As part of Jewish Family Services’ (JFS) Home Safety Assessment & Modifications Program—and following a referral from the Albany County Department for Aging—retired U.S. Army Reserve officer Rosetta Burke, a longtime Colonie resident, was identified as being at heightened risk of falling due to mobility challenges. To help her move safely in and out of her home, a ramp was installed to reduce the risk of trips and injuries.
Major General Rosetta Burke was the first female Assistant Adjutant General of New York State and a trailblazer in the Army National Guard, serving for 35 years and receiving two Army Commendation Medals during her distinguished military career. You can learn more about Gen. Burke’s amazing career here.
Thanks to the Albany County Department for Aging’s Ramp and Roll grant, and in partnership with Rosenblum Property Services LLC, JFS successfully completed the ramp installation, helping to ensure Gen. Burke’s continued safety and independence.
This project is part of JFS’s broader commitment to supporting older adults and veterans through its home safety initiatives, which have included installing grab bars, providing shower chairs, and redesigning outdoor spaces—all with the goal of promoting safe and healthy aging in place.
To mark the completion of the ramp, a press event was held with Albany County Executive Dan McCoy—who has known Gen. Burke for many years—along with Deb Riitano, Jane Cunningham, Carolyn McLaughlin, Ellen Rosano, and Susan Quine-Laurilliard in attendance.
You can watch the press event and see our own Jane Ginsburg, President & CEO, speak at 06:10 here.
