History of Cedar Lake

Cedar Lake is a private not-for-profit association that originally incorporated out of common concern for persons with mental retardation and the lack of adequate residential facilities within our geographic area.

Cedar Lake was founded in 1970 by Louisville-area parents of persons with intellectual disabilities. Cedar Lake Lodge began providing campus services in 1974, and added “community-based” service options, Cedar Lake Residences, in 1989. Cedar Lake is a faith-based organization, and is formally affiliated with the Lutheran Church.

Collectively, Cedar Lake operations employ more than 300 staff members and have an annual operating budget in excess of $15 million, providing services to approximately 200 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Cedar Lake Lodge Aerial View
October 1982

Cedar Lake Lodge Evergreen Building,
February 1981

Cedar Lake Lodge Aerial View
Winter 1980