Fifty years ago people with intellectual and developmental disabilities had few options for opportunity and progress, and often were housed in institutions or schools with deplorable conditions. Involved parents intervened in 1969 and began writing Opengate’s 50-year history. They took a stand, not only for the rights of their own children, but for all individuals with disabilities who deserve to be a valuable part of their communities.
Blog Archives
Inclusion for Adults with Disabilities is Vital
We are far away from the times when adults with disabilities were warehoused in places like Staten Island’s Willowbrook School. Additionally, we’ve made progress in our country with the creation of agencies such as Opengate which offer real homes…
Oh! How our Garden Grows!
Eagle Scout Inspired by Uncle to Enhance Greenhouse Garden Opengate residents who love working in our greenhouse now have more space for planting, growing and harvesting vegetables thanks to a community service project completed by Eagle Scout Chris…
“What will happen when I’m gone?” Asks Parents of Adults with Developmental Disabilities
This is a critical question for parents of adults with developmental disabilities, especially those who have been not only the parent, but the caretaker of their child. What will happen to the adult child when they are no longer present…
Celebrating 25 Years of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
As Americans, we only need to reflect on the Willowbrook scandal to realize that the rights of people with disabilities were severely unfair. The blatant segregation of these individuals, and hindering them from integrating into society, continues to shame us.…
Tagged with: 25th anniversary of ADA, ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act, civil rights movement, progress for people with disabilities
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