The next Incredible Years Parent Training Program will begin soon!

Where: People Inc. 3131 Sheridan Drive Amherst, NY Time: Thursdays 5:30pm-7:30pm Starting: September 30th, 2010 (12 weekly sessions) It is designed for parents of children ages 3-12 years old. The Dinosaur Social Skills Group is also available for the children during this time. This is a training opportunity for all families (including staff) that have a child with a disability. To enroll, please call Michael Horn at 880.3737 or Jessica Makowski at 880.3827. Click here to view the flyer!

Three Local Disability Advocates Honored at Museum of disABILITY History Fall Fundraiser and Auction Event

Three Local Disability Advocates Honored at Museum of disABILITY History Fall Fundraiser and Auction Event The Museum of disABILITY History Fall Fundraiser and Auction will be held on Thursday, October 13, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at 3826 Main Street, Buffalo. The event will include hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer and desserts, along with an awards ceremony and auction. During the event, the Museum of disABILITY History will present its inaugural Chris Burke Award for Excellence in Disability Advocacy to three honorees. The honorees, all who reside in Western New York, are: Engelic Everett, Marie Malinowski and Michael Rogers. Through their advocacy efforts, they exemplify the value of contributing significant work in the disability community and make inclusion a priority.  Chris Burke, an actor with Down syndrome, played Corky on the television show, Life Goes On. He has earned numerous awards and is a Goodwill Ambassador for the National Down Syndrome Society. He has donated numerous memorabilia items from the television show and his advocacy efforts to the Museum of disABILITY History.  The annual fundraiser will benefit the Museum’s educational programming. For those who would like to support the Museum of disABILITY History, but cannot attend the event are encouraged to donate at gofundme.com/Musedisability . For more information, call 716.629.3626. 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.

Three Non-Profit Organizations to Receive Donation from McDonald's in Depew

People Inc., Southeast Works and Lancaster Opera House Awarded Donation What: McDonald's Ribbon Cutting for new Depew restaurant - Donations made to three area organizations When: Friday, July 1, 2011 at 11 a.m. Where: McDonald's 6360 Transit Road, Depew, NY Who: McDonalds's Depew Restaurant Owner Sandra Haefner and McDonald's staff members; New York State Assemblymenber Dennis H. Gabryszak; Cheektowaga Town Supervisor Mary F. Holtz; and representatives from People Inc., Southeast Works and Lancaster Opera House. In an effort to give back to their community, the newest McDonald's location in Depew chose three organizations to make a $250 donation each to: People Inc., Southeast Works and Lancaster Opera House. The store is also celebrating its new location with a ribbon cutting and encouraging new patrons. McDonald's is the leading global foodservice retailer with more than 32,000 local restaurants serving more than 64 million people in 117 countries each day. More than 80 percent of McDonald's restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local men and women. 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. Southeast Works is a non-profit human service agency that energizes people with disabilities individually and within communities to lead independent and fulfilling lives through innovative services. The Lancaster Opera House is a reminder of an early American tradition combining a music hall with a town's main governmental building. As a performing arts and community center, the Lancaster Opera House features plays, musicals, concerts, films and special events.

Three Western New York Businesses Honored for their Commitment to Workforce Diversity

Ensuring that individuals with developmental disabilities secure and maintain meaningful, competitive employment is an important part of People Inc., Western New York’s leading health and human services agency. More than 150 businesses in the area partner with the agency’s Vocational Services and Supported Employment Program to employ individuals with disabilities. People Inc. is pleased to recognize its business partners for creating an inclusive workforce. Two Walgreens locations were recognized for their dedication at the Western New York Employment Consortium’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) Business Recognition Awards in October.   Walgreens on Young Street in Tonawanda was recognized for their understanding of the importance of meaningful work for individuals with disabilities and for their support of Nick Feeterman, who receives services from People Inc. Walgreens embraces Nick as an equal and important part of their team, seeing him for his abilities rather than disability.   Walgreens on Grand Island Boulevard in Grand Island was recognized for their dedication and support to Jennifer Voss who receives services from People Inc. Although Jennifer had no former work experience before joining Walgreens, the team has been extremely supportive.   Also recognized in October was a third business, Scotch ‘N Sirloin on Maple Road in Amherst, which was chosen as the first runner-up for the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities’ Works for Me recognition. Scotch ‘N Sirloin was nominated for their caring and understanding of Martinnias Hardy, an individual who receives services through People Inc. A nationwide effort has been made to encourage employers to hire individuals with disabilities, a skilled group who are unemployed at a rate that is twice that of people without disabilities. For more information about partnering to employ individuals with disabilities, contact James Scutt, director of Vocational Services, People Inc., at 716-817-5750.   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 1970, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity.

