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Supporting People to Live, Work and Take Part in Their Community

The New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) is responsible for coordinating services for New Yorkers with developmental disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, Prader-Willi syndrome and other neurological impairments. We provide services directly through state operations and through a statewide network of nonprofit service providing agencies.

Resources Information for Self-Advocates and Families

Self-Advocacy

Find resources on this page to help people with developmental disabilities advocate for themselves and to support their friends and families in advocating for them.

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Family Resources

This page is for family members and other important people in a person’s life - such as friends, foster parents, and legal or personal representatives - who help support and advocate for them.

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What's Happening

Take Part in National Disability Employment Awareness Month

September 30, 2026 | 3:12 PM ET

Dear Friends and Colleagues,A job is about more than a paycheck. It is about purpose, self-sufficiency, independence, connection, and having the opportunity to contribute...

You're Invited to a CAS/CANS Information Sessions!

OPWDD is hosting a series of in-person and virtual informational sessions throughout October and November to help people and families understand the importance of CAS and CANS assessments.

$25 Million in Regional Disability Health Clinic Awards Announced

New York University Dentistry Oral Health Center for People with Disabilities, the Largest Single Awardee, Received $5 Million To Improve Oral Health for People with Disabilities

Cultural Perspectives on Living with Developmental Disabilities

It is my pleasure to announce the release of the video series, “Cultural Perspectives on Living with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities,” developed with our partners at the Georgetown University National Center for Cultural Competence.

Accessing Life Podcast: How To Advocate to Your Community Leaders

"Sharing your story is what makes change." But how do we make sure our stories actually drive action? Listen to the episode to get perspective from someone who is both an advocate and a lawmaker.

Public Meetings

OPWDD holds quarterly public meetings to share new information about services and supports, and to provide the people we support, their family members and the people who support them the opportunity to provide feedback.

OPWDD Data

OPWDD is dedicated to providing high-quality supports and services to New Yorkers with developmental disabilities. Funded largely through Medicaid, these services rely on contributions from federal, state, and local governments. This data page offers insights into the people served by OPWDD, the types of services provided, and our resource stewardship, helping keep you informed of our ongoing commitment to supporting full, meaningful lives based on individual needs and choices.

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