Author Rosanne Higgins, PhD, to speak at Museum of disABILITY History

Presentation to focus on research behind author’s work The Museum of disABILITY History is pleased to welcome author and anthropologist, Rosanne Higgins, PhD, as the latest presenter in its Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series. The presentation, entitled “Libraries, Ledgers and Graveyards: Unearthing the Facts Behind Historical Fiction,” will take place on Friday, May 29, 2015, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at 3826 Main Street, Buffalo. Higgins will speak about her Orphans and Inmates book series and the research that shaped its creation. She will also highlight her involvement with the University at Buffalo’s Erie County Poorhouse Cemetery Project, and share how it inspired her second novel, A Whisper of Bones. Additionally, Higgins will discuss the relationship between poverty and disability in the nineteenth century. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and have books signed by the author. Higgins, an adjunct professor of anthropology at the University at Buffalo, was born in Enfield, Connecticut, but spent her youth in Buffalo, NY. Her experiences traveling in both the United States and in Europe as a child resulted in a love of history from an early age. In 1998, she went on to earn her PhD in anthropology from the University at Buffalo. Her studies focused largely on the nineteenth century’s Asylum Movement and its impact on disease specific mortality in Erie, Niagara and Monroe County Poorhouses. In the spring of 2012, she was invited to join the Erie County Poorhouse Cemetery project, undertaken by the Department of Anthropology at the University at Buffalo. This project, paired with a longstanding desire to tell a side of the ‘Poorhouse story’ that was accessible to more than just the scholarly community, resulted in her novel, Orphans and Inmates. The book is the first in a series chronicling fictional accounts of poorhouse residents inspired by historical data. The series’ second installment, A Whisper of Bones, was released in October 2014. The Dialogues on disABILITY event is $6 for adults, $3.50 for students, seniors and human service employees, and free for Museum members. The event fee includes admission to the gallery space of the Museum of disABILITY History. For more information or to register, call 716-629-3626. The Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc., is dedicated to the collection, preservation, and display of artifacts relating to the history of people with disabilities. The mission is to tell the story of the lives, triumphs and struggles of people with disabilities as well as society’s reactions. The Museum of disABILITY History, located at 3826 Main Street in Buffalo, NY, offers educational exhibits, programs and activities that expand community awareness.

Author Stephen Nawotniak Focuses Presentation on Bipolar Disorder and using Effective Tools for an Enhanced Quality of Life at Museum of disABILITY History

The Museum of disABILITY History will welcome Stephen Nawotniak, author of Handbook for Healthy Living with a Mood Disorder , as its next featured presenter for its Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series. The presentation entitled, “Stepping Beyond Illness,” will be held on Friday, October 3, at 7 p.m., at 3826 Main Street, Buffalo. Nawotniak will share his personal story and how some activities from his book can support a person in designing a desired quality of life. A review on “The Acceptance Ladder” (a tool in the book), along with a question and answer session will be included.   In 2012, Nawotniak was diagnosed with bipolar disorder after a weeklong hospitalization for severe depression. He has been coping with the symptoms and is currently in the process of recovery. In his book, Nawotniak offers an experienced-based sharing of skills and tools that have worked for him. Relying on his expertise as a licensed occupational therapist, he focuses on constructing a meaningful quality of life using skills that are effective and important for everybody while addressing and accommodating the needs unique to bipolar disorder.The presentation is geared towards individuals with a mental health diagnosis and their friends and family, mental health and medical professionals and college students.   The Dialogues on disABILITY event is $5 for adults and $2.50 for seniors, students and human service employees and free for members of the Museum of disABILITY History. The event fee includes admission to the gallery space of the Museum of disABILITY History. For more information or to register, call 716-629-3626.   The Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc., is dedicated to the collection, preservation and display of artifacts relating to the history of people with disabilities. The mission is to tell the story of the lives, triumphs and struggles of people with disabilities as well as society’s reactions. The Museum of disABILITY History, located at 3826 Main Street in Buffalo, NY, offers educational exhibits, programs and activities that expand community awareness.

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.

Author with Down syndrome Writes Children’s Book about Bullying

Family-friendly “Meet the Author” event includes book reading and face painting  Engelic Everett, 33, is committed to making the world a better place for people with disabilities. One cause that is important to Everett is bullying awareness and prevention. Her new children’s book, Olivia The Bully, incorporates these themes. The Museum of disABILITY History, which published the book, will hold a “Meet the Author” event with Everett on Saturday, May 6, from 2 to 4 p.m. at 3826 Main Street, Buffalo, NY. The free family-friendly event will include a meet and greet with the author, book reading, coloring contest, face painting and snacks. The book discusses bullying with children at an early age, sharing the values of friendship, understanding and loving one another. A recipient of People Inc.’s services, Everett lives and thrives with Down syndrome. An entrepreneur and resident of Buffalo, Everett, is a small-business owner, award-winning self-advocate, published playwright and children’s book author. She started her own company making shirts with positive messages, creating a brand and website based on advocacy.  Event registration is encouraged. For more information or to register, call 716.629.3626. 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 . Established in 1998, the Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc., is the only one of its kind in the United States and is dedicated to advancing the understanding, acceptance and independence of people with disabilities. Located in Buffalo, NY, the Museum’s exhibits, collections, publications, archives and educational programs create awareness and a platform for dialogue and discovery.

