Increasing Independence & Safety is at the Heart of People Inc. Program

A person with a disability sometimes faces challenges in their home that make it hard to navigate everyday living safely, or that limit their ability to be independent. This can include anything from showers to hard-to-reach countertops to doorways, cars, beds, seating or more. That is where People Inc.’s Environmental Modifications (EMODS) Department can help. The EMOD Department is the only program serving both the Western New York and Rochester areas offering project management and oversight services that help eligible people with intellectual and developmental disabilities work through safety and other issues in their living area. The People Inc. EMODS team makes accessing modifications easy by guiding people and their care coordinators through a complicated approval process with the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). A key component to approval is that the modification must link directly to an eligible diagnosis and solve a safety concern or barrier to independence. People Inc. secures funding so that pre-screened architects may design modifications and contractors can complete the work. Project management services in the home can include changes such as ramps, wheelchair lifts, lowered countertops, barrier-free showers, widened doorways, grab bars, automatic or manual door openers, ceiling tracks, and fences. Assistive Technology devices can help increase safety, accessibility, and personal successes, such as hygiene seats, shaker beds, service animals, and specialized seating. And vehicle modifications can be made to a car, truck, van, or SUV that allow access to the community – such as modified driver controls, ramps, lift assist seating, and securement systems. The Lee family of Buffalo has gone through this process twice with People Inc. as the needs of their now 14-year-old daughter Yuna have changed. Jae Lee said most homes are not built to be accessible to people who use a wheelchair and lifts. When they first moved in, the Lee family was using a ramp into the front door that they felt was unsafe. People Inc. assisted the Lees with a comprehensive assessment of their home environment and in requesting a platform lift and an accessible landing in the garage, a ceiling lift system, door widening, and solid floor surfaces for rolling accessibility.

Building a Bridge Through Communication

It’s hard to predict where in the Western New York or Rochester areas you’ll find American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters providing services contracted through People Inc. You may see these industry experts at press conferences, on local tours or awards ceremonies. Or, they may be offering more individual ASL services, such as assisting with medical appointments, court proceedings or trainings. Either way, People Inc. is providing a crucial bridge to communication and independence for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing. One very busy ASL interpreter, Karen Gambino, turned her experience of being a child of a Deaf adult into a lasting career that she is passionate about. “Put yourself in the shoes of a person who is Deaf, who is reliant on others to provide information or a service,” Gambino said. “People just want to be understood, maintain their autonomy and be part of the communication process. That is the main point of engaging an interpreter.” ASL is a rich, complex language with its own grammar structure and cultural context. It is surprising to people that it is not equivalent to spoken English and therefore requires interpretation. When using ASL – attitudes, emotions, tone and meaning must be conveyed simultaneously as each person is communicating. Gambino feels her role is to paint a picture using her hands and her facial expressions. She also shared that life experience is an invaluable part of the interpreter’s skill set. In other words, Gambino says she needs to keep up with current events and sometimes learn new technical language, because you can’t interpret what you don’t understand. For instance, when interpreting at a legal closing for a property, she had to expand on the word “deed” – spelling out the word and showing in ASL: “The paper that shows you own the house.” There are several interpreting and translation services offered by People Inc. to make meetings, appointments, trainings and events accessible for Deaf and hard of hearing communities. By providing interpreters in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), businesses, organizations and medical practices can ensure that all people benefit from their services and that reasonable accommodations are provided. Jodie Chibi, an interpreter and Director of Language Services at People Inc., said she believes confidentiality and ethics are at the core of providing interpreter services. The interpreter must always remain respectful and neutral to properly build the pathways of communication. The interpreters offered through People Inc. are evaluated by highly qualified staff and adhere to the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) Code of Professional Conduct, an industry standard. Gambino and Chibi agreed that the code of professional conduct is deeply ingrained and informs every interaction. Reflecting on her work, Gambino shared that it is fulfilling to know that she is helping not only to provide interpreting services, but to also bring awareness to the hearing community. She has often found herself educating people on what her role is and is not. Along with education, Chibi said that over her career the importance and acceptance of using interpreters has greatly expanded. “It’s all about seeing access being enabled for people, empowering them, and helping to break down barriers."

Support People Inc. During the "Give 716" Event

Mark Your Calendar for July 15 - 16! Give 716  is a collaborative giving event organized by the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres Foundations to unite fans and the community in support of local nonprofits. This epic giving event is a one-of-a-kind chance  to donate to People Inc.  while taking advantage of corporate challenges where gifts are matched, or special incentives are offered!  From 7:16 p.m. on July 15 through 11:59 p.m. on July 16, you can join the fun and make a difference with your donation. Every gift made to People Inc. will also be matched by the generosity of Uniland Development Company (up to $4,000)! Donations made to People Inc. will support our many life-changing services benefiting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, essential affordable housing, services for the Deaf and hard of hearing and a range of programs for seniors. Worlds open because of your generous philanthropy! Want to help even more? Share the  Give 716 information  with your networks through social media. Support a great cause, while enjoying these special perks!

