Tom Golisano Pledges $5 Million Gift to People Inc.

People Inc. President and CEO Anne McCaffrey and Board Treasurer Dennis K. Schaeffer were in attendance at a special news conference in Rochester, NY on September 17, when Tom Golisano announced $360 million in donations across upstate New York, including People Inc. Golisano, the founder of Paychex, chair of the Golisano Foundation, and philanthropist, announced that his gifts will benefit 82 upstate New York non-profit organizations. People Inc. was notified that it would receive $1 million per year for five years totaling $5 million. Golisano’s gift represents the largest private donation in People Inc.’s history. People Inc. is one of only a handful of agencies in the Buffalo area who serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to receive a donation. McCaffrey said, "We are incredibly grateful for his generosity and for recognizing the impact our people and programs have on the lives of those we support. We will be formulating a thoughtful plan to maximize this opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the thousands of people we serve." She added how incredibly moved she was by a letter from Golisano and his quote, “The only wealth you get to keep is that which you give away.”  People Inc. is grateful to Mr. Golisano, and all our donors who embrace this philosophy.

Expansion of Therapy Services Underway with Grant Support

Anne McCaffrey, president and CEO of People Inc. recently welcomed U.S. Congressman Tim Kennedy to the People Inc. Rehabilitative Health Services location at 800 Hertel Avenue in Buffalo to thank him for securing funds to purchase new or replace outdated physical, occupational and speech therapy equipment that will enable the agency to expand and elevate related services to people across Western New York and the Rochester area. Through the efforts of Congressman Kennedy during his previous tenure in the New York State Senate a grant of $131,758 will support the purchase of dozens of pieces of equipment, including but not limited to a new treadmill, a stander, E-Pacer electric lifts, an EasyStand standing frame, an Obi adaptive feeding device, Rifton Transfer and Mobility device, and activity chair. The Rehabilitative Health Services team provides physical (PT), occupational (OT) and speech interventions to approximately 4,700 people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities, as well as those diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, Down’s Syndrome, Autism, and Spina Bifida. Therapies are provided at the state-of-the-art clinic in Buffalo as well as 11 other locations. “This grant will support the purchase of equipment that is essential to promoting independence and helping people reach their full potential, which are at the core of People Inc.’s mission,” said Anne McCaffrey, president and CEO of People Inc. “The addition of these devices can significantly increase access to care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, help them improve many skills, and positively impact their daily routines. Ultimately, this is about improving the quality of people’s lives.” “Western New Yorkers with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families rely on People Inc. to access the services they need to thrive,” Congressman Kennedy said. “This funding will provide the critical resources used to deliver world-class services to thousands of patients across the region. As an occupational therapist, I know first-hand how reliable and state-of-the-art equipment can boost patient outcomes and I was pleased to secure this funding during my time in the State Senate. I applaud People Inc. for always putting patients first and providing skills and support to patients and families that make everyday life easier.” Congressman Kennedy also offered his compliments to the staff of the Rehabilitative Health Services Department and their outstanding work. People Inc. Occupational Therapist Amanda Kujawinski demonstrated one of the new pieces of equipment purchased through the grant – the Obi. The Obi is designed for people with upper extremity mobility and strength limitations, who may otherwise be completely dependent on others for eating. This device utilizes customizable switch access, allowing people to select the food they want, when they want it, and bring it to their mouth independently. The robotic arm, which is structured like a human arm, moves over the plate to select food items, simulating natural mealtime patterns. Amanda remarked “The Obi embodies the values and vision that we strive to integrate into our roles as clinicians at People Inc. and as an agency. That is, we try to help people achieve the highest possible degree of independence.” People Inc. Occupational Therapist Kayla Conaway explained how another new piece of equipment – the pacer gait trainer – will be used daily to help patients ambulate where otherwise this would not be possible. It is unique because of the motorized function that allows the clinician to assist patients from a seated position into a standing position, even if they are unable to support themselves in standing on their own. She stated, “One of the most important attributes that the pacer has shown is the ability to bring hope and joy to patients who never believed walking would ever be a possibility. We often take walking for granted but when you see the pure joy on our patients’ faces when using this device, we are reminded of what a privilege it is.” Lynette Trudeau, a current Rehabilitative Health Services patient, during the press conference shared how the dedicated team of clinicians use the state-of-the-art equipment to make lasting impacts on her quest for greater independence.

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 .

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."

Anne McCaffrey Named to Buffalo Business First Power 200 List

Each year Buffalo Business First creates a list of the inspiring women who are shaping the communities of Western New York and beyond. People Inc. President & CEO Anne McCaffrey was named to the eighth spot on the distinguished 2024 Buffalo Business First "Power 200 Women" list. "Philanthropists. Lawyers. Businesswomen. Bankers. These women's talent and influence are fueling economic, social and cultural growth throughout Western New York. Every woman on the list has strengthened the community in their own unique way. They have grown thriving companies and built vibrant nonprofits. These leaders have paved the way for more women to ascend to our region's highest positions. With the doors they've opened and the opportunities they have created the next generation of women will build on this enduring foundation. " - Buffalo Business First

West Herr Subaru Donates to People Inc. Youth Transition Program

West Herr Automotive Group celebrated the grand opening of their Lockport Subaru dealership with a desire to give back to the community. They donated a 2025 Subaru Forester to People Inc.'s Young Adult Life Transitions (YALT) program . Anne McCaffrey, President & CEO of People Inc., members of the agency leadership team and people who participate in the YALT Program were on hand to accept the vehicle. McCaffrey spoke about this innovative program and its impact in the WNY community. YALT offers people with developmental disabilities transitioning from high school the opportunity to experience life on a college campus, participate in internships and volunteer at area organizations. These educational and social activities promote independence, offer employment preparation and support continued learning and development. The vehicle will help transport the YALT volunteers to many of the Lockport-area non-profits and businesses who benefit from their assistance, including the food pantry, Whispering River Donkey Rescue, Dale Association, Goodwill, I Thrift, Kith and Kin, and the Cornell Cooperative Extension Veggie Van.

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 .

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.”