Together in Caring
Albany, NY
Proudly serving families across Albany and the Capital District Region
13 British American Blvd #2
Latham, NY 12110
- 518-300-3077
- fax: 518-995-9115
- CapitalDistrictInfo@togetherincaring.com
KATHY JACOBS, MBA, CMC
President, Certified Care Manager
Kathy Jacobs is a proven leader in care management, project management, logistics and financial services. Most recently, she was co-owner of Entrusted Care, a geriatric care management company. She is a certified by the National Academy of Certified Care Managers and is an Advanced Professional Member with the Aging Life Care Association. Kathy is an approved Article 81 Guardian, meaning that she can be court-appointed to help individuals who are unable to manage their affairs Kathy is also a Certified Aging in Place Specialist through the National Association of Home Builders and is essentiALZ certified by the Alzheimer’s Association. She has extensive experience working with people with disabilities and those with chronic and/or terminal illnesses. In addition to holding a bachelor’s degree in psychology and an MBA from the Simon School of Business focused on Health Care Operations, she also holds a Gerontology Certificate from St. John Fisher College.
Kathy is married with three adult children. She and her husband enjoy being outdoors kayaking, hiking, and doing landscaping work at their home. She and her family will often travel to the Adirondacks with their three German Shepherds. If not outdoors, then Kathy is likely reading a book!
JENNIFER DEWYEA
Office Administrator
Beginning at age 14, Jennifer volunteered at a local nursing home in the recreation department, piquing her interest in working with older adults. Jennifer went on to work with adults living with developmental disabilities in group home and day program settings. She coordinated activities for the residents, focusing on inclusion and ensuring the residents had the same opportunities as others to participate in every aspect of life. She helped manage several high needs group homes. Now, she takes on many responsibilities at the Together in Caring office.
Jennifer is married with 4 children and 1 dog. She enjoys spending time outdoors during every season, usually with a book in hand. Rooting for the Baltimore Orioles, reading, traveling, and yoga are among her favorite hobbies, although with 3 children in travel sports, it can be hard to find the time. Jennifer is a true DIYer, she believes if you can Google it, you can do it!
HEIDI BRADY, LPN
Nurse Care Manager
With more than three decades of experience in elder care, beginning in 1991, Heidi’s career has been rooted in sincere compassion, dedication, and a deep respect for older adults, their families, and the teams who serve them. She began her journey as a CNA in high school and went on to work as a graduate nurse and nursing supervisor at just 17 years old.
Her professional path spans bedside care, executive director leadership, and senior corporate roles, including serving as Senior Vice President of Operations and Vice President of Clinical Services at Willow Ridge Senior Living.
Born and raised in Saratoga, New York, she returned home to support her parents—an experience that profoundly shaped her perspective on care, family, and advocacy. Family, faith, honesty, and humility guide both her personal and professional life. She is deeply committed to creating environments where older adults feel valued, families feel supported, and staff feel empowered, measuring success through trust, connection, and the lasting impact made on people’s lives.
OLIVIA MERRELL, MHA
Care Manager
Originally from Westmoreland, NY, Olivia brings a decade of experience and a passion for healthcare to Together in Caring. A graduate of Utica College with a bachelor’s in health studies and a master’s in health care administration from Utica University, Olivia has worked in various healthcare settings, including nursing homes, home health services, dialysis, and care management for individuals with developmental disabilities. After becoming well-versed in different areas in health care, Olivia is excited to return to working with older adults, combining her compassion and expertise to provide exceptional care.
Outside of work, Olivia enjoys reading, gardening, and spending time with her family, friends, and her beloved pets. She also loves hosting and sharing her culinary creations with loved ones. Olivia is thrilled to grow in her role and continue making a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare.
Joan Ostrow, MSW
Care Manager
Joan brings more than 30 years of experience as a social worker, with a career dedicated to supporting individuals and families through some of life’s most challenging transitions. Most recently, she spent 15 years as a Medical Social Worker in a hospital setting, helping patients and their loved ones navigate complex healthcare decisions and care needs.
Throughout her career, Joan has worked in hospice care, a memory care community, and community-based nonprofit organizations serving at-risk youth and families. Prior to entering the field of social work, Joan worked as a business consultant, bringing a unique perspective and strong problem-solving skills to her work.
Joan has a deep respect for older adults and is passionate about helping them age on their own terms. She is committed to advocating for their needs, preserving their dignity, and helping them achieve their goals while maintaining the highest possible quality of life.
Outside of work, Joan enjoys spending time with family and friends, being outdoors, kayaking, and making memories with her beloved dogs.
CHELSEA CRAWFORD, LPN, CMC
Certified PAC Trainer | Veterans Benefits Coordinator
Chelsea first began her career serving older adults when she was just 15 years old as an aide at a local skilled nursing home. After graduating high school, she became a Licensed Practical Nurse and went on to work as a civilian nurse for the US Army in Hawaii. Chelsea has had experience working in admissions, case management, and director of nursing roles, making her extremely well-rounded in this field. Chelsea’s grandmother and mother raised her and instilled the importance of patience, gratitude and compassion, which Chelsea says has helped her work with the senior population so naturally. Chelsea says she truly feels a sense of peace and as if she is “home” working with older adults in our community. Chelsea is also a Certified Trainer in Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach® to Care (PAC).
When she is not working, you can find Chelsea reading, boating, grilling, fishing, socializing, spending time with her family, friends and her daughter, Gianna.
Cassandra Harney, RN
PRI Nurse
Cassandra brings more than a decade of healthcare experience caring for individuals. She began her career as a Direct Support Professional working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and has since held roles in administration, case management, management, home care, and acute care. Most recently, Cassandra transitioned from an Emergency Department Technician to a Registered Nurse, caring for patients with a wide range of medical, psychiatric, and behavioral health needs. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and an Associate Degree in Nursing.
Cassandra is passionate about making meaningful connections and taking the extra time to ensure individuals and their families feel heard, supported, and cared for. She values advocacy, education, and empowering families through challenging moments, while recognizing that every person has unique needs and goals. Outside of work, Cassandra enjoys spending time with her husband, loved ones, and two dogs, as well as reading, practicing yoga, going to the gym, and attending church.
Melina Bain
Care Manager Assistant
Born and raised in Ballston Spa, Melina is currently pursuing a degree in Health Sciences at Siena University and plans to continue her education in Physical Therapy at Russell Sage College.
Some of Melina’s most meaningful experiences have come from volunteering in care homes during the holiday season, where she enjoyed spending time with residents, listening to their stories, and helping make the holidays feel special. Those moments inspired her desire to work closely with older adults and continue making a positive impact in people’s lives.
Outside of work and school, she enjoys dancing, spending time outdoors, fishing, music, and making memories with family and friends.
