All Blogs - Person Centered Services

Statement from CEO Alicia Fellows

Recent public remarks involving the R-word have shown us, once again, how powerful language can be in shaping our culture and community.

Spotlight: Jill Guiffre

As a Care Coordinator based in Jamestown, Jill Guiffre goes above and beyond to offer superior Care Coordination that matches the personal needs of each person she supports.

Nominate an All-Star!

This year’s All-Star Program has been enhanced to focus on our core values of People, Integrity & Trust.

Clinical Corner: Protecting Your Heart Health

The Person Centered Services Clinical Corner offers helpful advice for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities from our Clinical Services team.

CEO Appointed As Member of Statewide Developmental Disabilities Advisory Council

New York State Senate Minority Leader Robert Ortt selected Person Centered Services Chief Executive Officer Alicia Fellows for a key advisory role beginning in January of 2026.

Clinical Corner: Committing to Better Habits in the New Year

The Person Centered Services Clinical Corner offers helpful advice for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities from our Clinical Services team.

2026 Transition Expo!

Students ages 14-22 who receive Special Education services and their families are encouraged to attend our annual expo.

Clinical Corner: Seasonal Affective Disorder

The Person Centered Services Clinical Corner offers helpful advice for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities from our Clinical Services team.

Bullying & Youth with Special Needs

The Person Centered Services Engagement Series is a quarterly discussion to share vital information for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This series is geared towards people receiving Care Coordination,

Update on SNAP Benefits

Find new information on SNAP from the New York Alliance for Inclusion & Innovation.

Clinical Corner: All In for Epilepsy Awareness – Understanding, Supporting, and Taking Action

The Person Centered Services Clinical Corner offers helpful advice for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities from our Clinical Services team.

Member Empowerment: 17A Guardianship

View a free recording on New York State guardianship laws.

What is Health Home Care Coordination?

A free webinar for parents and caregivers of school-aged children with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities ages 5-22.

SNAP Benefits During Government Shutdown

Those who receive SNAP could lose access to their benefits starting November 1, 2025.

2025 Case Management Week Message from CEO Alicia Fellows

Read a message from Person Centered Services CEO Alicia Fellows.

What is Health Home Care Coordination?

This free webinar is for the professionals who support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Staying Healthy this Cold and Flu Season

The Person Centered Services Clinical Corner offers helpful advice for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities from our Clinical Services team.

Federal Government Shutdown Impact

Read the latest information from the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) about the 2025 Federal Government Shutdown Impact.

Statement About Autism Comments

Read our response to recent public statements about autism.

Meet Our 2025 All-Stars!

Meet the extraordinary people who demonstrate the values of Person Centered Services as official All-Stars!

Member Wins Major Humanitarian Award

BJ Stasio, a representative on the Person Centered Services Member Advisory Board who also receives support from Person Centered Services, was awarded by the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals.

Clinical Corner: Fall Prevention

The Person Centered Services Clinical Corner offers helpful advice for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities from our Clinical Services team.

Transition Services Expo

Save the date for this year’s virtual Transition Services Expo on January 28, 2025 from 5:30PM-8PM.

What is ACCES-VR?

Learn about the ACCES-VR program from Senior Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Sarah Wolf.

Bullying & Youth with Special Needs

Join us for the next installment of our Engagement Series!

Referral Process Webinar

Learn how to refer people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to Person Centered Services Health Home Care Coordination organization.

Introducing IDDO: The Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Ombudsprogram

Learn about the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Ombudsprogram (IDDO) in a free virtual presentation from the Person Centered Services Member Empowerment Series.

Coming Soon: A Fresh New Look to the Provider Portal!

Find out about the latest upgrades!

Act Now to Protect Medicaid

The “Big Beautiful Bill” has been approved by the US Senate and is on its way to the House to approve changes in the legislation before the 4th of July

Bridging the Distance

Melissa Wilson, a Care Coordinator based in Horseheads, NY, is a critical advocacy partner and source of communication for a family supported by Person Centered Services.

Celebrating DD Day!

Person Centered Services was proud to participate in and serve as a sponsor for the 37th Annual Developmental Disabilities Awareness Day!

