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.

People Inc., NYSID and NFTA kicked off National Disability Employment Awareness Month and Celebrated $22,000 Matching Grant to Support Employing People with Disabilities

The combined nearly $44,000 will additionally create strong community partnerships to support more people with disabilities in their work. People Inc., New York State Industries for the Disabled (NYSID), and the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) shared details at a news conference about a nearly $44,000 investment to assist with a People Inc. program that employs people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The funds have been used to purchase janitorial equipment, used by People Inc. employees to perform their jobs efficiently and effectively. The Carpet Cleaning Done Right program is one of the People Inc.  business solutions offered to the public that provides high quality work in integrated settings. This funding is through NYSID’s Matching Grant Program, which benefits its member agencies and partners such as People Inc. and the NFTA. NYSID provides financial support to its statewide network of chapters and other rehabilitative programs which help people with disabilities and qualified veterans succeed in rewarding employment. “NYSID is thrilled to assist its Member Agency organizations and partners by awarding matching grants that boost productivity and inclusivity,” said Maureen O’Brien, president and CEO of NYSID. “The grant funds will be used to improve cleaning services at the Buffalo airport and other customers. We hope this support grows jobs locally for people with disabilities and qualified veterans.” People Inc. will use the $22,000 matching grant to support a new carpet cleaning machine at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. “People Inc. is very grateful to NYSID and the NFTA for their support to ensure people with developmental and intellectual disabilities secure and maintain meaningful employment,” said Anne McCaffrey, President and CEO of People Inc. “We are lucky to have these organizations stand with us in our efforts to help people live independent, fulfilling lives.” The NFTA has shown a significant commitment to the employment of people with disabilities. “The NFTA is proud of its long-standing partnership with People Inc., and fully supports programs and services that promote inclusivity in the workplace.” said Kim Minkel, executive director of the NFTA. National Disability Employment Awareness Month is observed throughout October to highlight and celebrate the many contributions of workers with disabilities. The unemployment rate for people with disabilities in New York state is close to 70 percent and can be improved by businesses and organizations providing more opportunities for people to work in meaningful jobs. James Kuzon, who is a day porter at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport for People Inc., spoke about why his job is important and why it is important to support those with disabilities in their work. According to his supervisor, James was driven to learn all aspects of carpet cleaning. He learned that completing work quickly was not as important as completing it thoroughly. Additionally, James overcame previous workplace challenges and operates very professionally in his role. Armed with the confidence of excelling in his long-term position, James purchased a car and got married. Area state legislators and local dignitaries are supportive for many reasons, including the impact that people with disabilities have on the Buffalo region. US Congressman Brian Higgins (D, NY-26) said: “Employment opportunities allow for people to showcase their skills and value, while furthering self-sufficiency and independence. I applaud this collaboration between People Inc., NYSID, and the NFTA. This is what an inclusive workforce is all about.” NYS Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes (D, 141st District) said: “I’m proud to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month with People Inc. and the NFTA, which includes highlighting the importance of the ability of our friends and family members with developmental disabilities to have real opportunities for gainful employment. The dignity, independence, and chances for personal growth and professional development gained from working are experiences that they will keep with them forever.” NYS Assembly Member Monica Wallace (D, 143rd Assembly District) said: “It’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and I applaud People Inc., New York State Industries for the Disabled, and the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority for marking the occasion by working collaboratively to create job opportunities for people with disabilities. We need to ensure there are opportunities for everyone to participate in the workplace to the fullest extent of their abilities. Doing so is good for people with disabilities, good for businesses, and good for the overall economy.” People Inc. was founded from a humble beginning in 1970 by a small group of parents and professionals, who were concerned and passionate about addressing the needs of people with intellectual disabilities. Since then, People Inc. has remained forward-thinking and expanded its mission to include a wider variety of supports that address the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, families, older adults and the community.     

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.”

Sandie Brown-Maynard Named a Black Achiever

Sandie Brown-Maynard, People Inc. Clinical Associate Vice President,  was honored as one of the 2024 Black Achievers Award winners.

Supporting Choices at The Edge

It’s the beginning of the day, and everyone is greeted with great enthusiasm as they come in the door of The Edge, People Inc.’s new “Day Habilitation Without Walls” program. The group is excited to learn updates from each other since they were last together. Both the people who attend and the staff show enthusiasm for the start of their day at this space on 66th Street in Niagara Falls. The Edge offers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities opportunities to interact in the community. It does not literally mean there are no walls, rather, that there is maximum community integration and activities tailored to each person. After moving from the Golisano Center, the team at The Edge enjoys the flexibility provided in this new location. An array of activities are offered, including art, exercise, cooking, a stage with sound system, computers, use of the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Niagara Community Center, just to name a few. The staff work with each person’s needs and interests, while empowering choices, to create the activities for the day. On a recent Tuesday there was a flurry of activity and many people to meet, including: Donte Griffin, a direct support professional who has been with People Inc. for two years, is quick to explain all the different activities the attendees can select from, explaining that every day is different here. “We might be drawing, playing a board or card game, having a ping-pong tournament, cooking – especially for the holidays, playing a very competitive game of basketball, bringing lots of energy to the stage with karaoke or covering safety training skills in the community,” he said. When he noticed that one of the people attending the program was having a challenging morning, Donte invited her to take a walk outside.  He knew that the calming environment of the neighborhood would provide her a chance to talk and relax. Matthew Dinino, who welcomes you and introduces each person by name. He likes to play volleyball. Tiffany Carr enjoys all the room and choices they have both at this new location and when they are out in the community. Her favorite activities are basketball, tennis and kickball. Tiffany likes seeing her friends each day and how friendly the staff is. She also enjoys the opportunities to walk in the neighborhood and explore the mall. Tabitha Schuman says the staff are good listeners and very funny. She has many favorite activities, including doing research and word puzzles on the computer, singing rock music on the stage with karaoke and playing basketball. Corey Cunningham enjoys coming to The Edge and is helping to build a “Lego” town. She also likes going to the community center to get exercise. Marche Moody, a direct support professional who has been with the agency four years, is excited to be rebuilding the program after the COVID hiatus. “It is very refreshing to be in this new location where everyone can be themselves, and we have the room to work with each person. We have seen the people we support be more comfortable and really grow.” One of the activities Marche enjoys is accompanying the attendees to the Community Center for basketball, volleyball, kickball, and soccer, remarking on how competitive this group of people can be. The staff are busy preparing for a future talent show, softball tournament and working in the community garden. Through partnerships with other area organizations and businesses, the team at The Edge will be expanding community-based volunteer and other opportunities. “We have fun together and learn from each other,” Donte said. “We understand how difficult lives can be outside of here – so we work hard to create a safe place where the people we support can be themselves.” Learn more about People Inc. Day Programs A day at The Edge in photos:

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.