Thriving in a Can-Do Community

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Thriving in a Can-Do Community 2014 Annual Report

Our Mission

People Inc. exists so that individuals with disabling conditions or other special needs have the supports they need to participate and succeed in an accepting society.

Thirty-three Years of Can-Do This year, James M. Boles, EdD, retired as president and chief executive officer of People Inc., a position he held for 33 years. During his tenure, he oversaw the growth of the agency from 200 staff members and a $2 million annual budget to one with more than 3,400 staff serving 12,000 individuals and a budget of $144 million. His achievements are many. Dr. Boles can be credited with founding the Developmental Disabilities Alliance of Western New York and Person Centered Services of Western New York, two organizations designed to foster collaboration between agencies that provide services to people with developmental disabilities. He also founded the Museum of disABILITY History in Buffalo and was honored for his work there with the Hervey B. Wilbur Preservation Award from the American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. A valued contributor to the human services field, Dr. Boles was also honored with the Adrian Levy Professional Leadership Award from New York State Rehabilitation Association, Inc. and was appointed by President George W. Bush to serve as an advisory committee member on the President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities. Dr. Boles retired from People Inc. on October 1, 2014, and we wish him all the best. Thank you, Dr. Boles, for your dedication and leadership.

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A Message from the President Nearly 45 years ago, a group of parents shared a “can-do” spirit and a dream. Together, they built the foundation to an agency that has opened the door to a world where our community’s most vulnerable people, individuals with developmental disabilities and special needs, and senior adults, lead more healthy, independent and productive lives. Their influential spirit has helped People Inc. thrive in an ever evolving industry and allowed us to grow, diversify and embrace the future. It’s caught on to those we serve, supporters and partners who join us in our rally cry that “we can-do!” For the past 33 years, our leader, James M. Boles, EdD, brought us all together to create one of the largest and most forward thinking agencies in New York State. Thanks to his insightful leadership, we’ve been quick to our feet serving as a model for others to follow, expanding into emerging fields like senior living and healthcare and affiliating with smaller agencies to further their mission and increase our impact. When we all work together for the same goal, our success becomes that much greater. During his tenure, Dr. Boles remained dedicated to advancing the understanding, acceptance and independence of individuals with disabilities. As I’ve now stepped into the role of president and CEO, it is my hope to carry on the torch of “can-do.” Our continued work together is the only way to achieve our goals and improve outcomes. We can continue to empower individuals with developmental disabilities, special needs and seniors to thrive and move closer to their life goals and dreams.

Rhonda Frederick President and Chief Executive Officer

2014 Annual Report | 2

People Inc. is operating in a dramatically changing environment. We are proud of the many challenges we successfully met and accomplishments achieved in 2014 for people with developmental disabilities, their families and seniors.

Succeeding in a Challenging Year…. People Inc. faced the difficult task this year of providing innovative person-centered services while navigating an ever-changing regulatory and healthcare environment. Our agency relied on the solid foundation forged by our 45 years of experience to provide creative solutions to the challenges we faced along the way. Foremost among these challenges were increased regulatory requirements, and their associated expenses, in an environment of funding cuts. With early planning, we adjusted to meet or exceed requirements while maintaining a remarkable administrative efficiency of only eight percent. Meanwhile, in anticipation of New York State’s efforts to restructure the healthcare delivery system, we initiated a proactive approach expanding our team with staff experienced in managed care. We will continue to focus on healthcare business development and quality outcomes measurement. We also worked to educate families regarding system changes like the new Front Door initiative of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, which centralizes the admissions and eligibility process with the State before seeking services from an agency. Our final, and perhaps most prevailing, challenge is to ensure that each individual with a developmental disability has a place to call home. Unfortunately, there are not enough residences for these individuals in New York State. We have 1,200 individuals alone in Western New York waiting for a place to live, while there are 12,000 such individuals statewide, including 4,000 in critical medical need. Hopefully, we will see progress on this front in 2015.

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Some of the residents who live at our Paine Street group home in East Aurora. Pictured L-R: Katie Lanigan, Kirsten Weisberg, Jillian Burger and Brian Edmonds.

Our Vision

People Inc. is working toward a future where all persons whose needs limit their integration into the community can reach their highest level of human potential as responsible members of society. It is hoped that these individuals will, to their potential, be contributing and active members in their communities, enjoying the greatest possible degree of independence and acceptance, in all aspects of their lives.

Our Values

• We value individual rights and dignity. • We value mutual responsibility as a means toward achieving individual fulfillment. • We value employee initiative, creativity and commitment to quality. • We value change as an opportunity for positive outcomes. 2014 Annual Report | 4

The Triumphs.... The many important accomplishments we achieved in 2014 were possible because the size, scope and vision of People Inc. compels us to be innovators, and allows us to provide the highest level in quality of life care. A major achievement was the awarding of the coveted four-year PersonCentered Excellence National Accreditation from The Council on Quality and Leadership. This award recognizes our dedication to, and proficiency in, helping individuals with developmental disabilities make choices. Another significant achievement in 2014 was our ability to successfully move individuals with developmental disabilities to independent apartments within the community as part of New York’s Medicaid Redesign Team. This initiative helped to reduce costs by a projected Medicaid savings of more than $1 million. In addition, these individuals flourished as they became even more independent by being responsible for their own food stamps, working with staff on developing and meeting goals, including supervising their own staff and using a mobile pharmacy. An ongoing triumph has been People Inc.’s ability to help individuals with developmental disabilities thrive by securing and maintaining meaningful employment. We were especially pleased earlier in the year when the U.S. Department of Labor updated regulations implementing Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and setting an “aspirational” seven percent utilization goal for federal contractors or subcontractors to employ qualified individuals with disabilities in each job category of the contractor’s workforce.

