Great Lakes ADA Center Blog
50 Years Strong: Programs You May Not Know Exist Because of the Rehabilitation Act
Blog submitted by Kelley Frake. Published on October 18, 2023.
This year, as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act, it can be easy to forget just how impactful this law was in setting a standard for disability inclusion in federally funded programs across the United States. Most people who work in the ADA world are familiar with how the Rehabilitation Act became the model for the ADA and expanded disability non-discrimination requirements to other areas of employment (not just federal employers) as well as to state and local governments and places of public accommodation. However, what many do not know is how the Rehabilitation Act continues to provide services and supports alongside the ADA 50 years down the road.
While you may be familiar with the commonly used sections of the Rehabilitation Act related to federal employees, contractors and information technology (e.g. Section 501, 504, 508), many are not aware of the various programs, services and activities that were created as a result of this law.
Here are just a few of the programs that were authorized and continue to be supported under the Rehabilitation Act:
Centers for Independent Living (CILs)
Designed and operated by individuals with disabilities, Centers for Independent Living (CILs) work to support community living and independence for people with disabilities. The Centers provide tools, resources, and supports for integrating people with disabilities fully into their communities to promote equal opportunities, independence, and respect. These services can include connecting individuals to local resources, assisting with employment readiness, teaching local transit skills, helping with assistive technology, personal care assistance services, accessible housing options, and more.
Client Assistance Program (CAP)
The purpose of CAP is to advise and inform applicants and individuals with disabilities about the services and benefits they are eligible for under the Rehabilitation Act. This program was later amended to include employment under Title I of the ADA as well. CAP services include informing individuals of their rights in available programs under these laws, including advocacy services. CAP does not provide financial, housing or medical benefits directly to individuals with disabilities.
Protection and Advocacy of Individual Rights (PAIR) – a.k.a P&A Agencies
The PAIR program supports the protection and advocacy system in each state and were designed to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities through legal-based services. PAIR programs advocate on behalf of individuals with significant disabilities to promote community integration, inclusion and full participation in society. Eligible P&A agencies also have the ability to seek legal, administrative, and other appropriate solutions to protect and advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities.
Learn more about the Protection and Advocacy of Individual Rights (PAIR) system
State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services Program
The State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services Program provides grants to states operating VR programs that provide services for individuals with disabilities so that they can obtain competitive integrated employment, or supported employment, and achieve financial independence. Some states may have more than one VR agency, one for individuals who are blind and one for all other individuals with disabilities. State VR agencies may also provide pre-employment transition services to students with disabilities who are eligible for the VR program. VR agencies are tasked with engaging employers and statewide workforce development programs to increase job opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Watch our webinar on the State Vocational Rehabilitation Program
Learn more about the State Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program
Find your State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency
