Center for Disability Rights

Center for Disability Rights CDR is an independent living center devoted to the integration, independence and civil rights of all The Center for Disability Rights, Inc.

(CDR) is a not-for-profit, community-based advocacy and service organization for people with all types of disabilities. Incorporated as an all volunteer organization in 1990, CDR began providing services and grew throughout the 1990s. CDR became an independent organization on September 1, 1998. Since 1998, CDR has been recognized as an Independent Living Center by the National Council on Independe

nt Living, making CDR part of a national network of Independent Living Centers that provide non-residential and non-medical services. CDR uses a peer model where people with disabilities show other people with disabilities how to live independently and advocate for themselves. continues to be a unique fusion of advocacy and supportive services. Since becoming independent, CDR has grown from a small storefront office and total agency budget of just over $200,000 to a strong and influential organization with a 22,000 square foot office in Rochester, New York, with satellite offices in Geneva and Corning, New York, and a policy office in Albany, New York’s capital. CDR’s projected 2010 budget is approximately $29,000,000. The secret of CDR’s success is no secret. CDR’s services and advocacy are controlled by people with disabilities. CDR’s Board of Directors and management staff are primarily people who themselves have disabilities. CDR is in the best position to respond to the needs of people with disabilities because CDR is composed of people with disabilities, as well as those without. Originally organized as an all volunteer advocacy organization, CDR and its members were at the forefront of advocacy efforts to get lifts on buses. When that goal was achieved, CDR moved on to advocated for improved and expanded community-based services and accessible, affordable, integrated housing options for people with disabilities. During this process, CDR decided to become a service provider in order to demonstrate what many other organizations and governmental bodies said was impossible, consumer directed services are the best means of providing services. Who is more motivated to ensure that the services provided are top notch than the person receiving those services?! CDR, with its focus on consumer control and mission of integration, independence and civil rights, continues to win advocacy victories on behalf of the disability community as it continues to grow in size and strength as a service provider. There is not, and there will not be, any dull moments in the future of the Center for Disability Rights, Inc.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! 🎉🎓 To every disabled student crossing that stage, we see you. You pushed through ...
05/08/2026

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! 🎉🎓

To every disabled student crossing that stage, we see you. You pushed through barriers, bias, inaccessibility, and low expectations… and still made it here. 💪♿️

Your graduation is more than a milestone. It is a statement.
You proved people wrong. You showed the world that disabled students lead, achieve, and redefine what is possible. 🌟

As you continue navigating systems that still demand strength, advocacy, and persistence, keep that fire. Keep that fight. Keep becoming the person you know you can be. The future is yours, and you have already won. 💙🔥



[ID: The image shows a celebratory graduation graphic with two organizational logos centered at the top: the Regional Center for Independent Living on the left and the Center for Disability Rights on the right. Below them, large text reads “CLASS OF 2026,” “WE ALL PROUD OF YOU,” and “Congratulations.” Five cartoon graduates wearing caps and gowns stand in a row beneath the text, each representing different physical abilities: one uses a wheelchair, one uses a white cane, one has a prosthetic leg, one has a prosthetic arm, and one stands without mobility devices. They hold diplomas and toss graduation caps into the air against a plain light background.]

05/07/2026

Yesterday, May 6, CDR testified before the New York State Senate Committees on Disabilities and Labor, highlighting the barriers that prevent Disabled New Yorkers from accessing real, integrated competitive employment. 💼♿

We pushed for solutions: ending subminimum wage, fixing the benefits cliff, expanding transit, and investing in programs that actually open doors.

Here's the link to the Testimony: https://youtu.be/9fl7NK1qiEU?si=aUMpLEQ-28ENHku8&t=8875

What barrier to employment do you think gets overlooked the most? Drop it in the comments. 💬

Today is Interpreter Appreciation Day 🤟The Center for Disability Rights and the Regional Center for Independent Living e...
05/06/2026

Today is Interpreter Appreciation Day 🤟

The Center for Disability Rights and the Regional Center for Independent Living extend our sincere appreciation to the interpreters who support our community every day. Your skill, professionalism, and commitment ensure that communication is accessible, accurate, and respectful.