Member Empowerment: Supported Decision-Making

View a recording of the first webinar in our Member Empowerment series, highlighting Supported Decision-Making as an alternative to guardianship.

Important Message from CEO Alicia Fellows

In light of recent statements made about people with autism, Person Centered Services CEO Alicia Fellows addresses the importance of understanding and supporting those diagnosed with this neurological condition.

Engagement Series: How to Be an Effective Advocate

View a recording of a live webinar for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, and professionals in the community concerning multiple diagnoses.

Statement on Care Coordination Evaluation Report

Read the official response to a recent report on Care Coordination in New York State.

A Visit from OPWDD Leadership

Team members, community partners, and families we serve greeted the acting commissioner of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities.

Race to Stardom: Becoming an Action Hero

Race Eberhardt, who receives Care Coordination through Person Centered Services, is the lead in an upcoming action comedy film!

We Prioritize People

Find out what we’ve been up to during the past year! As you flip through the pages, you’ll uncover inspiring stories and gain a greater understanding of our values.

A New Vehicle for Bob

A person we support was selected for a wheelchair-accessible van donation from West Herr Auto Group because of team member advocacy from Person Centered Services.

Stacy Blair Appointed Chief Program Officer

A new Chief Program Officer has been announced.

2025 Transition Expo!

Students ages 14-21 who receive Special Education services and their families are encouraged to attend our annual expo.

Introducing the 2024 Person Centered Services All-Stars!

Person Centered Services is recognizing our first annual All-Star team!

Multiple Diagnoses: What Does It Mean?

View a recording of a live webinar for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, and professionals in the community concerning multiple diagnoses.

Referral Process Workshop – For Professionals

Watch a webinar on the referral process for people with preexisting knowledge of Care Coordination and the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).

Supported Decision Making: An Alternative to Guardianship

Watch this live webinar on Supported Decision Making, an alternative to guardianship.

Shannon Manages Success in Sports and Life

A young woman supported by Person Centered Services is the Student Manager for the women’s basketball team at her university.

Engagement Series: NY ABLE Accounts

NY ABLE allows individuals with disabilities and their families to save for qualified disability related expenses, without limiting their ability to benefit from federal benefit programs such as SSI, SSDI

To Be Honest Podcast: Episode 2 – “Life-Changing Experience”

The second episode of our new company podcast, “To Be Honest,” is now live!

Advocacy is Key for the Longhini Family

A remarkable family we serve benefits from their Care Coordinator’s support, advocacy, and partnership.

Engagement Series: Let’s Get Organized!

Learn more about organizing medical records through our Engagement Series webinar.

Tonawanda Office Grand Opening Featured on the News!

WIVB Channel 4 Buffalo captured our celebration for a news segment.

Watch the New “To Be Honest” Podcast!

The first episode of our new company podcast, “To Be Honest,” is now live!

Sundae Shares “Wheel Life” Insights in New Book

A teenager supported by Person Centered Services gives her perspective on life with muscular dystrophy and finds ways to make a difference in her community.

Solar Eclipse Safety Tips

Learn more about how you can stay safe during the total solar eclipse: a once-in-a-generation event!

Tara Widens Her World Through Care Coordination Support

A person we serve is overcoming her fears to live a full life in her community.

Lilly Clayson

FICAB

Advocate Using a Quick and Easy Tool!

Let New York State elected officials know that you oppose the proposed cuts to Care Coordination services and funding for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Team Member Selected for 30 Under 30

Senior Clinical Program Analyst Nicole Brendel is designated as a 30 Under 30 class member for 2024 through Buffalo Business First.

Jessica is a Reading Champion!

A woman we support recently met a personal reading goal she set for herself.

We’re One of the Best Places to Work!

According to survey results, Person Centered Services is a 2024 Best Places to Work finalist.

Team Member in Rochester Named Health Care Hero

Care Coordinator Supervisor Shameka Gilbert has been recognized by the Rochester Business Journal for a major award.

Virtual Transition Expo 2024

Connect with providers that support students with intellectual and developmental disabilities transitioning from high school.

Supporting People During the Holidays

As an organization, we prioritize the well-being of the people we serve.

Patricia Embraces Change with Team Support

A person we serve received the health care she needed through above-and-beyond support and encouragement.

