Web Site Aims to Increase Participation in Census 2010

PHOENIX – With the 2010 Census less than seven months away, the Maricopa Association of Governments has launched a Web site where residents can learn more about the reasons for the census and its importance to communities and individuals.

On April 1, 2010, every household in America will receive a short questionnaire in the mail that contains 10 simple questions. The 2010 Census is one of the shortest questionnaires in U.S. history and should take about 10 minutes to complete.

With $400 billion in federal and state tax dollars allocated to communities each year based on population, participation in the census is crucial to providing adequate services to Maricopa County residents. At stake are vital services like police and fire protection, hospitals, senior centers, schools, road improvements, public transportation, parks and libraries. The census is also used to ensure full congressional representation and electoral votes.

The new Web site, www.MAGcensus.com, provides information and materials to inform the public of the importance of participating in the upcoming census. The site contains information about job opportunities and ways to get involved in census efforts, and includes downloadable materials, such as an informational brochure in English and Spanish, which can be utilized by public and private agencies as well as nonprofit organizations.

The U.S. Constitution requires a population count of every person in the U.S. every 10 years. The questionnaire asks the name, gender, age, race and ethnicity of each person living in a household, in addition to whether they own or rent the home. Personal census information is not shared with any other agency or organization, and the confidentiality of all census information is protected by law.

MAG Regional Council Chair Peggy Neely, a councilwoman from the city of Phoenix, said full participation in the upcoming census is critical to funding local community services and improving the lives of Maricopa County residents.

“When you complete your census form, you ensure that thousands of your tax dollars are returned to your community in critical services for you and your family. These services can range from safety and health programs to parks and transportation facilities—programs that improve your life. This funding is especially important in a tough economic climate,” she said. Neely notes that, on average, every person in Arizona counts for about $1,550 in funding each year.

Published on behalf of Maricopa Association of Governments
The www.MAGcensus.com site also serves as a resource for MAG member agencies, and includes a page supporting the efforts of the MAG Count to ’10 Census Outreach Group. The group, which is made up of communication representatives from across the Valley, can use the site to access resources needed to spread the word in their local communities. For additional information about the site or regional census efforts, please contact Kelly Taft, MAG Communications Manager, at (602) 452-5020.

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