by Jillian Johnson | Nov 25, 2025 | News, Press Releases
FAST Fund will provide immediate financial aid to survivors of domestic violence, with a focus on individuals with disabilities in Erie and Niagara counties
Buffalo, NY— Community Services for Every1 is proud to announce it has been awarded $500,000 from the Office on Violence Against Women’s Financial Assistance Grants for Victims of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Program. This grant establishes the Flexible Aid for Survivors in Transition (FAST) Fund, which will provide immediate, individualized financial assistance to survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, with a focus on supporting survivors with disabilities in Erie and Niagara counties.
The FAST Fund will help survivors of domestic violence, with an emphasis on supporting survivors with developmental disabilities, access flexible financial aid for essentials such as housing, transportation, healthcare, and other survivor-defined needs- ensuring safety, stability, and empowerment for individuals and families fleeing abuse. By providing rapid, survivor-centered assistance, Community Services aims to help recipients secure safe living situations and advance personal outcomes related to safety, stability, and recovery.
“This funding comes at a crucial time, as demand for our services has reached an all-time high” said Mindy Cervoni, President and CEO of Community Services for Every1. “It allows us to respond swiftly and flexibly to the urgent needs of survivors of domestic violence in our community. Through the FAST Fund, we can support survivors, including those with developmental disabilities, in regaining independence and stability when they need it most.”
Community Services will work closely with local domestic violence stakeholders to identify underserved survivors and ensure the FAST Fund meets the unique needs of each individual. Over the 24-month project period, the program expects to provide immediate financial assistance to stabilize the lives of survivors and help them move toward safety and independence.
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Community Services for Every1 is a nonprofit whose mission is to partner with individuals of all abilities to reach their fullest potential, protecting their rights and promoting their independence and inclusion in our community. The agency serves all in need, notably (1) people with developmental disabilities, (2) youth and adults with chronic health conditions and complex mental health concerns, and (3) survivors of domestic violence. Community Services provides a comprehensive range of services such as housing services, domestic violence support, care coordination, family support, employment and skill-building services, behavioral and mental health services, and much more. For more information, visit www.csevery1.com.
by Jillian Johnson | Nov 17, 2025 | News, Press Releases
The agency’s annual Adopt a Family program connects generous donors with local families experiencing hardship this holiday season.
BUFFALO, NY – This holiday season, Community Services for Every1 is proud to launch its annual Adopt a Family program, inviting the Western New York community to spread joy and kindness to families in need.
The agency is currently seeking local individuals, businesses, and organizations to “adopt” families served by Community Services and help make their holiday wishes come true. This year, more than 57 families are hoping to be adopted through the program. The people supported by the agency include people with developmental disabilities, youth and adults with chronic health conditions and complex mental health concerns, and survivors of domestic violence.
Participants can choose a family size that matches their giving goals and will receive a personalized list of holiday wishes from their adopted family. To get started, visit https://AdoptFamily2025.givesmart.com.
“The holidays can be a difficult time for many of the people we serve, this year especially so,” said Mindy Cervoni, President and CEO of Community Services. “Each year, we’re amazed by the generosity of people across Western New York. The Adopt a Family program truly shows what can happen when a community comes together- neighbors helping neighbors, lifting each other up, and ensuring every family can share in the joy of the season.”
“What makes this program so special is the personal connection it creates,” said Kelly Kinderman, Vice President of Program Support and Development. “When someone adopts a family, they’re not just giving presents- they’re giving hope, comfort, and the feeling of belonging during the holidays.”
In addition to adopting families, Community Services for Every1 is also accepting donations of new essential household items, such as kitchenware, towels, bedding, winter clothing, etc. For those who prefer, monetary donations can also be made at https://AdoptFamily2025.givesmart.com to fulfill critical needs.
Donation Drop-Off Information– wrapped presents and essential necessities can be dropped off by December 13 at the agency’s headquarters at: Community Services for Every1, 180 Oak Street, Buffalo, NY 14203
To participate in the Adopt a Family program, or to make a donation, visit https://AdoptFamily2025.givesmart.com
For more information, contact:
Jillian Johnson
Development and Communications Coordinator
jillianjohnson@csevery1.com | 716-883-8888 x144.
