About — Opengate

Our past, present, and future

Created by families, for families

Opengate was founded over 50 years ago by two strong, forward-thinking women who each had a child with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Since then, Opengate has evolved into a premier community-based agency that continues to expand services for those it supports. While staffing and funding challenges still exist today, the Opengate team remains dedicated to its mission of meeting people where they are to help them lead safe, comfortable, and happy lives.

Our Story
Our Mission
Our Leadership Team
Board of Directors

Karla Lissauer, founder, with daughter Joyce

Our Story

Over 50 years of roots in our community.

Opengate was founded in 1969 by two strong, forward-thinking women, Edith Gray and Karla Lissauer, who were pioneers in the service of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Founded by families for families.

Edith and Karla each had a child with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They recognized that an institutional setting was not an acceptable choice for their adult children. Instead, they were committed to overcoming bureaucratic and funding obstacles to provide a positive, home-like environment that would allow their children to live fulfilling lives. They founded Opengate based on this vision.

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Opengate today—honoring its founders’ vision.

Opengate now supports about 150 people in its community-based residential and day services. Often residents transition from home, with many aging out of school-aged programs. Some have been at Opengate since its founding. Opengate is committed to providing dignity of life for all and often cares for people with behavior difficulties whom other agencies turn away. The agency has grown to include 13 community-based residences in several Hudson Valley neighborhoods, along with its day habilitation program in lower Westchester County, community habilitation, and supportive employment services.

The people who live at Opengate residences are drivers of their daily routines and are supported in developing independence, taking part in their community, pursuing new experiences, and exercising self-advocacy. They receive care around the clock from Opengate’s dedicated team, who ensure their homes are safe and comfortable—and that they are treated like family.

Our Mission

Founded by forward-thinking families, Opengate’s mission is to offer innovative programs that provide the extraordinary people we support with the highest possible quality of life. Our person-centered approach, well-trained staff, and spirit of compassion ensure that everyone who lives with us or participates in our community-based programs is treated with dignity and respect while given choices, guidance, and the opportunity to grow.