Bruce Darling, co-founder and CEO of CDR, is a beacon of advocacy in the disability rights movement. With nearly four decades of dedication to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities, he has been a formidable force in pushing for systemic change and fostering independent living solutions. His leadership at the Center for Disability Rights (CDR) in Rochester, New York, has been instrumental in numerous initiatives that have significantly impacted public policy, community organizations, and the lives of many individuals.

Early Foundations and Educational Pathways

Bruce's commitment to disability rights is rooted in his personal experiences with educational challenges associated with being neurodivergent. Growing up when testing and accommodations for Disabled students were scarce, he faced numerous hurdles. His mother, Norita, played a pivotal role in his early life, providing the necessary support that allowed him to navigate these challenges successfully. He graduated from McQuaid Jesuit High School in 1983 and proceeded to the University of Rochester, where he completed a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1986. His studies were diverse, covering literature, psychology, sociology, photography, filmmaking, and history, with additional business courses at the Simon School. This multidisciplinary approach equipped him with a rich understanding of various fields, setting the stage for his later work in advocacy.

In pursuit of further education, Bruce earned a Master of Science in Public Relations Management from Syracuse University in 1989. The program's rigorous curriculum included journalism, public relations, emergency communications planning, and interagency relations. These areas of study provided him with advanced skills in communications and management, which would prove crucial in his advocacy efforts.

Launching the Center for Disability Rights

1990 marked a significant milestone for Bruce as he co-founded the Center for Disability Rights (CDR) in Rochester, New York. The organization was established to promote the rights of individuals with disabilities and advocate for independent living. Under his leadership, CDR has addressed critical issues such as accessible housing, public transportation, and alternatives to institutionalization.

One of Bruce's notable initiatives was the 2000 project to transition individuals from nursing homes to community settings, a pioneering effort launched without additional funding. This project has successfully helped hundreds of individuals live independently, aligning with the principles of the 1999 Olmstead decision, which advocates for services to be provided in the most integrated setting possible.

Extensive Advocacy and Policy Work

Bruce's advocacy efforts extend far beyond the local level. He has played a pivotal role in advancing policies that promote community living for individuals with disabilities both nationally and in New York State. Some of his notable accomplishments include:

Assisting in the development and implementation of the Community First Choice Option.
Collaborating with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on the national Money Follows the Person Demonstration Program.
Leading efforts to file complaints with the Health and Human Services Office of Civil Rights.
Organizing and participating in direct action activities to ensure the practical application of the Olmstead decision.

Bruce has also authored several public policy analyses on disability rights issues, including the influential "Early to Bed/Late to Rise," a 200-page evaluation of community-based personal assistance services published by CDR in 1993.

Many of the recommendations from this report have been implemented through the development of consumer-directed personal assistance programs in multiple counties in upstate New York.

Activism and the Summer of ADAPT

His leadership highlights Bruce's activism in the Summer of ADAPT in 2017, where he orchestrated a series of protests over 36 days across the United States. This monumental effort spanned from Arizona to Alaska and Maine to Miami, marking it as one of the most extensive disability rights protests in duration and geographic scope. His leadership during this period underscored his commitment to advocating for disability rights nationally.

Recognition and Awards

Bruce's dedication to disability rights has earned him numerous accolades and recognitions throughout his career. Some of the most prestigious awards he has received include:

Inductee, New York State Disability Rights Hall of Fame, New York State Independent Living Council, 2019
Lead On Award, Access Living, 2018
Rudy Frank Award for Activism (Accepted for ADAPT), Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, 2017
Frank Harkin Memorial Award, National Council on Independent Living, 2016
Sally Johnston Advocacy Award, Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Association of New York State, 2015
Justice for All Disability Rights Award, American Association of People with Disabilities, 2011
Dr. Henry Viscardi Jr. Advocacy Award, New York State Assembly, 2007
Corey Rowley National Advocacy Award, National Council on Independent Living, 2004
Francis Olivero Advocacy Award, New York State Association of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services, 2004
Robin Shaikin Systems Advocacy Award, New York State Independent Living Council, 2001
Region II Advocacy Award, National Council on Independent Living, 2001

Personal Life and Interests

Outside his advocacy work, Bruce leads a fulfilling personal life. He and his husband are proud parents to two border collies, and he finds joy and relaxation in their companionship. He also engages in gardening, cooking, and various crafting projects, which provide him with moments of tranquility away from his demanding professional life.

Philanthropic Efforts

In addition to his advocacy, Bruce is committed to philanthropy, regularly supporting disability and LGBTQ+ organizations. His dedication to volunteerism is noteworthy, especially during the early years of CDR, when his efforts were predominantly volunteer-driven.

Legacy and Continued Impact

As CDR's Bruce, President and CEO, continues to champion the rights of individuals with disabilities, his work remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for many. His career reflects not just his accomplishments but also his unwavering commitment to social justice and the inherent dignity of every individual.

Bruce E. Darling's journey and achievements paint a portrait of a man dedicated to advocacy, leadership, and equality. His influence on public policy, community organization, and individual lives will undoubtedly be felt for generations, making his legacy a lasting pillar in the fight for disability rights.

Bruce Darling | Co-founder, President and CEO of the Center for Disability Rights (CDR)| Rochester, NY