ADA25 Legacy Tour and Reception at Museum of disABILITY History

Buffalo, NY Part of National ADA25 Legacy Tour Bus The Museum of disABILITY History is pleased to host the ADA25 Legacy Tour and Reception on Wednesday, April 29, from 4 to 6 p.m., 3826 Main Street, Buffalo. The ADA25 Legacy Tour is a cross country trip raising awareness about the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The reception event will include a presentation, along with an opportunity for photos to be taken in front of the ADA25 Legacy tour bus and to view displays inside the Museum highlighting photographer Tom Olin’s iconic photos and milestones in the disability rights movement. Just as thousands have done during the ADA25 Legacy Tour’s journey, attendees will have a chance to add their signature to the ADA quilt. Even speakers include: Rhonda Frederick, president and chief executive officer, People Inc.; Mark J.F. Schroeder, comptroller, City of Buffalo; Shannon Patch, WNY Regional Director for Senator Charles Schumer; Tom Olin, photojournalist and director, The Disability Rights Center; Michael Rembis, PhD, director, University at Buffalo Center for Disability Studies and B.J. Stasio, self-advocate and a witness of the original signing of the ADA. Following the speakers will include short videos featuring Museum of disABILITY History Docents who have disabilities.  In conjunction with the University at Buffalo Center for Disability Studies, the Museum of disABILITY History is pleased to host the ADA25 Legacy Tour on April 29 and 30, with a reception on April 29. Prior to Buffalo, the tour will be coming from Grand Rapids, Michigan and then traveling to Morgantown, West Virginia. The tour will travel to other states and culminate with disability community leaders in Washington DC on July 26, 2015. The Museum’s Self-Advocacy Traveling Exhibit complements the tour as the ADA25 Legacy project spreads awareness, preserves the past and celebrates the achievements of individuals with disabling conditions. The exhibit’s four-panel banner stand traces the Self-Advocacy Movement from early educational facilities to the development of organizations established for and by individuals with disabilities.  The ADA Legacy Tour is a traveling exhibit designed to raise public awareness and generate excitement about ADA25 and is produced by The ADA Legacy Project, Disability Rights Center, ADA National Network and the Museum of disABILITY History. The ADA prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in employment, transportation, public accommodation, communications and governmental activities. The ADA also establishes requirements for telecommunications relay services. As part of the event and in celebration of the ADA turning 25, there will be free admission to the Museum on April 29 and 30. 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 mission is to tell the story of the lives, triumphs and struggles of people with disabilities as well as society’s reactions. The Museum of disABILITY History, located at 3826 Main Street in Buffalo, NY, offers educational exhibits, programs and activities that expand community awareness. 

