Newest People Inc. Site in Buffalo Creates Synergies

People Inc. is always looking for the best and most efficient ways to utilize the many properties we operate. Over the last year, the transformation of what was once a medical practice and offices on Elmwood Avenue serves as a shining example of innovation and teamwork, with the creation of unique space for both employees and people receiving services from People Inc. After the relocation of the agency’s rehabilitative health, social work and counseling services to 800 Hertel Avenue, a remodel of the Elmwood Avenue building made room for offices for People Inc.’s Learning & Development, Human Resources, and Advocacy departments, which are now all housed alongside a day program for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Called the “Center of Excellence in Employment and Training,” the building at 2128 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, provides unique synergies. Communication, collaboration, development of the HR Team, cross-training, and efficiencies of many processes are just a few of the highlights that People Inc. Senior Vice President of Human Resources Kathryn Alterio has noticed in the new location. “Bringing the entire HR team from talent acquisition , retention, benefits and more into one place has been tremendously helpful,” she said. “Plus, it is easier to now work much closer with staff from Learning and Development and Advocacy – streamlining the ability to respond to the needs of our employees.” She also noted the importance of hiring the best employees and the important role that members of the Advocacy Team play in providing vital feedback during the interview process. Advocacy staff, including some who also receive services from People Inc., work with the Human Resources team, Learning & Development, as well as with people attending the day program, housed in the building. Members of People Inc.’s Advocacy Department are also involved with every new employee orientation and help facilitate several training segments, said Vice President, Learning & Development David Squires. “This has a great impact on new employees,” he said. “Additionally, having HR in the building has been invaluable for us in that they are there to provide us with guidance when situations arise with new employees.” Working with the day program, the Advocacy Team has initiated programs including sexuality training, an “Art of Advocacy” program, and more. A bonus, according to Associate Vice President for Advocacy Rick Banner, is the example set for new and existing employees by our staff with disabilities who work in the building. Funded in part by the Empire State Development division of New York State, the creation of the Center of Excellence in Employment and Training is a critical investment in our workforce, said People Inc. President and CEO Anne McCaffrey. “The Center for Excellence in Employment and Training allows us to present an inclusive and accessible high-tech space to meet the needs of prospective job applicants, new hires and our staff in every step of their recruitment, training and career development.”

Niagara County Almshouse Cemetery Restoration Ceremony Honors People who are Laid to Rest and Recognizes Volunteers

What:  Niagara County Almshouse Cemetery Restoration Ceremony, hosted by the Museum of disABILITY History, People Inc. and Niagara County officials When: Thursday, June 5, 2014, at 10 a.m. Where:  5526 Niagara Street Extension, Lockport. The cemetery is located across the street from the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, between Townline Road and Sunset Drive. Parking available in the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office parking lot. Who:  Staff members from the Museum of disABILITY History and People Inc.; Catherine Emerson, Niagara County Historian; William Ross, Chairman, Niagara County Legislature and cemetery restoration volunteers. Why:  Event will mark the restoration of the neglected cemetery and honor the lives of the more than 1,400 Niagara County Almshouse residents who died and were buried there, most with unmarked graves, between 1830-1916. People Inc. and Museum staff and volunteers have been working for two years to clear brush and beautify the space. The ceremony will include the unveiling of a special memorial plaque and monument. 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. 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. Contact: Nicole Forgione, People Inc. Public Affairs Manager Direct Line: 716-817-7490, nforgione@people-inc.org

Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority Awards People Inc.’s Carpet Cleaning Done Right Enterprise with Contract to Clean Buffalo Niagara International Airport

People Inc. is proud to announce a unique contract that was awarded by the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) for its Carpet Cleaning Done Right Enterprise to provide carpet cleaning services in the carpeted areas of the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. People Inc.’s Carpet Cleaning Done Right Enterprise went through a rigorous Request for Proposal process where competing carpet cleaning companies also submitted applications.  One of People Inc.’s major areas of focus is to assist people with various disabilities who want to train for, work and maintain jobs. As a result, People Inc. launched its Carpet Cleaning Done Right Enterprise in 2015, offering carpet cleaning services for commercial, business, government and residential locations, while providing employment opportunities in an integrated setting for job seekers they serve. On-site supervision is provided to ensure the job is done to the customer’s satisfaction. The contract agreement is an example of how People Inc.’s Vocational Services Program is expanding its business enterprise externally. “There are many businesses in our community who are willing to partner with us on this effort and we are thrilled to have the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority be one of our business partners,” said Tim Pfohl, vice president of Day and Employment Services, People Inc. “This agreement between the highly established transportation company and our non-profit demonstrates the quality of our program and the services provided.” “We are looking forward to our new partnership with People Inc. and our shared alliance that supports people with disabilities so that they are able to be independent and actively involved within the business community,” said Kimberley A. Minkel executive director, Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority. During a short time span, Carpet Cleaning Done Right has made progress establishing a strong customer base that allows it to operate as a self-sufficient business enterprise. The business currently provides services to companies such as We Care Transportation Services, Charter Oaks and Parkview Health Services. The program also provides services to People Inc. Senior Living apartments and a number of private residential households.   Carpet Cleaning Done Right is fully insured and provides free estimates. For more information on how to incorporate carpet cleaning for your business or residence and assist people with disabilities, call 716.817.5750. 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 .

