was filmed at the Museum of disABILITY History and Curator Doug Platt is included in the film, providing insight on how characters with disabling conditions are portrayed in popular culture. Event tickets are $5 per person and for sale in advance at the Museum of disABILITY History, online at store.museumofdisability.org or at the Museum on the day of the event; limited space available. To purchase or reserve tickets by phone, 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.

Veterans Symposium Focuses on Traumatic Brain Injury Diagnoses and Treatment

June 1, 2017: Headway of WNY, People Inc. and Catholic Charities are co-sponsoring a presentation in support of veterans on Wednesday, June 14, from 8:15 a.m. to noon at the Center for Tomorrow, University at Buffalo North Campus, 101 Service Center Road, Amherst (Flint Road entrance off Maple Road). The symposium, titled “Signature Injury of the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars: Blast Induced Traumatic Brain Injury Assessment Diagnoses and Treatment,” is free to attend and open to veterans and service providers. An interactive discussion will be held.  Featured speakers and topics include: Michael Santa Maria, PhD, board-certified neuropsychologist (ABPP-CN), who will focus on neuropsychological assessments; Elisabeth Mann, LCSWR, of the Erie County Medical Center, who will discuss counseling and treatment intervention; and Jonathan T. Marshal, DO, of the Erie County Medical Center Radiology, who will present use of imaging for diagnoses of blast injury. Although the event is free, two Continuing Education Units will cost $20, which are available for pre-registered licensed mental health counselors and social workers. Cash or checks payable to Catholic Charities on the day of the event. To register or for more information, email support@headwayofwny.org or call 716-408-3100. Breakfast is included. The symposium is co-sponsored by Headway of WNY, People Inc. and Catholic Charities. Headway of WNY, an affiliate of People Inc., is a non-profit support and advocacy agency whose 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 of WNY is committed to providing services for veterans and their families, particularly those with traumatic brain injuries. For more information, call 716-408-3100. 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. Catholic Charities Vision Military program offers supports and services to veterans and military families through direct services and collaboration with local agencies throughout Western New York. Current or former military members, veterans and their families can present a need at any community-based office of Catholic Charities. For more information, call 716-877-8822.

Rivershore Foundation, Inc.’s Fun in the Sun Event at The Lewiston Stone House Supports People Living with Disabilities

May 31, 2017: The Fun in the Sun event, hosted by the Rivershore Foundation, Inc., will be held on Thursday, June 8, from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Lewiston Stone House, 755 Center Street, Lewiston. The event includes music by The Tim Britt Band, cash bar, 50/50 and wine raffle. Proceeds will benefit the Hinman Street apartment project in Youngstown, which will support six people with disabilities to live independently. The event’s cover charge is $5 per person. For more information or to RSVP, call 716-524-2266, ext. 234. Rivershore, a division of People Inc., supports people living with disabilities as they pursue and achieve a meaningful life. 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. Daffodil Senior Living in Amherst Hosts Open House and Multi-family Yard Sale

Apartment Applications Accepted for Affordable Senior Apartments May 30, 2017: Whether thinking of downsizing or removing the burden of household maintenance, People Inc. Daffodil Senior Living provides seniors the chance to live affordably. To showcase its apartment building, an Open House and Multi-family Yard Sale will be held on Friday, June 9, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 160 Robin Road, Amherst. Apartments are for seniors, age 62 and up who are income eligible. Apartment applications are being accepted and tours will be available during the event. The multi-family yard sale will be held in conjunction with the Open House event. Household goods, furniture, books, clothing and other items will be available for purchase.  Two benefits of People Inc. Daffodil Senior Living are its affordability and safety features. Monthly rent is based on the tenant’s and/or couple’s adjusted income. Some utilities are included. 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. The one-bedroom apartments include a kitchen with appliances. 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. People Inc. Daffodil Senior Living is located between Williamsville and Tonawanda. The Audubon Library, Amherst Senior Center, churches, restaurants, walking paths and stores are nearby. To learn more about the Open House and Multi-family Yard Sale or to RSVP, call 716-625-6081.  People Inc. manages 19 senior apartment locations throughout Western New. For more information about other locations, call 716-817-9090. 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.

Senior Wishes Grants 100th Wish with Visit from Anderson’s Ice Cream Truck to Senior Housing Apartments in West Seneca