Advocacy is a Way of Life

As Developmental Disabilities Awareness month comes to an end, we wanted to shine a light on the devoted professionals who make up the People Inc. Advocacy Department. This team is making an impact not only on the agency, but regionally, statewide, and beyond. They are teachers, advocates, and innovators. The Advocacy Department is dedicated to the empowerment of each person and community's capacity to listen and respond with positive public policy practices. Advocacy is the active involvement of all people to speak up for change, which starts in each of our homes and broadens out to our communities. People Inc.’s Advocacy Department is based on the premise that everyone has the right to advocate for themselves, others, and their larger community. They champion the principles of person-centered practice, mutual respect, and innovation to facilitate change. This department is one of the only such departments at a provider agency and is largely comprised of people with a disability. Through the work of the People Inc. team, advocates promote the idea that people have rights, can make decisions for themselves, speak for themselves, and can determine for themselves how to live as independently as possible. Members of the Advocacy Team support monthly advocacy groups, learn/teach self-advocacy skills, attend conferences, lobby for policy changes, serve on agency committees, present at orientation, participate in the staff recruitment process, staff tables at community events, and educate/train staff and others. They also support each other when speaking about what is important. People Inc. Advocacy groups host and participate in a variety of local, regional, and state-wide monthly advocacy meetings. Meetings may be offered in-person, hybrid (in-person/virtual) or only virtually. These groups include Brothers and Sisters of Advocacy, Core Advocacy, Moving On Up, PrideAbility of WNY, STREAM, The Underground and United Voices for Change. The Advocacy Department provides a platform for people to share their experiences and promote positive change. Click here for descriptions of each group. Members of the Advocacy Department are assigned to facilitate a group. The purposes of the group align with the interests and skills of the facilitator. Additionally, each member of the department takes turns hosting the daily virtual meetings – even on weekends and holidays. These meetings are a way to keep people socializing in a safe space, providing education, teaching advocacy skills, discussing health topics, building confidence, sharing resources, playing games, and having fun with “day” celebrations – such as a pajama party, New Year’s Eve, and Halloween. The Advocacy Team runs pilot programs, which when successful become part of the agency’s training offerings. Current pilot programs include the Art of Advocacy and sexual education. Several members of the People Inc. Advocacy team shared their reflections on what brought them to the agency, what their favorite experience is and what they want the rest of the agency to know. Their pride, passion and dedication shines through. Below are highlights: Rick Banner, associate vice president advocacy: I am very proud that our agency values advocacy and our importance in the strategic plan. In just 15 years we have grown from just myself representing advocacy efforts to a department of nine people. Christy Glenn, advocacy support professional: I facilitate daily calls that are important to me because I am there for people who are bored and have no one to talk to - they come hang out with us. We chat and learn about advocacy. On the weekends we do fun things like play games or watch a movie and relax together. Israel Cruz, advocacy support professional: One of my proudest accomplishments has to be sitting in a room with government officials fighting for an ADA coordinator for Erie County. One of the strengths of our department is that we come from so many different walks of life backgrounds, and disability experiences that we complement each other and continue to grow. Karen Readel, advocacy support professional: I am proud to be able to use my Bachelor of Science in Social Work skills in a meaningful way. I meet people from across the state and lead important discussions that can be applied to everyday life and offer support. Shanell Davis, advocacy support professional: Between facilitating both three advocacy groups and the daily calls, I have come to understand that for some of the people who participate in these calls or meetings are the most interaction they get. Therefore, it is important to connect with them and build relationships. We are here for each other, especially during difficult or challenging times. I do a lot of research to prepare. Gwen Squire, advocacy support professional: I enjoy presenting at orientation. We meet the agency's new hires on their first day and share our experience of living with a disability, teach disability etiquette and provide information on the Advocacy Department. I grew up in an institution where I didn't have a voice in much of what happened around me. Now, with my master's in Rehabilitation Counseling, I can advocate for people with disabilities and be a part of the incredible outreach and programming we are responsible for and help people through their struggles to succeed. Richard Marino, advocacy support professional: Working to encourage others to advocate or speak up for themselves is something I take great pride in facilitating. I am responsible for the monthly calendar of activities that we make available to the public. Heather Kraemer, advocacy support professional: I am very proud of our work around natural language, person-centered practices, and trauma informed care. Members of the advocacy team have first-hand experiences living with a disability. This is their strength, and they share so much of themselves while creating thoughtful conversations and supports with the people we serve. For more information about the Advocacy Department , contact Rick Banner at rbanner@people-inc.org or 716.322.7070

Affiliation with Lothlorien Ends

The affiliation between Lothlorien Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc. (LTRC) and People Inc. ended effective April 30, 2023. Read the statement at lothlorientrc.org .

