Joan Burns

Co-founder of the Kane Family Council 

Teacher, Advocate, Volunteer 

Joan Burns dedicated a large part of her life to teaching young children and advocating for elderly, sick, and disabled populations. In her professional life, Joan devoted many years to the children at Centennial Elementary School and the McKeesport School District where she inspired and changed countless young lives. Outside of work, she was active in many different organizations that all shared the goal of helping less fortunate people in the community. 
 
Kane McKeesport and the Kane Foundation were significant benefactors of Joan’s tireless efforts.  She was a co-founder of the Kane Family Council, which gives families and residents a voice, and empowers them to make positive changes. The council facilitates speaker programs, obtains grants for improvements to the building to advance the quality of life works closely with Kane Administration on issues that impact residents and families. Joan’s guidance helped Kane McKeesport partner with McKeesport Area School District's Cosmetology, Art, and Chorus Departments, where the beautiful artwork and smiling faces of students helping and entertaining residents are an ongoing reminder of Joan’s dedication. 
 
When thinking of Joan Burns, the best way to remember her is through the quote, “the moral test of a society is how that society treats those who are in the dawn of life – the children; those who are in the twilight of life – the elderly; and those who are in the shadow of life – the sick, the needy and the handicapped.” In her far too brief life, Joan Burns did more than her fair share. Though she is sorely missed at Kane and in the community, each day there is proof of the difference she made. 

The annual Kane Walk 4 Fun is hosted in memory of Joan Burns.