A Census is an official count or survey of a population, typically recording various details of individuals. Every ten years a questionnaire is taken that records everyone living at your address on April 1st. This data is then used to inform funding for services including fire stations, schools, clinics, and representation that can affect your community.
How does it affect representation?
There are 435 seats within the house of representatives. These seats are distributed to the 50 states based upon population. By having an accurate census response, it helps your state get the correct number of seats. Every state gets at least one seat, but states with larger populations get more seats.
How is the data used?
When there are more people, there are more needs for public services, so the census is used by the government to inform funding decisions each year. The census data is also used by non-profits for their services, business to create jobs, and even students for school projects. By understanding how the population changes it helps us shape communities for the better.
How to take the census?
In April of 2020 you will receive an invite to a simple questionnaire. You can complete the questionnaire online, by phone, or sent it by mail. The Clark County Health Department will allow the public access to a computer on site to complete the questionnaire online. Everyone will be giving an access code for online questionnaire completion from the U.S census Bureau, this code will allow individuals to complete the questionnaire online. Do not stress if your access code is lost, or misplaced. Individuals can still access the online question, simply enter your address when asked. If you do not respond to the invitation a census taker will follow-up and assist you.
How can I be more involved?
The U.S Bureau is recruiting to fill hundreds of thousands of positions across the country to assist with the 2020 census count. Candidates must complete an online job application. The application includes assessment questions about your education, work, and other experience. The application can be found on the 2020 census website. www.2020census.gov You will need a few things to complete this application: Social security number, home address (physical and mailing, email address and phone number, and your date of birth. If you run into any issues during the application process call 1-855-JOB-2020 (1-855-502-2020).
In the 2010 census 1 million people were not counted. This year lets work together to not miss any!