Client Assistance Program (CAP)
Cap Advocates
Suzanne Ames
Suzanne serves all branch offices within the Fresno District of the California Department of Rehabilitation.
WHAT IS CAP?
CIL-Fresno has a contract with the Department of Rehabilitation for an independent Client Assistance Program (CAP). CAP provides persons with disabilities an opportunity to understand their rights and responsibilities under the Rehabilitation Act, and helps with the successful completion of their rehabilitation programs.
CAP SERVICES
The Client Assistance Program informs persons with disabilities about procedures and services, and assists them in resolving difficulties that may arise while receiving Rehabilitation Act funded services.
CAP services include:
- Assisting individuals needing information on eligibility services, and rights in their relationship with Rehabilitation Act funded service providers.
- Acting as liaisons between consumers and Rehabilitation Act service providers.
- Assisting with administrative appeals and fair hearings.
- Assisting with post appeal reviews upon request.
- Providing information and referral services.
- Holding workshops on California Department of Rehabilitation policies, procedures, regulations and other related service information affecting consumers.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR CAP SERVICES?
Applicants, current or former consumers (up to one year after case closure) of the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) or other agencies or programs funded under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, are eligible to use CAP services.
CONTACT CAP IF YOU….
- Are experiencing a delay in response to your request for DOR services.
- Have been told you are ineligible for services and you disagree.
- Have problems that you have not been able to work out with your counselor.
- Have questions about the services and benefits available from the Department of Rehabilitation.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION YOU SHOULD KNOW
- There is no charge for any CAP service.
- CAP serves consumers with all types of disabilities.
- All information gathered by CAP is kept confidential and will not be disclosed without your written permission.
- Sign language and non-English interpreters are available to you at no cost.
TIPS FOR MAKING REHABILITATION WORK FOR YOU
- Be open and honest with your counselor. They will be able to help you if they know what you like or dislike.
- Keep all your appointments. If you cannot keep an appointment, call. Missed appointments reflect poorly on your readiness to work.
- Be patient. Sometimes it takes a long time to process paperwork. Don’t take out your frustration or anger on your counselor.
- Be realistic about your vocational goals. Consider your limitations, labor market conditions, and the limits of what the Department can do.
- Learn your rights and responsibilities. Ask questions. Strive for understanding, cooperation and communication with your counselor.
- Interact with your counselor the way you will be expected to act on a job.