Headway of Western New York Hosts Annual Spring Fundraiser

Headway of WNY, a not-for-profit agency and an affiliate of People Inc., will host their annual fundraising event, “Moonlight on the Green” on Thursday, May 15, from 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. It will be held at Westwood Country Club, Windows on the Green, 772 North Forest Road, Williamsville (corner of North Forest Road and Sheridan Drive). People Inc.’s Elmwood Health Center, which is celebrating 20 years of providing quality patient-centered care to Western New York, is the lead sponsor. The event features food, drink, a silent auction, a large basket raffle and live music.   Proceeds benefit Headway of WNY’s mission to ensure that individuals in WNY with brain injuries, other disabilities, and seniors have access to advocacy, resources and support systems to enable them to live as independently as possible in the community. The event is known for its unique 200+ baskets raffle. Tickets are $50 each Presale, and may be purchased online before May 14 by going to headwayofwny.org, or you may purchase tickets at the door for $55 each. Ticket price includes a buffet dinner, two hours open bar (beer, wine, soda), a silent auction, basket raffle and door prizes. For more information, call 716-408-3117 or visit headwayofwny.org.   Headway of WNY strives to help a variety of people, from young adults to seniors, in their journey after injury and disability. Services include: advocacy, direct support groups, a resource directory, community education program and a partnership with the Veteran’s Hospital to support veterans who are injured and their families.   Brain injury is often referred to as the unseen epidemic. • Every 21 seconds one person in the U.S. sustains a traumatic brain injury. • 30 years ago, most people with severe injuries would have died. Now with improved trauma care, 230,000 persons are hospitalized with a traumatic brain injury each year, and survive.   Headway of WNY, a not-for-profit agency and an affiliate of People Inc., provides resources, support groups, recreational programs, 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.

You are invited to the Prom!

Dress up in your prom best for Agapé Parents’ Fellowship’s Spring Dance and Theme Basket Auction   Sunday, April 13, 2014 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Woodlawn Volunteer Fire Co. 3281 Lakeshore Rd. Hamburg, NY   Admission Adults: $5.00 Children ages 3-12: $3.00 Children under 3: Free   Tickets Theme Basket Tickets: $5.00 per sheet Buy 4 sheets and get the 5th for free   50/50 Split Tickets: $3.00 for 5, $5.00 for arm length   Food Pizza: $1.00 per slice Nachos and Cheese: $2.00 Hot and Cold Beverages: $1.00 with free refills   Invite your friends and family! Great door prizes!  

Raising Matty Christian Inspirational Documentary Featured at Spring 2014 disABILITIES Film Festival and Speaker Series

The Museum of disABILITY History and People Inc. will host the Spring 2014 Annual disABILITIES Film Festival and Speaker Series on Friday, April 25, 2014, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Dipson Amherst Theatre, 3500 Main Street in Buffalo. The featured film is Raising Matty Christian. The purpose of the event is to educate attendees, challenge stereotypes and celebrate the contributions of people with disabilities.   The movie profiles the life of Matthew ‘Matty’ Christian (1983-2009), from the town of Canton, MA, who was born without full limbs or a tongue. The film chronicles his dally struggles and how his parents, Allie and Jerry Christian, raised him to face his challenges head on and his uplifting achievements that followed as a result. The 84-minute documentary focuses on Matty’s legacy of strength and determination.   A reception will be held 5 p.m. at the Museum of disABILITY History, 3826 Main Street in Buffalo (half mile from theatre). The film’s Director and Producer Christian de Rezendes and Associate Producer Paul Plotkin will be the keynote speakers. They will share why they created the movie and how they have been inspired.   De Rezendes was introduced to the project by his friend and the film’s associate producer Paul Plotkin of Saunderstown, RI, who the Christian family hired to edit and transfer VHS home movies to DVD. De Rezendes, along with his wife and co-producer Amanda de Rezendes, were hired by Allie and Jerry Christian in the fall of 2011. “Raising Matty Christian is a truly inspirational story,” said de Rezendes “You can’t watch a few moments of video and not be moved by how Matty’s achievements apply to your own life and how you can improve your own outlook every day.”   “From a diversity aspect, the film could have a significant effect on acceptance of others who are different,” said disABILITIES Film Festival Director and People Inc. Associate Vice President David Mack-Hardiman. “The film is so inspiring because Matty led his life like he did not have any limitations. He was an amazing athlete, friend and mentor. I think people of any age and families should strive to have an open mind after watching the movie.” Movie tickets are available in advance at the Museum of disABILITY History and can also be purchased at the Amherst Dipson Theatre on the day of the event. Tickets are $5 per person. The speakers’ segment at the Museum is free to all film screening patrons.   To learn more, visit www.disabilityfilmfest.org or call the Museum of disABILITY History at 716-629-3626. The sponsor of the Spring 2014 Annual disABILITIES Film Festival is the New York State Council on the Arts.   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.