Momentous Wish Granted in Recognition of May as Older Americans Month  What: Senior Wishes Grants 100th Wish with Visit from Anderson’s Ice Cream Truck to Senior Housing Apartments in West Seneca; held in conjunction with May as Older Americans Month When: Wednesday, May 24, 2017, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Where: People Inc. Burchfield Commons Senior Living, 2290 Union Road, West Seneca  Senior Wishes, a non-profit, is celebrating May as Older Americans Month by granting its 100th wish. Tenants of People Inc. Burchfield Commons Senior Living will be treated to ice cream served by Anderson’s. Live music will be performed by John Lorentz. Tenants of other nearby People Inc. Senior Living locations will also be in attendance to enjoy the festivities.  Senior Wishes’ first wish was granted in March 2014, and since then the organization has been recognizing Western New York’s seniors in increasing numbers with the support of community members and corporate sponsors. In the past three years, Senior Wishes has granted 99 other wishes for qualifying seniors, such as: travel to reunite with family and friends, take part in a sporting or cultural event and re-visiting a hobby or pastime. The program has arranged for a veteran to throw out the first pitch at a Bison’s baseball game, a Cheektowaga senior to meet JoAnn Falletta at a Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra performance and also for three veterans to have a special VIP day at a Sabres game.  People Inc. is pleased to partner with Senior Wishes to bring joy and special moments to the lives of seniors. With 19 senior apartment locations throughout Western New York, People Inc. Senior Living provides safe and maintenance-free housing for independent seniors age 62 and up who are income eligible. People Inc. provides programs and services to more than 12,500 people with special needs, their families and seniors throughout Western New York. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. Senior Wishes is a local non-profit with a mission to honor and recognize the lifelong contributions of Erie and Niagara County residents by granting meaningful wishes that will enhance seniors’ lives and bring them joy. The non-profit was created by the United Church Home Society with a mission to foster respect and appreciation for seniors through wish fulfillment.

People Inc./People Inc. CHDO Receives Funding Approval from NYS Homes and Community Renewal for Linwood/Lafayette Apartments in Buffalo

May 10, 2017: People Inc.’s Community Housing Development Organization is pleased to announce that it has received official notification from the New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) of funding for its 37-unit apartment project at 637 Linwood Avenue in Buffalo. In conjunction with the Gates Circle renovation initiative, the project will help revitalize the community with much needed housing. New construction of mixed income apartments, for people age 55 years and older, will also include seven units for individuals with developmental disabilities age 55 years and older who live independently. People Inc.’s apartments will be located on the long-vacant parking lot on Linwood and Lafayette Streets in Buffalo. Located next to a high-end senior living complex planned by Canterbury Woods, the project will provide an affordable option for the diverse neighborhood.  Well known for its development of group homes for individuals with developmental disabilities and providing affordable housing to seniors, People Inc. continues to broaden its scope to bring various audiences together for a unique housing model.  “We are thrilled that we have the support of New York State Homes and Community Renewal and the New York State Office of People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) for this important project,” said Rhonda Frederick, People Inc. president and CEO. “Working together over the past year, we are grateful to have the support of community groups and many important partners to provide an affordable housing opportunity.” The one-bedroom apartments will include a kitchen with appliances. Tenant income limits will be based on current federal rates. The apartment building will include a community room with a small kitchen, on-site laundry facilities, ample green space and courtyards. Tenants will be permitted to have one small pet. Safety features will include a secure entrance and a 24-hour on call emergency service. Additionally, the building is near a major bus route and accessible to various services and retail shops.   People Inc., along with its development team partners, TM Montante Development and Long Associates Architects, will mirror architectural designs from the neighborhood for the exterior of the apartment building’s structure. Construction is scheduled to start this fall and continue well into 2018. People Inc. is proud to have support from many agency leaders and elected officials:  Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said: “My administration has aggressively supported affordable housing in Buffalo over the past 11 years. Since I took office, the City has invested over $34 million that has leveraged over $333 million in affordable housing development. I applaud People Inc. for this mixed-income project that targets seniors, and also includes units designed to accommodate persons with disabilities. This is a great fit for the Gates Circle neighborhood, which will include Canterbury Woods and Lancaster Square.” Assemblymember Crystal Peoples Stokes said: “I’m excited that People Inc. has received the necessary approvals to move forward on their affordable housing project. This development reflects the architectural fabric and support of the community, fills a need for affordable housing and further stabilizes a historic neighborhood by turning a parking lot into an active facility. People Inc. has a great leadership team and is a dependable community partner. I applaud their efforts and look forward to the project’s completion.” Senator Tim Kennedy said: “People Inc. continues to go above and beyond when it comes to providing housing to independent seniors and people with disabilities in our community, and I’m thrilled to see that their project to provide mixed affordable housing at Linwood and Lafayette has been given the green light. Getting People Inc.’s incredible vision off the ground, matched with the State’s emphasis in the recent budget on affordable housing, has been a true partnership between all levels of government, and I look forward to seeing this project’s progress in the coming months.” Commissioner of New York State Homes and Community Renewal RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Everyone deserves a good home. When people have a safe, affordable place to live, families and communities thrive. The Linwood and Lafayette Apartments development continues the transformation of Gates Circle from a vacant hospital site into a vibrant new neighborhood. It also serves as another powerful example of Governor Cuomo’s commitment to expanding housing opportunities in Buffalo and across the state. Congratulation to People Inc. on today’s award.” 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.

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

Headway of WNY will host its 18h Annual Spring Gala called “Unite and Move Forward at the Atrium” on Thursday, May 18, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Rich’s Atrium, 1 Robert Rich Way, Buffalo.  The event includes hors d’oeuvres, open and cash bar, more than 100 raffle baskets, silent auction, dinner and live music.  Pre-sale tickets costs $55 through May 16 and $60 on the day of the event. To purchase tickets, go to headwayofwny.org or call 716.408.3117.  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. Headway of WNY, a not-for-profit agency and an affiliate of People Inc., provides resources, support groups, 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.