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Community Services for Every1 is a nonprofit whose mission is to partner with individuals of all abilities to reach their fullest potential, protecting their rights and promoting their independence and inclusion in our community. The agency serves all in need, notably (1) people with developmental disabilities, (2) youth and adults with chronic health conditions and complex mental health concerns, and (3) survivors of domestic violence. Community Services provides a comprehensive range of services such as housing services, domestic violence support, care coordination, family support, employment and skill-building services, behavioral and mental health services, and much more. For more information, visit www.csevery1.com.
by Jillian Johnson | Dec 4, 2024 | News, Press Releases
Funding bridges critical gaps in services
Buffalo, NY – Community Services for Every1 is proud to announce that, in collaboration with the Family Justice Center of Erie County (FJC), the organizations received a $600,000 grant through the Grants for Outreach and Services to Underserved Populations (Underserved Program) through the Office of Violence Against Women. This transformative funding will strengthen Community Services and FJC’s ability to provide comprehensive support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) who experience domestic violence.
The funding allows Community Services for Every1, in partnership with FJC, to enhance their HOPE of WNY (Helping Others through Protection and Empowerment of Western New York) initiative. The grant funds will be used to strengthen advocacy and services by establishing a dedicated advocacy team to provide direct support for survivors with intellectual and developmental disabilities, promoting safety and healing.
Additionally, the initiative will implement preventative education and outreach efforts, offering a continuum of services, including education, self-advocacy, and peer support, to empower individuals with I/DD to escape and recover from domestic abuse. To further bolster these efforts, HOPE of WNY will continue offering training and technical assistance to community-based service providers, equipping them to effectively identify, support, and accommodate survivors with I/DD.
“The safety and empowerment of all individuals, regardless of ability, is at the core of our mission,” said Mindy Cervoni, President and CEO of Community Services for Every1. “With this grant, we will expand our capacity to support some of the most vulnerable members of our community, ensuring they have access to vital resources and the safety and dignity they deserve.”
By expanding the scope of HOPE of WNY, Community Services and FJC aim to bridge critical gaps in services and ensure that survivors from underserved populations, particularly those with I/DD, have the resources and support to rebuild their lives.
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Community Services for Every1 is a nonprofit whose mission is to partner with individuals of all abilities to reach their fullest potential, protecting their rights and promoting their independence and inclusion in our community. The agency notably serves (1) people with developmental disabilities, (2) youth and adults with chronic health conditions and complex mental health concerns, and (3) survivors of domestic violence. Community Services provides a comprehensive range of services such as housing services, domestic violence support, care coordination, family support, employment and skill-building services, behavioral and mental health services, and much more. For more information, visit www.csevery1.com.
by Jennifer Wozniak | Nov 14, 2024 | News, Press Releases
The agency seeks community members to help bring holiday cheer by adopting families in need
BUFFALO, NY– This holiday season, Community Services for Every1 is excited to kick off its annual Adopt a Family program, inviting the community to bring joy to families in need across Western New York. Community Services is actively seeking community members to “adopt” families served by the agency to help make their holiday wishes come true. Community Services helps (1) people with developmental disabilities, (2) youth and adults with chronic health conditions and complex mental health concerns, and (3) survivors of domestic violence. This season, over 55 families are in need of a holiday adoption.
The Adopt a Family program invites local businesses, organizations, and community members to partner with the agency by “adopting” families. Participating donors can choose a family size that aligns with their giving goals and receive a list of holiday wishes created by that family. To participate, donors can visit https://Adopt2024.givesmart.com.
“We’re thrilled to offer the Adopt a Family program as a way for people to make a direct impact on the lives of those we serve,” said Mindy Cervoni, President and CEO of Community Services. “Every year, we’re humbled by the generosity of our community, and we see the difference it makes in bringing joy and dignity to families who need it most.”
“Adopting a family this holiday season is an opportunity to make a real impact in the lives of those who are facing challenges,” said Kelly Kinderman, Vice President of Program Support and Developmentof Community Services. “With the support of the community, we can bring much-needed joy and create lasting memories for families in need.”
In addition to adopting families, Community Services for Every1 is also accepting donations of new essential necessities, such as kitchenware, towels, bedding, winter clothing, etc. For those who prefer, monetary donations can also be made at https://Adopt2024.givesmart.com to help fulfill critical needs.
Donation Drop-Off
Wrapped presents and essential necessities can be dropped off by December 13th at the agency’s headquarters- 180 Oak Street, Buffalo, NY 14203.
