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The Autism Society of North Carolina is a provider of community-based skills training services through the Community Alternatives Program for Persons with Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (CAP-MR/DD). These services are funded through a Medicaid waiver. Various CAP services are provided by the Autism Society in the Asheville, Elizabeth City, Fayetteville, Piedmont Triad (Greensboro-High Point-Winston-Salem), Triangle (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill), New Bern, and Wilmington areas.
The instruction provided through this program is intended to teach children and adults with autism important skills related to self-sufficiency, recreation and leisure, domestic skills, independence and community skills. By teaching these skills the program helps to keep individuals with autism in their communities and prevent unnecessary institutionalization.
Eligibility Requirements: Virtually all children and adults with a diagnosis of autism who reside in North Carolina are eligible for these services. Recipients do need to have a CAP slot and that is coordinated through the Local Area Mental Health Program’s single portal division.
While family income is a consideration when applying for other Medicaid services, financial need does not affect one’s eligibility for CAP services. Age is also not a factor.
If a person applies for and receives a CAP slot, that does not guarantee the availability of services. There are long waiting lists for these services in most areas. Usually, families with the greatest needs are given higher priority in the selection process. Regardless, all families are encouraged to contact their local Developmental Disabilities Specialist to make him or her aware of their needs.
Autism Society of North Carolina Advocacy staff are also available as a resource for explaining how to apply for CAP services. To request advocacy assistance, locate the your regional parent advocate from the staff directory list or complete the online advocacy information & request form.
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