The Unstoppable David Licht
Defying the odds and an overactive imagination. That’s how David Licht describes himself. “Whoever tells me no, is usually proven wrong,” David said. “Being a person with a disability never really set me back any; just made life more interesting for everyone around me.” David’s persistent attitude has helped him succeed. The 26 year old has two published books, Space Dogs and Detective Kids, both geared towards teenagers and young adults. He also has 10 ideas for books waiting in the wings. Since 2012, David receives support through People Inc.’s Self-Directed Services, which provides instruction, guidance and support to aspiring individuals with disabilities to become self-employed. It was formerly known as Learning Independence through Enterprise Program. David’s writing is not the only thing that keeps him busy. This motivated young entrepreneur is owner and manager of Dave’s Design Studio, where he focuses on graphic design, photography and videography. The studio is a result of the assistance he receives through our Self-Directed Services Program. Additionally, staff coordinate community events for David to showcase his books. “In the five years that I’ve been working with individuals on their self-employment goals, David has always had the grandest vision and creative ideas,” said James Jowsey, People Inc. enterprise specialist. “He’s not afraid to think outside the box and try new things to grow.” A resident of North Tonawanda, David attends Bryant and Stratton College in Amherst and is studying network technology. With a year left in classes, he is looking forward to an internship to gain practical experience. One of David’s beliefs is that we all are connected. “No matter how big or small, we always impact each other,” he said. Learn more about David here.
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| Here’s Your Chance to Recognize Great Work
People Inc. and its affiliates are now accepting nominations for our inaugural Direct Support Professionals (DSP) of the Year Awards! We welcome families and community members to nominate staff members of People Inc., People Inc. Finger Lakes, Rivershore, Inc. or Agapé Parents Fellowship who provide direct support and demonstrate superior care and consistent dedication. Ten winners will be selected and announced during Direct Support Professionals Week, September 13-19, 2015. Each will receive a $1,000 award. Click here to learn more and submit your nomination!
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| Frederick Named to the Power 100 Women
Congratulations to our President and CEO, Rhonda Frederick, who ranked 5th in Business First’s Power 100 Women, a list that highlights the most influential women in eight counties of Western New York. According to Buffalo Business First, these rankings were compiled based on years of observing the area’s business community. Click here for the entire list of rankings.
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People Inc. Supports Mayor's Initiative to Build an Inclusive Buffalo
On July 24, 50 People Inc. staff members and their families joined Mayor Byron Brown at Canalside on Buffalo’s Waterfront to sign the Buffalo Opportunity Pledge, in conjunction with celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Buffalo Opportunity Pledge, part of an initiative that is moving Buffalo toward the goal of shared prosperity for all residents. The pledge initiative continues Mayor Brown’s efforts to break down barriers for minorities and women that includes the hiring of the most diverse workforce in the city’s history. At the ceremony, People Inc. President and CEO Rhonda Frederick shared, “On behalf of our People Inc. family, I commend Mayor Brown for encouraging Buffalo’s business community and residents for being inclusive when it comes to employing people with disabilities and welcoming people with disabilities into the city’s neighborhoods.” The City of Buffalo Opportunity Pledge encourages businesses, organizations and residents to commit to building a culture of inclusion and equality in Buffalo. View and sign the pledge at: www.city-buffalo.com/BuffaloOpportunityPledge.
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| Join us at Open Interview Day
We are hiring for group home positions, residential habilitation instructors and nurses. An Open Interview Day will be held Wednesday, August 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 447 3rd Street, Niagara Falls, NY 14301. Qualified candidates are needed to help individuals with developmental disabilities live more independently. Learn more by clicking here. Can’t attend? Apply online.
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Living Healthy: Diabetes Workshop Series
Do you or a family member have diabetes and want to take charge of your life? Join us on Tuesdays, September 22 through October 27, from 1:30 to 4 p.m., at People Inc. Pine Senior Living, 6231 Tonawanda Creek Road North, Lockport. Registration is open for the free six-week Living Healthy workshop for people with diabetes and/or their caregivers. Tips and strategies for living well with this chronic condition will be provided. Registration is required. To register or for more information, e-mail marigold-manager@people-inc.org or call 716.773.0907.
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Online Auction Supports People Inc.!