To participate in the Adopt a Family program, or to make a donation, please visit https://Adopt2024.givesmart.com
For more information, contact Jillian Johnson, Development and Communications Coordinator, at jillianjohnson@csevery1.com or 716-883-8888 x144.
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Community Services for Every1 is a nonprofit whose mission is to partner with individuals of all abilities to reach their fullest potential, protecting their rights and promoting their independence and inclusion in our community. The agency notably serves (1) people with developmental disabilities, (2) youth and adults with chronic health conditions and complex mental health concerns, and (3) survivors of domestic violence. Community Services provides a comprehensive range of services such as housing services, domestic violence support, care coordination, family support, employment and skill-building services, behavioral and mental health services, and much more. For the past 35 years, Community Services for Every1 has been providing high quality, person-centered services to the Western New York community. For more information, visit www.csevery1.com.
by Jillian Johnson | Jul 15, 2024 | News, Press Releases
The Lyceum offers apartments, community empowerment spaces, and a Prevocational Hub, all poised to enrich the fabric of Buffalo’s East Side.
Buffalo, NY – Community Services for Every1 proudly unveiled the Lyceum, their groundbreaking, multifaceted space that provides housing and supportive services in the heart of Buffalo’s Broadway-Fillmore district. This transformative project, spearheaded by the nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and beyond, was a historic preservation and adaptive reuse of the former St. John Kanty Lyceum School. The Lyceum is also New York State’s first completed Clean Energy Initiative project.
Community Services for Every1 will offer supportive services at the Lyceum in the 7,600-square-foot newly renovated community and commercial space. Services include case management, financial counseling, after-school programs, culinary arts, healthy living education, and referrals to health, childcare, and public benefit services. The Lyceum will also serve as Community Services’ third Pre-Vocational Hub, assisting individuals in finding and maintaining jobs in their community that align with their interests, skills, and career goals. Furthermore, the Lyceum boasts amenities designed for accessibility and recreation, including a community garden, bike repair station, EV charging facilities, an accessible playground, and an activity room tailored to accommodate all.
The Apartments at the Lyceum feature 42 affordable apartments, with 12 units reserved for survivors of domestic violence, 5 fully ADA accessible units, and 2 units for individuals with audio/visual impairments. Residents have access to rental subsidies and services funded through the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative.
“We are incredibly appreciative of the funding designated for affordable and supportive housing, which has allowed us to create Erie County’s first permanent supportive housing program specifically for survivors of domestic violence at the Apartments at the Lyceum,” said Mindy Cervoni, President and CEO of Community Services. “This initiative allows us to assist individuals with factors contributing to their housing instability. Developing affordable housing in communities of need remains a priority for Community Services, and we are grateful to our partner for helping us bring this project to fruition.”
“We are thrilled to unveil the Lyceum, our latest expansion that enhances our capability for delivering comprehensive and transformative programs that enrich the lives of our community members and fosters empowerment, inclusion, and enduring change. Its inception in 2022 was prompted by the recognition of a significant gap in services, programs, and support within the Broadway-Fillmore area of Buffalo. Our heartfelt appreciation goes out to our partners whose unwavering support has made the Lyceum a reality.” said Kelly Kinderman, Vice President of Program Support and Development at Community Services for Every1.
“Today, we celebrate not just the transformation of a historic building, but the revitalization of an entire community,” said Council Member Nowakowski. “The Apartments at the Lyceum exemplify our commitment to providing affordable housing and essential services to community members most in need. This project highlights the importance of adaptive reuse and breathing new life into historic structures. It is a testament to the power of collaboration and community spirit, ensuring that everyone, regardless of circumstances, has a place to call home. I am proud to be here with Community Services for Every1 and all our partners in making this vision a reality.”
Financing for the Lyceum included $8 million in NYS HCR Low Income Housing Tax Credit program, a $3.9 million subsidy from NYS Homes and Community Renewal, $6.8 million in Federal and State Historic Tax Credits from NYS Department of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, $2 million from NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance’s Homeless Housing Assistance Program, and $525,000 through the Clean Energy Incitive through NYSERDA. Additionally, $750,000 in HOME funds were awarded by the city of Buffalo, and Empire State Development provided $500,000 through the Better Buffalo Fund.
