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Confused About the Admissions Process?

We get it. Finding the right support for a loved one with an intellectual or developmental disability (I/DD) can feel overwhelming. At People Inc., we are here to make the process easier.

People Inc. provides Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) for children and adults across Western New York and Rochester. Our admissions team works closely with individuals, families, and Care Coordinators to help you access services that support independence, connection, and quality of life.

Whether you're just starting to explore services or are ready to enroll, the guide below will walk you through each step of the admissions process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Enrolling in People Inc. Services

Step 1: Confirm OPWDD Eligibility

To receive services through People Inc., a person must first be determined eligible by OPWDD’s “Front Door” process.

Eligibility generally includes:

  • A diagnosed intellectual or developmental disability
  • Disability that began before age 22
  • Documentation showing the disability affects daily living skills

Documentation typically required:

  • Psychological evaluation
  • Medical or developmental history
  • School records or assessments
  • Social history

If you haven't established eligibility yet, get started with OPWDD

Step 2: Connect With a Care Coordination Organization (CCO)

Once eligibility is confirmed, the next step is enrolling with a Care Coordination Organization (CCO).

A Care Coordinator helps:

  • Identify service needs
  • Develop a Life Plan
  • Coordinate OPWDD services
  • Submit referrals to service providers like People Inc.

Your Care Coordinator will be an important partner throughout the admissions process.
If you need help finding a Care Coordinator, we can provide resources on local CCOs so that you can make the best decision for your personal needs.

Call 833.404.0032 or

Step 3: Request a Referral to People Inc.

When services with People Inc. are identified as a good fit, your Care Coordinator will submit a referral to our admissions team.

The referral typically includes:

  • The person’s Life Plan
  • Recent assessments or evaluations
  • Service authorization information
  • Contact information for family/guardians

Once received, our team will review the referral.

Step 4: Admissions Review and Initial Contact

After reviewing the referral, a member of the People Inc. team may reach out to the family or Care Coordinator.

During this stage we may:

  • Ask for additional documentation
  • Discuss the person's needs, goals, and preferences
  • Review available programs or service locations
  • Answer any questions about services

Our goal is to ensure we find the best possible match for the person.

Step 5: Meet the Team and Explore Services

If the referral moves forward, families may be invited to:

  • Meet with program staff
  • Visit service locations
  • Discuss supports, routines, and goals
  • Learn more about daily programming and supports

This step helps ensure everyone feels comfortable, informed, and confident about moving forward.

Step 6: Service Authorization and Enrollment

Once a placement or service is confirmed:

  • A Coordinated Assessment System (CAS) interview will be conducted as needed. Your Care Coordinator helps manage this process.
  • The Care Coordinator ensures OPWDD service authorization is finalized.
  • Required enrollment paperwork will be completed.
  • A start date for services will be scheduled.

Our team will help guide families through every document and requirement.
 

Step 7: Begin Services with People Inc.

When enrollment is complete, the individual officially begins services with People Inc.

From day one, our staff focus on:

  • Building relationships
  • Supporting independence
  • Encouraging community engagement
  • Helping individuals reach their personal goals

Families and Care Coordinators remain important partners as services begin.

 

Services Available Through People Inc.

People Inc. offers a wide range of OPWDD HCBS services across Western New York and the Greater Rochester region, including:

Offerings vary slightly in the Rochester area. Learn more

Please note: some programs have additional requirements for admission. Contact our Admissions team or your Care Coordinator for more details.

Each service is designed to support meaningful community participation and a fulfilling life.
 

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Looking for More Program Information?

Whether you're an individual seeking services for yourself, a family member, or a Care Coordinator, we've got you covered. We've created two request forms that help you break down what you're looking for. It only takes a few minutes to fill out your contact information and check off everything that you would like to learn more about. Next, a member of our Admissions team will follow up with information catered to your needs:

We're Here to Help

The admissions process may seem complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our experienced team works closely with families, individuals and Care Coordinators to make enrollment as smooth as possible.

If you’re considering services with People Inc., we’re happy to help you take the next step.
 

Call 833.404.0032 or Email Us

Western New York
40 Hazelwood Drive
Amherst, NY 14228

Greater Rochester region
1860 Buffalo Road
Rochester, NY 14624