This capstone project explores the critical role of social workers and cross-sector collaborations in developing inclusive disaster preparedness strategies for individuals with disabilities. It consists of three scholarly components designed to bridge service gaps and enhance equitable disaster interventions. The first component is a comprehensive literature review that critically analyzes existing research and current disaster preparedness strategies, highlighting service gaps and barriers faced by individuals with disabilities. This review is supported by empirical evidence to inform best practices.

The second component introduces a theoretical framework tailored for social workers and professionals in leadership and administrative roles. This framework provides guiding principles and strategic approaches to strengthen disaster planning, ensuring disability-inclusive policies and interventions. The final component focuses on practical implementation, developing interventions that promote cultural competence, person-centered approaches, policy development, and education. This initiative engages social workers, disaster relief organizations, medical professionals, and policymakers in a collaborative effort to integrate disability-inclusive strategies into emergency preparedness and response efforts. Central to this approach is the inclusion of personal experiences from residents with disabilities, ensuring that interventions are responsive to their unique needs, geographic challenges, and levels of disability.
By advancing research, theory, and practice, this capstone aims to drive systemic change in disaster response, ensuring that individuals with disabilities are not only considered but prioritized in disasters.