We are especially grateful to interpreters everywhere, including those who work closely with CDR and RCIL, particularly Sign Language Connection, Inc. Your dedication makes it possible for people to fully participate, advocate, and engage without barriers. Access is a right, and your work helps uphold that right.

Thank you for the essential role you play in advancing inclusion and communication access.



[ID: Blue graphic with a white outline of hands making the sign for interpreting, the words “Interpreter Appreciation Day” and “Thank you, interpreters,” and the Regional Center for Independent Living and Center for Disability Rights logos at the bottom.]

May is Older Americans Month 🌼This month, the Center for Disability Rights and the Regional Center for Independent Livin...
05/06/2026

May is Older Americans Month 🌼

This month, the Center for Disability Rights and the Regional Center for Independent Living recognize the contributions, leadership, and lived experiences of older adults in our communities. Older Americans continue to shape our culture, our neighborhoods, and our movements for justice and inclusion.

We also acknowledge the barriers many older adults still face from inaccessible housing and transportation to gaps in long‑term services and supports. At CDR and RCIL, we remain committed to advancing policies and programs that protect independence, dignity, and the right to age in the community.



[ID: The graphic has a purple background with a blue banner at the top that reads “May Is,” followed by large purple text stating “Older Americans Month.” In the center, an illustration shows an older adult sitting in a wheelchair, smiling and waving, with soft pastel floral shapes in the background. At the bottom of the image, the Regional Center for Independent Living logo appears on the left and the Center for Disability Rights logo appears on the right.]

May is Mobility Awareness Month 💜The Center for Disability Rights and the Regional Center for Independent Living recogni...
05/06/2026

May is Mobility Awareness Month 💜

The Center for Disability Rights and the Regional Center for Independent Living recognize the many ways people move through the world with wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, canes, prosthetics, and other mobility aids that support independence and self‑determination. Mobility is about access, autonomy, and the right to navigate our communities without barriers.

This month, we honor the Disabled people who rely on mobility aids, the advocates pushing for accessible environments, and the ongoing work to ensure mobility is treated as a civil right. Everyone deserves the freedom to move through the world safely and with dignity.



[ID: The graphic has a purple background with white text at the top that reads “May is Mobility Awareness Month.” Below the text, four illustrated figures stand side by side, representing different mobility aids and prosthetics, including a person with a prosthetic leg, a person with a prosthetic arm, a person using a wheelchair, and a person with another prosthetic limb. At the bottom of the image, the Regional Center for Independent Living logo appears on the left and the Center for Disability Rights logo appears on the right.]

What happens when one person refuses to look the other way?Our newest blog tells the story of how a single Rochester res...
05/06/2026

What happens when one person refuses to look the other way?

Our newest blog tells the story of how a single Rochester resident challenged the Lilac Festival's illegal service-dog policy - and won. It's a reminder that discrimination still shows up in places people assume are accessible, and that real change often starts with one person deciding to act.

Read how Riley Schillaci pushed for accountability, how City Council stepped in, and why CDR will be monitoring accessibility throughout the festival

Full story here: https://cdrnys.org/blog/advocacy/lilac-festival-service-dogs-the-ada-and-one-persons-successful-fight-for-change/



[ID: The graphic shows a blurred background of lilac flowers with a colorful Rochester Lilac Festival logo in the center, featuring stylized purple, white, and green lilac blooms. At the top, the text reads “New Blog Post” and “.” The main text states “Lilac Festival, service dogs, the ADA, and one person’s (successful) fight for change.” At the bottom of the image, the Center for Disability Rights logo appears.]

🩶 May is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Awareness Month 🩶Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is a group of connective tissue conditions that ...
05/05/2026

🩶 May is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Awareness Month 🩶

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is a group of connective tissue conditions that can affect the joints, skin, and overall stability. Many individuals with EDS navigate chronic pain, frequent injuries, and fatigue while managing symptoms that aren't always visible to others.