Engagement Series: Recognizing Domestic & Sexual Violence

Learn how to recognize and prevent domestic and violence against people with disabilities.

Team Member Wins IDEA Award!

Ashley Green, Learning and Development Training Specialist, has been chosen for an IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Awareness) Award through Buffalo Business First.

Evan and Corey: Self-Directing Meaningful Lives

Person Centered Services helps connect the Minor family to success.

Engagement Series: The Art of Advocacy

Learn how you can better stand up for your rights and the rights of those you support from professional activists and advocates.

Superfan Mark Aichinger Gets Celebrated by the Buffalo Bisons!

Local legend Mark Aichinger benefits from Care Coordination through Person Centered Services.

Dustyn Green

FICAB

Team Member Honored as Wellness Champion

Erin Bice, Senior Manager of Total Rewards, HRIS & HR Compliance, is being recognized by Buffalo Business First for her extraordinary work.

Care Coordinator Advocates for ASL Classes

Cassandra Pierson, a Care Coordinator from our Newark offices, has successfully advocated for the implementation of American Sign Language classes at her local high school.

Jamestown Carnival Honors Five-Year Anniversary!

A celebration of our first five years in Jamestown included food, fun, and face painting.

Person Centered Services Appoints New Executive & Leadership Team Members

Four new executive and two new leadership team roles have been announced.

Telehealth & Care Coordination: What You Need to Know

Learn more about Telehealth & Care Coordination for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Making a Difference: Care Coordinators Volunteer in Their Communities

Our Care Coordinators are always giving back to the places where they live and work.

Reflection, Healing, and Hope on 5/14

One year ago, Buffalo’s East Side neighborhood became the target of a racially motivated mass shooting at Tops Friendly Markets on Jefferson Avenue. Lives were taken and changed forever.

Newly Renamed Member Advisory Board Focuses on Empowering People with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities

The board includes active members from throughout the 18 county region in New York covered by Person Centered Services.

Employee Nominated for Social Work Award

A leader in our Clinical Operations Department has received special recognition from the University at Buffalo School of Social Work.

Steven Skis His Way to Special Olympics Success

A person we support is a frequent medalist in skiing competitions through Special Olympics New York.

Alicia Fellows Honored as ATHENA Finalist

Executive Director Alicia Fellows was recognized as an influential woman leader by the Buffalo Niagara Partnership.

Your Action is Needed THIS WEEK!

Advocate for fair wages for those who directly support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Alicia Fellows Named Executive Director of Person Centered Services

Read the press release announcing our company’s new Executive Director.

Mikayla Creates Brilliant Art You Can Feel

A young painter finds success through self-directed services.

Rachel Finds the Perfect Program

An individual we serve was connected to day programming that matches her personal goals and needs.

Labor Law Postings

Intake Department Connects Record Number to Care Coordination

In 2022, our Intake Team helped more people than ever before.

Greetings from Our Interim Executive Director

Register for Transition Services Virtual Expo 2023

A special opportunity for students ages 14-21 years who receive Special Education services and their families.

Hot Topics: “Emergency Preparedness”

Learn more about preparing for winter and potential emergencies in the coming season.

Larry Receives the Key to the City

An individual we serve is honored as an extraordinary citizen, volunteer, and father.

Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month: Sam Finds Her Dream Job

What is Care Coordination? A Free Webinar for Parents/Caregivers of Students with Developmental Disabilities

Watch a recording of this free webinar on the basics of Care Coordination.

Interim Leader Named at Person Centered Services

Alicia Fellows, COO, Takes on Duties When Bartolone Departs

Diane Achieves Better Health and Greater Independence

An individual we serve enjoys a newfound sense of freedom with support from her Care Coordinator.

Hot Topics: “Get Out and Vote – What You Need to Know”

Learn more about voting registration and accommodations for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Tawfiq Writes an Inspiring Guide to Football

A Care Coordinator at Person Centered Services supports a future football coach and gifted author!

Hot Topics: “Back to School: Preparing for a Successful Year”

Learn more about school preparation for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Will Gets a New Set of Wheels

A Care Coordinator connects a talented young individual we serve to an adaptive tricycle.

