[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 45 (Thursday, March 9, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E204]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING RHONDA FREDERICK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 9, 2023

  Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, today we recognize and 
congratulate Rhonda Frederick on her retirement after decades of 
dedication and service to the Buffalo community. Through her leadership 
at People Inc., Rhonda has been an indispensable advocate for those 
with disabilities.
  After 43 years working in almost every facet at People Inc., Rhonda 
was instrumental in starting and developing many programs offered by 
this essential non-profit. She started her career working in group 
homes and day services, eventually earning her role as CEO and 
President. As COO, she built and cultivated important relationships 
with multiple regulatory and funding agencies including the Office for 
People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), Developmental 
Disabilities Regional Office (DDRO), U.S. Department of Housing and 
Urban Development (HUD), NYS Homes and Community Renewal, NYS 
Department of Health, and NYS Office for the Aging. She played a key 
role in starting People Inc. Senior Living, which now has over 20 
apartment buildings for older adults who meet federally mandated income 
guidelines. The growth of People, Inc. to its current state of 150 
group homes, countless programs, and strong partnerships shows her 
commitment to realizing an ambitious vision for this organization and 
our community.
  Outside of her extensive official career, Rhonda is extremely active 
and involved in the community. Currently she serves on the Boards of 
Hilbert College, New York State Industries for the Disabled (NYSIDD), 
Special Olympics NY, Amherst Meals on Wheels, and Accountable Health 
Community Inc. She is the President of Developmental Disabilities 
Alliance of WNY (DDAWNY) and is involved with WNY iCan Bike--a program 
that provides tailored and unique opportunities in recreational 
activities for people with disabilities.
  Rhonda's unwavering dedication to the Western New York community 
makes her worthy of an easygoing and laid-back retirement, but if her 
career is any indication, she will continue to devote her time to 
improving senior and disability services. For that and all her efforts 
over an illustrious career, Western New Yorkers owe Rhonda Frederick a 
debt of gratitude.

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