People Inc. Seeks New Businesses to Employ People with Disabilities

October 2, 2020: Ensuring that people with developmental disabilities and varying abilities 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 acknowledge the talents and valuable contributions of workers with disabilities. This year marks not only the 75th observance of NDEAM, but also the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act – two milestones encompassing the theme, “Increasing Access and Opportunity.” People Inc. is seeking new businesses in Western New York and the Greater Rochester region to join its current 300 business partners. Several business solutions have been established that offer high-quality work, ranging from janitorial and carpet cleaning to workforce solutions and contract manufacturing. Additionally, People Inc. helps companies fill openings specific to their need and demand. Hiring a qualified person with a disability brings greater benefits beyond just filling an open job, including a return on investment, marketing, innovation and diverse perspectives that all contribute to a successful business. People Inc. is proud to support people in their career goals through its Supported Employment and Vocational Programs. Regardless of physical or cognitive disability and sensory impairment, people 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. “Besides providing a quality product to our customers, equally important is the opportunity that these businesses provide to those whom we support,” said James Scutt, associate vice president, People Inc. “We have been excited to see the change in businesses perceptions around the hiring of people from this largely unrecognized labor market,” added Scutt. “That’s why People Inc. has taken the approach that if there is not a good job match in traditional employment opportunities, we create 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 we support.” A nationwide effort has been made to encourage businesses to understand the benefits of hiring people with disabilities, a skilled group of job seekers who are unemployed at a rate that is twice that of job seekers without disabilities. If a person with a disability would like to learn more or for businesses to find out how to partner with People Inc., email James Scutt at jscutt@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 10,000 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, special needs, 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. Senior Companion Recognition Luncheon Honors Volunteers who Assist Seniors who are Homebound and Frail

What: People Inc. Senior Companion Annual Recognition Luncheon   When : Friday, May 30, 2014, 1 p.m.-3 p.m.   Where: Schiller Park Community Center              2057 Genesee Street, Buffalo   Who:   Elected officials and professionals in the area of senior services.   Why:   Volunteers and participants that help make the People Inc. Senior Companion program a reality will be recognized during the event. The People Inc. Senior Companion program helps seniors who are homebound and other adults who are frail maintain independence in their own homes. The program is provided in the cities of Buffalo and Lackawanna and the towns of Amherst and West Seneca with plans to expand.The People Inc. Senior Companion Program could not be possible without the Federal Government’s Corporation for National Service, the State of New York, County of Erie, Cities of Buffalo and Lackawanna and the Towns of West Seneca and Amherst.   A Senior Companion, 55 or older, who lives in Erie county, volunteers his or her time supporting the lives of older adults. They provide non-health-related services such as shopping, errands, light housekeeping, reading, writing letters, transportation to and from physician appointments, daily visits, meal preparation and respite. They alert doctors and family members to potential problems and provide a break to family caregivers.   The Senior Companion volunteers are trained and paid a modest hourly stipend for their services and receive reimbursement for travel to and from the participant’s home. The extra assistance, which is free-of-charge fills a gap in care which, unfilled, would result in costly, unnecessary nursing home and residential care.   For more information about the People Inc. Senior Companion program, call 716-768-2381.   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, Public Affairs Manager Direct line: 716.817.7490  