There’s still time to support People Inc.’s 14th Annual Drive Fore Disabilities Golf Tournament through our online auction! Items include exotic vacations, Disney Hopper Passes and autographed sports memorabilia. The auction is now open and continues through August 16, until 10 p.m., with the live event taking place at the golf tournament. Click here to start your bidding! The golf tournament will be held on Monday, August 17, at East Aurora Country Club in East Aurora. Event proceeds benefit People Inc. to support individuals with disabilities, families and seniors so they can live more healthy, independent and productive lives. For more information, contact Sarah Snyder, annual giving manager, at ssnyder@people-inc.org or by calling 716.817.7269.
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Recent news stories that include information from People Inc. and agency representatives.
“History Center’s sites share ‘History in Your Backyard:’" Month-long event included, which features the Museum of disABILITY History. Lockport Union Sun and Journal, August 5, 2015.
“Art is (can be) Business Too!” People Inc. Arts Experience Program featured. Exceptional Entrepreneurs of America, August 3, 2015.
“TEDxBuffalo 2015 Speakers:” People Inc. CEO Rhonda Frederick included. What’s New Buffalo, August 2015.
“Q&A/And access for all: Douglas Farley steers Museum of disABILITY History into the future:” Museum of disABILITY History featured. Buffalo Spree, August 2015.
“25 years after landmark Americans with Disabilities Act, efforts to aid the disabled continue:” People Inc. included, The Buffalo News, July 24, 2015.
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| Upcoming Community Events at Senior Living Locations
People Inc. Senior Living provides affordable and safe apartments for independent seniors ages 62 and up who meet income guidelines. Two of our locations are having community events this month:
A Health and Wellness Fair will be held on Saturday, August 22, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at People Inc. Lilly Senior Living, 36 Arthur Avenue, Blasdell. Free flu shots will be provided. There will also be a UNYTS blood drive. Every three seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. You can help by donating blood through UNYTS. People Inc. Senior Services information will be available, along with apartment tours. Click here to learn more or RSVP by calling 716.821.1230.
A Basket Raffle and Open House will be held on Friday, August 28, from 4 to 7 p.m., at People Inc. Willow Senior Living, 3990 Forest Parkway, Wheatfield (between Shawnee and Townline Roads, off of Niagara Falls Boulevard). The event includes themed baskets, door prizes and refreshments. Proceeds will benefit tenant recreational opportunities. Click here to learn more or RSVP by calling 716.694.1486.
Headway of WNY 6th Annual Walk, Run & Wheel, 5K
Headway of WNY, an affiliate of People Inc., is holding its Walk, Run & Wheel, 5K event along Buffalo’s waterfront to raise funds and awareness for people in our community who are living with traumatic brain injuries and other disabilities. The scenic course loops around Erie Basin Marina and continues up along Canalside and back to Templeton Landing. Post-race festivities will take place at Templeton Landing and will include refreshments, awards, basket auction and live music. When: Sunday, September 13; Check-in: 8-8:45 a.m.., Start Time at 9:30 a.m.
Where: Erie Basin Marina and Templeton Landing, 2 Templeton Terrace, Buffalo
Costs: Run/Wheel, 5K: General Rate: $25, Member Rate: $22
Walk/Wheel, 1-3 Miles: General Rate: $20, Member Rate: $18
Information: Click here or call 716.408.3100 or click here to register.
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OTHER LOCAL, STATE, NATIONAL NEWS
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NEWS FROM THE MUSEUM OF DISABILITY HISTORY
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“History in your Backyard” Cultural Attraction’s Seven-stop ‘Passport’ Event
Throughout August, enjoy a staycation with the Museum of disABILITY History and six other Erie and Niagara county cultural attractions through “History in Your Backyard,” a collaborative month-long celebration enabling guests to visit seven locations for one low price. Participants will receive a commemorative “passport” that will be stamped at each attraction. Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for children and students and free for those under the age of 2. A family package is also available for $60. Tickets with passports can be purchased from the Museum of disABILITY History and can be used in August at all participating sites. Additional participating attractions are: Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village, Col. William Bond / Jesse Hawley House, Erie Canal Discovery Center, Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum, Niagara Aerospace Museum and Niagara County Historical Society. For more information, call 716.629.3626.
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