Promoting Growth at the People Inc. Greenhouse

People Inc.’s Day Services throughout Western New York offer a place for people with developmental disabilities to grow and learn while gaining independence. And one unique program takes “growth” to a whole new level with a hands-on approach to education in a working greenhouse, where plants, trees, fruits and vegetables are the center of attention. The Brighton Park Day Services program and greenhouse sits adjacent to a park and neighborhood in Tonawanda. Each day the greenhouse is buzzing with activity – planting seeds, weeding, and watering. The array of tropical house plants, succulents, vegetables and more are tended to by 17 regular gardeners each week. They also take care of several raised garden beds outside. People who may wish not to go into the greenhouse often actively contribute by planting seeds in their classrooms to be transferred into it. The greenhouse, originally established in the late 1980s with a grant from the Blue Rose Foundation, is also a therapeutic experience for many of the program attendees who find a spot to relax, taking in the fresh scents, sitting by the fishpond and enjoying the beautiful greenery and colors. Several people will venture into the greenhouse when they feel an urgent need for the calming benefits of being in nature. Recently a team of planters were busy in the greenhouse with Patricia Coggins, People Inc. Senior Day Supervisor. She encourages choices on the types of vegetable seeds, discussing colors, uses and tastes, while expertly breaking down the process of planting and providing accessible tools. Johnsie Quick appreciates accessing the greenhouse using her wheelchair. She looks forward to watering the plants and watching the vegetables grow so they can be put outside – especially the green beans. Through generous assistance provided by the Lutheran Association for the Developmentally Disabled the motors in the greenhouse fans were overhauled and a larger plot of accessible raised garden beds are being installed. Checking on some of the plantings, including those in the new raised beds, Coggins used the opportunity to have the gardeners work on identifying the different type of plants and their uses. She was beaming as they correctly named the vegetables and talked about how they liked to eat them. “It’s all about watching the growth of the people we support – that’s why we put so much energy into this program,” Coggins said. “They learn new skills and we see their self-esteem blossom along with the plants.” Jessica Tolbert enjoys watering and weeding the plants almost every day, and her favorites are the differently colored flowers. She is looking forward to being able to plant all summer in the raised beds. People with disabilities who reside in the agency’s group homes often come to enjoy the greenhouse and gardens. There are plans to increase the integration of the community even more through partnerships and immersive activities such as horticulture education, relaxation, art viewing and sensory gardens.

Dr. Lizbeth Booth 2024 Supervisors of the Year Celebrated

People Inc. celebrated the Dr. Lizbeth Booth Supervisors of the Year Awards, which recognizes the critical role of our supervisors who directly support people receiving services. The awards honor the memory and legacy of Lizbeth Booth, PhD, who was an integral part of many different areas at People Inc. for nearly 30 years. Dr. Booth inspired her staff, helped them build their own skills and empowered them to become a resource to others. At the recognition breakfast, People Inc. President and CEO Anne McCaffrey said, "As a supervisor, I know you are training and engaging your team, and your wisdom and expertise have a profound impact on them and the care we provide. Your guidance sets the tone and results in people achieving their dreams, turning houses into homes, and ensuring people can live fulfilling lives."  Noting her appreciation for all that the supervisors do, she added, "It is clear, both from my experience over the past year and from the voices of the nominators, that this year’s Supervisors of the Year are natural leaders who are: patient, encouraging, compassionate, inclusive, adaptable, and quick to offer recognition. Thank you for lifting People Inc. to incredible heights." The honorees are:  Diana Ball Quintella Cottrell Monica Debus Maura Dimino Kelly Dlugosz Erika Falinski Maddison Fleming Shannon Greiner Thomas Griffith Charmaine Henley-Brown Amy Johnson Ken Kraffert Sarah Loeffler Ijeoma Mack Jenna McKeone Natalie Moore Andrea Parrish Tara Polakiewicz Denise Smaszcz Daniel Soto Cassandra Special Angela Winslow Jason Zauner