People Inc. Senior Living Celebrates 25th Anniversary

Two original tenants to be recognized and long-time tenants to share what affordable housing means What: 25th Anniversary Celebration for People Inc. Senior Living Highlights will include tenant stories and a short video will debut to commemorate the momentous occasion. When: Thursday, November 8, 2018, at 11 a.m. Where: People Inc. Iris Senior Living, 4150 Sowles Road, Building H, Hamburg, NY Who: Former Congressmember Jack Quinn, elected officials, Lisa Pugliese of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, People Inc. President and CEO Rhonda Frederick and community leaders will share remarks to celebrate this achievement. Two original tenants will be recognized during the event and two long-time tenants will share what it means to live affordably and independently.  Why: People Inc. is proud to announce its twenty-fifth year of providing affordable and safe apartments for older adults. As people age, their needs change and services available to them become limited or difficult to access. Recognizing this, along with an increased number of seniors in its neighborhoods, People Inc. broadened its scope as a human service agency to include not only services for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, but also older adults in need of affordable and safe housing. In 1993, the agency opened its first low-income senior living apartment complex, People Inc. Iris Senior Living in Hamburg, which is now home to 49 seniors. Over the last 25 years, People Inc. Senior Living has expanded, with a total of 20 locations throughout Western New York, including in Erie, Niagara, Genesee and Cattaraugus Counties. Today, 875 tenants, age 62 and older, choose to call People Inc. Senior Living home, right in the middle of communities they care about.  "Twenty-five years ago, we were thrilled to open the doors at People Inc. Iris Senior Living in Hamburg,” said Rhonda Frederick, president and CEO, People Inc. “From there, the need for affordable housing for older adults only continued to grow. In 2014, we opened our twentieth affordable senior living complex, People Inc. Walnut Senior Living in West Seneca. It’s been an honor to work alongside so many community members over the years to make the apartments a reality. These affordable apartments were made possible due to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Section 202 Program and we’re so grateful for their funding. Today, we continue to see the benefits of safe, affordable housing for our tenants and look forward to many more years of supporting independent living for older adults.” From a senior who receives a small pension and cannot afford an over-priced apartment, to a widow who can no longer afford to manage the upkeep of a house, People Inc. Senior Living assists hundreds of older adults with managing utilities, downsizing and removing the burden of home maintenance, like lawn care and shoveling the region’s snow. Two benefits of People Inc. Senior Living are the affordability and safety features. Apartments are for independent older adults age 62 and over who are income eligible. As an added cost savings, some utilities are included. One-bedroom apartments include a kitchen with appliances. Tenants and family members can feel at ease having a day-time manager on site and a live-in caretaker for building emergencies. Safety features include stove fire prevention devices, grab bars in the bathroom, emergency pull-cords, a secure entrance and a 24-hour response system. Along with laundry facilities, each complex has a beautifully furnished community room with a kitchen that can be reserved for family gatherings. Tenants are welcome to have one small pet. For those who like to socialize, there are a variety of social events and community outings held throughout the year. Another advantage to People Inc. Senior Living is Service Coordination that is provided if additional supports are needed. Tenants can utilize this unique benefit at no extra charge to help them thrive, as they are connected to supports and community services.  People Inc., a multispecialty non-profit health and human services agency, provides programs and services to more than 12,050 people with developmental disabilities, special needs, their families and older adults throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted individuals 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. Service Coordinator Netta Rowe Celebrates 40 Years at Largest Human Services Agency

As People Inc. has flourished over the years, so has Netta Rowe, who has been with the agency almost since its inception. Rowe has helped hundreds of individuals with developmental disabilities receive services. A resident of Buffalo, she is celebrating 40 years with Western New York’s largest human services agency.   A Service Award celebration will be held in her honor on Thursday, May 29, at 9 a.m., at People Inc., 3131 Sheridan Drive, Amherst.   Rowe has held numerous positions, including secretary, receptionist, administrative specialist and admissions specialist. She has been in her current role as service coordinator since 2004, and works with individuals who have developmental disabilities live in the community. She helps them with obtaining necessities such as housing, day programs, environmental modifications, food, clothing, furniture and medical care.   Rowe shared that her current responsibilities have been her career’s central focus. “Most people stigmatize this particular population, but it is my job and most importantly, it is in my heart to protect, nourish and enrich their lives,” she said.   Nominated by People Inc. in 2003, Rowe was honored with the Black Achievers in Industry Awards for her tireless advocacy for individuals with special needs. The award recognizes contributions in various career endeavors.   In today’s society, it is uncommon to be employed by the same company for more than 40 years, but Rowe would not have it any other way.   “I have stayed with People Inc. because I love what the agency represents,” Rowe said. “The agency has always created a family-friendly environment for the individuals served and their family, as well those employed with the agency.”    Rowe’s dedication to People Inc. is admired. “Netta is a joy to work with and is a devoted employee,” said Tanya Wesolowski, People Inc. service coordination supervisor. “Netta has a genuine and caring heart and a strong advocate for all the individuals she has worked with over the years.”   Rowe has been a positive representative for the human services agency. “Netta is a true ambassador of People Inc.,” shared Rhonda Frederick, People Inc. chief operating officer. “Her skills, caring attitude and commitment to the people we serve is an asset to our agency.”   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.