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.

Basket Raffle and Open House at People Inc. Willow Senior Living in Wheatfield

Door Prizes and 50/50 Raffle   People Inc. Willow Senior Living will host a Basket Raffle and Open House on Friday, August 28, from 4 to 7 p.m., at 3990 Forest Parkway, Wheatfield (between Shawnee and Townline Roads, off of Niagara Falls Boulevard). The event includes an assortment of themed baskets and gift certificates, 50/50 raffle, door prizes and refreshments. Proceeds will benefit tenant recreational opportunities. Whether thinking of downsizing or removing the burden of household maintenance, People Inc. Willow Senior Living provides older adults the chance to live affordably. Apartments are for seniors, age 62 and up, who meet federally mandated income guidelines. Apartment applications are being accepted and tours will be available during the event. Located on the border of North Tonawanda, People Inc. Willow Senior Living is near a variety of  restaurants and stores near Niagara Falls, North Tonawanda and Tonawanda. To RSVP or for more information, call 716-694-1486. People Inc. manages 19 senior apartment locations throughout Western New York. For more information about other locations, call 716-817-9090. 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.

Board Leadership Conference

Board Leadership Conference: Make Your Board Accountable Featuring: Miriam Carver Even if you've attended other board or volunteer training workshops, read books, or had trainers come in to work with your organization in the past...This is a workshop you won't want to miss! About the workshop: Policy Governance is the world's most complete theoretical foundation for the board's governance role in business, nonprofit and government organizations. The model enables the board to focus on the larger issues, to delegate with clarity, to control management's job without meddling, to rigorously evaluate the accomplishments of the organization; to truly lead its organization. When: Tuesday, June 16, 2009, 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Where: Canisius College, Main St. Campus Winters '42 Student Center in the Regis Room Secured parking with public safety for the 100 guests at the parking ramp. Cost: $75 for one person $200 for groups of three from same organization Includes continental breakfast, lunch, and materials. For more information: 716.817.7470 Click here for more information and to register!

Book Launch of J.N. Adam Memorial Hospital: Her Inside Voice by Char Szabo-Perricelli, Artist/Photographer

The Museum of disABILITY History will host photographer/artist, Char Szabo-Perricelli, to launch her book,  J.N. Adam Memorial Hospital: Her Inside Voice on Friday, November 4, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at 3826 Main Street, Buffalo. The free presentation will include a book signing and question and answer session. The book is published through the Museum of disABILITY History and the presentation is part of its Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series. Featuring the photography and writing of Char Szabo-Perricelli, the book is the result of a multi-year photo documentation project. It also includes historical support from the Museum of disABILITY History as part of its premier publications in the Abandoned History Series. From what was once a majestic medical facility to the ruins it is becoming today, this book will take you back to the grand beginning and leave you with a sense of loss. While describing her passion to create this book, Szabo-Perricelli said: “A ‘meant to be’ moment was when I first laid eyes on the JN Adam Memorial Hospital back in 2001. It called to my already passionate fascination with architecture, history, mysteries and photography. I started researching the back story, but nothing I found seemed complete to me or said much about why it was sitting there unused or what circumstances kept it in such an idyllic abandoned limbo. That in itself turned my curiosity into an overwhelming need to tell the story through photographs and to bring awareness.” The full color hardcover book with more than 400 photos will be for sale during the presentation, the Museum of disABILITY History store and Amazon. To register for the presentation or for more information, call 716.629.3626.  Established in 1998, the Museum of disABILITY History is the only one of its kind in the United States and is dedicated to advancing the understanding, acceptance and independence of people with disabilities. Located in Buffalo NY, the Museum’s exhibits, collections, publications, archives and educational programs create awareness and a platform for dialogue and discovery.

Book Launch: The Story of Camp Cornplanter

As part of the Museum of disABILITY History’s Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series, People Inc. Associate Vice President David Mack-Hardiman will present and launch a new book, entitled, The Magic Fire: The Story of Camp Cornplanter, on Friday, September 9, from 4 to 5:30 p.m., at 3826 Main Street, Buffalo. A question and answer sessions will be held. Located in the Allegheny Forest of northwest Pennsylvania, Camp Cornplanter provided opportunities for individuals with disabilities to attend a summer camp. As the first residential camp in North America, it was like an oasis in the era of institutional care. Nearly 40 years ago, Mack-Hardiman began his vocation in human services at Camp Cornplanter as their assistant director for eight summers. He is currently associate vice president for People Inc. and the Museum of disABILITY History. He has trained thousands of employees throughout Western New York during his lengthy career. In addition to The Magic Fire: The Story of Camp Cornplanter, he is also author of Grave Importance: The Restoration of Institutional Cemeteries. The event costs are: $6 for adults, $3.50 for students, seniors and human service employees and free for Museum members. To register or for more information, call 716-629-3626. The book is available at the Museum of disABILITY History, 3826 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, and online, store.museumofdisability.org. Established in 1998, the Museum of disABILITY History is the only one of its kind in the United States and is dedicated to advancing the understanding, acceptance and independence of people with disabilities. The Museum’s exhibits, collections, archives and educational programs create awareness and a platform for dialogue and discovery.