Independent Group Home Living And Center For Developmental Disabilities Merge

Manorville-based not-for-profit Independent Group Home Living (IGHL) has merged with the Center for Developmental Disabilities (CDD), based in Woodbury, New York.

“This merger represents an exciting opportunity to expand IGHL services beyond Suffolk County, helping hundreds more children and adults with intellectual disabilities,” shared Walter Stockton, CEO, IGHL. “Many of the staff at CDD began their careers at IGHL and both organizations have created similar cultures that promote a family atmosphere.”

IGHL, which was founded in 1978, provides services for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Its annual operating budget of $80 million allows the organization to offer a wide range of medical, occupational, recreational, and educational services. Each year, IGHL provides services to over 5,000 children and adults as well as their families, through its system of 50 group residences, transportation network, day services, family support programs, and imaginative projects. Its mission is “to provide programs, services and support for people with intellectual disabilities so they can realize their full potential as human beings and contributing members of their community.”

CDD, also known as “the Center,” has been a supporter of trying cutting edge new therapies to assist those with intellectual disabilities for the past 50 years. While the cure for autism still remains a medical mystery, CDD’s programs help improve the lives of participants in significant ways. When the Center was founded, there was no legislation in support of autism awareness or schools assisting with student’s needs or organizations to support them. Since then, CDD has been providing services to 450 children and adults through residential, day, and waiver programs.

“The staff at CDD and IGHL has been working closely for many years and our two organizations are a natural fit,” explained Nick Boba, the Executive Director of CDD. “We are very excited about the merger and the opportunity to continue our relationship.”

The partnership will create one of the largest employers on Long Island, with more than 2,300 employees collectively. And, the new organization’s revenue will come in at over $100 million annually.

For more information, visit www.ighl.org.