The Center for Disability Rights (CDR) is pleased to announce the receipt of a $12,815 grant from the Rochester Area Community Foundation, through the Ralph C. Wilson Legacy Fund for Youth Sports. The award allowed them to participate in the National Junior Disability Championships in Denver, Colorado.

Over the past 46-year history, the Rochester Rookies has provided a structured, character-building leadership experience to youth with physical, learning, and developmental disabilities, through participation in track and field training and competitions. It is dedicated to enhancing the quality of lives by teaching athletic skills, fostering independence, building character, and helping the athlete realize their full potential through programs, advocacy, and services.

The Rochester Rookies promotes independence for young individuals with all types of disabilities, aligning with the mission and vision of CDR. CDR is a disability led, not-for-profit Corporation that provides services to people with disabilities and seniors within the framework of an Independent Living Model which promotes independence of people with all types of disabilities, enabling choice in living setting, full access to the community, and control of their life. CDR advocates for the full integration, independence, and civil rights of people with disabilities. Additional information is available at our webpage, www.cdrnys.org.

Rochester Area Community Foundation engages philanthropists and community partners to improve our eight-county region by focusing on creating an equitable community and strengthening our region’s vitality. Since 1972, the Community Foundation has awarded more than $575 million in grants and scholarships. For more information, visit www.racf.org.

The Rochester Rookies would like to congratulate the Rochester Area Community Foundation for celebrating their 50th anniversary and thank them for their generous and ongoing support of our program, and helping to provide a safe, healthy, and active lifestyle to each disabled athlete of our program.