Author with Autism Hopes Newest Book Will Help Others Connect to People Inc.

When Robert Kneitinger was a child, he was teased and bullied. Classmates made fun of his social awkwardness and communications challenges.  Eventually, Kneitinger was diagnosed with a developmental disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder. Now, at age 58, Kneitinger has turned the pain of his childhood into lessons for children with disabilities, in the hopes that their lives will be easier. With some help from staff at People Inc., Kneitinger is now an author and illustrator of 15 children’s books – all with positive messages and an underlying theme of overcoming obstacles and the value of all people, no matter their abilities.  Kneitinger said his hope is to inspire families like his. “My mission is to help children get their independence, like I did,” he said. “What I want is that someday, parents of children who read my books say to me, ‘Thank you for helping my child!’” The books are fictional, but many of them come from stories about Robert’s own experiences and include ways he navigated the world despite his disability. This includes his latest book soon to go on sale on Amazon, “My Journey with People Inc.,” about ways that connecting with the People Inc. staff who offer services such as a broker, a life coach and a self-directed assistant have changed his life forever, including helping him to find and nurture his writing and artistic talents. Kneitinger started as an artist after attending classes at Starlight Studios in Buffalo. Working with People Inc. Self-Directed Assistant Don Jackson, he found that he had the ability to create artwork that people admired, and to come up with stories that he hopes will make a difference in people’s lives. After just finishing his 17th book, Don said the benefits he has seen for Robert in this work go well beyond the creative. Running the business of trying to sell books and do readings and presentations at schools, community organizations and more have pushed Robert far beyond where he and others thought he could go, said Jackson, who has a background in art education and has worked side-by-side with Kneitinger through all of his book writing and illustrating. “He has come so far,” Jackson said. “All of this stretches his cognitive abilities. We have seen so much improvement socially, emotionally and in his self-confidence. He is now constantly interacting with people – it’s been an incredibly well-rounded experience.”  Kneitinger will be selling his books at the upcoming Developmental Disabilities Awareness Day on August 1 at the Niagara Falls Convention Center.

Support People Inc. through Give 716

Give 716 is a collaborative giving event organized by the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres Foundations to unite fans and the community in support of local nonprofits. This epic giving event is a one-of-a-kind chance to donate to People Inc. while taking advantage of corporate challenges where gifts are matched, or special incentives are offered!  From 7:16 p.m. on July 16 through 7:16 a.m. on July 18, you can join the fun and make a difference with your donation. Want to help even more? Share the Give 716 information with your networks through social media. Donations made to People Inc. will support our many life-changing services benefiting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, families and seniors. Worlds open up through your generous philanthropy! Without your help, people like Brandon Mazur may not have found the hands-on work experience he receives through People Inc.’s own “People Shoppe” in Buffalo. Brandon says he is “proud to be the first person customers see – it makes me and them feel happy.” Funds also provide services for people such as Kenyata Cooper , who lives with cerebral palsy and glaucoma and says, “If I did not have my physical therapy, I would be lost!” Your generosity helps creativity blossom for people like Nick Kilpatrick , who has built skills as a craftsman and musician with the help of a self-determination assistant. “I like to make new friends, along with the people I work with,” Nick says, “I really enjoy learning new things and playing my music for everyone.” Additionally, contributions bring shelter and sense of community to people like John Hartman , who has found a safe place to live in one of People Inc.’s Affordable Apartments. John says, “I walked into my apartment overwhelmed and so very thankful.” Support a great cause, while enjoying special perks!

New Hiring Salaries

Effective Monday, July 10, as a result of the most recently approved New York State Budget, People Inc. was able to make a significant wage enhancement for direct support professionals and frontline supervisors. The new salaries are: Interested in a career with People Inc.? Learn more!