Rivershore, Inc. Announces Affiliation with People Inc.

Agency Leads the Way in a Bold Move to Strengthen Operational Excellence   Lewiston, N.Y.----April 2, 2014----Rivershore, Inc., a private not-for-profit organization that supports people living with developmental and other disabilities in Niagara County, announced today that it has become an affiliate of People Inc., Western New York’s leading non-profit human services agency. The collaboration coordinates services in Western New York, allowing for more efficient operations and a sharper focus on service excellence in a changing landscape.   “It is extremely important to be flexible and responsive in our changing environment especially when you consider state budget cuts and some of the financial challenges that are affecting non-profits,” said Rivershore, Inc. Executive Director Jeff Sanderson, a pioneer in the industry best known for promoting innovative person-centered services and forging collaborations with other non-profits. “By proactively seeking an alliance with People Inc., an organization that shares our commitment to excellence in service delivery, the people receiving services through Rivershore, Inc., and the staff who support them, will continue to have the best possible services while furthering the joint missions of our agencies.”   Members of the Rivershore Board of Directors will serve on a newly-created advisory board and will continue to assist with quality oversight, strategic planning, fundraising and advocacy.   “We are pleased to band together with Rivershore and are excited about the synergies we will create by combining our talents and resources,” said People Inc. President & CEO James M. Boles, Ed.D.  “Jeff is a visionary leader with outstanding foresight and I look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead for our organizations and the more than 12,000 people we provide services to each year.”   Rivershore will retain its name, separate corporate status, and staff and will operate independently. Agency supports will be integrated resulting in reduced overhead, added services and lowered administrative costs. The affiliation also strengthens both agencies for managed care and future changes in the system while addressing the great need for services.   “The state and in particular the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) are laying the foundation for these kinds of collaborations to occur. To People Inc. and Rivershore’s credit, they’re ahead of the curve,” said Senator George Maziarz. “What distinguishes this affiliation between these two agencies even more, is the fact they both have the rare designation from OPWDD as COMPASS agencies which is extremely beneficial to the people with intellectual and developmental disabilities they serve in our region,” added Maziarz.   COMPASS is an OPWDD initiative that recognizes and promotes provider agencies that have progressed beyond minimal regulatory compliance and have achieved excellence in service delivery.  Only seven of the 700 providers statewide have been recognized by OPWDD as COMPASS agencies.    Founded in 1980, Rivershore’s mission is to support people living with disabilities as they pursue and achieve a meaningful life.  Rivershore supports over 200 people living with disabilities in Niagara County each year, employs 140 staff and has 15 locations. In addition to residential services, Rivershore provides life planning services, day services, employment services, and support with self-advocacy and volunteer pursuits.   In operation since 1971, People Inc. helps individuals with disabilities and their families, and seniors, live more healthy, independent and productive lives through 140 locations and 50 innovative programs and services. People Inc. has an active employee base of 3,200.     Contact: Jeff Sanderson, Executive Director (716) 754-7272 x23 E-mail: jsanderson@rivershore.org  

