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.

People Inc. Expands Services to Include Programs for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Deaf Services and Advocacy Efforts Across the Region to be Strengthened Deaf Access Services has merged with People Inc., expanding People Inc.’s comprehensive suite of human services programs. Sharing a common mission to serve the community where needed, the merger was part of a long-term plan when Deaf Access Services affiliated with People Inc. in 2018. The merger adds another element to People Inc.’s portfolio of programs that includes senior services, affordable housing, health care, as well as services for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. It also strengthens and sustains Deaf services and advocacy efforts throughout the Buffalo and Rochester areas. Since the affiliation, there has been a substantial increase in services provided. “The Deaf services People Inc. now provides were built from the ground up by the Deaf and hard of hearing community through Deaf Access Services. People Inc. took that foundation very much to heart with this affiliation, and now with the merger,” said Anne McCaffrey, People Inc. president and CEO. “It has been rewarding to expand these unique access efforts and we expect that growth to continue.” “The merger ensured no interruption in quality essential programming,” McCaffrey said. “Increased communication access, awareness and opportunities are the focus of the programs and central to People Inc.’s mission of helping people live a fulfilling life.” Additions to People Inc. services through the merger include: American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreting, Captioning Access Real-Time Translation (CART), assistance with long-term employment, ASL classes, support groups, deaf refugee services, connections to resources, and more. “We are working to build a bridge that allows equity in communication and all levels of access for Deaf and hard of hearing people,” said David Wantuck, director of deaf community services. “With the merger, we have the momentum necessary to meet, and even exceed, our goals.”   ABOUT PEOPLE INC.: People Inc. provides an array of support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, as well as health care services, senior services, services for the Deaf and hard of hearing, and affordable housing. Built on a strong foundation of innovation, collaboration, community and inclusion, People Inc. helps people throughout Western New York and Rochester achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity.

Anne McCaffrey, People Inc. President & CEO Interviewed by WGRZ

Anne McCaffrey, People Inc. President & CEO addresses the impact of the Governor's proposed 2024 New York State budget and advocates for increased funding for direct support staff wages and services. New York State Governor Kathy Hochul recently released the proposed 2024 state budget. While some supports for people with developmental disabilities were included, agencies like People Inc. are deeply concerned about the lack of state-funded substantial rate increases to cover all of the services that people with developmental disabilities need and wage enhancements for our dedicated direct support staff. President and CEO Anne McCaffrey joined WGRZ-TV on January 31 to discuss the potential impact of the proposed state budget, our agency's mission, the role of a DSP, what the Medicaid funding supports, and the need for funding to increase direct support wages.  Watch the interview here .

Anne McCaffrey, People Inc. President & CEO Interviewed by WIVB

Anne McCaffrey, People Inc. President & CEO, addresses the proposed New York State budget and concerns about funding for a Cost of Living Adjustment for DSPs. New York State Governor Kathy Hochul released the proposed state budget for 2024 in January. While some supports for people with developmental disabilities were included, agencies like People Inc. feel left out due to the lack of state-funded substantial cost of living increases and sustainable wage enhancements for our dedicated direct support staff. President and CEO Anne McCaffrey joined WIVB Channel 4 on January 18, to discuss the state budget, our agency's work and the need for funding to increase direct support wages.  Watch the interview here .

Annual Appeal: Help Worlds Open Up!

A message from Anne McCaffrey, President & CEO, People Inc. When you think about People Inc., you realize that we are all part of a larger human story.  Our mission to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and others in the community through a diverse array of innovative programs and opportunities is deep and far reaching. What began as a small group home for those with developmental disabilities in 1970 has expanded to serve thousands each year in a variety of ways through the support, expert care, and commitment of more than 4,100 professionals in nearly 200 facilities across the region.  Today, People Inc. is the leading provider of programs and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. We also expanded our efforts to support the community with essential affordable housing options, Deaf and hard of hearing services, and a range of supportive programs and services for seniors. Our person-centered focus and excellence in programming has even earned us accreditation with the prestigious Council on Quality & Leadership. A gift of financial support to People Inc. helps worlds open up even more for those we serve and provides access to the experiences, services and programs that might not otherwise be possible. For people we serve, their gifts and talents soar, their independence is secured, and their well-being is enhanced.  Every day we influence someone’s life story through the programs, services and opportunities People Inc. provides and the outstanding staff who enliven our mission. Your support and involvement enriches each story - the only question is, how many worlds can you help us open? Click here to make a gift today. Sarah Fink, whose artistry is featured this year, is an artist and participates in our Vocational Program. She loves photography, film, painting, multimedia art and drawing. Sarah reflected that she is driven “to create a safe space to explore, combine my skills, and foster compassion in guiding and helping others.” We are grateful to Sarah for sharing her photography with us. Thank you for your support and sincere wishes for a joyous holiday season and good health and prosperity in the New Year! - Anne McCaffrey, President & CEO, People Inc.    

