By Beth Wade
Donald Campbell is the director of the Atlantic Center for Independent Living Inc., where staff offer support to individuals of any age with any type of disability. In his role, he serves as a powerful advocate.
On a local level, he has worked with individuals whose housing was at-risk. With his help, they were able to avoid homelessness. Campbell also has been instrumental in establishing a disability advocacy group in Atlantic County. Not only that, but he also started a support group for individuals who live with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a group of disorders that affect connective tissue supporting the skin, bones, blood vessels, and other organs and tissues.
Campbell works to create change locally, but he hasn’t stopped there. Campbell also advocates on national level. Currently he’s involved with a push for the passage of the Disability Integration Act, which would ensure that every state provides the same options for long-term care. If passed, those with a disability would have the choice between home-based/community-based supports and institutionalization. In some states, public and private insurances only offer institutionalization. Campbell is working to ensure all individuals with disabilities have the same choices for quality support in their community. The need for more support is vast, and is often not talked about enough. People like Campbell make an important difference in this fight for equality.
Whether he’s writing a letter to the editor, making phone calls to legislators, giving an interview to a reporter, or meeting with a representative, Campbell is passionate about issues that affect his peers. One day, Campbell says, he thinks he may get involved in serving in a public office.
Campbell’s easy-going way and welcoming smile win over people in an instant. He uses his humor and charm in multiple ways, whether he’s fundraising for a good cause or trying to raise awareness and change minds on behalf of those who live with a disability, like himself. He was born with Cerebral Palsy. In his case, it affects his speech, fine motor skills and mobility.
Donald Campbell is an example to others as someone to constantly strives, adjusts, and remains resilient. Recently, he explained his secret to success like this: “I like overcoming things. I see everybody else accomplishing things, and I say, ‘Why not me?’”