Nick Kilpatrick Shares Talents with Jamestown Community

Nick Kilpatrick is proud to be a part of his Jamestown community. The 42-year-old, who is enrolled in People Inc. Self-Directed Services, is a skilled string musician who brings people together with his tunes. Known by many as “Traveling Nick, the Guitar Guy,” he shares his talents with residents at Heritage Park Skilled Nursing and with shoppers at the Ashville General Store. One of Nick’s biggest advocates is his Self-Determination Assistant Ron Matson. Ron has worked with Nick to find meaningful avenues for his time and music. Together, they research opportunities and get in touch with local businesses. In 2021, Nick decided to participate in the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign as a way to share his talents and give back to the community. He enjoyed it so much that he decided to take part again in 2022, playing guitar and encouraging donations from holiday visitors to Chautauqua Mall in Lakewood. For Nick, it’s all about making connections with those around him. “I like the people who come to see me,” he shared. In addition to his musical endeavors, Nick has also been able to develop skills as a craftsman with Ron’s guidance. He repairs vintage fans and builds cigar box string instruments in his own workshop using a number of tools, as well as a plan for each project to help keep him organized. Recently, Nick has been expanding his skillset, while refurbishing a credenza for his apartment. He’s learned how to use a few different tools and is thankful for all the opportunities he’s received through People Inc. Self-Directed Services. “I would like to thank all the people that have helped me to get here,” said Nick. “I like to make new friends, along with the people I work with. I really enjoy learning new things and playing my music for everyone.” Learn more This story was part of the 2022 Annual Report.

Nicole Galley Promoted to Recruitment and Hiring Administrator

Nicole Galley has been promoted to Recruitment and Hiring Administrator in People Inc.’s Human Resources Department. Nicole is responsible for the hiring and recruitment at People Inc. Her extensive background in Residential, Business, Benefits, and HR analysis enable her to manage day to day hiring practices and procedures at Western New York’s Leading Not for Profit Health and Human Service provider. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting and Finance. She also holds a certification as a Professional in Human Resources (PHR). People Inc. was awarded the Golden Buffalo Award from Buffalo Niagara Human Resource Association (BNHRA). The Golden Buffalo is awarded to a company that demonstrates the importance and positive impact strong human resource practices can have within an organization. This award recognizes the highest achievements in practices that Advance the Human Resource Profession in Western New York. 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 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.

Nominations Accepted for Award for Excellence in Disability Advocacy

The Museum of disABILITY History will present its inaugural Chris Burke Award for Excellence in Disability Advocacy next month. An award will be presented to one person for outstanding work in the disability community. Qualified nominees are individuals with a developmental disability who represents the value of contributing significant work in the disability community and makes inclusion a priority. The accomplished person must be active in the Western New York and/or Rochester, NY communities and shows leadership qualities.
 Burke, an actor with Down syndrome, played Corky on the television show, “Life Goes On.”
He has earned numerous awards and is a Goodwill Ambassador for the National Down Syndrome Society. To complete an online nomination, go to museumofdisability.org . All nominations are due by Friday, September 23. For more information, contact Doug Farley, director, Museum of disABILITY History, at dfarley@people-inc.org or 716-629-3626. The award will be presented on Thursday, October 13, during the Museum's fall fundraiser and auction, at its location, 3826 Main Street, Buffalo. 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. The Museum’s exhibits, collections, archives and educational programs create awareness and a platform for dialogue and discovery.

Nominations Now Accepted for DSP of the Year

People Inc. is accepting nominations for its annual Direct Support Professionals (DSP) of the Year Awards! Award recipients are staff members of People Inc. who provide direct support for people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities and demonstrate superior care and consistent dedication. At least 15 winners will be selected and announced during DSP Week, September 6-12, 2020. Each winner will receive a $1,000 monetary award. DSP Recognition Week is observed nationally and honors these wonderful professionals for the valuable contributions they provide.  We are seeking nominations from people we support, parents, guardians, family members, community members and staff. Winners will be chosen through an impartial committee review. Submit a nomination through  printable PDF  or  online . Nominations must be received by August 9, 2020.

Nominations Now Accepted for DSP of the Year 2021

People Inc. is accepting  nominations  for its annual Direct Support Professional (DSP) of the Year Awards! Award recipients are agency staff members who provide direct support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and demonstrate superior care and consistent dedication. At least 15 winners will be selected and announced during DSP Week, September 12-18, 2021. Each winner will receive a $1,000 monetary award. DSP Week is observed nationally and honors these wonderful professionals for the valuable contributions they provide. We are seeking nominations from people we support, parents, guardians, family members, community members and staff. Winners will be chosen through an impartial committee review. Nominations must be received by August 8. 

November Lunch and Learn – Medicaid Answering Services

People Inc. invites interested Care Coordinators to join us on Thursday, November 18, as we host our monthly virtual “Lunch and Learn” workshop from noon to 1:00 p.m.