People Inc. Jefferson Avenue Apartments Mural Project Call for Art

February 21, 2020: People Inc., in collaboration with the WNY Urban Arts Collective, is requesting local visual artists to submit proposals for murals to be installed on the newly constructed Jefferson Avenue Apartments, located at 1140 and 1166 Jefferson Avenue, Buffalo, NY. Artists are encouraged to be creative and to use any resources available. Images should be captivating, engaging and reflective of the theme, Historic Jefferson Avenue. Proposals are due by Sunday, April 12. Details and guidelines are available online .  For questions and proposal submissions, contact John Baker, president of WNY Urban Arts Collective, at jonbak@112@yahoo.com or 716.994.3584. For apartment rental information for People Inc. Jefferson Avenue Apartments, contact housing@people-inc.org or call 716.880.3890. People Inc., a multispecialty non-profit health and human services agency, provides programs and services to more than 10,000 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, special needs, their families and older adults throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted people to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. With nearly 4,000 employees, People Inc. is one of the region’s largest employers. To learn more, visit people-inc.org , follow People Inc. on Facebook or Twitter @PeopleIncNews.

People Inc. Jefferson Avenue Apartments Recognized by New York State Association for Affordable Housing

People Inc. has earned an award from the New York State Association for Affordable Housing under the category of “Project of the Year in the Upstate Region.” The recognition acknowledges its Jefferson Avenue Apartments, located in Buffalo’s historic Jefferson corridor.  The People Inc. Jefferson Avenue Apartments project began construction in 2018 and celebrated the public opening in August 2021. In addition to People Inc. providing safe and affordable housing, a set of five murals adorn the apartment building, all designed by local artists and representing the history of the Jefferson Avenue community. People Inc. is grateful to its funders to help make this project a reality, including: NYS Homes and Community Renewal, NYS Housing Finance Agency, JP Morgan Chase Bank, Raymond James Tax Credit Funds, City of Buffalo HOME Program, NYS Empire State Development, NYS Energy Research and Development Authority and NYS Office for People With Developmental Disabilities. People Inc., a multispecialty non-profit health and human services agency, provides programs and services to thousands of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, families and older adults throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted people to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. With nearly 4,000 employees, People Inc. is one of the region’s largest employers. To learn more, visit people-inc.org , follow People Inc. on Facebook or Twitter @PeopleIncNews.

People Inc. Joins Broad Effort to Observe National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Ensuring that people with developmental disabilities and other disabilities secure and maintain meaningful, competitive employment is an important part of what People Inc. does year-round. Each October, People Inc. recognizes National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time set aside to educate the community about disability issues and to celebrate the many and varied talents and valuable contributions of workers with disabilities and their impact on the economy. This year’s theme is “Disability: Part of the Equity Equation,” which recognizes the important role people with disabilities play in a diverse and inclusive American workforce. This group of job seekers are unemployed at a rate that is twice that of job seekers without disabilities. The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month traces back to 1945 when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” In 1962, the word “physically” was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month. “Our national recovery from the pandemic cannot be completed without the inclusion of all Americans, in particular people with disabilities,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh. “Their contributions have historically been vital to our nation’s success, and are more important today than ever. We must build an economy that fully includes the talent and drive of those with disabilities.” People Inc. is seeking new businesses in Western New York and the Greater Rochester region to join its current 400 business partners. People Inc. helps companies fill openings specific to their need and demand through the supported employment program . Additionally, several  business solutions  have been established that offer high-quality work, ranging from janitorial and carpet cleaning to workforce solutions and contract manufacturing. Hiring a qualified person with a disability brings greater benefits beyond just filling an open job – it means increased productivity, enhanced corporate culture and dedicated, loyal and efficient employees – all of which contribute to a company’s success! People Inc. is proud to support people in their career goals through its Supported Employment and Vocational Programs. People of all abilities have the right to equal employment opportunities.  The goal of the agency’s  Vocational Services  is to help people with all abilities find a job that is suitable to their specific interests, strengths and abilities. A hallmark of the success of the People Inc. program is that if there is not a good job match in traditional employment opportunities, the agency creates them so that people who are ready and willing to work, can. These jobs are competitive and integrated and provide real wages to the people supported by the agency. “People Inc. is proud to be a part of this year’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month,” said Rhonda Frederick, President and CEO. “We want to spread the important message that we value all perspectives, including those of people with disabilities.” Reflecting this year’s theme, she remarked, “People Inc. confirms its commitment to an inclusive work culture, continuing to be a resource to the business community on disability employment issues and opening the door to building new relationships with business of all sizes across the region.” For a detailed conversation about employing people with disabilities, revisit this TEDx Buffalo talk, entitled “Differently Abled: Employing the Next FDR,” presented by Rhonda Frederick from 2015. “This presentation is still relevant today and I challenge all owners of businesses of any size, as well as community organizations, to think differently about people with disabilities in the workplace – how can you promote inclusion in your workplace? Together, let’s break down the barriers that still exist.” If businesses would like to find out how to partner with People Inc., or a person with a disability would like to learn more, email James Scutt at businesssolutions@people-inc.org or call its Vocational Services Department at 716-817-5750 . People Inc., a multispecialty non-profit health and human services agency, provides programs and services to more than 12,000 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, families and older adults throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted people to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. With nearly 4,000 employees, People Inc. is one of the region’s largest employers. To learn more, visit people-inc.org, follow  People Inc . on Facebook or Twitter  @PeopleIncNews .

