National Association of Protection and Advocacy Systems

The National Association of Protection and Advocacy Systems (NAPAS) is a national, voluntary, non-profit membership organization for the federally mandated nationwide network of disability rights agencies, protection and advocacy systems (P&As), and client assistance programs (CAPs). Established in 1977, NAPAS facilitates coordination of its members; represents the needs of members to federal agencies and congress; and provides technical assistance and training to member agencies that enhance their effectiveness on the state and local level. NAPAS offers many services including monitoring the activities of legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the federal government as they relate to individuals with disabilities and providing information exchange. It also represents the P&A and CAP network on national coalitions, boards and task forces.