The development team for the Lyceum project consisted of Community Services for Every1, Carmina Wood Design, Hamilton Stern Construction, and Edgemere Development. The development of the commercial space was supported by Empire State Development- Better Buffalo Fund, First Niagara Foundation in Partnership with KeyBank, James H. Cummings Foundation, M&T Charitable Foundation, Golisano Foundation, The John R.
Oishei Foundation, East Hill Foundation, and The Children’s Guild Foundation. The Lyceum meets the requirements of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s New Construction Housing Program and 2020 Enterprise Green Communities. Energy-efficient elements include Energy Star or equivalent appliances, an EV charging station, low-flow fixtures, increased insulation, and updated lighting, HVAC systems, windows, and roofs.
“Hamilton Stern Construction is proud to have been the construction manager on this transformative, historical preservation project. The Apartments at The Lyceum preserves the rich heritage of the Broadway Fillmore community, and the modernization of the building breathes new life into the iconic structure. With 42 supportive housing units, a sustainable design, green space, and a community center, this development will truly be able to serve its residents, contribute to the cultural fabric of the neighborhood, and help expand the mission of Community Services for Every1,” Christopher Stern, Principal, Hamilton Stern Construction.
“Edgemere is thrilled to have been a part of this amazing project. Through the Apartments at the Lyceum, Community Services has preserved a vital cultural resource and created 42 high-quality, affordable, and energy-efficient apartments for households in Buffalo’s East Side” remarked Brad Mack, Edgemere Development’s Director of Development. “In addition, they’ve transformed the former kitchen, cafeteria, and gymnasium into a commercial space that will be utilized for prevocational and other services offered by the agency. Community Services is a vital resource for residents of the City of Buffalo and Erie County; the Lyceum will expand their service footprint, provide much-needed affordable housing, and support the City’s revitalization goals. We are thrilled to see the project completed and are thankful for the many public and private partners who made this project a reality.”
About Community Services for Every1
Community Services for Every1 is a nonprofit whose mission is to partner with individuals of all abilities to reach their fullest potential, protecting their rights and promoting their independence and inclusion in our community. The agency notably serves (1) people with developmental disabilities, (2) youth and adults with chronic health conditions and complex mental health concerns, and (3) survivors of domestic violence. Community Services provides a comprehensive range of services such as residential, domestic violence support, care coordination, family support, employment and skill-building, behavioral and mental health services, and much more. For the past 35 years, Community Services for Every1 has been providing high quality, person-centered services to the Western New York community. For more information, visit www.csevery1.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 12, 2024
Jillian Johnson
Development and Communications Coordinator
Community Services for Every1
716-574-1324| jijohnson@csevery1.com
by Jennifer Wozniak | May 14, 2024 | News, Press Releases
May 13, 2024
Media Contact:
Max Anderson
Deputy Director, Open Buffalo
Max@openbuffalo.org
716-218-9075
BUFFALO, NY — On Monday, May 13, alongside a host of community partners and allies, Open Buffalo, a racial justice nonprofit located one block away from the Jefferson Avenue Tops market, hosted a press conference to mark two years of intensified anti-racism work since that store became the target of a vicious act of anti-Black terrorism. We revealed points of progress, present-day priorities, and an outlook for the future of racial justice in Buffalo and Western New York. We discussed new strategic partnerships, investment in a new generation of community leaders, and initiatives to directly address and interrupt systemic racism in various aspects of community life.
“The ingredients of the Tops domestic terrorism attack were simmering for years before they boiled over just a block from here on May 14, 2022,” said Franchelle Parker, Executive Director of Open Buffalo. “Despite all the good work and investments committed to this immediate community in the aftermath of 5/14, the underlying issues that fed into this attack remain. In some respects, they have worsened.”
Two years later, Open Buffalo remains steadfast on the frontlines of an ongoing anti-racism struggle in Buffalo. In addition to our existing policy advocacy and leadership development work, since the Tops Massacre, Open Buffalo has intensified our anti-racism training and assessment program, called “Race, Power, and Privilege” (RPP).