People Inc. Joins Special Olympics Basketball Tournament at Niagara University

Playing sports offers countless benefits. From increased self-confidence and critical thinking skills to developing character and a sense of teamwork, athletics give people of all abilities the tools they need to thrive and increase their physical fitness. No one knows this better than Special Olympics, a nonprofit organization that offers children and adults with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to train and compete in authentic, quality sports.  On April 22, 2023, the state chapter, Special Olympics New York, partnered with Niagara University to host its Western Regional Basketball Tournament. About 175 Special Olympians competed in this year’s event, including 20 athletes from People Inc. In addition to the days of practicing basketball on campus, People Inc. participants also worked with the coaches in a classroom setting at Niagara University, learning about and helping to plan every aspect of the tournament. Brandon Mazur, an athlete who is also enrolled in a number of People Inc. programs, appreciated the skills he gained from the experience. “I enjoy learning how to pass the ball, shooting and dribbling,” he explained. “I like working with the coaches because they spend time with me and teach me how to play basketball. I really enjoy going to the university and being part of the program.” Kyle Stern, another Special Olympian who takes part in People Inc. programs, was excited to join the tournament for a second year running. “I did this last year as well,” he expressed. “It's really a lot of fun and it's really enjoyable to see a lot of familiar faces. I like dribbling the ball and passing it to my teammates.” The event was a huge success and People Inc. was proud to be a part of it. “As an agency, we work hard every day to create a culture where people are accepted and valued for who they are,” shared Elizabeth Duncan, director for People Inc. Day Habilitation Programs. “We look forward to continuing this partnership with Special Olympics and Niagara University and working together to build a more inclusive future.”  

People Inc. Launches New Durable Medical Equipment Business

Agency’s first for profit venture will leverage experience to meet community needs December 15, 2015: People Inc., Western New York’s largest human services agency serving individuals with developmental disabilities and special needs, today announced the launch of a new durable medical equipment supplier, People First Mobility (PFM). PFM will provide complex rehabilitation mobility and seating technology and home medical equipment so people with disabilities can reach their functional potential in their homes and in the community. Product examples include power wheelchairs, scooters, custom seating, hospital beds and lift chairs. PFM will operate as an affiliate of People Inc. and will serve individuals, families, caregivers and the education and medical community in their homes and offices. “This new mission-related business is backed by our 45 years of experience supporting people with special needs,” said People Inc. President and CEO Rhonda Frederick. “Because of our experience, we saw an opportunity to help match people with the equipment and technology required for them to lead more healthy, independent and productive lives. We are excited to be able to serve the community in this way.” PFM offers in-home evaluations, free delivery, equipment setup and training, equipment repair, certified assistive technology professionals (ATPs), certified repair technicians and free loaner equipment. Seasoned professional, Brian Clayback, a West Seneca native who has spent more than 25 years in the durable medical equipment field, will serve as PFM’s general manager. Clayback earned a bachelor’s degree from Canisius College and serves on the board of the New York Medical Equipment Providers. (NYMEP). Expected to become the go-to business for a variety of medical equipment needs, PFM’s lead product is complex wheelchairs delivered quickly and reliably. “We see a need from consumers for experts who can guide them each step of the way and get what they need quickly,” said Clayback. “We also offer hands on trials so that people can test out wheelchair products before they make a decision. And, while we serve people of every age, we have a proficiency in assisting parents of young children who are looking for support and guidance.” PFM, located at 2128 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, initially employs two full-time associates. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5 pm. For more information, call 716.566.5000. 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 1970, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity.