Affordable Apartments Now Accepting Applications

Do you have an elderly family member or friend or someone you assist who is in need of affordable and maintenance-free living? People Inc. provides various options, including: People Inc. Senior Living is for independent, older adults age 62 and up who are income-eligible. Apartment applications are accepted year-round for its 19 locations throughout Western New York, including Amherst, Angola, Blasdell, Clarence, Grand Island, Lackawanna, Lockport (border of Amherst), South Buffalo, Springville and Wheatfield (border of North Tonawanda). Two benefits of People Inc. Senior Living are affordable rent based on income and numerous safety features. As an added cost-savings, some utilities are included. Tenants are welcome to have one small pet. Info: Email seniorliving@people-inc.org or call 716.817.9090. NOW available: One-bedroom Tax Credit apartment unit at Academy Place Senior Apartments in Gowanda, managed by People Inc. The apartment building, ideal for older adults in the Southern Tier, is located at 1 School Street in Gowanda, NY. The HUD Section 202 Affordable Housing and NYS Tax Credit apartments provide housing for independent, older adults age 62 and up who meet income guidelines. Vouchers are accepted for Tax Credit units. Info: Download an application or call 716.817.9090. Rental applications are being accepted for the new People Inc. Grant Street Apartments , offering one and two-bedroom units. Located at 25 Grant Street in North Tonawanda, the apartments are for people who are head of household and 18 years or older, who meet income eligibility. Amenities include: Kitchen with refrigerator, stove and dishwasher; water and garbage removal included; on-site laundry facilities; safety features; air conditioning and on-site management. Tenants may have one small pet. Rent subsidies and/or rental vouchers accepted. Some apartments are designed for people who have mobility and vision challenges or who are Deaf or hard of hearing. Info : Email housing@people-inc.org or call 716.693.4249.

After 50 Publication Features People Inc. Senior Services

Our People Inc. Services for Seniors and Older Adults is the cover and feature story of the July 2022 issue of After 50 . Learn more about our various apartment options, plus companionship supports and case management. This is a helpful story for those in need, family members and caregivers who help a loved one, as well as for healthcare professionals. These supports are a beneficial resource, whether they may be needed now or in the future. Have a question? Contact us – our staff are happy to help:  Senior Living : housing@people-inc.org or call 716.880.3890  Affordable Apartments : housing@people-inc.org or call 716.880.3890  Senior Companion Program : Call 716.768.2381  Senior Outreach Program : Call 716.768.2357 

Afternoon Tea Party for Tenants of People Inc. Daffodil Senior Living in Amherst

What: Afternoon Tea Party for Tenants of People Inc. Daffodil Senior Living in Amherst When: Wednesday, August 29, 2012; noon-1:30 p.m. Where: People Inc. Daffodil Senior Living, 160 Robin Road, Amherst One of the most important factors in aging successfully is social connectivity. Tenants at People Inc. Daffodil Senior Living will enjoy a catered afternoon Tea Party. Staff members will serve the tenants as they enjoy lunch with their fellow friends. Desserts have been generously donated by DiCamillo Bakery. For seniors age 62 or older, People Inc. Daffodil Senior Living apartments include a living room, one bedroom, kitchen with appliances and accessible bathroom. Monthly rent is based on income. The exceptionally maintained apartment building includes a furnished community room, laundry facilities, 24 on-call building services and group transportation to grocery stores. Service coordinators are available to provide necessary supports. For seniors who like to remain active, there are a variety of activities held throughout the year. People Inc.’s Daffodil Senior Living Apartments in Amherst is located in a suburban neighborhood between Williamsville and Tonawanda. The Audubon Library, Amherst Senior Center, churches, restaurants, walking paths and shopping districts are nearby. Tenants can enjoy the beautiful gardens at the apartment building while relaxing in the courtyard. People Inc. manages 17 senior apartment locations throughout Western New York providing safe, affordable housing for seniors age 62 and older who meet income requirements. For more information about other locations, call 716.817.9090. People Inc. is a not-for-profit health and human services agency providing programs and services to more than 10,000 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.

