Kris Trent Named CFO at People Inc.

After an extensive search, People Inc. will welcome Kris Trent, CPA, as its new Chief Financial Officer, effective August 18.

Militello Promoted to Chief Program Officer

Maralyn Militello, MPA, BSN, RN, CPHQ, NEA-BC, who has been serving as senior vice president for clinical services and quality improvement, has been promoted to Chief Program Officer (CPO).

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.”

Ombudsman Team Receives "Program of Excellence Award"

The Network in Aging of Western New York recognized program staff for their regional work by naming them the "Program of Excellence". For more than 13,000 older adults and people living with disabilities in Western New York’s long-term care facilities, the Region 15 NYS Ombudsman Program , administered through People Inc., serves as a crucial lifeline. Its mission is to ensure residents’ rights are upheld, offering much-needed advocacy, education and means of empowerment. “We are the voice of the voiceless,” says Susan Fenster, the program director for Region 15. “Many residents in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and adult care homes are among the most vulnerable in our community. They often don’t have family or friends who can advocate on their behalf. That’s where we come in—we make sure their rights are protected.” The program covers 118 long-term care facilities across Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus counties, providing support to residents who may otherwise go unheard. Since 2016, People Inc. has hosted the program for Region 15, managing it through a state grant. Volunteers are at the core of this work. Supported by a small staff, these trained individuals dedicate themselves to helping residents by listening to their concerns, investigating issues, and working to resolve complaints. In 2024 alone, Region 15’s volunteers donated more than 4,200 hours to advocating for a better quality of life for residents. Ultimately, the Ombudsman Program is about empowering older adults and people with disabilities to understand and exercise their rights, ensuring they receive quality care in an environment that respects their dignity.

People Inc. Employee Rick Banner Honored for DEI Advocacy

Buffalo Business First named Richard (Rick) Banner, People Inc. Associate Vice President of Advocacy one of the IDEA Award recipients. He was recognized for being a tireless champion helping people to find and utilize their voices for more than 20 years. He is responsible for developing and directing all advocacy initiatives in the agency, which includes promoting the idea that people have rights and can determine for themselves how to live as independently as possible. Rick leads a team of people tasked with supporting self-advocacy and educating others about advocacy. His work is unique and highly respected throughout Western New York, and includes networking, collaborating with and training staff at other agencies to strengthen the quality of advocacy programs and person-centered planning regionally, statewide, and nationally. He assures advocate perspectives and person-centered-thinking is integral throughout the agency.  Rick is actively involved in supporting the establishment and on-going work of several Advocacy groups and has put People Inc’s Advocacy Team on the map both locally and statewide. He not only supports, trains and guides others in facilitating communication and independence, but through his relationships and leadership he advises the entire agency on respectful and accepted language and practices, enhancing the execution of our mission. Rick does this through building relationships and then escalating questions and concerns to leadership, making true change that affects both employees and people served by People Inc. His groundbreaking work is the very definition of inclusivity. Rick shared his advice on making the workplace more inclusive, "Recognize that every employee has value in an organization and be mindful of a workplace that stives toward universal design." Buffalo Business First celebrates the people and companies around Western New York who make inclusivity, diversity and equity pillars of their business.

People Inc. Expands Services to Include Programs for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Deaf Services and Advocacy Efforts Across the Region to be Strengthened Deaf Access Services has merged with People Inc., expanding People Inc.’s comprehensive suite of human services programs. Sharing a common mission to serve the community where needed, the merger was part of a long-term plan when Deaf Access Services affiliated with People Inc. in 2018. The merger adds another element to People Inc.’s portfolio of programs that includes senior services, affordable housing, health care, as well as services for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. It also strengthens and sustains Deaf services and advocacy efforts throughout the Buffalo and Rochester areas. Since the affiliation, there has been a substantial increase in services provided. “The Deaf services People Inc. now provides were built from the ground up by the Deaf and hard of hearing community through Deaf Access Services. People Inc. took that foundation very much to heart with this affiliation, and now with the merger,” said Anne McCaffrey, People Inc. president and CEO. “It has been rewarding to expand these unique access efforts and we expect that growth to continue.” “The merger ensured no interruption in quality essential programming,” McCaffrey said. “Increased communication access, awareness and opportunities are the focus of the programs and central to People Inc.’s mission of helping people live a fulfilling life.” Additions to People Inc. services through the merger include: American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreting, Captioning Access Real-Time Translation (CART), assistance with long-term employment, ASL classes, support groups, deaf refugee services, connections to resources, and more. “We are working to build a bridge that allows equity in communication and all levels of access for Deaf and hard of hearing people,” said David Wantuck, director of deaf community services. “With the merger, we have the momentum necessary to meet, and even exceed, our goals.”   ABOUT PEOPLE INC.: People Inc. provides an array of support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, as well as health care services, senior services, services for the Deaf and hard of hearing, and affordable housing. Built on a strong foundation of innovation, collaboration, community and inclusion, People Inc. helps people throughout Western New York and Rochester achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity.

People Inc. Launches New Afternoon Program for Students with Developmental Disabilities

After-School Respite Now Available in Orchard Park People Inc. is now accepting students to attend a new after-school respite program in Orchard Park. Opening September 3, 2024, “OP Afternoon Respite” is for students with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities who are in middle school or high school. The program runs from 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at Orchard Park High School, 4040 Baker Road, Orchard Park. It offers group and individualized social activities, including arts, sports, outings in the community, homework assistance, and more. There is no fee for students who qualify for New York State OPWDD Home and Community-Based Services waiver, and People Inc. can assist with eligibility applications. “Respite services are essential in our efforts to support families of children with developmental disabilities, providing expert supervision for students and a break for families and caregivers,” said Anne McCaffrey, president and CEO of People Inc. “We’re proud to answer a need in the community and support these important services in Orchard Park.” Including Orchard Park, People Inc. currently operates 11 afternoon respite programs  for school-age children in Western New York and two in Rochester. The nonprofit agency also offers site-based afternoon respite programs for people 18 and up, as well as in-home respite and respite programs for those who receive self-directed services. People Inc. is the only Western New York provider of overnight respite for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.   For more information, contact People Inc.’s Admissions Department toll free at 833.404.0032 or admissions@people-inc.org .

People Inc. Wins Statewide Housing Honors

Award honors innovation and excellence. The New York State Association for Affordable Housing honored People Inc. as the Non-Profit of the Year at a recent event in New York City. The award recognizes partners that have excelled in project completion, served their communities and special populations by going above and beyond, and have helped advance the industry over the past year. With over 30 properties offering 1,300 affordable housing units across the region, People Inc. continues to foster independence and improve lives. The dedicated staff help to provide safe, high-quality, affordable housing to people who are income eligible, often in underserved communities. Some of the units are reserved to support frail older adults, adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities and/or people with mobility, vision or hearing challenges. Our work goes beyond providing shelter — People Inc. is a leading provider of support services that help residents achieve stability and independence. These services include case management, mental health counseling, and transportation assistance. People Inc. staff ensure that residents are not only housed but are equipped with the resources they need to thrive. Additionally, People Inc. was recognized for its strong track record of providing a variety of unique residential opportunities for children, adults, and specialized homes for people with complex medical needs. Learn more about our Affordable and Senior Living Apartments.

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.”