To date, Open Buffalo has trained 1,500 Western New Yorkers to be anti-racism ambassadors in their personal and professional lives. Institutions that have gone through the intensive RPP process include:
- Try-It Distributing
- WNY Library Resources Council
- Beyond Support Network
- Care Management Coalition
- The Parent Network
- EPIC
- Mental Health Advocates of WNY
- Center for Self Advocacy
- Community Services 4 Every1
- Mt. Mercy Academy
- Summit Center
- Nonprofit Consultants with the Western NY Foundation
- Guardians of Equity in the Buffalo Public Schools
- Zeta Youth Auxiliary
- Clean Mobility Buffalo
- John R. Oishei Foundation
- Niagara Falls High School
One of Open Buffalo’s key client-partners in our RPP work is Community Services for Every1, an agency that partners with individuals of all abilities to reach their fullest potential, protecting their rights and promoting their independence and inclusion in our community. More than a dozen Community Services workers attended Monday’s press event.
Mindy Cervoni, President and CEO of Community Services for Every1, delivered the following statement:
“Community Services for Every1 serves 2,200 people in this community and employs 1,000. The majority of our employees are Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), helping people live successfully in the community. Seventy-four percent of our DSPs are people of color and 44% of them live on the East Side of Buffalo. Our work with Open Buffalo has already transformed our organization, but it’s only the beginning.
Open Buffalo’s RPP training provided critical education on the health and housing crisis here on the East Side of Buffalo, from years of neglect and systematic racism. Learning data and true stories about the negative impact on a society without privilege was life-changing for many on our team.
Once our organization learned and truly acknowledge the reality, employees began speaking out and sharing stories of being denied opportunities such as a job or a mortgage. This prompted a real excitement about how we can change internally and what resources our organization can bring to help promote change and uplift this community. There is a lot to be done and we are very fortunate to work with Open Buffalo to guide us down a path to enact change and make a difference.”
Raziya Hill, Founding Executive Director of Every Bottom Covered, attended today’s press conference as well. Every Bottom Covered is a diaper bank serving low-income and underserved communities across Western New York. Hill, who is also an alumna of Open Buffalo’s Emerging Leaders and Justice Leadership Institute programs, collaborated directly with Open Buffalo in the wake of the Tops attack by providing resources that enabled our organization to run a popular diaper club. The diaper club, offered out of our Jefferson Avenue headquarters through the end of 2022, provided free diapers, baby wipes, feminine products, baby food, and more to a community desperately in need of such resources. Hill shared the following remarks today:
“As a nonprofit leader, we were called into action after the horrific racist massacre at Tops. As a Black woman, I had to grieve and serve. There’s so much work to be done after acknowledging that we are in the throes of a community marred by systemic racism, and we’ve only scratched the surface. Thankfully, we’ll continue in the good fight collectively and create a generational shift.”
Those interested in learning more about Open Buffalo’s “Race, Power, and Privilege” program can visit www.openbuffalo.org.
Today’s speakers included:
- Franchelle Parker, Founding Executive Director of Open Buffalo
- Mindy Cervoni, President and CEO of Community Services or Every1, and an organizational partner engaged in Open Buffalo’s “Race, Power, and Privilege” training and assessment program
- Raziya Hill, Founding Executive Director of Every Bottom Covered, and an alumna of Open Buffalo’s “Emerging Leaders” Program
- Marc Hennig,Deputy Executive Director of the Beyond Support Network
- Jillian Hanesworth, the City of Buffalo’s First Poet Laureate and an alumna of Open Buffalo’s “Emerging Leaders” Program
- Dr. Kush K. Bhardwaj, Director of Racial Equity and Justice at Open Buffalo
About Open Buffalo
Founded in 2014, Open Buffalo’s mission is to advance racial, economic, and ecological justice. We do so through skill building, network connecting, and activating leadership opportunities. Our goal is for all communities in Western New York to thrive free from discrimination and poverty.
For media inquiries, contact Max Anderson at max@openbuffalo.org or 716-218-9075.
by Jillian Johnson | Mar 27, 2024 | News, Press Releases
Funding supports the agency’s permanent supportive housing solutions for underserved people.
Buffalo, NY– March 27, 2024 – The M&T Charitable Foundation, the philanthropic arm of M&T Bank (NYSE:MTB), today announced that it has awarded $30,000 to Community Services for Every1. The grant is part of the 30 & 30 Initiative in which 30 organizations across the bank’s footprint received $30,000 to fight homelessness and develop affordable housing in low- to moderate-income communities. The 30 & 30 Initiative was launched in commemoration of the foundation’s 30th anniversary.
“We are grateful to have been recognized and selected to receive this award from The M&T Charitable Foundation. Over the last three decades, Community Services has developed and provided permanent supportive housing solutions for underserved people and families in Erie and Niagara Counties. This award will directly contribute to our continued growth in this vital area.” said Mindy Cervoni, President and CEO.