Newest People Inc. Site in Buffalo Creates Synergies

People Inc. is always looking for the best and most efficient ways to utilize the many properties we operate. Over the last year, the transformation of what was once a medical practice and offices on Elmwood Avenue serves as a shining example of innovation and teamwork, with the creation of unique space for both employees and people receiving services from People Inc. After the relocation of the agency’s rehabilitative health, social work and counseling services to 800 Hertel Avenue, a remodel of the Elmwood Avenue building made room for offices for People Inc.’s Learning & Development, Human Resources, and Advocacy departments, which are now all housed alongside a day program for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Called the “Center of Excellence in Employment and Training,” the building at 2128 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, provides unique synergies. Communication, collaboration, development of the HR Team, cross-training, and efficiencies of many processes are just a few of the highlights that People Inc. Senior Vice President of Human Resources Kathryn Alterio has noticed in the new location. “Bringing the entire HR team from talent acquisition , retention, benefits and more into one place has been tremendously helpful,” she said. “Plus, it is easier to now work much closer with staff from Learning and Development and Advocacy – streamlining the ability to respond to the needs of our employees.” She also noted the importance of hiring the best employees and the important role that members of the Advocacy Team play in providing vital feedback during the interview process. Advocacy staff, including some who also receive services from People Inc., work with the Human Resources team, Learning & Development, as well as with people attending the day program, housed in the building. Members of People Inc.’s Advocacy Department are also involved with every new employee orientation and help facilitate several training segments, said Vice President, Learning & Development David Squires. “This has a great impact on new employees,” he said. “Additionally, having HR in the building has been invaluable for us in that they are there to provide us with guidance when situations arise with new employees.” Working with the day program, the Advocacy Team has initiated programs including sexuality training, an “Art of Advocacy” program, and more. A bonus, according to Associate Vice President for Advocacy Rick Banner, is the example set for new and existing employees by our staff with disabilities who work in the building. Funded in part by the Empire State Development division of New York State, the creation of the Center of Excellence in Employment and Training is a critical investment in our workforce, said People Inc. President and CEO Anne McCaffrey. “The Center for Excellence in Employment and Training allows us to present an inclusive and accessible high-tech space to meet the needs of prospective job applicants, new hires and our staff in every step of their recruitment, training and career development.”

Anne McCaffrey, People Inc. President & CEO featured in Business First

Buffalo Business First’s ongoing series with area business leaders, VISION Buffalo – Executive Insights, interviewed People Inc. President & CEO Anne McCaffrey. John Tebeau, Buffalo Business First publisher, spoke to McCaffrey about how her diverse experiences in government and healthcare uniquely positioned her to lead People Inc. at this time in its more than 50-year history. They also delved into important issues facing non-profit agencies such as People Inc., reflections on highlights of McCaffrey’s first year and the direction and hopes for the future of the agency. The video interview and accompanying article are available here .

Mancuso Named New People Inc. CFO

Susan Mancuso is People Inc.’s Chief Financial Officer. She has more than 30 years of experience working in financial management in nonprofit agencies.

Renovation Project for Oxford Square Community Lot Announced

Transformational Enhancements to Community Gathering Space Made Possible by State Grant Through NYS Senator Sean Ryan with Additional Financial Support from People Inc. Foundation On May 24, 2024, New York State Senator Sean Ryan and representatives from People Inc. announced plans for an estimated $600,000 in enhancements to the Oxford Square Community Lot in Buffalo. The renovation of the lot will add new amenities for visitors of all ages to enjoy in order to create a versatile, multigenerational community gathering space at the corner of Oxford Avenue and Lafayette Avenue on the land adjacent to People Inc.’s Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments. The preliminary design for the reimagined lot includes plans for an accessible playground, additional seating, and new shade structures. The design is the culmination of a year of close coordination with the Oxford Square Block Club to gather community feedback and determine which amenities would best benefit the surrounding neighborhood. Anne McCaffrey, President and CEO of People Inc., said, “People Inc. is committed to doing all we can to uplift and enhance the communities in which we offer housing and other services. Creating safe and accessible areas for people of all ages to enjoy is part of that commitment and at the core of our mission to improve lives. We are grateful for the seamless collaboration with Sen. Ryan and the Oxford Square Block Club and very excited to move forward with these important improvements to the Oxford Square Community Lot.” The project will be funded primarily through a state grant secured by Senator Ryan, which will cover the site preparation costs as well as the cost of the playground and other amenities. The People Inc. Foundation has generously committed an additional $75,000 to cover expenses that are not covered by the state grant. Senator Sean Ryan said, “Neighborhood gathering spaces are integral to maintaining vibrant communities. Having a dedicated space for neighbors of all ages to interact and pass the time provides a safe recreation option in urban environments and helps build lifelong relationships. The residents of Oxford Square have done a wonderful job maintaining the community lot for well over a decade. The addition of an accessible playground and new areas for visitors to sit and relax will make an important community amenity even more welcoming to all residents.” Jenifer Kaminsky, President of Oxford Square Block Club, said, “For nearly two decades, the Community Lot has been a project of purpose and pride for the Oxford Square Block Club. Our neighbors have committed countless hours, their personal resources and creativity to build this valued space for all of our families. We are honored and incredibly grateful to State Senator Ryan, our ‘forever partners’ People Inc., and our community of advocates for this transformational investment in the families of Oxford Square and our surrounding neighborhoods.”