Community Corner
Des Plaines And The 2020 Census
It's so important that we all play a part in making sure our community gets counted. Here's what you need to know.
February 20, 2020
Every 10 years, the census records everyone living in this country. It’s written in the Constitution. And it comes in a questionnaire that counts everyone who lives at your address on April 1. Data from the census is used to determine federal funding for our schools, roads, fire departments and more. It's so important that we all play a part in making sure our community gets counted. Here's what you need to know.
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EVENTS
All About the Census: What You Need to Know and What Being Counted Means For Our Community
March 2, 6:30pm - 8:30 pm
Des Plaines Public Library Room B
Local officials will discuss how the census will affect the community and how residents can ensure that their neighbors are counted. Representatives from the U.S. Census Bureau will also be on hand to answer questions about working for the Census. State Senator Laura Murphy's Legislative Office, State Representative Marty Moylan's Legislative Office, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky's District Office and the City of Des Plaines are co-sponsoring this event.
National Census Day: Have Cake & Get Counted
April 1, 10:00am-6:00pm
Des Plaines Public Library Lobby
Stop by the DPPL library, enjoy a piece of cake and if needed, get hands on assistance filling out the census form.
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What is the census?
The census is a survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau every 10 years. Not only is the census required by the Constitution, but it’s critically important to communities because census data is used to determine everything from representation in Congress to allocation of federal and state funds. $675 billion will be distributed annually for schools, roads, and other public services, all based on census information. In addition, the demographic data are used by businesses to determine, for example, where to build new supermarkets and by emergency responders to locate injured people after natural disasters.
As your public library, DPPL has partnered the City of Des Plaines, state and local government leaders, and other community partners to increase awareness about the Census and motivate residents to respond to the census questionnaire. An accurate census count directly affects federal funding for Des Plaines schools, roads, fire departments and more. We all count! More here:
How will the census impact my community?
Information learned through the census determines how funds are distributed to states, counties and communities. This money, in turn, can be spent on everything from public schools to hospitals to public works. In addition, after each census, state officials will review and redraw the boundaries of the congressional and state legislative districts in Illinois to account for population shifts. More here:
What's new with the census in 2020?
For the first time, the internet will be the primary response option. While a paper form will still be available, individuals will be able to complete the 2020 Census form online, or by phone or mail. Read more about responding online.
More here:
How and when can I access the census form?
When it’s time to respond, most households will receive an invitation by mail. Depending on how likely your area is to respond online, you’ll receive either an invitation encouraging you to respond online or an invitation along with a paper questionnaire, as well as reminders to complete the census. See a sample form.
Timeline:
March 12-20: An invitation to respond to the 2020 Census, with online and telephone responses opening to everyone.
March 16-24: A reminder letter.
If you haven’t yet responded:
March 26-April 3: A reminder postcard
April 8-16: A reminder letter and paper questionnaire
April 20-27: A final reminder postcard before the U.S. Census Bureau follows up in person, up to five times, then visits your neighbors.
What if I need help filling out the census?
Des Plaines Public Library is here to help. Stop by one the library 's Census Response Stations located on the 2nd and 4th floors. A librarian will answer your questions and assist you in submitting your census online.
What questions will I be asked? Will I be asked about my citizenship or immigration status?
The census asks how many people are in your household and whether the home is owned or rented. You’ll be asked to count the number of people, including babies and people who may not have a permanent address, who are living or staying in your home. You’ll be asked to answer questions about age, race, or ethnic identity, and relationships of people living at your address to you.
The 2020 Census will not include a question about citizenship. It is important that you complete the census regardless of your immigration status. Everyone deserves to be counted, and your information will be kept confidential.
More about the questions asked
Is my census data safe?
Yes! Information you submit through the census form (either online, over the phone or on paper) is kept confidential by the U.S. Census Bureau, which is a nonpartisan government agency. The Census Bureau will never share information with immigration enforcement agencies or law enforcement agencies.
Please also know that the Census Bureau will never ask you for: Your Social Security number; Money or donations; Anything on behalf of a political party; Your bank or credit card account numbers.
More info:
Can I get a job working for The 2020 Census?
The 2020 Census is hiring in Des Plaines!
As a Census Enumerator (or Census Taker), you will ensure everyone in our community is counted. An accurate count ensures that the Oak Park receives its share of federal funding and accurate representation in congress.
Pay rates are competitive, and can be found on the Census website. The Census offers a flexible work schedule - you can be a Census taker even if you are retired or work full time. Travel and training are compensated, and you work in and around Des Plaines
Apply online at www.2020census.gov/jobs. If you’re unsure about joining the Census team, you should still submit an application - the Census will contact you when enumerators are needed.
This press release was produced by the Des Plaines Public Library. The views expressed here are the author’s own.
