New Yorkers who can’t afford mediation or other dispute resolution services may soon have a stronger safety net, thanks to a new philanthropic push from the New York State Dispute Resolution Association (NYSDRA). The organization has officially unveiled the Lawrence H. Cooke Dispute Resolution Legacy Fund, a multi-year initiative aimed at tearing down financial barriers that keep residents from resolving conflicts outside the courtroom.
The $1.5 million campaign honors a pioneering judicial leader and seeks to strengthen community-based mediation and dispute resolution for generations to come.
The fund is named for the late Honorable Lawrence H. Cooke, a former Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals who was a vocal advocate for alternative dispute resolution. His vision, according to organizers, was a justice system where individuals and communities could settle disagreements constructively and fairly without stepping foot in a courthouse.
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Over the next three years, the fundraising campaign aims to hit the $1.5 million mark, creating a permanent financial resource to bolster community-based dispute resolution efforts statewide.
Investing in the Future of Conflict Resolution
Money raised through the Cooke Legacy Fund will be used to reinforce New York’s network of Community Dispute Resolution Centers (CDRCs) and expand access to mediation services, with a particular focus on individuals and communities that face financial or other obstacles. The fund will also support innovation and long-term sustainability in mediation, restorative practices, and new approaches to conflict resolution. By encouraging early and constructive dispute resolution, the initiative aims to help New Yorkers sidestep costly, drawn-out litigation while also reducing pressure on the court system. In the process, it seeks to carry forward Judge Cooke’s legacy of accessible, effective dispute resolution for future generations.
Distinguished Leadership and a Shared Commitment
Leading the campaign is Hon. Lawrence K. Marks, former Chief Administrative Judge of the New York State Unified Court System, whose career has been marked by a dedication to improving access to justice and fostering stronger ties between courts and the communities they serve. Marks reflected on the late judge’s influence: “Chief Judge Lawrence H. Cooke challenged us to imagine a justice system that reached beyond the courthouse and into our communities.” He added that Cooke’s vision has strengthened families, neighborhoods, schools, and local businesses for more than forty years, and that building this permanent endowment honors both his legacy and a shared responsibility to carry it forward.
George Cooke, the late judge’s son, is serving as an ambassador for the Legacy Fund.
The initiative brings together judicial leaders, dispute resolution pioneers, practitioners, community partners, and supporters who are all committed to keeping these essential services accessible and sustainable.
The Launch Celebrated at NYSDRA’s Annual Conference
The Cooke Legacy Fund was officially introduced to the dispute resolution community on October 9, 2026, by Theresa Hobbs, NYSDRA’s Executive Director. The announcement came during the organization’s Annual Conference, “Rooted in Peace: One Tree, Many Branches,” held at the Crowne Plaza Albany – The Desmond Hotel.
At the conference, NYSDRA also highlighted a special opportunity for early backers. Individuals and organizations that make a financial commitment by December 31, 2026, will be recognized as Founding Donors of the Lawrence H. Cooke Dispute Resolution Legacy Fund. This designation goes beyond simply being a contributor—it marks them as partners in building a lasting legacy of accessible conflict resolution across New York State. Their names will be permanently honored as Founding Donors, reflecting the crucial role they played in launching the initiative.
Building a Legacy That Endures
At its core, the Lawrence H. Cooke Dispute Resolution Legacy Fund is an investment in the idea that conflict doesn’t have to divide communities, and that accessible dispute resolution can genuinely change lives.
NYSDRA is calling on individuals, foundations, businesses, legal professionals, and organizations that value access to justice to join the effort. Contributions will go toward creating a sustainable foundation for mediation and conflict resolution services throughout New York State.
For more information about the Lawrence H. Cooke Dispute Resolution Legacy Fund or to make a donation, visit nysdra.org/cooke-legacy-fund.
The New York State Dispute Resolution Association (NYSDRA) is a statewide nonprofit dedicated to advancing mediation, restorative practices, and other forms of alternative dispute resolution. Working alongside Community Dispute Resolution Centers and other partners, NYSDRA strives to expand access to constructive conflict resolution services and strengthen communities across New York State.
Theresa Hobbs
NYSDRA
+1 518-687-2240
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Why it matters: This endowment aims to make conflict resolution a permanent, accessible option for New Yorkers who might otherwise be priced out of mediation, potentially reducing court backlogs and helping communities resolve disputes before they escalate into litigation.
