People Inc.'s Training Center and Museum of disABILITY History have moved!

The People Inc. Training Center, previously housed on Delaware Avenue in Buffalo moved its spacious new location at 3826 Main Street in Amherst. The Training Center provides improved office space and training rooms as well as a permanent home for the Museum of disABILITY. This shared space will make the history of developmental disabilities a more central component to the agencies orientation process. It also provides additional space for museum exhibits and easier access for community groups touring the museum. This move helps People Inc. to continue to grow and enhance its out reach to the community and its employees and is one more progressive and exciting step. For more information, call the Museum of disABILITY History at 716.629.3626. www.museumofdisability.org

People Inc., an Essential Employer, is Hiring

Seeking People to Work in Human Services March 27, 2020: During this challenging time, many people locally have been displaced from their places of employment. In response, People Inc. encourages fellow Western New Yorker’s to consider a career in human services. As an essential employer, People Inc. provides supports 24/7 for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, special needs and their families throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. Currently, People Inc. is hiring Direct Support Professionals and Behavior Technicians for its community-based residential locations. These employees play an integral part assisting people with developmental disabilities to live as independently as possible by supporting them with personal care, household duties, and recreational activities. People Inc. is currently hiring throughout the region, with immediate opportunities in Angola, Boston, East Aurora, Evans, Farnham, Grand Island and Orchard Park, NY. Full time, part time and temporary positions are available to work mainly evening, overnight and weekend shifts (offering additional pay for overnight and weekend shifts). People Inc. provides comprehensive paid training and various benefits. Direct Support Professionals work in a number of different settings and often have opportunities to share their own passions and talents with the people they support. Compassionate job seekers who have a desire to assist people with intellectual and developmental disabilities can apply online at people-inc.org/careers . Recruiters will work with candidates in a timely manner through the hiring process. 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 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., an Essential Employer, is Hiring in Greater Rochester Region

During this challenging time, many people locally have been displaced from their places of employment. In response, People Inc. encourages people in the Greater Rochester region to consider a career in human services. As an essential employer, People Inc. provides supports 24/7 for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, special needs and their families throughout the area.  Currently, People Inc. is hiring behavior technicians for its community-based residential locations. These employees play an integral part assisting people with developmental disabilities to live as independently as possible by supporting them through the implementation of behavior plans. This position requires a high school diploma/GED and a valid driver’s license that meets agency policy. People Inc. is currently hiring throughout the region, with immediate opportunities in Greece, NY. Full time and part time positions are available. People Inc. provides comprehensive paid training and extensive benefits. Job seekers who are patient and enjoy a new experience every day, while assisting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, may apply online at people-inc.org/careers. Recruiters will work with candidates in a timely manner through the hiring process. Through at least the end of May, the orientation process has been condensed. 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 the Greater Rochester region and Western New York. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted people achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. With nearly 4,000 employees, People Inc. is one of the region’s largest employers. 

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., 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.     

People Inc./People Inc. CHDO Receives Funding Approval from NYS Homes and Community Renewal for Linwood/Lafayette Apartments in Buffalo