Albright-Knox Art Gallery Features

Art Exhibition from People Inc.'s Arts Experience Day Habilitation The Albright-Knox Art Gallery is featuring the artwork of artists from the Arts Experience Day Habilitation of People Inc. during an education art exhibition called "No Limitations." An opening reception will be held on Friday, July 1, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, 1285 Elmwood Ave. in Buffalo. The reception and exhibition will be held in the Education Corridor and Classrooms. The exhibit will be on display until July 20 . "No Limitations" is a collection of artwork that represents the exploration and creative expression of the artists of People Inc.'s Arts Experience Day Habilitation. The Arts Experience showcases the talents of adult artisans with developmental disabilities. The Arts Experience Day Habilitation offers classes in visual art, theatre, music, dance, jewelry design, fitness dance and creative writing. The exhibit at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery is a culmination of one and a half years of artwork created by participants of the Arts Experience that best represents the participant's exploration and creative expression. The 100 pieces of artwork include mixed media, oil painting and pottery. The artists have been exploring a wide variety of mediums and making discoveries and connections to the art world around them. They spent the last two years learning about a variety of different mediums from digital photography, textile design to oil painting. They visited local galleries and researched periods of art history. The exhibition is a reflection of their growth as artists. Visitors should enter the Albright-Knox Art Gallery through the Elmwood Avenue entrance. Admission to the opening reception is free. All other days, admission is $12 for adults, $8 for students, and $5 for children. The Albright-Knox Art Gallery is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on M&T First Friday's. For more information about People Inc.'s Arts Experience, call Michelle Silverblatt at 716.635.6526.

Anne McCaffrey is Next CEO at People Inc.

 Hospital CEO to Lead Area’s Largest Non-Profit Human Services Agency  The Board of Directors of People Inc. today named Anne McCaffrey as its new CEO. McCaffrey, currently the President and CEO of Eastern Niagara Hospital, will replace Rhonda Frederick, who is retiring in April after a 43-year career at the agency. McCaffrey was chosen after an extensive national search that began shortly after the August 2022 announcement of Frederick’s retirement, said JoAnne Hudecki, chairperson of the People Inc. Board of Directors. “The Board is extremely confident that Anne is the right person to take this amazing organization forward into its next chapter,” said Hudecki. “She has made an impact on the community in every role she has taken on, and we know this will be no different.” McCaffrey, who will begin her tenure at People Inc. on March 20, spent 19 years in various roles at Lake Shore Behavioral Health (now BestSelf Behavioral Health) before moving to a city government role in Lockport. She was Mayor of the City of Lockport from 2014 to 2018. In August of 2018, McCaffrey was named President and Chief Executive Officer of Eastern Niagara Hospital, where she helped facilitate a successful restructuring and transaction with Catholic Health to keep hospital services in Niagara County. She is also a member of the New York State Legislative Ethics Commission. “This role combines all of my previous positions and passions, with a mission I am honored to support,” said McCaffrey. “I am thrilled to be joining the People Inc. family -- and I already know that it truly is a family.” People Inc. employs over 4,000 people and provides programs and supports to over 12,000 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, families and older adults throughout Western New York and Rochester. The agency’s mission is to assure people with disabling conditions or other special needs have the supports they need to participate and succeed in an accepting society.  Frederick, who started at People Inc. in 1980 in an entry-level direct support role, was the Chief Operating Officer for many years before becoming CEO in 2014. Frederick will stay on for a number of weeks to assist with the transition, said Hudecki.  “Rhonda leaves big shoes to fill, but Anne has the right mix of experience in health care, leadership, non-profit, and relationship-building we think is necessary for this role,” said Hudecki. “Most importantly, we set out to find the absolute right person to lead the organization in supporting the thousands of people who truly need us. I am certain we have found that person.” 

Anne McCaffrey, People Inc. President & CEO featured in Business First

Buffalo Business First’s ongoing series with area business leaders, VISION Buffalo – Executive Insights, interviewed People Inc. President & CEO Anne McCaffrey. John Tebeau, Buffalo Business First publisher, spoke to McCaffrey about how her diverse experiences in government and healthcare uniquely positioned her to lead People Inc. at this time in its more than 50-year history. They also delved into important issues facing non-profit agencies such as People Inc., reflections on highlights of McCaffrey’s first year and the direction and hopes for the future of the agency. The video interview and accompanying article are available here .