Nicholas Lyons, a participant of our Supported Employment Program, works at Wegmans, a longtime business supporter of our agency. 5 | 2014 Annual Report

For People Inc. in 2014, our Supported Employment Program had more than 300 individuals successfully employed at 150 businesses in

Michael Aronica, MD, is one of the many physicians of the Elmwood Health Center who provides medical care for its patients.

Western New York. With the support of a great business community and our state partners, including the New York State Department of Labor, our long term goal is to see those numbers grow even more. On the healthcare front, we continue to enhance our quality measures and person-centered care opportunities. Our affiliate, the Elmwood Health Center, earned national recognition from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) as a Patient-Centered Medical Home Level 3, the highest level awarded. This NCQA certification recognizes recipients for delivering high quality care that focuses on the patient as a partner in their own health. The Center, in partnership with the University at Buffalo School of Nursing, was also selected to play a major role in a federally-funded project that will eventually change how patients are treated following their discharge from the hospital. Finally, we continued to expand our services to seniors in 2014 with the opening of our 19th affordable senior living building. People Inc. Walnut Senior Living in West Seneca adds 46 one-bedroom apartment units to the 850 independent seniors we already serve in Erie, Niagara and Genesee counties. 2014 Annual Report | 6

The Road Ahead.... We anticipate another challenging year ahead but are confident in our ability to succeed for the benefit of people with developmental disabilities, their families, seniors and the communities we serve. That includes the ability to provide innovative and creative solutions that will keep People Inc. at the pinnacle of human services organizations in our region. We believe we are well positioned to navigate the transition to a managed care environment for those we serve, with an increased emphasis on measured outcomes, quality of care and accountability. Our staff will also remain advocates for awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disabilities through community, media and political outreach. We will work closely with business partners in the community to increase meaningful, competitive employment for the individuals we serve. And we will look for ways to support even more seniors so they can live safely and affordably. As we evolve and grow to more closely match the future of our community, one thing remains the same – the heart and soul of our agency is to help individuals with developmental disabilities, special needs and seniors lead more healthy, independent and productive lives. That is how we can all thrive in a can-do community.

Virginia Lowe, a participant of our Senior Companion program, retains her independence with the support of our program volunteers.

By The Numbers 7 | 2014 Annual Report

45

years of experience

180 locations

3,400 12,000 employees people served annually

9

counties served 2014 Annual Report | 8

I Can

excel in the working world

A

sk Wheatfield native Jamie Shaw about her job at the Roman Café Restaurant in North Tonawanda, and chances are she’ll say it’s “awesome!” Awesome is a fitting word to describe the sociable 27-year-old, who began her post as a dishwasher for the Roman Café four years ago. Jamie, who has Down syndrome, initially obtained the job through People Inc.’s Supportive Employment Program, which allows individuals with disabilities the opportunity to gain work experience in a community-based setting. Although Jamie enjoys an active social life, which includes dancing, bowling, shopping and taking part in numerous internships through People Inc.’s Community Active People Program, working at the Roman Café is arguably one of her favorite ways to spend her time. When she first started at the restaurant, Job Coach Kristine Lorich accompanied Jamie, providing full support and guidance throughout her shifts. However, in recent years, Jamie has learned to do many things for herself and no longer requires assistance. She now steps in to work on her own. Her mother, Kathy, provides transportation to and from the restaurant, but beyond this, Jamie is a largely independent employee. She clocks herself in on the computer each day and, with unrivaled commitment, delves into her work, washing dishes and occasionally cleaning for the Italian eatery. “I love my job here,” said Jamie, and it’s clear that her coworkers are just as grateful to have her. Restaurant Manager Linda Fonzi, admitted that, at first, she was a little hesitant about hiring an individual with a developmental disability, but it didn’t take long for her to realize how much the job meant to Jamie and how integral she was to the restaurant’s operation. “Some days, I can’t do it without her.” 2014 Annual Report | 10

I Can

succeed on my own

B

ernard Williams is not the type of person who lets grass grow under his feet.

A 36-year-old with a mild intellectual disability, he is employed fulltime at the M&T Center cafeteria where he washes dishes, cleans, restocks the soda machines and does any other tasks necessary. When the work day is over, he rides the bus or his bike home to a quiet and tidy two-bedroom apartment in Kenmore. After residing for 11 years in a People Inc. supportive apartment, Bernard is proud to say he’s living on his own. He credits his ability to live independently to the staff at his former People Inc. supportive apartment. “The staff taught me how to shop, budget and clean,” he said. “They set me up for the life I have now.” When Bernard isn’t working or doing chores around the house, he’s on the move. He competes in softball, basketball and track and field for Special Olympics. He’s also an avid bowler and earned several bowling trophies. In addition, Bernard loves to entertain friends. What Bernard loves most about living independently is just that – he doesn’t need the full support of someone else. He does, however, still meet with People Inc. Residential Habilitation Instructor Joanie Rarick who helps him budget, pay bills and, for right now, learn the rules of the road. Bernard is working towards his driver’s license by studying the manuals, working with Joanie and occasionally visiting a car dealership near his home. He can’t wait to own a car and have the freedom to go wherever he wants. 2014 Annual Report | 12

