Ms. Shenekia Young is an LMSW and a dedicated social worker with 16 years of experience in program development, nonprofit management, and community advocacy. As a Risk Reduction Coordinator with the American Red Cross, she strengthens community resilience by empowering nonprofit partnerships that mitigate the impact of natural disasters and emergencies. Shenekia holds an Associate of Arts from Mississippi Delta Community College, a Bachelor of Social Work from Delta State University, and a Master of Social Work from Walden University. She is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Kentucky, specializing in Administrative Leadership. Committed to macro-level social work, Shenekia has spent years addressing systemic inequalities, advocating for inclusive policies, and improving services for marginalized residents. Her research focuses on disaster policy collaboration, particularly for disabled individuals in the Mississippi Delta. Her capstone project, "Bridging the Gap: Inclusive Disaster Response for Disabled Communities in the Mississippi Delta," explores person-centered strategies to close critical service gaps in disaster preparedness and response. Shenekia’s work has influenced local, state, and federal programs, leading to policies that better serve low-income families and rural communities. Her expertise in equity-driven disaster response and policy implementation has driven her to promote social justice and equality for marginalized communities. As a change agent, Shenekia remains committed to advocating for sustainable, inclusive solutions that enhance clinical, disaster preparedness, and recovery efforts, ensuring that historically underserved communities.
DSW Showcase Student Presentation
Shenekia Young
LMSW, DSW Candidate
Bridging the Gap: Inclusive Disaster Response for Disabled Residents Residing Within the Mississippi Delta
Concentration - Administrative Leadership
- Tuesday, April 29, 2025 -
- 4:00 pm
Abstract
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.