May 10, 2017: People Inc.’s Community Housing Development Organization is pleased to announce that it has received official notification from the New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) of funding for its 37-unit apartment project at 637 Linwood Avenue in Buffalo. In conjunction with the Gates Circle renovation initiative, the project will help revitalize the community with much needed housing. New construction of mixed income apartments, for people age 55 years and older, will also include seven units for individuals with developmental disabilities age 55 years and older who live independently. People Inc.’s apartments will be located on the long-vacant parking lot on Linwood and Lafayette Streets in Buffalo. Located next to a high-end senior living complex planned by Canterbury Woods, the project will provide an affordable option for the diverse neighborhood.  Well known for its development of group homes for individuals with developmental disabilities and providing affordable housing to seniors, People Inc. continues to broaden its scope to bring various audiences together for a unique housing model.  “We are thrilled that we have the support of New York State Homes and Community Renewal and the New York State Office of People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) for this important project,” said Rhonda Frederick, People Inc. president and CEO. “Working together over the past year, we are grateful to have the support of community groups and many important partners to provide an affordable housing opportunity.” The one-bedroom apartments will include a kitchen with appliances. Tenant income limits will be based on current federal rates. The apartment building will include a community room with a small kitchen, on-site laundry facilities, ample green space and courtyards. Tenants will be permitted to have one small pet. Safety features will include a secure entrance and a 24-hour on call emergency service. Additionally, the building is near a major bus route and accessible to various services and retail shops.   People Inc., along with its development team partners, TM Montante Development and Long Associates Architects, will mirror architectural designs from the neighborhood for the exterior of the apartment building’s structure. Construction is scheduled to start this fall and continue well into 2018. People Inc. is proud to have support from many agency leaders and elected officials:  Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said: “My administration has aggressively supported affordable housing in Buffalo over the past 11 years. Since I took office, the City has invested over $34 million that has leveraged over $333 million in affordable housing development. I applaud People Inc. for this mixed-income project that targets seniors, and also includes units designed to accommodate persons with disabilities. This is a great fit for the Gates Circle neighborhood, which will include Canterbury Woods and Lancaster Square.” Assemblymember Crystal Peoples Stokes said: “I’m excited that People Inc. has received the necessary approvals to move forward on their affordable housing project. This development reflects the architectural fabric and support of the community, fills a need for affordable housing and further stabilizes a historic neighborhood by turning a parking lot into an active facility. People Inc. has a great leadership team and is a dependable community partner. I applaud their efforts and look forward to the project’s completion.” Senator Tim Kennedy said: “People Inc. continues to go above and beyond when it comes to providing housing to independent seniors and people with disabilities in our community, and I’m thrilled to see that their project to provide mixed affordable housing at Linwood and Lafayette has been given the green light. Getting People Inc.’s incredible vision off the ground, matched with the State’s emphasis in the recent budget on affordable housing, has been a true partnership between all levels of government, and I look forward to seeing this project’s progress in the coming months.” Commissioner of New York State Homes and Community Renewal RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Everyone deserves a good home. When people have a safe, affordable place to live, families and communities thrive. The Linwood and Lafayette Apartments development continues the transformation of Gates Circle from a vacant hospital site into a vibrant new neighborhood. It also serves as another powerful example of Governor Cuomo’s commitment to expanding housing opportunities in Buffalo and across the state. Congratulation to People Inc. on today’s award.” People Inc. provides programs and services to more than 12,500 people with special needs, their families and seniors throughout Western New York and Rochester. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. To learn more, visit people-inc.org. Like us on Facebook at People Inc. and follow us on Twitter @PeopleIncNews.

People Inc.’s Arts Experience Day Habilitation Presents “Grease” Production

What:  “Grease” Production by participants of People Inc.’s Arts Experience Day Habilitation Program   When:   Friday, June 29, 2012, 11 a.m.            Meet and greet the cast after the performance   Where:  The Town Ballroom, 681 Main Street, Buffalo (Theatre District)   For the past two years, the artists involved in the musical theater class of People Inc.’s Arts Experience Day Habilitation program have worked to produce their own adaptation of the popular musical “Grease.” “It has been a two-year process that began when artist Mary Ann Gregory shared her lifelong dream to perform in the musical “Grease.” Her fellow artists expressed a desire to create their interpretation of the beloved classic,” shared Kim Petri, program manager and teaching artist.   People Inc.’s Arts Experience Day Habilitation showcases the talents of adults with developmental disabilities. The musical theater class has been rehearsing for the past two years to present their show to the community. “One of the challenges faced by the artists has been the rehearsal schedule. The musical theatre class meets once a week for two hours. This is very different from the typical rehearsal process,” said Petri.   Different classes from the Arts Experience program have been involved with the production from stage work to costumes. There will be 13 individuals performing “Grease.” Staff members will assist back stage with set up and costume changes. Phil Cercone is Danny Zuko and Jen Giolando is Sandra D.   The Arts Experience Day Habilitation offers classes in visual art, theatre, music, dance, jewelry design, fitness dance and creative writing. For more information about People Inc.’s Arts Experience, call 716.635.6526.

