Client Assistance Program (CAP)

The Client Assistance Program (CAP) is a federally funded grant designed to assist individuals with disabilities in resolving challenges they may experience with federally funded rehabilitation programs. In North Dakota, these include the State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program, Centers for Independent Living (CILs), and Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation Programs.

In North Dakota, CAP is administered by the Protection & Advocacy Project (P&A). 

  • All paperwork and conversations with CAP clients are private. 
  • Personal information can be released only if you have permitted it in writing. 
  • No one will be contacted on your behalf unless you have given CAP permission to do so.

What Does the Client Assistance Program Do?

How CAP Helps

What can CAP do to help you?

  • Inform, advise, and help you understand available services and benefits provided by VR, the CILs, and Tribal VR Programs.
  • Explain what you, as an applicant or recipient, need to do to get services and benefits.
  • Assist and advocate in the relationships with projects, programs, and services provided by these agencies.
  • Investigate questions or complaints and help you work with your counselor to try to resolve the problem.
  • Pursue administrative, legal, or other appropriate remedies to ensure the protection of your rights.
  • Assist in appealing decisions made by your counselor.
  • Help you access services through individual and systemic advocacy.
  • Provide information about services and benefits available under the Rehabilitation Act and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Your Rights Under the Rehabilitation Act:

  • To apply, or to reapply, for services.
  • To make meaningful and informed choices about the services you will receive.
  • To participate in the planning of your goals and your services.
  • Confidentiality of your case record.
  • To review information in your case file.
  • To appeal any decision regarding the provision of services you disagree with using administrative review, mediation, or fair hearing.
  • To consult with your counselor before your case is closed.
  • To be informed of the availability of the Client Assistance Program.
  • To receive services without regard to race, national origin, sex, age or disability.

Making Contact

When should I call CAP?

  • When you have questions or need information or help regarding issues with VR, the CILs, or Tribal VR Programs.
  • When you have been denied services by VR, the CILs, or Tribal VR Programs.
  • If you think the process for accessing services is taking too long.
  • If you have trouble communicating with your counselor.
  • If you are not getting the services you need or if you disagree with the types of services being provided.
  • If your case has been closed and you disagree with this action.

How Do I Contact CAP?

Phone: 701-328-2950
Toll free: 1-800-472-2670
ND Relay TTY: 711
E-mail: panda_intake@nd.gov
Fax: (701) 328-3934

CAP Resources

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The intent of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is to help individuals with disabilities overcome barriers to accessing, obtaining, maintaining, or returning to employment. VR services are designed to support individuals in reaching their employment goals by providing individualized assistance based on their interests, abilities, and needs. Services may include career counseling, vocational assessments, job training, education and credential support, job placement assistance, workplace accommodations, and other supports that help individuals prepare for and succeed in competitive integrated employment.

Vocational Rehabilitation recognizes that each person’s path to employment is unique. By working with individuals to identify goals, develop plans, and connect with resources, VR helps people with disabilities have greater independence, economic opportunity, and meaningful participation in the workforce.

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Client Assistance Program

What are Vocational Rehabilitation Services?