I Can

make it through tough times

F

or nine years, Anthony Sanders lived in a People Inc. supportive apartment. He worked with the staff to learn how to buy groceries and do errands. Anthony, who has a mild intellectual disability, flourished in this setting; he was able to live mostly on his own, but had the support he needed when necessary. Anthony also remained close with his family. He had moved to Buffalo in the late 1960s with his mother, brothers and sisters. His mother provided him with great insight and life skills, many of which he said gave him the foundation to build from in his supportive apartment environment. After thriving for many years, the unthinkable happened. In 2001, Anthony’s mother – his rock – passed away. “My mom taught me how to cook and treat others,” he said. “If it weren’t for her, I would have never learned how to budget my money.” The People Inc. staff rallied around Anthony to get him through this tough time. They helped him deal with the tremendous loss and grief that followed. “If it weren’t for the People Inc. staff,” Anthony said, “I would not have made it.” Anthony continued to move forward with the care and support from the People Inc. staff. He progressed so much that the staff members began encouraging him to live independently. In 2013, Anthony decided it was time to move out. “I realized I was living in the supportive apartment the same way I would on my own,” he said. “I also wanted to give my apartment to someone who needed it.” With the encouragement of the staff, Anthony went apartment hunting with People Inc. Life Coach Lynn Serrano. Now 58-years old, Anthony is proud to say he’s living in an apartment on his own and living life on his own terms. 2014 Annual Report | 14

I Can

take charge of my life

C

rystal Owens knows a thing or two about independence. The upbeat 33-year-old who has cerebral palsy, as well as a seizure disorder, has not let disability define nor slow her in the slightest. Crystal has stayed at People Inc. residences for a number of years, living in group homes before eventually moving into one of the agency’s supportive apartments, which offers staff supervision and guidance on an as-needed basis. Over time, Crystal’s capabilities have grown, and she has built upon various life skills such as cooking and budgeting. She currently works more than 20 hours a week cleaning at People Inc. Brighton Park Day Program, and is also a participant in People Inc.’s Community Active People Program. A highly social person, Crystal enjoys meeting other people and sharing her talent for singing. Although each of these is an important stepping stone in Crystal’s personal development, her proudest achievement occurred a few years ago, when she became her own legal guardian. At the age of 30, Crystal was confident enough in her own abilities that she felt she no longer needed a guardian to make choices on her behalf. She coordinated a lawyer’s services and managed to prove to the court system that she was a competent adult, capable of making decisions for herself. “It means I’m in charge of my own life,” Crystal explained. With so many successes behind her, a bright future most certainly lies ahead for Crystal. She recently got engaged to her boyfriend of several years, Louis, and is looking forward to moving into an independent apartment in due time.

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I Can

breathe a sigh of relief

M

eet Donna Andrzejewski. A tenant at People Inc. Walnut Senior Living in West Seneca, which opened in October of 2014. Speaking about her recently built apartment building, Donna said, “I liked the location and wanted something new, plus I am closer to my granddaughter and her family.” People Inc. Senior Living provides seniors, age 62 and older who meet income guidelines, with affordable living options. With 19 locations in Western New York, seniors have the opportunity to be in the community they care about. A native of West Seneca, Donna has more time to enjoy life and is now able to live within her means without the expenses associated with being a home owner. She also has more time to do fun things like shopping, playing cards and visiting with her friends and family; including her nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Caring about other people and developing friendships have helped Donna become a stronger person. “Donna has made a lot of new friends,” said Nicole Briggs, manager of People Inc. Walnut Senior Living. “She is content when sitting in our community room with other tenants; it is nice to hear them share laughs together.” Whether it is learning about someone new or encouraging a shy tenant to join a card game, Donna is supportive of others thriving. “By living here, I see things in a different light….I appreciate people differently,” Donna said. “It’s a different lifestyle; you are not alone. The load of caring for a house is taken off from you and you can breathe a sigh of relief.” 2014 Annual Report | 18

I Can help

I

t’s been said that success isn’t just about what you accomplish in life, but what you inspire others to do. Nowhere is that more true than at People Inc. Finger Lakes where you’ll find Brad Young. Brad is a senior residential supervisor, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operation and a staff of 10 in a group home of five male individuals who have a range of developmental disabilities. He is also responsible for an individual who lives in a supportive apartment. Since taking on this role in 2012, Brad has made it his goal to mentor and serve as a role model for his coworkers, encouraging them to continually improve. “It’s my life passion to help others and be a catalyst for their success,” said Brad. He describes himself as someone trying to do right by others. In college, Brad studied psychology and was interested in helping people who have developmental disabilities. He not only enjoys working with the People Inc. individuals, but also his coworkers. Bob Greenauer, residential director at People Inc., said that Brad seeks the opinions of his coworkers whenever possible and has proved to be an energetic role model who practices what he preaches. Anna Korus, senior vice president of People Inc., added that not only does Brad engender a deep loyalty from his team, but he challenges everyone around him to live up to the promise he knows they can achieve. Most importantly, though, Brad wants his staff to be their best to better provide for the individuals served by People Inc. He knows that working on the frontlines provides a unique opportunity to make a difference. Through all that he does, Brad exemplifies the People Inc. mission and vision. He is a leader who works to empower his coworkers and help them move closer to their life goals and dreams. 2014 Annual Report | 20