Tips for Families who have Loved Ones with Developmental Disabilities

March is Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month In recognition of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, Kenmore resident Aimee Levesque, the mom of an individual People Inc. serves, shares why it is important for families to advocate for their loved ones. Aimee’s daughter, Jessica, is a participant of People Inc.’s Arts Experience Program, former participant of the agency’s Young Adult Life Transitions Program and currently involved with its Self-Advocacy Program. Both fans of the arts, Aimee is co-founder and managing director and Jessica is an actor of Unique Productions, a company of artists that aspires to promote community integration through the arts by providing individuals with disabilities a chance to be artists, actors and writers.   “Parents are the best advocates for their children. You are an expert on ‘all things your child,’ play an important role in their education, and get to reap the rewards of their love and affection. As a parent advocate, there are many things that you can do, including:   Learn about your child’s disability and teach them about their disability, too. How many times have you heard the saying, ‘knowledge is power?’ The more you and your child know about their disability, the better advocates you both will be. Use the Internet, books and brochures to teach your child; use anything you feel will help them understand. Be accurate, consistent and honest with them if they ask questions. Know your child’s abilities. We are often forced to focus on what our children cannot do to get the services that they need, in-and outside of school, but what about the great things they CAN do? Focus on the positives and on all of the terrific things that your child can do, has achieved and will continue to grow at. Keep records. Save copies of your child’s Individualized Education Plans, reports and samples of their school work. Take notes while on phone calls or in meetings. Put all of these items in a large binder. These materials may be helpful for showing where your child might have some difficulties or may highlight the areas where they have strengths. If you are not the best at keeping things organized or need help getting started, local parent groups and organizations may offer ‘Binder Trainings.’   Have goals for your child. Just like every other student, your child will have goals and aspirations, so encourage them to set them. Also, include your child in the goal and decision-making processes as often as you can. Self-determination is a key component in the progression toward independence. If your child is unable to articulate goals to you, then creating these goals may become your responsibility, so do your homework. Allow yourself to feel and display emotions. Repeat after me, ‘it is okay to cry, it is okay to get angry and it is okay to be happy.’ Believe it or not, it is very easy for parents of children with disabilities to repress emotions because they may feel that the emotions will get in the way of powerful advocacy. Not only is repressing emotions terrible for your health, but it can also be counterproductive to your advocacy efforts. You cannot be an effective advocate if you are stuck in a cycle of painful and destructive emotions. If you don’t think you can do it on your own, speak with a professional. Join parent groups. Parent groups – online or in person – serve many purposes. They provide the opportunity to meet families that are walking similar paths. You can share resources, discuss similar situations, laugh and cry together. In essence, parent groups are a place of help, love and support. Take care of yourself! Meetings, doctor’s appointments, therapy sessions – most days we find ourselves being pulled in what feels like a million different directions and the last thing we think about are ourselves. But what help can we be if we are sick or overstressed? It is important to make sure that our needs as parents are met, too. So keep those health-related appointments, get to the gym, act in a play or take a yoga class. The bottom line is: take care of YOU.”   Aimee Levesque is a parent advocate. She has worked in the disability field in Western New York for more than 15 years. She is co-founder and managing director of Unique Productions (UP!), a company of artists that aspires to promote community integration through the arts by providing individuals with disabilities a chance to be artists, actors and writers. A resident of Kenmore, NY, Levesque is currently enrolled at the University at Buffalo as a PhD candidate for the Curriculum Instruction and the Sciences of Learning Program. 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.

Tom Golisano Pledges $5 Million Gift to People Inc.