Nick Kilpatrick Shares Talents with Jamestown Community

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

John Hartman Living Affordably and Safely

John Hartman is enjoying his own living room, his own kitchen, and his own bedroom. He likes being able to cook his own meals and do laundry right in the comfort of his own space. All of these may seem like small things that can be taken for granted. But, for John, they represent something much bigger. This did not happen easily. John, who is 61 years old, was previously married living in Boston, NY, but after going through difficult personal matters and an unplanned eviction in March 2020, John was alone and left without a home. For a year, John moved from place to place. He worked at a restaurant in East Aurora. He rode his bike around town, until his only means of transportation, along with his backpack and personal ID were stolen. The Department of Social Services temporarily paid for a hotel stay. He camped out under St. Joe’s Cathedral and stayed in shelters. He temporarily slept on family members couches but did not want to be a burden. “You don’t realize how strong you are until you have to be,” said John. One morning after doing laundry at his son’s apartment, he saw a sign while waiting at a bus stop on South Park Avenue. It was about a new apartment building being built in Blasdell – People Inc. Oakwood Senior Apartments. This apartment complex, which opened in January 2022, is for people aged 55 years and older and who are income-eligible. The building also includes seven furnished set-aside apartments for those who are frail elderly homeless in need of support services. After learning more, applying and meeting with staff, John qualified for the apartments that our agency received funding for from the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative (ESSHI). John became an official tenant in March 2022. He currently lives in one of the ESSHI units, which provides qualifying people with a case manager and apartment furnishings. Now, John can sit at his own table with hot coffee that he made in his own kitchen, while looking out his cozy living room window. Filled with emotion, John said, “I walked into my apartment overwhelmed and so very thankful.” The Oakwood Senior Apartments is located in the former Our Mother of Good Counsel Parish School, which closed in 2004. Federal, state and Erie County grant programs and tax credits paid for the $8.8 million renovation. Through People Inc. Affordable Apartments, the agency has helped seven people who were homeless through the ESSHI partnership since the Oakwood Apartments opened. People Inc. understands that affordable housing can be very challenging to find. “Through our Affordable Apartments, we continue to explore innovative ways to meet the needs of our community,” said Sarah Alessi, People Inc. vice president. “One of our goals is to help people of all ages and abilities to live affordably, safely and independently as long as possible.” Located on a bus route near restaurants and shopping, People Inc. Oakwood Senior Apartments includes 33 units, offering one- and two-bedroom options. Tenants like John benefit from the numerous safety features and maintenance free living. A Western New York native who grew up in the town of Tonawanda and with a history in the restaurant business, John has a passion for cooking and is grateful for the amenities included in his kitchen: a stove, refrigerator, and dishwater. “I love to cook,” remarked John. “You name it, I cook it.” The apartment building provides a space where he can pursue his interests and develop lasting friendships with fellow tenants, often sharing meals together that John himself made – in a place he proudly calls home. Learn more This story was part of the 2022 Annual Report.

Every Purchase has a Purpose: People Shoppe is a store, and so much more!

People Inc. celebrated the grand opening of its newest vocational initiative to provide people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as people from the Deaf and hard of hearing community, the opportunity to engage with the community through meaningful activities and hands-on work experience through the People Shoppe. Every purchase supports the agency’s mission to provide inclusive experience, including training for a career in retail by exploring every aspect of operating a store from inventory to stocking to customer service to sales. Working toward achieving these skills at the store located at the Tri-Main Center, 2495 Main Street in Buffalo, is part of the individualized goals that each of the participants set for themselves. One of the Ambassadors, Brandon Mazur, was eager to become a part of the People Shoppe experience from the beginning and has emerged as one of the most recognizable people associated with the store. Every Wednesday, visitors will find him proudly wearing his People Inc. logo wear and hard at work setting up tables, turning on the lights, explaining about the various items for sale, stocking the shelves, greeting and listening to customers, working the cash register and helping with the bank deposit. “I am proud to be the first person customers see – it makes me and them feel happy,” Brandon offered. “My money skills have increased since I started working here,” he added. Brandon is known for interacting with the customers, listening to their concerns and suggestions for the store and recognizing repeat customers. Additionally, he helps his peers learn about their ambassador responsibilities and how to become successful. After reviewing the customer suggestion cards, Brandon helped to decide on ordering new products, such as the mouse pads, hair ties and hand sanitizer. He advocated to sell a couple of different types fidget spinners because, “Everybody needs to let their stress out!” Adding to his resume, Brandon accompanied People Inc. staff to the New York Association of Day Service Providers state-wide conference, where together they presented details about the People Shoppe and his experiences. He really liked answering all of their questions and felt it was an honor to represent People Inc. The staff who accompany Brandon commented on how they have seen his confidence increase over the past year, as well as how they have seen him take ownership of the store. He likes to make sure things are done efficiently, helps customers find just the right product or gift, checks dates on items, keeps an eye on the inventory and reconciles the bank deposit with the help of a People Inc. E.T.H.O.S AmeriCorps member. Additionally, they shared that Brandon creates the positive atmosphere of the store through his infectious and magnetic personality, bringing laughter to the team of Ambassadors and staff, complimenting people and always showing up fully energized. Being around Brandon – all people become more positive, you can’t help it! The Ambassadors really have a true integration into the Tri-Main community. In the future, Brandon would like to get a paying job in the community and shared that he is learning so much by being an Ambassador not only in the People Shoppe, but also through volunteering for People Inc. events, such as the golf tournament where he met a lot of golfers and got to talk to them. People Inc. President and CEO Rhonda Frederick reflected, “From an idea to a reality, this project has been a true collaborative journey with many people coming together to make this day possible, including Deaf Access Services, now a program of People Inc., Tri-Main Development, the Southeast Foundation Board, as well as all of the People Inc. support departments. The primary purpose of this space is not as a retail outlet, but instead a space for people to come and build relationships, engage with the community, and enjoy a hands-on experience.” Rhonda added, “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. 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. Vice President and Southeast Foundation Board Member Tim Pfohl shared, “The participants from the programs, our Ambassadors, have focused on engaging the Tri-Main’s business tenants and guests, asking for their suggestions for items to carry, increasing traffic and sharing information about People Inc. One group, using donated flowers, created arrangements and distributed them to all the building’s tenants.” Learn more This story was part of the 2022 Annual Report.