People Inc. Sharpens its Focus on Healthcare with New Executive Level Appointment

January 21, 2015: People Inc. recently expanded its senior leadership team with the appointment of Bonnie R. Sloma as senior vice president. In this newly created position, Sloma will oversee the agency’s healthcare business development in addition to healthcare quality standards as the agency continues to position itself for success in a changing managed care environment.  “People Inc. will be impacted by New York State’s efforts to restructure our state’s healthcare delivery system,” said People Inc. President & CEO, Rhonda Frederick. “We have a fairly significant healthcare operation through our Elmwood Health Center and our Home Health Care Services. We brought Bonnie on board to help us stay ahead of the curve through these changes. Along with her extensive experience in healthcare, Bonnie brings tremendous knowledge and leadership to this role and will help to strengthen our position in the managed care environment.” A 30-year healthcare industry veteran, Sloma joins People Inc. from Erie County Medical Center Corporation where she served as vice president of ambulatory and diagnostic services. In this role, she was responsible for the development of policies, procedures, new services and programs and quality oversight for the organization’s outpatient ambulatory and diagnostic clinics. “People Inc. is the largest organization in Western New York helping our most vulnerable community members, individuals with developmental disabilities and special needs, and senior adults, to lead healthier, independent and productive lives,” said Sloma. “The agency is a significant employer, a leader and innovator. I am incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to serve an organization that has such an incredible mission and long-tenured, committed leadership team.” Sloma earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Niagara University. Active in the community, she serves on Niagara Community College’s board of trustees. She resides in Lewiston, NY, with her family. 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. Since 1971, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. The agency has 180 locations throughout Western New York and the Finger Lakes region and 3,400 employees.

People Inc. Silver Creek and Dunkirk Open Interview Day at Jamestown Community College

Opportunities for college students available People Inc. is hiring qualified candidates to assist individuals with disabilities with personal care, household duties and recreational activities so they can live as independently as possible. A Silver Creek and Dunkirk Open Interview Day will be held on Wednesday, December 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Jamestown Community College (Dunkirk Campus), 10807 Bennett Road, Dunkirk (Career Center, report to the Lobby-Main Building). Full and part-time group home, instructors, nursing and self-directed positions are available. Day, evening and overnight positions are available. Employees receive numerous benefits, including health insurance, tuition reimbursement, 401(k) pension plan and paid time off for full-time employees. Additionally, People Inc. offers paid training, holiday incentives and other benefits. Candidates should dress professionally and be prepared for an interview with a resume. Descriptions for specific jobs are listed on the agency’s website. No appointments needed. For those who cannot attend, but are interested in applying may do so online at people-inc.org/careers. 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. Staff Help to Restore Gowanda Cemetery