Together, We Can

make a world of difference

K

eyBank believes that community is key, and they’ve turned this tagline into a reality with their support of People Inc. A committed community partner, KeyBank supports People Inc. in many ways, including the introduction of a matching gift program in 2014 to encourage new donors. KeyBank has also been part of several People Inc. events, like our golf tournament and the Supporting Member Appreciation Arts Event. In addition, as part of their capital campaign fulfillment, KeyBank sponsored a conference room in the Museum of disABILITY History. “We are a bank that’s not just focused on business,” said KeyBank Vice President and Senior Relationship Manager Thomas Heltz. “We believe in helping the community around us, and because of People Inc.’s wide reach, we can impact so many Western New Yorkers.” Tom continued to say that People Inc. fulfills a vital role in the community, and KeyBank strongly believes in being advocates for individuals with special needs and developmental disabilities. They, too, hope to create a future where all persons whose needs limit their integration into the community can reach their highest level of human potential as responsible members of society. KeyBank’s goal is to support the community where it does business, and with People Inc.’s extensive size and scope, it’s a perfect match. What’s even better is that KeyBank plans to deepen their relationship with People Inc. to impact even more Western New Yorkers through greater financial support and additional volunteers. Working side-by-side, hand-in-hand, KeyBank and People Inc. can make a world of difference. 2014 Annual Report | 22

The Cornerstone of Progress

National and Community Partners that Supported People Inc. in 2012-2014 Peter & Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation Baird Foundation Garman Family Foundation Gannett Foundation City of Buffalo Syracuse University Western New York Foundation

Center for National and Community Service Buffalo Public Schools Kelly for Kids Foundation New York State Homeless Housing and Assistance Program National Endowment for the Humanities via the UB Center for Disabilities Studies

In Focus: Bob O’Leary

A ‘Can-Do’ Supporter with Staying Power For the past 13 years, the People Inc. Foundation has organized the Drive for Disabilities Golf Tournament. The tournament draws as many as 150 business leaders and professionals who come together to fuel People Inc.’s goal to help individuals with developmental disabilities and special needs lead more healthy, independent and productive lives. Bob O’Leary, vice president at Parkview Health Services, has served as chair and a top supporter since the event’s inception. Bob became involved with People Inc. because he understood the agency’s mission and wanted to assist the People Inc. Foundation in reaching their goals. He felt it was important to raise additional funds for People Inc. to ensure those who needed services would receive them. “It’s a pleasure to be involved with the golf tournament each year,” said Bob, “and we as a committee enjoy providing funds for many of the unfunded but necessary services.” In total, the golf tournaments have raised nearly $500,000 to help move individuals with special needs closer to their life goals and dreams. Bob is thrilled the tournament has grown to become a premier fundraising event for People Inc., and we’re proud to have such a willing advocate on our team. We look forward to many years of continued success with Bob right by our side.

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*This list includes 2014 donations of $25 or more.

2014 Donor list

We are most grateful for the dedication and generosity of an extraordinary community of supporters – individuals, foundations, corporations, volunteer groups and auxiliaries.

Premier Donors

**Anonymous Donor Anthony Auerbach James M. Boles Randall Borst Theodore G. Costich Sara E. Deck Elizabeth M. Dempsey David Downing

Circle of Friends

Kathryn D. Alterio Kurt Amico Jane M. Bergmann Lizbeth J. Booth Nancy M. Conley Marcia R. Ergort Concetta M. Ferguson Joseph Fidanza Marcia Gruber-Page John F. Hamm Bram Hamovitch

Supporting Members **Anonymous Donor Richard Abbott Barbara Andres Thomas S. Artim Patricia Aures Joan S. Baizer James P. Balcerzak Donna M. Ball Linda P. Ball Lacy Bannister Alexandra Barton Karen L. Battaglia Robert Battaglia Susan B. Bayerl Laurie Becker Aubrey N. Belles Edith M. Belter William D. Bergmann April M. Biggins JoAnn Birch Jocelyn S. Bos

Estate of Kathryn F. Gladwell Rhonda I. Frederick Marilyn Gohr McTaggart Joseph Lanigan Mary E. Mancini Robert T. Mayer Andrew Meyers Michelle Montemage

Brian O’Bannon Nancy A. Palumbo Ronald J. Papa William A. Prudden Larry Skerker Michael A. Smith Grace A. Suozzi David J. Triggle

Dale Hampton Thomas Hanover J. B. Heimiller Mary Beth Iwanski Mary Ann Kedron Lester G. Kelly Joseph E. Knarr Anna N. Korus Amy Lanigan Leonard T. Lovullo Larry McDaniel

Beth Montague Nancy A. Muenzner James P. O’Brien Robert J. O’Leary Anthony B. Pariso Elsa Peters Thomas M. Reynolds C. W. Schultz Penny F. Zeplowitz

Kelly A. Bushen Kerri A. Cameron David Cammarata Joseph M. Carden Alan S. Carrel Thomas E. Casey Shelonda Chestnut Lois L. Crane Bernard W. Cryan Joan D’Andrea Dawn M. Davis Maureen Diggins Andrew Dorn Angela L. Dubel Linda P. Duch Richard E. Dunham Norine A. Enright Thomas L. Ess David W. Evans Douglas Farley Nicole Feness

