Driven by Families, Enriching Lives

OUR STORY
OUR MISSION
LEADERSHIP TEAM
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Finding Happiness at Opengate After a Long, Painful Journey

“Opengate has been a Godsend for my son, Jason, who has lived with a seizure disorder and intellectual disabilities since birth. Thanks to Opengate, Jason now has hope, a direction, and is on a path to a fulfilling, happy life. This is extremely significant after all the years he had felt so alone and disengaged. It has been a long, painful journey for Jason and our entire family.

We will be forever grateful to Opengate for transforming our lives, helping us rebuild our family unit, and enabling us to lead an everyday family life. This is something we never thought would have been possible 12 years ago. Jason has found a home and a place where he can be himself. We are extremely happy knowing that he receives the best care and attention, and is truly understood. I will be forever indebted to Opengate.  As president of the Board of Directors at Opengate, I  am so happy to be able to give back by helping to fulfill the Opengate mission.”

 – Dr. Thomas Lester, Chairperson, Board of Directors at Opengate

Our Past, Present, and Future

Opengate was established in 1969 by Edith Gray and Karla Lissauer, two visionary women who had adult children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Recognizing that institutional settings could not offer a quality life for their children, they sought to overcome bureaucratic and funding challenges to create an environment where people could thrive. Their efforts led to the founding of Opengate, dedicated to providing a positive, home-like atmosphere that enables residents to lead fulfilling lives in accordance with their vision.

Opengate Today: Creating Lasting Change for Individuals with Disabilities, Upholding Our Founders' Vision

Opengate remains committed to making a positive impact in the lives of people with disabilities, honoring the vision of our founders, Edith Gray and Karla Lissauer. Today, we continue to foster a nurturing and empowering environment that promotes independence, inclusion, and growth for all residents. Through innovative programs and dedicated support, we strive to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. Our unwavering commitment to quality care and community engagement upholds the legacy of our founders as we work toward a brighter future for those we serve.

Currently, Opengate offers vocational training, therapeutic programs, recreational activities, social outlets, and skills training in areas such as money management and cooking. Our mission is to promote personal growth and community integration in a compassionate environment. What began as two houses with a handful of people has evolved into a robust network of day programs and 12 residential sites located in Somers, with others in Yorktown, Mohegan Lake, Ossining, and Pleasantville.

We support approximately 150 adults who have transitioned from home or aged out of school programs, many of whom have been with Opengate since its inception. We are deeply committed to ensuring dignity, respect, and a high quality of life for all, including those with behavioral challenges who may be turned away by other organizations.

Over the years, Opengate has expanded its reach to include community-based residences across various neighborhoods in the Hudson Valley, along with a day habilitation program in Lower Westchester County, community habilitation services, and supportive employment programs, all designed to help people with disabilities thrive and lead fulfilling, meaningful lives.

Residents of Opengate's facilities actively shape their daily routines, fostering independence, participating in their communities, exploring new experiences, and practicing self-advocacy. They receive around-the-clock care from Opengate's dedicated team, who work tirelessly to create safe, comfortable, and welcoming homes. 

In 2025, Opengate announced its merger with CAREERS Support Solutions, which opened a new chapter rooted in shared values and a unified mission: to help people with disabilities find meaningful employment.

Our Mission

Founded by visionary families, Opengate’s mission is to ensure that the people we support experience the highest possible quality of life. Through our person-centered approach, innovative programs, and a dedicated, well-trained staff, we foster a deep spirit of compassion. Everyone who lives with us or participates in our community-based programs is treated with dignity and respect and provided with meaningful choices, guidance, and opportunities for personal growth.

Our Leadership Team

Board of Directors

  • Dr. Thomas Lester

    Chairperson

  • Dr. Claudia Sickinger-Harris

    Vice Chairperson

  • Mary Rolla

    Treasurer

  • John G. Nicolich, Esq.

    Secretary

  • Tom Tchang

    Director

  • Paulette White

    Director

  • Joseph Murray

    Director