People Inc. Lilly Senior Living in Blasdell Hosts Open House and Yard Sale

Applications Accepted for Affordable and Safe Apartments   If your mom or dad is looking for affordable housing or if you are a senior looking to downsize, consider People Inc.’s Lilly Senior Living. To showcase its apartment building, People Inc. Lilly Senior Living will host an Open House and Multi-family Yard Sale on Friday, June 8, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., at 36 Arthur Avenue in Blasdell (border of South Buffalo) . The affordable senior living complex is conveniently located to restaurants, Hamburg shopping district, McKinley Mall, Erie County Fairgrounds and churches.   Whether thinking of downsizing, removing the burden of owning a home or renting an overly expensed apartment, People Inc.’s Lilly Senior Living provides seniors the chance to live affordably. Apartments are for individuals age 62 and older who meet federally mandated income guidelines. Applications are being accepted and tours will be available during the Open House.   A multi-family yard sale will be held in conjunction with the Open House event. Household goods, furniture, books, games, clothing and more will be available for sale. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the tenant fund to support activities.   For more information about the Open House or Multi-family Yard Sale, call 716.821.1230.   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. Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments Offer 37 Mixed-Income Apartments in Gates Circle Neighborhood

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the completion of Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments in Buffalo, a new $11.6 million affordable housing development with 37 apartments for older New Yorkers. The development will also include support services that allow people with intellectual or developmental disabilities to live independently. The apartments were constructed on the site of the vacant Millard Fillmore Hospital in the Gates Circle neighborhood of Buffalo, offering residents easy access to public transportation and retail.  "By transforming a long vacant space into high-quality homes, we are making another strategic investment in Buffalo and furthering revitalization efforts for the Gates Circle neighborhood," Governor Cuomo said. "Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments is a welcome addition that will provide new affordable housing options to city residents and help continue Buffalo's resurgence." "We want people who grew up in Buffalo and across the state to stay here and have affordable housing options," Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul said. "The Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments add affordable units for our older residents and provide critical support services for individuals with developmental disabilities. This investment is part of our aggressive $20 billion, five-year housing plan to add and preserve affordable homes. We want to give everyone in New York an opportunity to live independent, healthy, and safe lives." Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments is part of Governor Cuomo's commitment to providing all New Yorkers with access to safe, affordable housing is reflected in the State's unprecedented $20 billion, five-year Housing Plan. The plan makes housing accessible and combats homelessness by building and preserving more than 100,000 units of affordable housing and 6,000 units of supportive housing. Since 2011, New York State Homes and Community Renewal has invested more than $763 million to create or preserve more than 4,400 affordable homes and apartments in Western NY, including nearly $197 million in the city of Buffalo to house about 5,700 people. Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments was constructed on a parking lot at Linwood and Lafayette Streets, which has sat unused since the Millard Fillmore Hospital closed. The development includes 31 one-bedroom apartments and six two-bedroom apartments. The apartments are affordable to people 55 years or older with low to moderate household incomes. Located in one of Buffalo's oldest and most historic neighborhoods, known as the Linwood Preservation District, it is situated between the Elmwood Village and Buffalo's Main Street. Project amenities include Energy Star heat and air conditioning, dishwashers in each unit, laundry facilities and outdoor patio space. Housing support services are provided through a partnership between the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities and People Inc., who is also the project's developer and one of Western New York's largest providers of affordable housing for older adults and residential opportunities for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. HCR provided state and federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits that generated about $7.6 million in equity and an additional $2.5 million in subsidy.OPWDD is providing $1 million in capital plus rental subsidies and funding for support services. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority provided $37,000. Additional funding includes $265,505 from the city of Buffalo. The State's investment in Linwood Lafayette supports the Governor's "Health Across All Policies" and "Age-Friendly State" initiatives by preserving affordable homes for seniors. The initiative is a collaborative approach that integrates health considerations into policymaking across all sectors to improve community health and wellness. Learn more here . People Inc. President and CEO Rhonda Frederick said, "There's an incredible need for a variety of affordable housing options in the City of Buffalo and surrounding areas. We are so pleased to have our agency help fulfill a gap in the community with our mixed-income housing options for older adults and for people with disabilities. We're proud to have the Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments be an example of collaboration for the Gates Circle revitalization. We are grateful to have New York state funding sources, along with the support of important partners and community groups in order to provide this affordable housing opportunity." New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, "Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments provides 37 apartments for older adults so that they can live comfortably and affordably in their own communities. Governor Cuomo understands that by increasing housing opportunities for older New Yorkers and providing them with access to services, we build stronger neighborhoods for all. The city of Buffalo is no exception and we join our many partners on welcoming residents to their new home." Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Commissioner Theodore Kastner, MD, MS said, "Affordable, supportive housing provides integrated, community living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Under the leadership of Governor Cuomo, and with the assistance of our state agency partners,  we can help to ensure the people we support live happy, fulfilled lives in their neighborhoods and communities." New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said, "Through his support of housing developments like the Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments in Buffalo, Governor Cuomo is truly making New York an Age-Friendly State. Residents will have ready access to Delaware Park and nearby public transportation to connect them with the rest of the community, all in a beautiful historic neighborhood."   Congressman Brian Higgins said, "People Inc. continues to demonstrate leadership on projects that meet a community need to provide quality housing opportunities accessible to a variety of residents.  The Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments, funded in part through federal HOME funds and federal low-income housing tax credits, is an exciting new addition to a neighborhood with a great deal of history." Senator Tim Kennedy said, "As our nation continues to face an affordable housing crisis, our state and extraordinary partners like People Inc. remain committed to investing in new housing opportunities that are both attainable and sustainable models. With assistance from New York State, the City of Buffalo, and federal tax credits, this project was truly a team effort, and today's ribbon cutting is the result of People Inc.'s vision and tireless advocacy for a more equitable and achievable future for all Western New Yorkers." Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, "Congratulations to People Inc. and NYSHCR on the opening of the Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments. This $11.6 million dollar development project in the Linwood preservation district is a testament to how financial support from and the partnership between the state and federal government can help create affordable housing and provide support services for some of our most vulnerable residents - older adults and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities."  Mayor Byron Brown said, "My administration has aggressively supported affordable housing in Buffalo since 2006, aiding the creation of more than 2,000 units of affordable housing. I applaud People, Inc. for this project that targets seniors, and also includes units designed to accommodate persons with disabilities.  This is a great fit for the Gates Circle neighborhood."  County Executive Mark Poloncarz said, "Preserving affordable housing for seniors is critical and this investment in the new Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments does that, giving low- to moderate-income seniors the opportunity to live in one of Buffalo's most historic neighborhoods and be a part of the community there. This type of development opens new possibilities for our seniors and enriches neighborhoods at the same time, and will be a great addition to the Linwood Preservation District."

