People Inc.'s Museum of disABILITY History Holds Ceremony to Mark the Restoration of the Niagara County Almshouse Cemetery

Recitation of Names Laid to Rest, Volunteer Recognition and Unveiling of Merritt-Spencer Monument Included The Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc., and Niagara County officials held a ceremony June 5, 2014, at 10 a.m. at the Niagara County Almshouse Cemetery, 5526 Niagara Street Extension, Lockport, to mark the restoration of the neglected cemetery and honor the lives of the more than 1,400 Niagara County Almshouse residents who died and were buried there, most with unmarked graves, between 1830-1916.   Staff from People Inc. and the Museum, along with volunteers, have been working for two years to clear 96 years of overgrown brush and beautify the space. Today, the ceremony included the unveiling of a special memorial plaque and refurbished Merritt monument, the only inscribed gravestone at the location. Approximately 40 names of individuals laid to rest in the cemetery were read during the program. William Ross, chairman, Niagara County Legislature, presented a proclamation for the cemetery restoration event.   Seven years ago, People Inc. and the Museum of disABILITY History aligned with the nationwide Operation Dignity movement to restore institutional cemeteries. This is the fourth cemetery staff and volunteers have helped to restore. Other projects included Jolls Cemetery in Perrysburg, Gowanda Psychiatric Center Memorial Cemetery and Wheater Road Cemetery in Collins. The fifth cemetery restoration is underway at Craig Colony Crematory in Sonyea. In total, approximately 5,000 graves have been touched by the work.   As news of the restoration projects has spread, area families have come forth to identify their ancestors. Through this effort, people like Chris McDonough, a Texas resident with ties to Western New York, have been able to take heartfelt glimpses into their family histories.   “You have given us our grandfather,” said McDonough in an email to Dave Mack-Hardiman, a People Inc. associate vice president who has spearheaded the project. “We never met him as the family kept his life a secret to all of us children. Thank you so much for giving us a small part of his life. Growing up we were told he had passed away in the 40s. Modern technology and your help has changed that narrative.”   “It has been a unique opportunity to help family members identify their ancestors through the restoration project,” said Mack-Hardiman. “Though our efforts, we have helped at least 50 people learn more about their family members.”   It is estimated that more than one million Americans are buried in institutional cemeteries. Many of these lonely resting places have fallen into disrepair or neglect. Row upon row of numbered gravestones or cast iron markers are the eternal symbols of institutional depersonalization. Some families have searched for decades for names or any shred of information about their ancestors who are buried under weeds and tangled vines. As such, New York State agencies like People Inc., who serve people with developmental disabilities, have been involved in renovating these final resting places and have pushed for support for S.2514, legislation that would amend the Mental Hygiene law in order to permit Department of Mental Hygiene agencies to make available the names, dates of birth and dates of death of patients buried in state mental health hospital cemeteries in order to permit headstones and other memorializations. The bill is currently in the State Senate and the hope is it will be approved in the Senate and Assembly in the 2014-2015 session.   Those who have been instrumental to the Niagara County Almshouse Cemetery restoration work include New York State Senator George Maziarz, Chairman William Ross and the Niagara County Legislature, Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, Niagara County Division of Buildings and Grounds, Niagara County Historian’s Office, Niagara County Clerk’s Office and Buffalo State College. Orleans Monuments and Calamar Construction also contributed.   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. People Inc. currently employs 3,500 and assists individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity since 1971.  

People Inc.'s Museum of disABILITY History Store Now Open

Selected Items Discounted for Holiday Season Amherst, N.Y., December 3, 2010: People Inc. is pleased to present the newest edition to the Museum of disABILITY History, the Museum Store. The new Museum Store is open Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. inside the Museum of disABILITY History, at 3826 Main Street in Amherst (near the University at Buffalo South Campus). While it is very quaint, the Museum Store offers merchandise made by individuals of the Day Habilitation programs of People Inc. Individuals have created unique items such as 100 percent silk scarves, cement garden turtles, dried hydrangea wreaths, stained glass butterflies, hand painted wine glasses and pillows. Each item is lovingly hand made and no two items are the same. Other items for sale include: canvas totes, t-shirts and paperweights with the Museum logo, copper and leather "Jewelry in Braille," and plant-able "bloomin" greeting cards with flower seeds embedded in the paper. Several different books are for sale, including children's books as well as autographed copies of GIMP , by Mark Zupan and Tim Swanson, and Dr. Skinner's Remarkable School by James M. Boles, Ph.D. and Michael Boston, Ph.D. For the holiday season, the Museum Store is offering two items with the Museum of disABILITY History logo at a 25% discount until December 31, 2010. The first item is a natural kraft spiral bound notebook with a pen included (regular price $7.95). The second item is a scented candle in a frosted glass jar with the Museum of disABILITY History logo in silver (regular price $14.95). The candle is offered in four different scents including balsam-fir, french vanilla, lavender and jasmine. Community members are encouraged to visit the Museum of disABILITY History to see the latest exhibits and stop by the Museum Store to find unique and one-of-a-kind gifts. All profits benefit the Museum of disABILITY History and the Museum's Educational Outreach programs. The Museum of disABILITY History 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. For more information, visit www.museumofdisability.org or call 629.3626.

People Inc.'s newest Day Habilitation in South Buffalo

Ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate opening What: People Inc.'s Indian Church Day Habilitation program celebrates opening with ribbon cutting and tours When: Monday, August 17, 2009; 12:30 p.m. Where: 24 Indian Church Road near Seneca Street, (Location is set back behind storefronts on Seneca Street. Please enter from Indian Church Road.) Who: People Inc.'s President and CEO James M. Boles, Congressman Brian Higgins, Assemblymember Mark J.F. Schroeder, County Legislator Tim Kennedy for a tour of the newly renovated Indian Church Day Hab. These and other business leaders, city stakeholders, and the community will be on hand to celebrate this opening. Come and see the latest development to take place on Seneca Street, as part of the revitalization and continued great community collaboration of People Inc. with South Buffalo's community leaders. Why: People Inc. has developed its newest day program, Indian Church located in South Buffalo, based on community integration, increased independence, individualization, and productivity. Participants learn new skills and gain confidence to pursue personal goals and reach their highest level of independence in the community.

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.