DRC's Client Assistance Program
PDF Client Assistance Program (CAP) Brochure
PDF Client Assistance Program (CAP) Rack Card
The Disability Rights Center of Kansas
The Disability Rights Center of Kansas (DRC) is a private non-profit agency. We are not a part of the government. We also do not provide “traditional” disability services like long term care or health care. DRC provides free advocacy and legal services for Kansans with disabilities.
DRC has attorneys and advocates to help protect the legal and civil rights of people with disabilities. One of the ways that we do this is through the Client Assistance Program (CAP).
Client Assistance Program (CAP)
People with disabilities have many talents to offer to the workforce. Everyone can work with the right services and supports.
The Client Assistance Program (CAP) was created by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. It helps Americans with disabilities who want to work. The CAP helps protect your right to the services of the Rehabilitation Act are protected. These services can help you get or keep a job.
Who does the CAP help?
You can get services through the CAP if you are:
- A client or applicant of Kansas Rehabilitation Services (also called Vocational Rehabilitation – VR); OR
- A client of an Independent Living Center; OR
- A client of Projects With Industries (PWI); OR
- Served by other programs under the Rehabilitation Act.
You also must:
- Want to work;
- Have a disability that makes it hard for you to work; and
- Need supports or services to help you have a job.
CAP Services DRC Provides:
- Information about your employment rights
- Referrals to other agencies that may be able to better help with your situation
- Self-Advocacy Assistance
- Advocacy
- Legal Representation
Your Rights in the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) System
You have the right to:
- Apply for VR services and benefits
- Hear back from VR with a decision within 60 days of applying
- Receive quality and affordable services. These services should help you meet your employment and independent living goals.
- Have your information kept private and confidential
- Work with your service provider to choose your goals and services. Your goals and services should be something that you agree with. They should fit your personal strengths.
- Take an active role in planning your Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). Your IPE should not be changed without your input.
- Access any aids and services that you need (i.e. Braille, large print, tape and sign language interpreters);
- Effectively advocate for changes if you are not happy with KRS services. You can request an executive review or fair hearing. We can help you with the appeals process. We can also help you advocate for what you want out of VR before you go through the review or fair hearing process. Contact the Disability Rights Center about your situation.
What can DRC do under the CAP?
- Answer questions VR services
- Answer questions about the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disability Act
- Clarify VR’s rules about their services
- Explain how VR’s rules and policies apply to you
- Help protect your rights as a client, former client, or an applicant for employment services
- Help with eligibility questions or problems that you have
- Help with any problems with your Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE)
- Help you identify problems and find solutions
- Help you advocate with VR for your needed services
- Give you advice and assistance with the appeal process
DRC Cannot Help With…
- Workers Compensation
- Social Security eligibility or appeals
- Divorce
- Child custody or Child In Need Of Care cases
- Criminal representation
- Estate planning
- Will drafting
- Civil legal representation not related to disability rights