Ellen Fiorillo Mary Lou A. Flaminio Martha Fritz Deborah A. Gick Michelle Green Robert J. Greenauer Brittany Guisintanner Christina Guzdek David E. Hall Warren F. Hardy Tracy S. Harrienger Dale W. Hartlieb Christine C. Healy William H. Heywood Ghislaine D. Holler Kevin D. Horrigan Otis C. Houston Robin Hunt Joan C. Hurley Anthony S. Illos 2014 Annual Report | 24

Supporting Members continued Kathleen M. Inchuk Matthew D. Iwanski Shawniece James Clyde A. Jesse Pearl Johnson James B. Kane Mary B. Kazmierczak Thomas P. Kelly John C. Kerling Pamela A. King George M. Kingsley Mary A. Kirisits Elaine Knight Robert C. Kobielski Diane A. Kobis Renee M. Koch Cheryl L. Koelmel James Kopera Tracey A. Kosmoski Elizabeth M. Kratochvil Jeffrey H. Kusche Thomas P. La Penna John P. Lane Karen L. Lazik Denise M. Litz Karen Long Gwendolyn I. Loomis F. Paul Lounsbury Joanne M. Lundberg Daniel Lynch Dawn M. MacMurray Beverly Mallon Ismaila Mane Susan Marmion Sydney D. Marquis Annette Marzec Patrick J. Massett Courtney M. Mathewson Richard P. Mauer Judith K. McDermid Robert C. Mead Joseph Merrick Betty J. Meyers Georgina Miller Andrea J. Millerschoen Alice E. Milleville Diana K. Moore James W. Mrozek 25 | 2014 Annual Report

Christopher Muranyi Marlene S. Murphy Mary Jo Neri Martin Noah Sharon Nolan Thomas J. Nolan Karen M. Nusinov Francis M. O’Connor Rosie O’Grady-Ravish Karl W. Orman Jennifer A. O’Shei James Oswald Raymond V. Paolini Beatrice Parnes Denise M. Paszkiewicz Richard M. Peer Melissa B. Perry Mary J. Petrakos Sharon L. Plant Naomi K. Pockell Raquel Polidura Thomas D. Polisoto Robert E. Pope Mildred B. Przepasniak Jodi L. Ramoino Sallie Randolph David C. Rappold Linda B. Rinaldo Harold L. Rothman Mitch Rubin Michael Rucci Janine A. Rudd Shannon M. Rutter-Ryndak Susan Sambrotto Craig P. Scarupa

Rachel L. Schepart Thomas E. Schoenwetter Colleen Sicignano Richard Slomba Norma R. Smith Sarah J. Snyder Robert B. Sommerstein Jonathan Spacher Ellen Spangenthal Cheryl R. Stevens Anne M. Stone Anthony Trigilio Ronald H. Tyrrell Elyce Vanden Broecke Rita M. Veltri James J. Wager Kathleen Wahila Georgeann T. Walter Robert Wardenski Norb Warnes James Watson Emily Watts Elizabeth Weber Alexandra M. Wehr Thomas L. Williams Joan M. Williamson Wayne D. Wisbaum Beth Ann Zaprowski Marjorie R. Zaprowski Mollie Zaprowski Patricia Zebrowski Alyssa S. Zemla Rachel Ziarniak Jessica L. Zornes

Frances, a tenant of People Inc.’s Senior Living Apartments, with her furry friend, Riley.

Community Contributors Joy M. Abbey Kelly L. Abbott Joseph J. Abdallah Lynn Addison Sarah M. Alessi Raymond A. Alvarado Ellen G. Anstett Gail A. Armstrong Ora L. Arnold Brad Arnone Vincent Arnone Debra Augustyn Michele J. Austin Thelma M. Bailey Richard W. Banner Marjorie H. Barone Jennifer Barsottelli Karen Bartoszek Alfred Bean Marley A. Becker Alice M. Bender Cynthia S. Benkelman Linda J. Bergquist Jackie Biellak Heidi Bilz Amy Blocher Matthew Bogosian Roseanne M. Bonafede Judith A. Bondurant Utz Maryjane Book Michelle L. Booth Karla Borden Paula Botta Linda Bowers Gloria Boyd Barbara A. Bracco Deborah M. Branch James S. Branciforte Yvonne T. Brauen Raymond F. Braun Nicole R. Briggs Jill Bronsky Beth Brothman Ann M. Brown Shivoune C. Brown Lisa Brucato Joanne Brundage Bonnie S. Bruning Patricia J. Bruno

Carol Bruyere Shelle Bryant Robin J. Buczkowski Julie A. Bunker Mary A. Burghardt Amanda Burkett Megan D. Burt Renai Burtis Mary Christine Bush Patti Cacciotti Alison Caggiano Barabara J. Callen Charles R. Cammarata Frank A. Cammarata James A. Cammarata Mary Cappara Melissa Carlucci Gina Castanza Barbara A. Catalano Bonnie Cave Maureen Cephas Nancy Challgren Kimberly Chesley Qetuwrah Christia Anarfio Cicatello Teresa M. Cichon Mia Clark Stuart A. Clees Robert Cliffe Cindy Clugston Peter J. Coates Thelma Cockerham Karen S. Coleman Colleen M. Cotter Gretchen Craig Susan M. Crocker Kevin C. Cronyn Tenikka Crosby Felicia Cummings Robert M. Cunningham Shelley H. Curl Bernard J. Daley Lisa Darrow Raymond G. David Joseph H. Davis Debra B. Debalski John D. Debalski Elizabeth J. Degen Charles Degraffenried

