Also called intellectual disabilities - are characterized by significant impairments in intellectual skills and in daily living skills. Developmental disabilities can be present at birth or have an onset during childhood.

The American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities is a leading professional organization dedicated to supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They offer comprehensive information about the definition of intellectual disabilities.

Developmental Disabilities can have many causes, including genetic or environmental causes, diseases, or, in rare instances, birth trauma or traumatic brain injury early in life. For some developmental disabilities the causes are not yet well understood.

Services for people with developmental disabilities in New York are coordinated by the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). New York State has specific criteria for determining if an individual is eligible to receive services for a developmental disability. Refer to their Eligibility for OPWDD Services - Important Facts for more detailed information.

Mountain Lake Services provides services for people with developmental disabilities in Essex County, NY. We have regulatory oversight from OPWDD but we are a private, not-for-profit organization. We are a chapter of NYSARC, a statewide organization founded by family members of people with developmental disabilities. We have a strong value for family connections, and our agency is overseen by a Board of Directors that includes individuals with developmental disabilities and family members.