Chief Executive Officer Announces Departure

Bridget Bartolone will leave at the end of 2022. She has served the organization for more than 10 years in various capacities.

Justin Captures the Natural World Through Art

A Care Coordinator at Person Centered Services is proud to support a talented artist.

Hot Topics: “Where Do I Want to Live?”

Learn more about housing options for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

BJ and Michele: Partners in Advocacy

An influential self-advocate benefits from the relationship with his Care Coordinator.

Hot Topics: Is Guardianship for You?

Learn about guardianship options through this free webinar!

Balloon Release Honors Jennifer’s Lost Loved Ones

CEO Bridget Bartolone Featured as Western New York Woman of Power

Remington Finds Success as an Archer

With Care Coordination support, Remington Chapman is pursuing a new skill.

Intake: Getting Started with Care Coordination

Open Interviews for Care Coordinators in Rochester

No appointment is needed for this special opportunity to interview for Care Coordinator positions in Rochester.

Team Member Wins Excellence in Health Care Award

Chief Operating Officer Alicia Fellows was recognized by Buffalo Business First in an official ceremony.

Ethan Pursues a Self-Directed Future

An individual we serve is better prepared for life after high school because of Care Coordination support.

Hot Topics: Your Care Coordinator Relationship

Learn more about how you can maximize the benefits of your Care Coordinator relationship!

Alize Shares His Artistic Talent

An individual we serve shows us his impressive artwork!

A Statement About the Mass Shooting in Buffalo

Hot Topics: The Transition from School to Adulthood

Learn how students with intellectual and developmental disabilities can prepare for the future from our expert panel!

OPWDD Commissioner Visits Our Company

Company leaders, Care Coordinators, and individuals met with the new head of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities.

Transition Services Virtual Expo 2022

Meet and interact with local providers who offer services supporting successful transition to adulthood for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities!

Hot Topics: Family Support Services

Learn about Family Support Services at the NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities!

Rally in Albany Promotes Fair Wages for Direct Support Professionals

Izzy Advocates for His Community

A self-advocate works for greater funding and opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Genevieve Presents “A Chef’s Life”

An individual we serve has a terrific new food blog!

Advocate for Higher DSP Wages

Participate in a quick, one-click campaign!

Company Wins Major Diversity & Inclusion Award!

Person Centered Services was recognized by Buffalo Business First for programming that promotes diversity, equity and inclusion.

Hot Topics Series: Finding a Job

Find out how to navigate the job market in 2022!

Care Coordinator Helps Family Through Difficult Season

A Care Coordinator based in our Albion office has had an empowering impact.

Jeremy Finds Success in Work and in Life

Care Coordination connects an individual to life-changing employment and housing.

Employee Spotlight: Jasmine Spence

The Transitioning Student: Starting Your Own Self-Advocacy Group

Self-advocates with activism experience join us for a special presentation.

SDOH Session 1: Understanding Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)

Watch the first session in a video series on how social determinants of health impact the people we support.

SDOH Session 2: Social and Community Context

Watch the second session in a video series on how social determinants of health impact the people we support.

SDOH Session 3: Health and Health Care

Watch the third session in a video series on how social determinants of health impact the people we support.

SDOH Session 4: Education

Watch the fourth session in a video series on how social determinants of health impact the people we support.

SDOH Session 5: Economic Stability

Watch the fifth session in a video series on how social determinants of health impact the people we support.

SDOH Session 6: Neighborhood & Built Environment

Watch the sixth session in a video series on how social determinants of health impact the people we support.

SDOH Session 7: Wholistic Approaches

Watch the seventh session in a video series on how social determinants of health impact the people we support.

The “King of Ausome” is Collecting Toys for Kids with Autism

Care Coordinator Nikki Daniels supports Donte Naylor-Minor, who came up with the perfect idea for a toy drive.

Hot Topics: Adult Boosters & Vaccines for Kids

Find out about new updates related to the COVID-19 vaccine!

Employee Spotlight: Valerie Lopez

Joseph Ball

Team Member Wins C-Level Executive Award

Chief Quality & Compliance Officer Colleen Gough was honored in a ceremony by Buffalo Business First.

Hot Topics: Disability Rights

Learn how to advocate for justice in the disability sphere!