Janice Dell Princess Demps Vicki Di Maria Dawn DiCarlo Ann M. Didio-Harbin Carl I. Diehl Michael E. Doherty Brenda L. Dominessy Carol A. Doyka Christian Doyle Nikita Drayton Sandra L. Drescher Tracie Drewniak Carol A. Duarte Diana M. Duggan Mary Dwyer Raymond Earsing Carrie Eberly Jill A. Echtenkamp Ruth Elderkin Karleene M. Epolito Jennifer K. Esau David Evans Jacqueline A. Farrington Brigid C. Fay Nakia Fears Penny Fenar JoAnn Feuz Suzanne Filkov Corinne M. Fisher Janet M. Fisher Mary Jo Fisher Kathleen R. Fitch MaryJane L. Fix Roger J. Folts Lynne R. Frank Regina M. Frank Debra A. Frantz Linda Freedman Geneva M. Fronczak Lisa R. Garrett Shawn F. Gaske Joy M. Gaskin Mary C. Geller David A. Gerber Lillian Gerstman Beth A. Geyer Marcella M. Giambelluca Onyebuchi Gigi 2014 Annual Report | 26

Community Contributors continued Norma R. Gladysz Edward P. Gramse Carrie Grant Kathryn M. Grant Susan Grant Bonnie E. Gray Jennifer A. Greer Keith R. Greiner Calvin A. Griffith Andrew S. Grimaldi Annette M. Gross Sally L. Grubka Kenneth J. Grzelewski Sue A. Guarino Dwayne Guerin Julie Haase-Smith Joanne F. Haberer Mary F. Haberer Wayne R. Hadley Diane D. Hagelin Antionette P. Hall Charles Handsor Kelly L. Hawkins Alfonso Hayes Marlena Heintz Sharon Held Michael G. Herrmann Bonnie Hershberg Cara Hilbig Kim T. Hilburger William J. Hill Scott E. Hintze Barbara J. Holler Gene M. Holler Nichia Horvath Tracie L. Howard Sarah C. Huck Deborah A. Ireland Paul D. Irvin Deloris M. Jaenecke Kathleen Janiga Alan A. Jankowski Paulette H. Jankowski Terese A. Jarnot Barbara A. Jaskowski Amy C. Johnson Ashley M. Jurcevic Constance M. Kaack 27 | 2014 Annual Report

Kimberly A. Kadziolka Kim M. Kaiser Paula A. Kaminski Norine Kawczynski Krisitine A. Keefe Jason Keem Gloria V. Keller Britta Kelley Norma J. Kelly Andrea I. Keogh Nicole Kibby Thomas Kilminster Norine A. Kirkpatrick Loretta Kling Phyllis A. Knaier Kristina A. Koeppel Lynn K. Kolodziej Cheryl Kosis Kenneth E. Koteras David Kozak Judith L. Kulbacki Jacqueline L. Kuzma-Trigilio Paul J. Lamparelli Sharelle L. Lawson Heidi M. Lazare Lynda A. Leman Carol A. Leonard Paul E. Lepo Sherece Liberti Leon J. Liebler Monica Locke Megan R. Logan Matthew J. Logue Beverly A. Lomastro David J. LoTempio Julie S. Lovullo Florence S. Lutterschmidt Donna Lynch Kathleen M. Lyon David S. Mack-Hardiman Mary A. Maher Donna M. Mahoney Greg S. Maliken Kenneth J. Manista Louise Manista Elizabeth Manley Kathy Mansueto Rosemary S. Marlette

Arthur Marshall Matthew L. Marshall Susan A. Martin Jason M. Martinez Michelle D. Martinez Lorraine D. Martinez-Francis Latisha Y. Matthews Loni Mazur Gayle D. McCarthy Richard S. McConnell Nicole McCullough Valerie McDonald Kathleen McGee Barbara McGinnis Renee McGuire Karen H. McKee Melissa McKeel Janet McNevin John H. McPhatter Jennifer W. McVige Patricia A. Merritt Dan Merta Barbara D. Mierzwa Ann Marie Miller Samuel L. Mole David Montague Jean M. Morano Mary Ann Moriarty Ashley Morlock Irenee W. Muluh Ellen S. Munger Philip H. Munger David T. Musilowski Maxine F. Nesper Robert Noe Leonard J. Noworyta Deena Nye Theresa V. O’Brien Mary Ann O’Dea Chinwe Okereke John S. O’Mahony Judith O’Rourke Tina M. Ortolano Rebecca J. Orton Anitra R. Owens Clair A. Owens Sandra Owens Mary R. Pachla

Charles M. Palmeri Michael Panzarella Andrea Parrish Penelope A. Paschka Anne Paulk Deborah A. Pawlak Sarah Pecora Bonnie Peete Suzanne R. Pembleton Christopher Penberthy Brenda L. Perry Susan R. Pfohl Jane C. Phillips Kristine A. Pieper Elizabeth P. Pierce Deborah A. Pirri Clara Piszkin Ana R. Pitre Douglas A. Platt Judith A. Poitras Tina Polito Kristen R. Porter Billie Jo Powell William J. Pratt Lori E. Prelewicz Nicole Primiano Dianne M. Puma Elladene M. Randall Diane Randazzo Jen Regan Amy R. Reilly Jeffrey T. Rice Jennifer Ricey Patricia Richardson Debra F. Richer Paul J. Robel Barbara Roberts Susan Ann T. Roberts Annie M. Rorrison Jason D. Runion Kim M. Russi Rosemary Russo Daryl Ryan Marjorie S. Ryan Yasmin Said Barbara Salter Crystal A. Samanka Kathryn Sanders

