Agency Leads the Way in a Bold Move to Strengthen Operational Excellence

Lewiston, N.Y.----April 2, 2014----Rivershore, Inc., a private not-for-profit organization that supports people living with developmental and other disabilities in Niagara County, announced today that it has become an affiliate of People Inc., Western New York’s leading non-profit human services agency. The collaboration coordinates services in Western New York, allowing for more efficient operations and a sharper focus on service excellence in a changing landscape.

“It is extremely important to be flexible and responsive in our changing environment especially when you consider state budget cuts and some of the financial challenges that are affecting non-profits,” said Rivershore, Inc. Executive Director Jeff Sanderson, a pioneer in the industry best known for promoting innovative person-centered services and forging collaborations with other non-profits. “By proactively seeking an alliance with People Inc., an organization that shares our commitment to excellence in service delivery, the people receiving services through Rivershore, Inc., and the staff who support them, will continue to have the best possible services while furthering the joint missions of our agencies.”

Members of the Rivershore Board of Directors will serve on a newly-created advisory board and will continue to assist with quality oversight, strategic planning, fundraising and advocacy.

“We are pleased to band together with Rivershore and are excited about the synergies we will create by combining our talents and resources,” said People Inc. President & CEO James M. Boles, Ed.D.  “Jeff is a visionary leader with outstanding foresight and I look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead for our organizations and the more than 12,000 people we provide services to each year.”

Rivershore will retain its name, separate corporate status, and staff and will operate independently. Agency supports will be integrated resulting in reduced overhead, added services and lowered administrative costs. The affiliation also strengthens both agencies for managed care and future changes in the system while addressing the great need for services.

“The state and in particular the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) are laying the foundation for these kinds of collaborations to occur. To People Inc. and Rivershore’s credit, they’re ahead of the curve,” said Senator George Maziarz. “What distinguishes this affiliation between these two agencies even more, is the fact they both have the rare designation from OPWDD as COMPASS agencies which is extremely beneficial to the people with intellectual and developmental disabilities they serve in our region,” added Maziarz.

COMPASS is an OPWDD initiative that recognizes and promotes provider agencies that have progressed beyond minimal regulatory compliance and have achieved excellence in service delivery.  Only seven of the 700 providers statewide have been recognized by OPWDD as COMPASS agencies. 

Founded in 1980, Rivershore’s mission is to support people living with disabilities as they pursue and achieve a meaningful life.  Rivershore supports over 200 people living with disabilities in Niagara County each year, employs 140 staff and has 15 locations. In addition to residential services, Rivershore provides life planning services, day services, employment services, and support with self-advocacy and volunteer pursuits.

In operation since 1971, People Inc. helps individuals with disabilities and their families, and seniors, live more healthy, independent and productive lives through 140 locations and 50 innovative programs and services. People Inc. has an active employee base of 3,200.

Contact: Jeff Sanderson, Executive Director

(716) 754-7272 x23

E-mail: jsanderson@rivershore.org