NACCHO’s Capacity Assessment Tool (CAT) helps local health departments and community-based organizations evaluate how well equity is integrated into emergency preparedness and response. The tool focuses on the needs of populations that are often underserved in emergencies, including individuals with disabilities, justice-involved populations, people who are unhoused or unstably housed, and racially and ethnically marginalized communities.

The CAT guides users through a structured self-assessment, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement across key domains such as organizational readiness, data use, partnerships, communication, and planning for vulnerable populations. Each section includes best practices to support improvement efforts and is paired with additional resources to deepen learning and provide practical strategies for implementation.

By using the CAT, organizations can strengthen inclusive practices and ensure emergency plans are more equitable, responsive, and effective in serving disproportionately impacted communities.

Click here to access an online, interactive version of this tool.