People Inc. Marigold Senior Living to Host Holiday Craft Sale, Open House

Prospective Applicants and Family Members Encouraged to Attend People Inc. Marigold Senior Living will host a Holiday Craft Sale and Open House on Friday, December 12, 2014, from noon to 5 p.m. at 3026 Grand Island Boulevard, Grand Island. Seniors in need of affordable housing and family members assisting their loved ones are encouraged to attend to receive a tour and learn about income eligibility. Numerous holiday crafts will be featured, including crocheted items, unique decorations and ornaments. Those interested can meet with tenants, tour the building and learn about People Inc. Senior Living from expert staff. Refreshments and crafts for kids will also be available for attendees’ enjoyment. For independent seniors age 62 or older, People Inc. Marigold Senior Living apartments include a living room, one bedroom, kitchen with appliances and accessible bathroom. Monthly rent is based on income and some utilities are included. Potential tenants need to meet both the federally mandated income and age requirements at the time of application. The exceptionally-maintained apartment building includes a furnished community room, laundry facilities, 24-hour on-call building services and group transportation to grocery stores. Tenants are welcome to have a small pet. Service coordinators are available to provide connections to services as needed by tenants at no extra charge. For those who like to remain active, there are a variety of activities held throughout the year. For more information about People Inc. Marigold Senior Living and its event, call 716-773-0907. People Inc. manages 19 senior apartment locations throughout Western New York providing affordable and safe housing for independent seniors age 62 and older who meet income requirements. For 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.

People Inc. Names New Board Officers

March 26, 2015: People Inc., the leading nonprofit organization in Western New York helping individuals with developmental disabilities and special needs, and senior adults, to lead more healthy, independent and productive lives, recently elected new officers to its Board of Directors. The new appointments will play a key role in advancing People Inc.’s mission of ensuring that individuals with disabling conditions or other special needs have the supports they need to participate and succeed in an accepting society. Officers elected include: Robert Mayer, named to serve a two-year term as board chairperson. Mayer is chief financial officer at Weinberg Campus and a resident of Amherst, NY.   Elected to one-year renewable terms are: Randall Borst, named vice chairperson. Borst is director of accessibility at SUNY at Buffalo and a resident of Amherst, NY. Joseph Abdallah, named treasurer. Abdallah is an executive and investor and resides in East Amherst, NY. Lynne Frank, named secretary. Frank is principle at The Evans Agency and a resident of Williamsville, NY. Other board members include Mary Ann Kedron, PhD, UB Department of Neurosurgery; William Collins, Canisius College; Nancy Dobson, Uniland Development Company; David M. Downing, Towne Automotive Group; David E. Hall, Esq., Hodgson Russ (retired partner); Alfred F. Luhr III, M & T Bank; and Eugene Meeks, retired executive. 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.