Every ten years since 1790, as required by the Constitution, the federal government conducts a census to find out how many people are living in the United States and where they live.  The Census is used to distribute political power, determining not only how many representatives each state will have but the legislative boundaries within every state.  The census data is also used to determine how over $300 billion in federal funding every year is spent on education, health care, transportation and other vital areas.  The basic Census questionnaire takes less than 10 minutes to complete, but during the 2000 Census millions of people were not counted—including disproportionate numbers of African Americans and other minorities.  As a result their communities lost out on political representation and needed funding for services.  What can we do to ensure this Census is as accurate as possible?

1. Fill out your Census form when it arrives; urge/help others to do so.
2. Let members of your community know about the 1.4 million temporary jobs available with the Census.
   
3. Encourage your organization, employer, church or other group to become an official 2010 partner.