News from New York State Office for the Aging

For more information contact: Reza Mizbani, 518-474-7181, 518-878-4093 (cell), reza.mizbani@ofa.state.ny.us

Director of the State Office for the Aging Completes Visit to Western New York

ALBANY, NY (06/07/2007; 1053)(readMedia)-- Michael J. Burgess, Director of the New York State Office for the Aging visited the western New York region and met with local officials and representatives from organizations working with the elderly.

On Wednesday, June 6, Director Burgess visited Baden Street Senior Center in Rochester, NY and met with seniors at lunchtime there. He also met with officials from the Monroe County Office for the Aging, as well as Lifespan, Inc., Catholic Charities of the Greater Rochester Area, Independent Living Centers of Rochester, New York State United Teachers retirees, senior advocates and attended the annual reception of G.R.A.P.E., the Greater Rochester Area Partnership for the Elderly. Director Burgess discussed his initiatives with senior advocates as well as service delivery organizations which serve the elderly in the greater Rochester area and received their input.

He plans similar trips to other regions of the state as well. A long time advocate for the elderly in New York State and beyond, Director Burgess believes that we stand on the verge of an exciting era in our history. “We must rely more on the wisdom and experience of our elders than ever before, if we are to meet and accept the challenges of this young century” he said. As Director of the New York State Office for the Aging he is committed to conveying their views, protecting their rights, and ensuring that their needs are addressed.

Mr. Burgess has longstanding ties to Western New York. His grandparents were immigrants from Calabria province in Italy and emigrated to Rochester in the early 20th century. They lived in the Rochester area for the remainder of their lives. Director Burgess’ father graduated from Benjamin Franklin High School in 1943. Mr. Burgess began his career in Watertown, NY, his childhood home, working for the local anti-poverty community assistance program as Director of the Energy and Weatherization Program.

The New York State Office for the Aging serves as an advocate for over 3.2 million New Yorkers 60 and older. The Office advocates for older persons at all levels of government and the private sector with the cooperation of concerned organizations and older New Yorkers. The Office for the Aging administers several federally funded programs under the Older Americans Act and a variety of State-funded programs which serve the elderly.