Kenyata Cooper Stays Strong with Physical and Occupational Therapies

“If I did not have my physical therapy, I would be lost,” shared Kenyata Cooper. Kenyata credits receiving physical and occupational therapies for keeping her body strong. She lives with cerebral palsy and glaucoma and has received these therapies on and off since she was 19 years old. The 42-year-old has been receiving People Inc. Rehabilitative Health Services since 2013 and now visits the new People Inc. Health Services Building twice a week for treatment, which is one hour of physical therapy and 30 minutes of occupational therapy. By working closely together with Physical Therapist Assistant Molly Switzer, Kenyata builds her body strength to improve her quality of life through hands-on care, prescribed movement, and education. Appointments include use of innovative equipment and state-of-the-art technology, all with personalized attention and sensitivity to her health needs. Kenyata has attended other places for her care but felt like she was just a number. “People Inc. actually gets to know you, they care,” she remarked. As someone who does not like change, Kenyata said it’s important that the staff and setting help make her comfortable. A great deal of trust has been built with Molly, she said. “It’s important for us to have positive relationships with our patients, as they are seen on a long-term basis, sometimes for years,” shared Molly. “Knowing a patient’s medical and personal history allows us to provide the best possible care.” Living on her own in downtown Buffalo, Kenyata receives aide services to help with activities of daily living. She uses a power wheelchair and crutches to assist with mobility. One of her favorite things to do is read. She also loves to make candles, a hobby that she developed during the COVID-19 pandemic. She takes pride in creating her candles, often selling or giving them away. The occupational therapy that Kenyata receives helps improve her hand-eye coordination and ‑ne motor skills, which she puts to good use during her creative pursuits. By working together with the People Inc. Rehabilitation Team, Kenyata can make her physical needs a priority. “When I don’t come to therapy, my body doesn’t feel good,” Kenyata said. “My therapies help build my strength and have a great quality of life. Learn more This story was part of the 2022 Annual Report.

Contract Manufacturing Receives Award from Buffalo Business First

On Wednesday, May 17, our Contract Manufacturing team was honored to receive a 2023 Manufacturing Award from Buffalo Business First in the Workforce Innovation and Training Category. People Inc. President and CEO Anne McCaffrey and Contract Manufacturing Production Lead Jeremy Little accepted the award. Our Contract Manufacturing supports meaningful integrated employment for people with disabilities by providing business solutions such as general and light assembly/disassembly, packaging, light manufacturing or inspection to area businesses in a timely, professional and cost-effective manner. Contract Manufacturing invests in the integrated model by ensuring the workforce we provide is screened, trained and committed to quality. We ascertain each business partner’s unique project details, deadlines and quality requirements and shape our workforce to meet these needs. Within any partnership we provide regular supervision and facilitation of natural supports on a work site through modeling to and training of our and the partner’s employees on workplace and disability etiquette. People Inc. also can provide a broad overview training related to working with people with disabilities to any community partner/business who is interested in supporting and diversifying their workforce. People Inc. supports the integration of people with and without disabilities through our site-based and community business locations. Our Contract Manufacturing operation provides the natural opportunity for this when we partner with community businesses and supplement their workforce. We supply a trained workforce to assist with contracted tasks, such as assembly/disassembly, packaging, light manufacturing and inspection. Not only does this result in meaningful employment for people with disabilities, but we also become a valuable solution for local businesses struggling with recruitment and meeting project deadlines. Learn more about this unique business service.

Southampton Street Community Cleanup

On Saturday, May 13, People Inc. was proud to take part in a Great American Cleanup alongside Home Beneath Our Feet, a local nonprofit organization founded by People Inc. team member Dwight Lowe. Nearly 30 volunteers worked together to mow lawns, pick up trash and support our community in the Jefferson-Southampton area. Check out the People Inc. Facebook album . The cleanup was the second annual event of its kind, the first being held just hours before the tragedy of May 14, 2022. Many volunteers came together that day from all walks of life to work towards one common goal: bettering the lives of those in our community. For 2023, the motivation was very much the same, with the added goal of showcasing the power of unity in the face of tragedy. The volunteers honored the people effected by the May 2022 event with a moment of silence and a renewed commitment to continuing to support all of our neighbors in meaningful ways. The names of the victims are: Celestine Chaney; Roberta A. Drury; Margus D. Morrison; Andre Mackneil; Katherine Massey; Deacon Heyward Patterson; Aaron Salter; Geraldine Talley; Ruth Whitfield and Pearl Young. Three others were also injured: Christopher Braden; Zaire Goodman and Jennifer Warrington. "We are back here, we are showing we are not going anywhere," Dwight Lowe told WKBW in a recent interview. “People [are] coming from different spaces, different races and coming together with one mission and that is to take care of our community and support in any way we can.”