Bob Dole makes gift to KU disabilities center

Former U.S. Sen. Bob Dole has made a gift of $10,000 to the University of Kansas Research and Training Center on Independent Living (RTC/IL). Founded in 1980, the RTC/IL conducts disability research and provides training designed to enhance independent living for people with disabilities.

Dole played an integral role in the 1990 passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and has a physical disability himself. He was interested in supporting the center because of his long-standing interest in and advocacy on behalf of Americans with disabilities. 

“KU’s Research and Training Center on Independent Living is making a meaningful impact in the lives of those with disabilities,” he said. “Disabled Americans are just like everyone else in this country – they want to work hard, achieve their goals and live life fully. Through the center’s research and direct involvement with the disabled, these Americans are able to maximize their potential each and every day.”

“We appreciate Senator Dole’s advocacy efforts for helping to pass the Americans with Disabilities Act,” said RTC/IL Director Glen White. “This gift will honor and continue Senator Dole’s desire to improve the lives of people with disabilities as they more fully participate in the community.”

The mission of the RTC/IL is to further independent living for people with disabilities by collaborating with consumers on productive research and by using innovative methods to disseminate useful knowledge. For more than 30 years, teams of researchers, students and staff have partnered with people with disabilities, families, service providers, advocates and government officials across the U.S. and the world to improve the ability of people with disabilities to live independently in their communities.

“This reflects the way Senator Dole's work throughout his career has been one of teamwork including both breadth and depth,” said Martha Hodgesmith, associate director of the RTC/IL. “Our thanks for this gift comes from our teams past, present and future.”