See the form

Download a flyer for Non-Profits Count! A Census Rally for Cleveland’s Nonprofits

Click here to see map of 2010 Census Road Tour: Ohio Stops

To get your Census Materials, click here

What is the census?

Spanish translation Esta En Nuestras Manos

Somali translation Tiro_koobka_2010

Every ten years, the United States conducts a count of the population known as the Census. It is mandated by the U.S. Constitution, it requires that everyone participate, and it protects all personal information shared. The one-page census form takes about 10 minutes to complete. It is mailed and distributed to everyone in March 2010, and must be completed and mailed back by Census Day, April 1, 2010.

Why is the census important?

The census determines the amount of federal funding states receive for services such as Head Start, Women, Infants and Children program, emergency food and shelter grants, programs for the elderly, Title One education grants, and hundreds of other programs we all depend on.

For every person not counted, Ohio could lose $12,000 over the 10-year census cycle. With the economic challenges facing Ohio, we need to work toward a full and accurate count.

Census numbers are also used by government and businesses in determining where to build schools, plan for public transit, and develop retail outlets.

Finally, census data determine the number of members each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives. Ohio is in danger of losing up to two Congressional seats, reducing our representation from 18 to 16.

Who is involved in the census?

Thousands of diverse groups across the country are coming together to spread the word about the importance of the census.  Some groups are forming what is known as “Complete Count” committees and registering with the Census Bureau.  You Can Count on Me Ohio is a registered Complete Count committee promoting the Census through Ohio’s nonprofit network.

Get Involved

Why are nonprofits key to a complete count?

Nonprofits are in a unique position to provide education and motivation around census participation.  Nonprofits maintain ongoing, trusting relationships with the people they serve.  They can be powerful vehicles for encouraging their communities to return the census questionnaire or respond to census workers.

What can one person do?

From posting signs in your agency to becoming your own Complete Count Committee, there are several ways to contribute. Check out the Lend A Hand tab for ideas.