October 26, 2006
Assemblymember Hayes Awards $40,000 to People Inc and Museum of disABILITY History
Assemblymember James Hayes was joined today by Dr. James Boles, President/CEO of People Inc and agency employees to award $40,000 for the expansion of the agency’s Museum of disABILITY History. The Museum of disABILITY is currently located at 1291 North Forest, next to People Inc’s headquarters near Maple.
“This award allows our growing Museum of disABILITY History to re-locate and expand at the former Mennonite Meeting House at the corner of North Forest and Main Street,” said Dr. Boles. The Museum of disABILITY History is dedicated to telling the story of individuals with disabilities, their struggles and successes and the impact that they have had on American society. People Inc. started collecting artifacts, memorabilia, and transcripts related to the history of people with disabilities dating back to the mid 1800’s.
“I am pleased to make this grant to People Inc so that they can renovate and restore this historic structure in our community,” said Assemblymember Hayes. “The history of people with disabilities and the obstacles they have overcome and continue to -more- overcome, should not be forgotten. I am pleased that this funding will allow People Inc’s Museum of disABILITY History to locate in the former Mennonite Meeting House in a building that has been under-utilized for too long,” added Assemblymember Hayes.
For the last two years, People Inc has been working closely with the Town of Amherst to buy or lease the building which is owned by the Town. Last month, the Amherst Town Board agreed to lease the circa 1834 structure to People Inc. Presently, the Town uses the structure to store town files. People Inc is currently working with the Town on the relocation of the files and on the details of the renovation.
“With the support of Assemblymember Hayes and members of the Town Board, our dream is finally becoming a reality. We look forward to the grand opening of the Museum of disABILITY History in the Spring of 2007 and recognizing all that have been instrumental with this exciting project,” added Boles.
“This is a win-win for the residents of Amherst. People Inc will be paying a fair market rent to the Town and we will also paying for the renovation that the building separately needs” said Rhonda Frederick, Chief Operating Officer, People Inc.
Kevin Horrigan
Director of Public Affairs
Direct Dial: (716) 817-7475
Cellular: (716) 866-5893