People Inc. President and CEO Anne McCaffrey and Board Treasurer Dennis K. Schaeffer were in attendance at a special news conference in Rochester, NY on September 17, when Tom Golisano announced $360 million in donations across upstate New York, including People Inc. Golisano, the founder of Paychex, chair of the Golisano Foundation, and philanthropist, announced that his gifts will benefit 82 upstate New York non-profit organizations. People Inc. was notified that it would receive $1 million per year for five years totaling $5 million. Golisano’s gift represents the largest private donation in People Inc.’s history. People Inc. is one of only a handful of agencies in the Buffalo area who serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to receive a donation. McCaffrey said, "We are incredibly grateful for his generosity and for recognizing the impact our people and programs have on the lives of those we support. We will be formulating a thoughtful plan to maximize this opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the thousands of people we serve." She added how incredibly moved she was by a letter from Golisano and his quote, “The only wealth you get to keep is that which you give away.”  People Inc. is grateful to Mr. Golisano, and all our donors who embrace this philosophy.

Total Solar Eclipse Arrives on April 8 - Impact on Agency Operations, Safety Information & Radio Interview

On Monday, April 8, 2024, a Total Solar Eclipse will be observable in the Western New York and Rochester areas. This is one of the few places in the country where the eclipse can be observed. This rare event will draw close to a million people to the Western New York area and approximately half a million to the greater Rochester area. This influx of people will put a significant strain on infrastructure and services we rely on typically without delay. Agency Operations:  Because of this influx of people, there are several areas of agency operations that will be closed on April 8, they are as follows: Administrative locations in Buffalo and Rochester - Staff that work out of these buildings have several options regarding their hours from working from home, to making up the hours, to taking paid time off.        Day Services, Respite and Rehabilitative Health Services - Staff will report to their sister Residential site to assist with covering persons served that will now be home during daytime hours.    Thomas Ess, People Inc. Vice President for Emergency Management, was interviewed by WBFO's Disability Reporter Emyle Watkins on why plain language communication matters on communicating about the eclipse and how the eclipse is changing operations at the agency for April 8. Learn more   Eclipse Viewing Safety:  It is unsafe to view the eclipse without special glasses designed for such an event.  Note: Sunglasses DO NOT offer the appropriate level of protection. Eclipse viewing glasses will be distributed to staff and persons served at certain locations in the coming weeks. For staff, there will also be a limited number of eclipse viewing glasses available on a first come first served basis at administrative locations beginning the week of March 25. Additionally, appropriate eclipse viewing glasses may be found at locations in the community, including public libraries. Solar eclipse viewing safety reference guides are available in English and Spanish .  Additional information is available from  NASA  and  New York State .  

Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders Workshop at Museum of disABILITY History

On Saturday, January 24, 2015, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Museum of disABILITY History will host a unique Dialogues on disABILITY Workshop called “Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders in the Classroom.” It will be presented by Susan Conners, M.Ed., president and founder of the Tourette Syndrome Association of Greater New York State.  The workshop will focus on a number of topics, including criteria for diagnosing Tourette Syndrome, associated disorders and their behaviors, impact on performance and behavior, as well as classroom strategies. The workshop is recommended for parents, educators and human service professionals. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for occupational, physical and speech therapists will be provided, along with certificates of attendance.  The workshop is $40 for adults and $10 for students. There is an additional $20 fee for those interested in earning CEUs. A continental breakfast and lunch will be served. Those who wish to register are advised to do so early, as the workshop will be limited to the first 80 participants. To reserve your spot, complete the registration form available online at museumofdisability.org or call 716-629-3626 with payment information.  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.

Tourette Syndrome Workshop Focuses on Methods Parents and Educators can Help Young People Manage Behavior

The Museum of disABILITY History will host its 2017 workshop session of Tourette Syndrome (TS) and Associated Disorders in the Classroom on Saturday, January 28, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 3826 Main Street in Buffalo. The workshop will be presented by Susan Conners, MEd, president and founder of the Tourette Syndrome Association of Greater New York State. The workshop is held in association with Learning Partners. Focusing on ways in which parents and educators can help young people with TS and associated disorders manage their behavior, the workshop is ideal for parents, educators, and health and human service professionals. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will be available for those interested. The cost is $40 for professionals and parents and $10 for students. There is an additional fee of $40 for those pursuing CEUs. A continental breakfast and lunch will be served. Wi-Fi available. Registration and payment is due by January 20. Registration forms are available online at museumofdisability.org or call 716-629-3626 with payment information.  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.