WHAT: People Inc. leads team to restore Gowanda Cemetery/Wheater Road Cemetery WHEN: Wednesday, June 29, 2011; 10 a.m.-2p.m. WHERE: Gowanda Cemetery/Wheater Road Cemetery. Near Route 62 in Collins, NY. In its third year of work at the Wheater Road Cemetery, People Inc. is working with the Collins Correctional Facility and the Cattaraugus County Department of Mental Health. To date, teams of People Inc. staff and volunteers have unearthed and cleaned about 485 gravestones which have sunken over time. The team will work diligently today to clean the remaining stones and straighten the cast iron grave markers in front of the cemetery. A memorial garden is being planned for a future date. In an isolated field near Route 62 in Collins, NY, the graves of 550 former patients of the Gowanda Psychiatric Center are typically marked by number, not by name. Unidentified and un-mourned, the individuals there were patients from the 1950s to 1991, and a project led by People Inc. is helping to restore some dignity and honor to their lives. The Wheater Road Cemetery is the final resting place of approximately 1,200 people who resided in what was known as Gowanda State Hospital and later the J. N. Adam Developmental Center, which opened in 1898 to provide residential care for the "insane and idiotic." The restoration endeavor is also an active example of the strides that have been made in the treatment of people with disabilities and in acknowledging their history. 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.  Directions to Wheater Road Cemetery 1. Take the 90 West toward Erie, Exit at 57 A (Eden Evans Center Road) 2. Turn left on to Eden Evans Center Road 3. Proceed into the village of Eden 4. Turn right onto Route 62 5. Proceed on route 62 through North Collins and into Collins 6. Across from the Collins correctional facility, you will see a barn on the corner at the left - turn left, this is Wheater Road 7. Just past the farm land on left, there will be a tire track drive - park in grassy area there 8. Walk down the hill and look for folks working toward the front of cemetery

People Inc. Sunflower Senior Living Apartments Hosts Veterans Tribute

Amherst, NY, November 3, 2010: The public is invited to join People Inc.'s Sunflower Apartments annual Veteran's Tribute from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 10, 2010 at 146 Franklin Street in Lackawanna. On hand as keynote speaker will be Gerald Tidd, a Vietnam Veteran and Cmdr. Post 120 Role of Honor Disabled American Veterans. A flag raising ceremony will be held to honor all past and present veterans for their service to our country. In conjunction with the Veterans Tribute, People Inc. is having a new clothing drive for homeless veterans and their families with a special request for gloves, scarves, hats, long underwear and socks. Items may be dropped off at the following locations: People Inc. Sunflower Apartments at 146 Franklin Street, Lackawanna People Inc. Iris Apartments at 4150 Sowles Road, Hamburg People Inc.'s Senior Living Apartments enable seniors to live enjoyably. Seniors interested in learning more about eligibility can call 716.817.9090 or visit the Senior Services section of www.people-inc.org.

People Inc. Team Advocating for Increased Wages for Direct Support Professionals

Educating the New York State Legislature on the need to invest in the future of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the staff who support them was the purpose of a rally in Albany attended by People Inc. President and CEO Anne McCaffrey and several People Inc. employees. The People Inc. team joined the Developmental Disabilities Alliance of WNY (DDAWNY) and hundreds of people, including people served and employees from agencies throughout the state, to press lawmakers on increased funding for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). The issue was Governor Kathy Hochul’s Executive Budget, which includes only a 1.5% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for wages for DSPs, who provide essential care and services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The group used the opportunity to press for a 3.2% COLA to Medicaid rates for provider agencies in the final state budget that is due April 1, and a $4,000 wage enhancement for DSPs. The 3.2% COLA is critical for I/DD agencies to maintain programs and services in the midst of rising costs for food, supplies, utilities and other essential items. McCaffrey met with members of Governor Hochul's health-care team in the Executive Chamber, as well as members of the New York State Legislature, including State Senators Sean Ryan, Minority Leader Robert Ortt, and Assemblymembers Mike Norris, Karen McMahon, Monica Wallace and Patrick Burke. The rally was just one of several public appearances from McCaffrey and People Inc. staff recently in ongoing advocacy efforts for DSP wage increases. She was recently interviewed by WIVB and WGRZ in Buffalo regarding the budget.  To add your voice to these advocacy efforts, you can reach out to the elected officials using this one-click tool .   Non-profit leaders from across the state met with local elected officials to advocate for an increase in operational funding and direct support staff wages.