Making Texas Count: Census 2010

This month, all residents will receive the 2010 Census in their mailbox. This survey, collected every 10 years by the federal government, is designed to provide an accurate count of the US population, but also forms the basis for political, social and economic decisions. The Census results help determine how more than $400 billion in federal money is spent on things such as infrastructure, schools, emergency services and hospitals. The data collected by the census also help determine the number of seats Texas has in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“Dallas and other local cities have formed Complete Count Committees to promote the importance of the census to the region. In Dallas, our focus has been on the hard-to-count communities which tend to be low income located in multi-family housing areas. It is estimated that for every person missed, this region could lose up to $12,000 in funding over the next ten years.”, states Ken Benson, Co-chair of the 2010 Census City of Dallas Mayor's Complete Count Committee.

The Young Professionals of the Dallas Regional Chamber are taking part in this effort by promoting awareness of the census and encouraging member companies to filter information to employees through articles, display materials, or providing a link on their webpage.

Completing your census is mandatory and all information provided is protected by federal law. To view the 10 question survey, go here.

If you need more information on the U.S. Census, please visit their website at http://2010.census.gov/2010census. The City of Dallas also has a Census page located at www.dallascityhall.org/census/index.html.

If you are interested in joining the Young Professionals, a group for emerging leaders ages 25-40, please contact Julie Tanner at 214-746-6741.