Rhonda Frederick - Chief Operating Officer
Rhonda Frederick started in the area of direct care for People Inc. in the group homes and Day Habs caring for the agency's participants. Rhonda moved up the ranks and is currently the Chief Operating Officer of Western New York's leading human service provider and is responsible for the operational oversight of all agency programs.
Rhonda is a staunch supporter of making a difference within the community through volunteerism and serves on boards that enrich the live of others such as: Developmental Disabilities Alliance of Western New York, Town of Amherst Senior Services, and Connie Mack Little League. In 2003, she was honored with the "Dr. Evan Calkins Meritorious Service Award" from the Network in Aging of Western New York. The award is designated to recognize a person who has made a significant contribution to the field of aging in Western New York. Rhonda is a graduate of the Rochester Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work and a Master's of Public Administration from Canisius College.
Rhonda's entire career has been devoted to providing services to individuals with special needs. Her exceptional track record of serving the community as an advocate and teacher aiming to bring awareness to the needs of the developmentally disabled and senior population is a testament to making a difference one day at a time in the lives of others. Rhonda continually challenges her co-workers and peers to "think outside of the box" and she inspires many to do just that everyday.
"When I graduated from college in 1980, it was difficult to find a social work position," Rhonda shared. "A friend of a friend recommended People Inc. and I was hired in direct care at a group home. I took the job, while waiting for something else to come along. From my first day on the job, I loved it! I've had some fantastic opportunities at People Inc. I've worked in a variety of positions leading up to my current position as Chief Operating Officer. Every job I've ever had here has been exciting - never the same and I'm still amazed at all there is to learn. The rewards are fantastic, I so enjoy seeing consumers I haven't seen in years, asking how I am and remembering things about me and the things we did together when I worked with them."