Roslyn SantaLucia John J. Santonocoto Rochelle Sautter Mary Schaub Penelope L. Schlifke Kristin Schmidt Noel K. Schmitt Anne Schneider Christopher Schrull Tara Schrull Karen A. Schulz Mary Jane Scime Lisa M. Scritchfield Margaretmary Scully James R. Scutt Jennifer T. Scutt Kathleen Shannon Jacqueline M. Shapiro Margaret R. Shaw Emily M. Sheehan Wayne Shiesley Maria Sieracki Robert Silkes Anna M. Siuta Jamie B. Slater Bonnie Sloma Anne Smiley Robert J. Sonner Alice B. Sosa Kimberly Spears Faith A. Speciale Joanne Spiranec Kristi L. Spontaneo Dale A. Stampfer Nicole M. Staszak Karen A. Stearns Janell Stelianou Michelle Stoll Roger Stone Mary Jo Stricker Jaime K. Strongren Maryann Stry Paula M. Sullivan Colleen M. Summers Karen P. Superczynski Mildred L. Sutter Freeman E. Swaggard John P. Synor

Sandra K. Thompson Brandie Tinklepaugh Mary Ann Torch Dominic J. Tornabene Denise Towey Carla Trzewieczynski Karen Turchiarelli Kathleen A. Turchiarelli Tina M. Tyran Kasandra L. Updyke Scott Urbanski Angela Vacanti Chelsey L. Vacanti Bonnie S. Van Curan Edward Vasbinder Angelo A. Veanes Ann M. Venticinque-Ertel Rayna M. Voychak Elizabeth A. Walker Yvonne N. Walker Lisa Warning Erica Wassinger Christy L. Weber Taylor J. Weber Ronald K. Wechter Daniel Wheeler Andrea White Bryan M. White Louise V. White Theresa Wicher Emily Wilhelm Carolyn Willert Donald L. Willert Latasha L. Williams Ashley W. Wilson Kristi Winquist Julie C. Witt Judith Witucki Claire L. Wolfram John Woodell Sandra L. Wroblewski Charlene Zaccagnini-Johnson Amber M. Zafuto John A. Zaprowski Traver A. Zayatz Molly A. Zern-Hehir

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Corporate Leaders

Abou Dewan & Hanna Co., Inc. Aftermath Restoration Allasen Carpet Co., Inc. Alliance Advisory Allied Mechanical Baird Foundation Blackburn’s Dove Medical Bolton St. Johns, LLC Breckinridge Capital Advisors Inc. Bryans & Gramuglia LLC Buffalo Renaissance Foundation Buffalo Wheelchair Calamar Construction CARA Medical Career Partners International Buffalo/Niagara CARSTAR Collision of Amherst Cayuga Drive Inn Inc. Chad Robertson Contracting Corp. Colvin Draperies CSI Contract Specialists Inc. Daemen College Damon Morey LLP Don Powers, Inc. Down Syndrome Parent Group of WNY, Inc. Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. Elderwood Administrative Services Enterprise Fleet Management Enterprise Holdings Foundation

DaQuon Brown, a participant of the People Inc. Vending Opportunities Training Program, stocks and services vending machines for local businesses.

29 | 2014 Annual Report

Finger Lakes Technologies Group, Inc. First Niagara Bank Frank J. McGuire Family Foundation Gannett Foundation Garman Family Foundation Givalike Grandview Construction, Inc. Great Lakes Concrete Products Health Wear of WNY Hodgson Russ Attorneys LLP Huber Electric, Inc. Hunt Vanner Associates Inc. Ilio DiPaolo’s Restaurant Independent Health Association, Inc. J.W. Swanson & Associates James Services KeyBank Lawley Service Inc. Mader Construction Corporation Manchester Cable Installation Mash Care Network Microsoft Matching Gifts Program Montague Family Charitable Foundation Motion Concepts Nazareth Evangelical Lutheran Church Northeast Mechanical, Inc. Nova Healthcare Administrators Pariso Logistics Parkview Health Services Precision Rehab Manufacturing Prism Medical LTD. Quantum Rehab - Pride Mobility Products Rich Family Foundation Roto-Rooter Services Company Schindler Elevator Corporation Sharp General Contracting Inc. Sunrise Medical The Gustave A. & Geraldine S. Werner Foundation TM Montante Development Towne Automotive Group United Business Systems United Way of Buffalo & Erie County Vanner Insurance Weinberg Campus William L. Long & Associates

If there is an error or omission, please call the Foundation office at 716.817.7269.

Omar Montanez, left, a participant of our Elmwood Day Program, expresses his creative talents, with help from Gloria Boyd, one of our employees.