People Inc., Museum of disABILITY History, and Headway of WNY to Participate in Spring It On, Buffalo Niagara's Day of Giving

People Inc. is happy to announce that there are three ways that community members are able to support the agency through the Spring It On campaign through the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County by contributing to the People Inc. Foundation, the Museum of disABILITY History and Headway of WNY. Spring It On, a 24-hour on-line fundraising event, is designed to raise awareness and funds for not-for profit organizations throughout Western New York with a unique one-day focus. Spring It On will be held on the first day of spring, March 20, from 8 a.m. until 8 a.m. on March 21, 2014.   Individuals can make a one-time, secure, online donation to the local not-for-profit agency of their choice through a specially designed website at www.springiton.org. People Inc. hopes to mobilize community members for one day of giving to strengthen and support its programs and services including:   People Inc. Foundation: Funds will help build a year-round therapeutic sunroom at one of People Inc.’s residences for individuals with developmental disabilities so they can enjoy all four seasons without leaving the safety and comfort of home. Donations accepted at www.springiton.org/peopleinc.   Museum of disABILITY History: Funds will support educational programs for children and adults that promote the understanding and acceptance of people with developmental disabilities. Program examples include a monthly speaker series that is open to the public and disability etiquette programs where students and members of organizations can understand disability awareness, learn the importance of using person-first language and tips for interacting with individuals who have disabilities. Additionally, a “Disabilities Merit Badge Program” is offered for Boy Scouts with a unique experience and awareness for people with disabilities. Donations accepted at www.springiton.org/museumofdisability.     Headway of WNY: Funds will go toward medical equipment, assistive technology and the important services that help individuals with traumatic brain injuries increase their independence. Donations accepted at www.springiton.org/headwayofwny.   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.   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.   Headway of Western New York Inc., an affiliate of People Inc., supports and advocates for individuals with brain injuries. A volunteer non-profit, the agency provides support groups, advocacy, educational materials, recreational opportunities and educational in-services.

People Inc. Introduces Senior Companion Program

Helping to Make Independence for Seniors a Reality   People Inc. has recently acquired the Senior Companion Program from Child and Family Services. The program’s goal is to provide aid and, ultimately, independence to seniors and other adults who are frail or homebound. Among other activities, the Senior Companion can assist with daily living tasks, such as grocery shopping and bill paying; provide socialization and develop friendship; alert doctors and family members to potential problems; and provide respite to family and caregivers.   A Senior Companion, 55 or older, who lives in Erie County, volunteers his or her time supporting the lives of older adults. They serve older adults who are frail, adults with disabilities, those with terminal illnesses and offer respite for caregivers.   Seniors who receive assistance from a Companion receive quality support and will find countless opportunities open to them with the help of a Companion. They will also have the ability to live independently in their homes or apartments. Seniors who receive the support are 55 or older who live in Erie County.   Senior Companions are supervised by the professional staff of People Inc. and other collaborating agencies. All Senior Companions receive 20 hours of pre-service orientation, as well as four hours of in-service training monthly. In total, senior companions complete 40 hours of orientation training. Most Senior Companions have had previous experience in caring for the elderly. Senior Companions earn a tax-free hourly stipend plus travel and meal reimbursement.   If you are a senior looking for assistance or would like to volunteer to become a Senior Companion, 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.  