People Inc.’s Elmwood Health Center Receives Prestigious Award

Upon the high recommendation of the Community Foundation of Western and Central New York and WNY HEALTHeLINK, People Inc.’s Elmwood Health Center will be honored at the upcoming New York eHealth Collaborative Gala and Awards Ceremony in New York City as a New York Health IT Visionary for their pioneering use of technology to improve the lives of the community that the Elmwood Health Center serves, many of whom are un- or under-insured and struggle with chronic conditions. The award notification letter from NY eHealth Collaborative reads in part that "In working with HEALTHeLINK, your NCQA PCMH level 3 certification through the HEAL 10 project is one example of how your efforts measurably improve care coordination. And your tele-monitoring project as part of the WNY Beacon program is both exciting and groundbreaking. It is high tech and high touch at the same time, creating a stronger and more substantial method for communication between providers and their most at-risk patients. This is what health IT is all about." The New York eHealth Collaborative is the not-for-profit organization designated by both the state and federal governments to advance health IT in the State of New York. Ultimately, the goal of NYeC is that no patient, wherever they may need treatment within the State of New York, is ever without fast, secure, accurate, and accessible health information. According to the NY eHealth Collaborative, "It is this goal which resonates so profoundly with the work of the Elmwood Health Center." When asked for his thoughts on receiving word of this award, Frank M. Azzarelli, associate vice president of People Inc. and director of the Elmwood Health Center, said "To receive recognition such as this is truly an honor and is in and of itself a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire Elmwood Health Center Team in making health information technology a reality for all of our patients and their families. In doing so, we have truly put health information technology to meaning use in all that we do for the betterment of all that we serve." Information on the Elmwood Health Center may be found at www.elmwoodhealthcenter.org while additional information on the New York eHealth Collaborative may be found at www.nyehealth.org .

People Inc.’s Elmwood Health Center Receives Prestigious Grant with National Impact

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Grant Will Promote Research and Education on Diabetes   Diabetes is said to affect one out of every twelve adult New Yorkers according to the Department of Health. That number has doubled since 1994, and is anticipated to double again by the year 2050. Diabetes has been strongly linked to obesity and Western New York’s rate of obesity tops the New York State’s population occurrence of 25%.   It is expected that increasing patient knowledge on diabetes management and increasing health professional’s training on patient lifestyles will result in better health outcomes . A grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation will allow People Inc.’s Elmwood Health Center to complete nationally recognized research and offer more resources to their Western New York patients The grant, anticipated to help health centers reduce health disparities in communities across the United States, will allow the Elmwood Health Center to focus their attention on the medical care and management of individuals with diabetes.   The RWJF grant brings the Center for Health Care Quality at George Washington University together with six health centers located in Western New York and Cleveland, OH to create the Aligning Forces for Quality Equity Improvement Initiative 2.0. The goal is to reduce health disparities in the participating communities and impact the methods of care delivery across the country. The Elmwood Heath Center, located at 2128 Elmwood Avenue in Buffalo, primarily serves patients in North Buffalo, Riverside and West Side of Buffalo, along with residents of Kenmore and Tonawanda.   The Elmwood Health Center will focus their attention on identifying disparities in relation to diabetes. Research will include focus groups that examine patient care and patient perception of care. The health professionals aim to pinpoint obstacles in patient’s health management and alter their own practices to better address the obstacles. A major educational component will be included with the involvement of a Diabetes Care Coordinator that will be available to aid patients who struggle to manage their health and diabetes. Ideally, the fund will allow health professionals to develop different methods of staff training and patient treatment approaches to best serve different populations. “The purpose is to gain the best understanding, give quality care and help people alter their lifestyles for the better,” said Frank Azzarelli, associate vice president of People Inc. and director of the Elmwood Health Center.   It is critical to learn about the whole person, such as their ethnicity, race, religious affiliation and any other characteristics that may impact an individual’s lifestyle, eating habits and ultimately the success of the medical care they receive. “The staff will be educated on each patient’s cultural or religious beliefs and other aspects which may impact the individual’s health,” added Azzarelli.   The Center for Health Care Strategies (CHCS) is a nonprofit health policy resource center dedicated to improving health care access and quality. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is the largest philanthropy devoted exclusively to improving the health and health care in the United States.   Founded in 1994, the Elmwood Health Center provides primary and specialty care services to a diverse patient base and is recognized locally for its care of those with special needs. 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.   Contact: Kevin Horrigan, Public Affairs Director Direct: 716-817-7475   Cell: 716-866-5893