Employee Spotlight: Koreena Linkowski

Crystal Receives Life-Changing Support

Care Coordination leads to empowerment and independence.

Employee Spotlight: Ashley Mogavero

Hot Topics: Preparing for the CAS

Find out what you need to know about the Coordinated Assessment System (CAS) through this free webinar.

Community is Key for Trenton and His Family

An individual we serve is empowered by both Care Coordination and the kindness of his neighbors.

Hans Conducts a Symphony

A young man we serve expresses his love for classical music.

Hot Topics: Back to School

Get ready for the school year ahead with expert advice for families.

Hot Topics: “Assessments, Assessments Everywhere!”

Find out the what, why, and how of common assessments used in Care Coordination.

Hot Topics: “Could Medicare Be Right For You?”

Medicare can offer a higher standard of care. Did you know you may qualify for Medicare regardless of age and income?

SANYS Student Transitions Webinar

A panel discussion with the Self-Advocacy Association of NYS.

Regional Director Named Woman of Excellence

Stephanie Wells is an RBJ Woman of Excellence!

Clinical Services RN Recognized as Health Care Hero

RN Teri Bellaire is a Health Care Hero!

Student Transition Webinar Recording

Watch a special presentation on the transition process for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities presented by Community Relations Managers Amy Albanese and Alan Venesky.

Payton Receives a Life-Changing Diagnosis

Geneticists have identified Payton with a newly discovered and extremely rare genetic disorder known as DDX3X syndrome.

Kain Forecasts the Weather and Future Success

Kain Darby, who is graduating from high school next month, is taking active steps to become a meteorologist.

Hot Topics: “Preparing for Life After High School”

Get the details on transitioning from high school.

Meeting a Challenge to Vaccinate Thousands

The barriers for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to receive the COVID-19 vaccine seemed insurmountable. Person Centered Services stepped up to the challenge!

Israel Cruz

Hot Topics: “Self-Direction Part II: You Have It, Now Maintain It”

Find out how to stay with self-directed services.

Hot Topics: “An Introduction to Self-Direction”

Find out if self-direction is right for you or your family!

Information About the COVID-19 Vaccine for People with Disabilities

Find out more about eligibility requirements and vaccination opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Community Resources

Find helpful links to resources connected to the COVID-19 pandemic located in the communities we serve.

Employee Spotlight Archive

An archive of employee spotlight interviews and announcements.

Hot Topics: “Introduction to the COVID-19 Vaccine”

Learn the basics about the COVID-19 vaccine and how Care Coordinators can help.

Jon Ollendorf

Clowning Around: Andrew Follows His Dreams with Care Coordinator Support

Meet Andy the Clown!

James Embraces a New Life

James is empowered by Care Coordination to pursue a more fulfilling and independent life.

Tinnias Finds the Perfect Apartment

Tinnias finds new independence through Care Coordination support!

Leanne Shares Her Perspectives in a Renowned Magazine

An individual we support is published by Autism Parenting Magazine.

Hot Topics: “Guardianship: Who, What, When & Why!”

Learn more about guardianship as part of our Hot Topics webinar series.

Austin Raises More Than $11K for Charity

Find out how Person Centered Services helped further one man’s fundraiser!

A Triumph for Devyn and Her Dog

Devyn and her service dog have won hard-fought rights.

Advocating for James

A Care Coordinator has helped a man take his life to the next level!

Jennifer Martinez

Jake Gets Behind the Wheel

Jake drives for the first time with Care Coordination support!

A New Home for April

A woman we serve finds the perfect place with Care Coordinator support!

Hot Topics: “Back to School”

Learn how your Care Coordinator can help you advocate for your child.

The Swanson Family Brightens the Lives of Their Neighbors

A family we support inspires their community.

BJ Stasio

FICAB

Kristi Moscato

FICAB

Rhonda Frederick

FICAB

Max Donatelli

FICAB

Joseph Damiano

FICAB

Tabby Anvari

FICAB Committee

Mental Health Resources

Helpful Links For Stress & Anxiety Related to COVID-19

COVID-19 Resources for People with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities

Below are resources, both regional and national, that could be beneficial for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities during the COVID-19 crisis.