Construction Starts on Blocher Apartments

People Inc. Plans 93 Units in Williamsville Project People Inc. broke ground recently on Blocher Apartments, an affordable living complex at 135 Evans St., Williamsville. The $42 million development will provide 93 rental apartments for adults who qualify based on income.   The project includes renovations to the former Blocher Homes senior residence, as well as construction of three additional buildings. The complex will include one- and two-bedroom apartments and rents will range from $704 - $918 per month for one-bedroom units and $1082 - $1,157 per month for two-bedroom apartments. There will be 23 apartments designated for people with developmental disabilities. Up to five apartments will be accessible for people who are hearing and/or vision impaired. The Evans Street location is just off Main Street, providing close access to the many village and town amenities. “The Blocher project is an exciting and unique opportunity to add and sustain housing options in an area where the need for affordable housing has been well documented,” said Anne McCaffrey, president and CEO of People Inc. “Providing these choices, including opportunities for people with disabilities, can be life-changing for residents.” People Inc. manages over 30 affordable housing complexes with over 1,300 residents. The development of Blocher Apartments will mark the 8th residential construction project that the organization has developed through the use of tax credits.  “Our goals with the development of Blocher Apartments will be consistent with our other housing initiatives: to provide safe and affordable living environments where there is an unmet need, to create aesthetically pleasing and welcoming buildings, and to have a positive impact on the communities in which we are located,” McCaffrey said. Funding for the Blocher Apartments comes from several sources, including federal and state Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, New York State’s Homes and Community Renewal, Office for People With Developmental Disabilities, Federal Home Loan Bank Affordable Housing Program, Supportive Housing Opportunity Program and the Town of Amherst HOME Investment Partnerships American Rescue Plan. Features available to residents include a new playground, activity rooms, multiple community rooms and a patio. There will be a parking lot for residents and visitors, and a live-in superintendent. The project also includes new walkways and landscaping. “At the core of People Inc.’s mission is responding to the needs of the people of Western New York,” McCaffrey said. “There continues to be high demand for healthy, affordable and safe living environments and we are grateful to all our government and other collaborators and funders who are working with us to answer that call.” Construction of Blocher Apartments is expected to be completed by mid-2026.   ABOUT PEOPLE INC.: People Inc. provides a diverse array of support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, as well as health care services, senior services, services for the Deaf and hard of hearing, and affordable housing. Founded more than 50 years ago and built on a strong foundation of innovation, collaboration, community and inclusion, People Inc. helps people achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity, providing superior programs throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester regions.  

Autism Services Programs & Services To Transition to People Inc., The Summit Center

Separate Agencies to Provide Programs Based on Specialties Two local nonprofits that support people with developmental disabilities are working together to ensure the continuation of educational, residential, and other services currently provided by Autism Services Inc. Autism Services supports approximately 175 people in day programs, group homes and other programs funded and regulated by the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). It also operates two New York State Education Department-certified school age special education programs located in Buffalo and Amherst, serving about 100 students. As a result of insurmountable financial challenges, beginning Feb. 1, 2024, Autism Services’ OPWDD-funded programs will transfer to People Inc. The Summit Center will expand its school services on or about Feb. 1, 2024, providing school age educational programs to current students attending Autism Service’s schools. Autism Services faces significant operational and financial challenges, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this year, Autism Services approached People Inc. seeking an affiliation to provide assistance with administrative, back-office, and managerial support. As part of its strategic assessment of the agency, People Inc. hired an outside accounting firm to determine Autism Services’ financial viability. The findings revealed an operating deficit that threatened the continuation of Autism Services’ programs and services. Despite aggressive and deliberate efforts over the last several months to stabilize operations, Autism Services’ Board of Directors has determined the only way to preserve these vital services is to transition the operation of its programs to other agencies with the capacity and expertise to support them. “Since Autism Services came to us for assistance, the goal has been to ensure the continuation and consistency of high-quality services,” said Anne McCaffrey, President and CEO of People Inc. “After the results of our due diligence, we are grateful to have arrived at this best-case scenario, with The Summit Center taking on what they do best, and People Inc. doing what we do best. In the end, the people served and their families remain the focus.”  People Inc., a leading provider of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and The Summit Center, well known for its expertise in educational programs for people with autism, are working together with Autism Services to ensure a smooth and seamless transition as Autism Services ceases operation. McCaffrey and Lisa Foti, CFO and incoming CEO of The Summit Center, said they are thoughtfully planning for little or no disruption to the day-to-day services currently provided, including affording employment opportunities to Autism Services employees and keeping the schools and programs in the same locations. “We know that change can be very disruptive for students with autism, so our initial focus is on the seamless continuation of educational services provided by staff members they know and trust,” said Foti. “On the financial side, when these additional students come under Summit’s umbrella, we will be able to take advantage of higher reimbursement rates while continuing to provide a high-quality educational program.”  The OPWDD services moving under the auspice of People Inc. include 12 group homes with a total of 53 residents, two day programs serving 64 people, and other programs for neurodiverse adults and children. All Autism Services employees who work as direct support professionals in these programs will have employment opportunities at People Inc.   ABOUT PEOPLE INC.: People Inc. provides a diverse array of support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, as well as health care services, senior services, services for the Deaf and hard of hearing, and affordable housing. Founded more than 50 years ago and built on a strong foundation of innovation, collaboration, community and inclusion, People Inc. helps people achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity, providing superior programs throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester regions. ABOUT THE SUMMIT CENTER: The Summit Center provides educational, clinical, adult, and community-based programs and services to more than 1000 Western New York children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities. Its specialized school, Summit Academy, provides a 12-month educational program to 340 students from 38 WNY school districts at two locations in Amherst, 150 Stahl Road and 165 Creekside Drive.