This month, the Center for Disability Rights and the Regional Center for Independent Living highlight the experiences of people with EDS and call attention to the importance of access, understanding, and informed care.



[ID: The graphic has a gray background with a zebra‑striped awareness ribbon centered in the middle, with the text “May is Ehlers‑Danlos Syndrome Awareness Month” displayed beside it. At the top of the image, the Regional Center for Independent Living logo appears on the left and the Center for Disability Rights logo appears on the right.]

May is Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month 💚Tourette's Syndrome is a neurological condition that involves tics, sudden inv...
05/05/2026

May is Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month 💚

Tourette's Syndrome is a neurological condition that involves tics, sudden involuntary movements, or sounds. People experience TS in many different ways, and symptoms can shift from day to day.

This month, the Center for Disability Rights and the Regional Center for Independent Living highlight the voices and experiences of people with Tourette's syndrome and support efforts of understanding and acceptance.



[ID: The graphic shows a teal awareness ribbon shaped like a heart, centered at the top, against a light blue background, followed by the text “May is Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month. At the bottom of the image, the Regional Center for Independent Living logo appears on the left, and the Center for Disability Rights logo appears on the right.]

May is Arthritis Awareness Month 💙 Arthritis affects millions of people and can bring daily challenges with pain, stiffn...
05/04/2026

May is Arthritis Awareness Month 💙

Arthritis affects millions of people and can bring daily challenges with pain, stiffness, and mobility. For many, small tasks take extra energy, and having the right support makes a real difference.

This month, the Center for Disability Rights and the Regional Center for Independent Living acknowledge the experiences of people living with arthritis and join in raising awareness.



[ID: The graphic features a blue‑and‑purple arthritis awareness ribbon centered at the top against a light background, followed below by large text stating “May is Arthritis Awareness Month.” At the bottom of the image, two organizational logos appear side by side: the Regional Center for Independent Living logo on the left and the Center for Disability Rights logo on the right.]

May is ALS Awareness Month ❤️ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) is a progressive and terminal disease that affects mobi...
05/04/2026

May is ALS Awareness Month ❤️

ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) is a progressive and terminal disease that affects mobility, speech, and eventually the ability to breathe. While ALS changes how a person moves through the world, their cognition and awareness remain fully intact — underscoring the importance of dignity, autonomy, and meaningful support.

This month, we honor people living with ALS, their families, and caregivers. Awareness is not only about understanding the disease; it’s about recognizing barriers, advocating for research and accessible healthcare, and supporting community‑based services that promote independence.

The Center for Disability Rights and the Regional Center for Independent Living stand with the ALS community. We remain committed to advancing disability rights, promoting independent living, and ensuring that every person has access to the resources and support they need.



[ID: A beige awareness graphic with black and red text at the top reading “May is ALS Awareness Month,” centered above a large red awareness ribbon that stretches diagonally across the design; along the bottom edge are two organizational logos placed side‑by‑side — the Regional Center for Independent Living logo on the left and the Center for Disability Rights logo on the right]

May is Mental Health Awareness Month 🧠Reminding us that not every struggle is visible, and that mental health is a real ...
05/01/2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month 🧠

Reminding us that not every struggle is visible, and that mental health is a real part of life for many people in the disability community.

For those who live with mental health conditions, daily experiences are often shaped by isolation, misunderstanding, and barriers to support. Awareness means recognizing these realities and committing to access, empathy, and inclusion.

At the Center for Disability Rights and the Regional Center for Independent Living, we advocate for services, accommodations, and community support that enable mental well-being and independence.



[ID: The graphic has a light textured background with small decorative dots and shapes. In the center is a pink illustrated brain surrounded by colorful flowers and leaves in yellow, blue, pink, and green. Large teal text reads “Mental Health Awareness Month,” with smaller pink text below saying “Love yourself and your mental health.” At the bottom are two logos: the Regional Center for Independent Living on the left and the Center for Disability Rights on the right.]

Address

497 State St
Rochester, NY
14608

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+15855467510

Website

https://linktr.ee/cdr_nys

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