NYS Client Assistance Program (CAP)
CAP is Committed to Your Success in Employment!
The Client Assistance Program (CAP) is a statewide network of skilled advocates
that assist New Yorkers with disabilities in getting the training,
equipment and services needed for employment.
CAP advocates assist New Yorkers who apply or are receiving services from
Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities
(VESID). CAP is administered by the NYS Commission on Quality of Care
and is independent of VESID.
How can CAP assist me?
CAP advocates can explain how the VESID system works, discuss your options and review your
Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE).
CAP is committed to: resolving disputes and complaints with VESID; speeding up access to services; and linking you up with a wide range of services and training leading to employment.
When should I call CAP?
At any point in the process of obtaining training, services and employment: When you apply for VESID and have questions; when you disagree with VESID on your goals and services; when you have problems or delays in obtaining services; and if you object to your case being closed.
Do I get to choose my employment or career goals?
Your employment and career goals should reflect your interests and abilities. VESID counselors should work with you as a full partner in developing these goals. If you believe your IPE does not reflect your interests and abilities, call CAP.
What if I want to challenge a service denial?
CAP will work with VESID counselors to negotiate a solution to your complaint. If negotiation is unsuccessful, CAP can accompany you to mediation or represent you at: administrative review; fair hearing; and/or legal action.
What if I have an Independent Living Complaint?
CAP can assist in resolving complaints and disputes with independent living centers. For assistance in resolving independent living issues contact:
NYS CAP Coordinator
NYS Commission on Quality of Care
402 State Street,
Schenectady, NY 12305-2397
1-800-624-4143 (Voice / TTY)
How do I contact CAP with VESID questions/concerns?
Call or write the following CAP office that serves your county:
| Area | Center / Counties Served |
|---|---|
| New York City | Center for Independence of the Disabled in
New York, Inc. 841 Broadway, Suite 301 New York, New York 10003 (212) 674-2300 (Voice / TTY) Counties served: Bronx, Kings, Manhattan, Queens and Richmond. |
| Hudson Valley | Capital District
Center for Independence, Inc. 875 Central Avenue, South 4 Albany, New York 12206 (518) 459-6422 (Voice / TTY) Email: cap@cdciweb.com Counties served: Albany, Clinton, Columbia, Essex, Franklin, Greene, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren and Washington. Westchester Independent Living Center |
| Western NY | 497 State Street Rochester, New York 14608 (585) 442-6470 (Voice / TTY) Counties served: Chemung, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Tompkins, Wayne and Yates. Western NY Independent Living Project, Inc. 3108 Main Street Buffalo, New York 14214 (716) 836-0822 (Voice / TTY) Counties served: Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans and Wyoming. |
| Central NY | Resource Center for
Independent Living, Inc. 409 Columbia Street Utica, New York 13502 (315) 797-4642 (315) 797-5837 (TTY) Counties served: Broome, Cayuga, Chenango, Clinton, Cortland, Delaware, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Montgomery, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, Otsego, St. Lawrence, Tioga and Tompkins. |
| Long Island | Herricks Community Center 999 Herricks Road New Hyde Park, New York 11040 (516) 248-2222 (516) 877-2627 (TTY) County served: Nassau Long Island Advocacy Center |