What we do

CLIENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

The Client Assistance Program (CAP) is a federally funded program that provides information, assistance and advocacy to people with disabilities who are applying for or receiving services under the Rehabilitation Act. Programs under this Act include Vocational Rehabilitation, Independent Living Services and Projects with Industry. In Maine, the CAP is administered by C.A.R.E.S., INC., an agency independent from State government. There are no fees for CAP services.

MISSION

The mission of the Client Assistance Program (CAP) is to inform, advise, assist and, if requested, represent applicants and consumers who are seeking services under the Rehabilitation Act. C.A.R.E.S., INC.. will administer the CAP in a manner that informs and empowers people with disabilities to fully understand and exercise their rights to services. CAP strives to assure that people with disabilities are allowed to make informed choices throughout the vocational rehabilitation and independent living process and are treated with dignity and respect.

HOW CAN THE CLIENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM HELP?

The CAP can help by providing you with information on the services available, time frames for services and by explaining what the federal regulations and state rules say. When there are disagreements, CAP can get directly involved. CAP is required to resolve disagreements using informal methods, to the maximum extent possible, before resorting to administrative or legal remedies.

Examples of CAP activities include:

• Providing information and support that assists you in advocating for yourself
• Providing information and referral to other programs and resources
• Reviewing case records and talking with counselors, supervisors, community rehabilitation providers and others involved in your case
• Helping to develop strategies to resolve disagreements through negotiation, etc.
• Representing you at Mediation or Fair Hearing
• Providing information about Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act

YOUR RIGHTS AS AN APPLICANT OR CLIENT

• To be treated with dignity and respect
• To be provided understandable information about the services available from each program
• To be involved in the selection of your vocational and/or Independent Living goal(s), services, providers, etc.
• To be given services in a timely manner
• To be informed of the Client Assistance Program's services
• To request a change of counselor
• To exercise your right to question and/or appeal any adverse decision

Home