Corporate Supporters

4 The Love of Dolls Brian The Brush Buffalo Hotel Supply Co., Inc Calvin’s Furniture Inc. Canaway Farms Capital Fence Company, Inc. Davis-Ulmer Sprinkler Co. Deltex Electric, Inc. Drake Lawn & Garden, Inc. Eastern States Sentinel Alarm Services, Inc. Educational & Institutional Cooperative Service, Inc. Erie County Sheriff Office Scientific Staff Fenton Mobility Products, Inc. Food Bank of WNY Glory Be to Kids, Inc. Good Neighbor Redemption Center Hanes Supply, Inc. Innovative Mechanical Systems, Inc. Intermediate Care to Share IRR Supply Centers, Inc. Joseph E. Neubert Roofing Inc. Lehigh Construction Group, Inc. Lombardo Funeral Home

Lumsden & McCormick, LLP Murak & Associates. LLC National Air Cargo National Fuel Gas Company Foundation Niagara County Family Court Sunshine Fund Northeast Painting Oryx Insurance Brokerage, Inc. Oxford Consulting Inc. Park Country Club of Buffalo, Inc. Picone Construction Corp Pro Business Supply & Service, Inc. Razl, LLC Stephan Design Associates Inc. Suburban Adult Services, Inc. Superior Medical Consultants, LLC T. O’Donnell Landscaping The Culinary Institute of America Tri-R Mechanical Services, Inc. University at Buffalo Neurosurgery Inc. Ventura’s CARSTAR Collision, Inc. William Schutt & Associates, P.C. Woodpointe Run Condominium Zaepfel Development Company 2014 Annual Report | 30

Endowment Gifts (As of December 31, 2014) Kathryn D. Alterio Thomas S. Artim Patricia Aures James S. Branciforte Calamar Construction Linda P. Duch Douglas Farley Rhonda I. Frederick Marcia A. Gardiner

David A. Gerber Marilyn Gohr McTaggart Kevin D. Horrigan Anthony S. Illos Gwendolyn I. Loomis Andrea J. Millerschoen Alice E. Milleville Nancy A. Palumbo Beatrice Parnes

Elsa Peters Sallie Randolph C.W. Schultz Roger Stone Tina M. Tyran Georgeann T. Walter Penny F. Zeplowitz

Charitable Legacy Society Our Charitable Legacy Society was established to honor all those who have taken the special step of including the People Inc. Foundation in their longterm plans through a bequest provision, life-income or other deferred giving arrangement. We thank and recognize individuals who, through consideration of their estate plans, make a lasting and remarkable legacy gift that further secures the future and mission of People Inc. It is a timeless expression of support that sends a powerful message about both the priceless personal rewards and far-reaching impact of philanthropy. Making arrangements for your charitable legacy is a simple process and we are here to help. If you are interested in supporting People Inc.’s mission beyond your lifetime, please contact the People Inc. Foundation at 716.817.7400.

Legacy Gifts* Howard Benz James M. Boles Rhonda Frederick Kathryn F. Gladwell † Donald Gregory † David E. Hall David & Isobel Horvath † James Lembeck † Emma Mahoney † Horace Mann † Nancy Palumbo

Denise M. Paszkiewicz Carlton Peter † Robert E. Pope Robert Ruhlman † James Swagler † Stanley & Isabel Wadell † Lois Warren † Edward Watts Geraldine Werner † Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Zimmer *As of December 31, 2014 † Deceased

31 | 2014 Annual Report

Financials Revenue

Expenses

Grants, New York State and Federal Contracts $141,917,239 Fundraising $1,161,124 Total Revenue: $143,078,363

92% of our funding goes to programs

*Unaudited Our investment approach: Funds are invested in alignment with an investment policy that was created by the Foundation Board to ensure long term growth.

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Board of Directors

Foundation Board of Directors

Joseph J. Abdallah Randall E. Borst William M. Collins Nancy R. Dobson David M. Downing Lynne R. Frank David E. Hall, Esq. Mary Ann Kedron, Ph.D. Alfred F. Luhr III Robert T. Mayer Eugene Meeks

William M. Collins Nancy R. Dobson Kenneth M. Franasiak Rhonda Frederick Alexandra Marzucco Wehr Michael Modrzynski Beth Montague Robert J. O’Leary Ronald J. Papa Larry Skerker Ralph J. Vanner, Jr.

In Memorium Ralph J. Vanner, Sr. This year, People Inc. lost a longtime friend and supporter with the death of Foundation Board Chair, Ralph J. Vanner, Sr., on November 8, 2014. Ralph was a tireless advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities and special needs for more than 40 years. We are so grateful for his service and incredible support of our programs. On behalf of the entire People Inc. family, we extend our condolences to Ralph’s family and loved ones. We will truly miss him.

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Our Affiliates Buffalo, NY Offers a range of healthcare services to individuals with disabilities, children, seniors and the general community. ElmwoodHealthCenter.org Buffalo, NY A support and advocacy agency for persons with brain injuries and other disabilities. HeadwayofWNY.org

Rivershore, Inc. An affiliate of People Inc.

Lewiston, NY Exists to support people who live with developmental disabilities as they pursue and achieve a meaningful life. Rivershore.org

Lackawanna, NY An interdenominational ministry and service organization providing support and services to families who have loved ones with developmental disabilities. 716.827.5407

Buffalo, NY Established in 1998 to tell the story of the lives, triumphs and struggles of people with disabilities as well as society’s reactions. MuseumofDisability.org

2014 Annual Report | 34

Click Here to Keep the Can-Do Going

Toll Free 1.888.7PEOPLE Web people-inc.org

Western New York Headquarters 1219 North Forest Rd Williamsville, NY 14221 Phone: 716.817.7400 Fax: 716.634.3889

Finger Lakes Headquarters 835 West Main Street Rochester, NY 14611 Phone: 585.441.9300 Fax: 585.441.9399