People Inc. Continues Celebrating 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. During the annual WNY Employment Consortium luncheon recently, People Inc. had the opportunity to acknowledge Grace Guest House and the Audubon Branch Library who have created a welcoming work environment so that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are able to learn, thrive and contribute to their communities.

People Inc., NYSID and NFTA kicked off National Disability Employment Awareness Month and Celebrated $22,000 Matching Grant to Support Employing People with Disabilities

The combined nearly $44,000 will additionally create strong community partnerships to support more people with disabilities in their work. People Inc., New York State Industries for the Disabled (NYSID), and the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) shared details at a news conference about a nearly $44,000 investment to assist with a People Inc. program that employs people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The funds have been used to purchase janitorial equipment, used by People Inc. employees to perform their jobs efficiently and effectively. The Carpet Cleaning Done Right program is one of the People Inc.  business solutions offered to the public that provides high quality work in integrated settings. This funding is through NYSID’s Matching Grant Program, which benefits its member agencies and partners such as People Inc. and the NFTA. NYSID provides financial support to its statewide network of chapters and other rehabilitative programs which help people with disabilities and qualified veterans succeed in rewarding employment. “NYSID is thrilled to assist its Member Agency organizations and partners by awarding matching grants that boost productivity and inclusivity,” said Maureen O’Brien, president and CEO of NYSID. “The grant funds will be used to improve cleaning services at the Buffalo airport and other customers. We hope this support grows jobs locally for people with disabilities and qualified veterans.” People Inc. will use the $22,000 matching grant to support a new carpet cleaning machine at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. “People Inc. is very grateful to NYSID and the NFTA for their support to ensure people with developmental and intellectual disabilities secure and maintain meaningful employment,” said Anne McCaffrey, President and CEO of People Inc. “We are lucky to have these organizations stand with us in our efforts to help people live independent, fulfilling lives.” The NFTA has shown a significant commitment to the employment of people with disabilities. “The NFTA is proud of its long-standing partnership with People Inc., and fully supports programs and services that promote inclusivity in the workplace.” said Kim Minkel, executive director of the NFTA. National Disability Employment Awareness Month is observed throughout October to highlight and celebrate the many contributions of workers with disabilities. The unemployment rate for people with disabilities in New York state is close to 70 percent and can be improved by businesses and organizations providing more opportunities for people to work in meaningful jobs. James Kuzon, who is a day porter at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport for People Inc., spoke about why his job is important and why it is important to support those with disabilities in their work. According to his supervisor, James was driven to learn all aspects of carpet cleaning. He learned that completing work quickly was not as important as completing it thoroughly. Additionally, James overcame previous workplace challenges and operates very professionally in his role. Armed with the confidence of excelling in his long-term position, James purchased a car and got married. Area state legislators and local dignitaries are supportive for many reasons, including the impact that people with disabilities have on the Buffalo region. US Congressman Brian Higgins (D, NY-26) said: “Employment opportunities allow for people to showcase their skills and value, while furthering self-sufficiency and independence. I applaud this collaboration between People Inc., NYSID, and the NFTA. This is what an inclusive workforce is all about.” NYS Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes (D, 141st District) said: “I’m proud to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month with People Inc. and the NFTA, which includes highlighting the importance of the ability of our friends and family members with developmental disabilities to have real opportunities for gainful employment. The dignity, independence, and chances for personal growth and professional development gained from working are experiences that they will keep with them forever.” NYS Assembly Member Monica Wallace (D, 143rd Assembly District) said: “It’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and I applaud People Inc., New York State Industries for the Disabled, and the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority for marking the occasion by working collaboratively to create job opportunities for people with disabilities. We need to ensure there are opportunities for everyone to participate in the workplace to the fullest extent of their abilities. Doing so is good for people with disabilities, good for businesses, and good for the overall economy.” People Inc. was founded from a humble beginning in 1970 by a small group of parents and professionals, who were concerned and passionate about addressing the needs of people with intellectual disabilities. Since then, People Inc. has remained forward-thinking and expanded its mission to include a wider variety of supports that address the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, families, older adults and the community.