Since 1989, Community Services for Every1 has been dedicated to fulfilling its mission to partner with individuals of all abilities to reach their fullest potential, protecting their rights and promoting their independence and inclusion in our community. Annually, the agency supports over 2,200 individuals in Erie and Niagara Counties, specializing in aiding people who contend with acute life challenges—notably (1) people with developmental disabilities, (2) youth and adults with chronic health conditions and complex mental health concerns and (3) survivors of domestic violence. Community Services provides a comprehensive spectrum of trauma-informed, person-centered supports, including an array of care coordination, residential services, skill building, employment services, advocacy, behavioral intervention services, and more.
“Since its beginning, the foundation’s reach and impact for organizations like Community Services for Every1 have been expansive, profound, and lasting,” said Dominique Goss, Executive Director of the M&T Charitable Foundation. “The 30 & 30 Initiative is a sign of what’s to come for the next 30 years and reflects our commitment to tackling critical issues like affordable housing and supporting efforts to provide families the ability to live and thrive in the communities we serve.”
Supporting the development of affordable housing is an important part of the bank’s $43 billion Community Growth Plan which includes $20 billion for community development initiatives and affordable housing.
More than 90 different organizations were nominated by teams in each of the company’s regions.
To finalize the 30 recipient organizations and distribute the funding, the Foundation collaborated with OutcomesX, a first-of-its-kind social outcomes market that leverages Impact Genome Registry’s (IGR) impact standard to bring transparency and equity to the social sector.
To execute the initiative, nominated organizations were asked to register their program with IGR to ensure it met the Foundation’s criteria. Using the standardized information, M&T employees in each region voted for their charity of choice, assisting in the selection of the 30 grant-recipient organizations.
The finalist organizations were then required to verify their impact with the IGR. This process enabled the Foundation to understand the actual social impact that each organization and grant had on the communities they serve. Each $30,000 grant is unrestricted so that resources can be allocated where they are needed most, enabling the organizations to address evolving community needs and challenges.
Founded in 1993, the M&T Charitable Foundation works in partnership with non-profit organizations that focus on improving the quality of life for the bank’s customers, employees, and neighbors. Awarding nearly $40 million in grants each year, the Foundation has given more than $534 million to thousands of nonprofit organizations throughout its 30-year existence.
For more information on the 30 & 30 Initiative, including the full list of grant recipients and their locations, please click here. https://www3.mtb.com/amplifyfund
About Community Services for Every1
Community Services for Every1 is a nonprofit whose mission is to partner with individuals of all abilities to reach their fullest potential, protecting their rights and promoting their independence and inclusion in our community. Community Services provides a comprehensive range of services such as habilitation services, domestic violence support services, family support services, employment and skill-building services, behavioral and mental health services, and much more. For the past 35 years, Community Services for Every1 has been providing high quality, person-centered services to the Western New York community while promoting inclusion, accessibility, and person-centered support. For more information, visit www.csevery1.com.
About M&T Charitable Foundation
The M&T Charitable Foundation, the philanthropic arm of M&T Bank, is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit charitable organization founded in 1993 and funded by M&T Bank. The M&T Charitable Foundation awards nearly $40 million in grants per year to thousands of nonprofit organizations focused on improving the quality of life in the areas the bank serves.
About M&T Bank
M&T Bank Corporation is a financial holding company headquartered in Buffalo, New York. M&T’s principal banking subsidiary, M&T Bank, provides banking products and services in 12 states across the eastern U.S. from Maine to Virginia and Washington, D.C. Trust-related services are provided in select markets in the U.S. and abroad by M&T’s Wilmington Trust-affiliated companies and by M&T Bank. For more information on M&T Bank, visit www.mtb.com.
Equal Housing Lender. © 2024 M&T Bank. Member FDIC. All rights reserved.