University of Toledo Professor Kim E. Nielsen Joins Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series

Presentation to focus on the importance of disabilities throughout history   As part of its Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series , the Museum of disABILITY History will host author and professor, Kim E. Nielsen. The presentation, entitled “Disability History is Our History,” will take place on Friday, February 21, 2014 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 3826 Main Street in Buffalo .   The event will focus on stories of historical figures with disabilities, as well as changing definitions of disability over the course of time. Additionally, Nielsen will emphasize disability in law, culture and why the history of people with disabilities is important to all.   Kim E. Nielsen, who earned her Ph.D. in History from the University of Iowa, is professor of Disability Studies at the University of Toledo, where she also teaches courses in History and Women’s and Gender Studies. Dr. Nielsen’s newest book, A Disability History of the United States, is the first book to place the experiences of people with disabilities at the center of the American narrative. It covers U.S. history from pre-1492 to present. Other works from Nielsen include Beyond the Miracle Worker: The Remarkable Life of Anne Sullivan Macy and Her Extraordinary Friendship with Helen Keller (Beacon, 2009) and The Radical Lives of Helen Keller (NYUP, 2004).   This Dialogues on disABILITY event is cosponsored by the University at Buffalo Center for Disability Studies. It is  $5 for adults and $2.50 for seniors, students and human service employees. The event fee includes admission to the gallery space of the Museum of disABILITY History. For more information or to register, call 716-629-3626.   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.   Contact: Nicole Forgione, People Inc. Public Affairs Manager Direct Line: 716-817-7490 nforgione@people-inc.org      

Grand Island Resident Jessica M. Ritzenthaler Promoted to Senior Program Manager/Community Habilitation at People Inc.

Jessica M. Ritzenthaler of Grand Island, NY has been promoted to Senior Program Manager/Community Habilitation at People Inc. Ritzenthaler has been employed at People Inc. for three years. She has held positions as team leader, community habilitation and residential habilitation instructor and community habilitation. She has her Bachelor of Science in Economics/Finance from Buffalo State College. Ritzenthaler’s job duties include a caseload of more than 20 individuals, attending Individualized Education Plans and updating habilitation plans based on what the individual would like to work on to maintain their independence. Ritzenthaler said, “If People Inc. is representative payee for anyone on my caseload, I maintain a budget for them to be able to pay their bills and have money for everyday living.” She also maintains rental subsidies. She said, “I review billing and write monthly summaries. I keep all participants on my caseload’s paperwork current and within People Inc. and the State’s regulations. I also supervise staff.” Ritzenthaler loves her job, and states, “This job is so rewarding because it is amazing to see a participant progress in the goals that they have chosen to work on. For example, I work with someone who has a valued outcome: To be more independent with his finances. I have seen such a great progression in this skill from him… He writes  is own checks to pay his bills, ledger’s them into his checkbook along with his other receipts and maintains his bank balance through reconciling it with his bank statement. He has come so far with this goal that he now does most of these skills independently with very little help anymore.” Ritzenthaler shared, “In this job I am learning new skills and procedures and will need to be able to implement and teach them to participants in my program, my staff and others in the agency. I really like helping others achieve their goals and feel that this is a good tool to use while working in this field and in life.” 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.  

Buffalo Resident David Garland Promoted to Senior Residential Supervisor at People Inc.

David Garland of Buffalo has been promoted to Senior Residential Supervisor at People Inc. He has taken supervisory studies with Cornell on interpersonal behavior. He began his career in the manufacturing sector as a manager. While searching for new prospects, he heard about People Inc. from another employee who was aware of his potential and directed Garland to apply. Garland interviewed and never looked back. He said, “As many say we do not work in the field for the money. But I can say a smile is worth a million bucks and that in itself is rewarding.” Garland’s new position will involve supervision of all staff, professional development and for the day-to-day operation of the site. Although Garland has only started with People Inc. a little over a year ago as an IRA specialist, he accepted the team leader position after two months of employment and the SRS position just under a year from that. Garland wants people to know that, “I would have to say the best story thus far is having an individual prefer me to spend his Birthday with and have a great dinner out…How many people can say they enjoy their job, can you?” Garland was born and raised in Niagara Falls, but now lives in Buffalo. He said in his spare time, “I enjoy camping mostly.” 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.