Media Contacts:
New England
Christopher Loh
cloh@mtb.com
Metro NY
David Samberg
dsamberg@mtb.com
Upstate and Western New York
Thea Pecht
tpecht@mtb.com
National Media and Mid-Atlantic:
Frank Lentini
flentini@mtb.com
About OutcomesX
OutcomesX is a social outcomes market whose mission is to transform social impact into a tradable good that impact investors, corporations, and philanthropy can purchase from vetted nonprofits and social enterprises. OutcomesX creates the infrastructure to standardize, price, trade, and report on social impact where outcome buyers benefit from price discovery and verified data to inform social spend, and impact producers get access to liquidity and reduced fundraising and reporting burden. Above all, OutcomesX brings efficiency and equity to the business of social impact, allowing any organization, large, small, or community-led, access to capital based on their results.
by Jillian Johnson | Feb 6, 2024 | News, Press Releases
The grant funds Community Services’ Buffalo TIES (Togetherness, Inclusion & Empowerment Strategies), which expands the availability and accessibility of community-based employment and volunteer opportunities for young adults with disabilities.
BUFFALO, NY– Community Services for Every1, a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, has been awarded $123,000 from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation for their Buffalo TIES program. The grant enables Community Services to assist 200 individuals with disabilities to acquire employability and socialization skills, help 150 individuals with disabilities achieve personal goals for empowerment and community inclusion, and help 50 individuals with disabilities secure long-term employment/volunteer opportunities in the Buffalo community.
“We are deeply grateful to Mother Cabrini Health Foundation for this grant to our Buffalo TIES program. This grant will greatly amplify our capacity to provide comprehensive and impactful programs that positively transform the lives of those we serve, fostering empowerment, inclusion, and lasting change in our community” said Mindy Cervoni, President and CEO of Community Services for Every1.
“As we look back at the compounding crises of the last few years, the health-related needs of vulnerable communities have only grown. Our grantees have demonstrated tremendous resilience, creativity, and dedication to serving those in need, especially as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have such detrimental impact,” said Alfred F. Kelly, Jr., Executive Chairman of Visa and Chair of the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation Board.
The funding provided by the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation enables Community Services to continue their impact of helping individuals with disabilities to achieve their highest potential and attain independence and inclusion in the WNY community.
by Maria Pericozzi | Jan 15, 2024 | Press Releases
BUFFALO – Assemblymember Karen McMahon (D-Amherst) teamed up with several Western New York state legislators and the Developmental Disability Alliance of WNY (DDAWNY) on Thursday to call for funding in Governor Kathy Hochul’s Executive Budget for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs).
DSPs work with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD), providing a wide range of highly specialized services, as well as everyday needs. DSPs are trained in first aid, CPR, and medication administration. Their work also includes meal preparation, transportation, and understanding of and care for the emotional and psychological needs of those they serve.
For the past several years, the workforce industry that supports those with I/DD has been in crisis. Budget cuts and inaction have left DSPs underpaid, undersupported, and understaffed. For example, compensation for this highly technical and important work has hovered around $16.45/hour in New York City, and $16.02/hour in WNY and the rest of NYS. These wages, barely above the minimum wage, have been a key contributor to the industry’s difficulty in hiring and retaining workers.
In December, McMahon and her legislative colleagues sent a letter to Hochul calling for this crisis to be addressed by including funding for DSPs in her 2024 Executive Budget. They also urged the Governor to include a 3.2 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). I/DD providers are solely funded by Medicaid and therefore are unable to increase reimbursement rates to offset operating costs. A COLA would ensure that not-for-profit agencies can continue to operate.
McMahon, leaders from DDAWNY, and members of the WNY delegation gathered at People Inc.’s Center for Excellence in Human Services and Training in Buffalo to acknowledge and highlight the negative impact this crisis is having on the I/DD community.
Assemblymember Karen McMahon (D-Amherst) said: “As a member of the Assembly Committee on People with Disabilities, I have heard and seen the terrible impacts of wage stagnation and a lack of urgency in the support of DSPs. DSPs are vital figures in the lives of those with I/DD, their families, and the agencies that support them. The need for the services they provide does not wane, so our support should not either. In our community, we are fortunate to have groups like DDAWNY to advocate for DSPs and those with I/DD, as well as a committed group of leaders in the WNY legislative delegation focused on highlighting this need and seeing this crisis rectified. I thank DDAWNY and my colleagues for joining me today in this important effort.”
Mindy Cervoni, President of The Developmental Disability Alliance of WNY (DDAWNY) and CEO at Community Services for Every1 said on behalf of the 40 agencies in DDAWNY: “We are greatly concerned that there was no mention in the State of the State of our workforce crisis nor plans to address the significant needs of people with developmental disabilities. While we are grateful to the Governor for the investment in the field of developmental disabilities the last two years, after a decade of financial neglect, we find ourselves still in crisis. It’s imperative that the State place this vulnerable population at the forefront. There are 33,000 people in WNY who need support. We cannot let them down, not now, not ever. We trust the State will prioritize investing in our workforce in the soon to be released Budget and provide adequate reimbursement to the agencies and who do this work. Failure to invest will only result in a catastrophe.”
Anne McCaffrey, President and CEO of People Inc. said: “We need Governor Hochul to put a 3.2% cost of living adjustment (COLA) and a $4,000 direct support wage enhancement in her Executive Budget. We need her to continue her commitment to our states most vulnerable and the direct support professionals that care for them 24/7. We thank our WNY state delegation for standing with us today and for calling on Governor Hochul to put these funds in her budget. The care we provide is essential. It’s incumbent on our leaders to address this crisis.”
Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said: “We’re living in inflationary times and life continues to become more expensive. We must continue to take care of those that lovingly and selflessly take care of our most vulnerable residents, while their income levels make them vulnerable as well. I applaud DDAWNY for continuing to advocate on their behalf.”
Senator Sean Ryan (D-Buffalo) said: “Direct support professionals are lifelines for some of New York’s most vulnerable citizens. New Yorkers with intellectual and developmental disabilities rely on these highly trained and qualified workers to provide essential care every day. As non-profit organizations struggle to hire and retain workers, an increase in wages for DSPs would help reverse our state’s caregiver shortage and ensure more New Yorkers have reliable access to the support they need.”
Assemblymember William Conrad (D-Tonawanda) said: “The disappointing reality is this: Our DSPs have been waiting too long for New York State to reflect the value of their work with the appropriate investment. And our families and individuals with I/DD are having to endure the true costs of that neglect, and forgoing timely support in their day-to-day lives, or going without it altogether. I join my colleagues in standing with the dedicated advocates of DDAWNY and the indispensable professionals of agencies like People Inc. in calling on the Governor to include in her budget the well-overdue and desperately needed wage enhancement and COLA for DSPs. It is our fiscal responsibility to ensure the viability of this essential field, as it is our moral duty to uphold the independence, dignity, and wellness of our most vulnerable citizens.”
Assemblymember Monica Wallace (D-Lancaster) said: “Direct support professionals are vital to the well-being of individuals with disabilities, but for too long, their pay has not reflected their critical role in the special needs community. With starting wages for DSPs only just above minimum wage, these essential workers are struggling to make ends meet, and non-profits are facing high vacancies and turnovers that negatively impact care for people with disabilities. While we made progress in last year’s budget, now is the time to go further and raise DSPs’ wages to the competitive levels they were decades ago.”
Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera (D-Buffalo) said: “Our direct support professionals are an integral, indispensable component of our healthcare system. Yet despite their tireless work within the intellectual and developmental disability community, chronic underfunding poses a grave threat to the sector’s ability to meet the needs of those who need it most, as the low wages are forcing these essential workers to look for other jobs in other fields. I fully support the creation of a new Direct Support Wage Enhancement (DSWE) to be included in this year’s Executive Budget so that direct support professionals are given the reinforcement they both need and deserve.”
by Jeff Surdej | Nov 17, 2023 | Press Releases
Community Services for Every1 is excited to launch its annual holiday fundraiser- Adopt a Family! The yearly drive brings together local businesses and community members to help support families who receive services from our agency. This winter there are more than 90 families up for “holiday adoption”, a 20% increase from just last year. Anyone interested in shopping and supporting our families can visit https://adoptafamily23.givesmart.com. The site is set up to view family’s needs and provide a quick and easy experience for donors to select a family to adopt.
Additionally, Community Services for Every1 is also accepting individual item donations, including but not limited to kitchen wares, towels, bedding, and winter gear. These items will directly benefit people we support. The Agency is also accepting monetary donations through the platform. Anyone looking to donate individual items can drop them off at our agency headquarters at 180 Oak Street, Buffalo on or before Friday, December 15, 2023, between the hours of 7:30am-4:30pm, Monday – Friday.
Community Services for Every1 would like to thank Bellreng Towing and Automotive for sponsoring the program and providing totes for gift delivery as well as collecting donated goods throughout our community. The agency is grateful to every person and business who come together, each winter for Adopt a Family – be it through volunteering their time, adopting a family, or donating, Buffalo truly is the city of good neighbors.
