2010 Census

On April 1, the U.S. Census Bureau will conduct a count of every person living in the United States, regardless of age or immigration status. The Census is conducted every ten years and participation is required by law.

Forms arrive at households in mid-March. It takes about ten minutes to complete the ten questions on the form and mail it back in the postage paid, return envelope. The form asks for information about the number of people living in their households, their age, race, gender, and other related information. All of the information collected is confidential and Federal law prohibits the Census Bureau from sharing your form with any other government agency or with the public. For information about the form and the ten questions asked click here .

Why Nonprofits?

Communities are better understood and better served by nonprofits, public services, and businesses for every person counted. Nonprofits already serve many of these populations and are uniquely positioned to be trusted messengers for the 2010 Census. For ways your organization can help to ensure the most complete count possible and for several resources, click here

Click here for a PowerPoint explaining why the Census matters for nonprofits and how nonprofits can help (PDF).

Among other things, Census data impacts the following: 

Federal funding for Colorado. More than $450 billion is allocated for programs such as Medicaid, nutrition services, community block grants, and education. Since 2000, Colorado has received approximately $4.2 billion in federal funds each year. Colorado received $878 for each person counted and lost $878 for every person not counted.

 

Public infrastructure and services. Governments determine where to locate and how to support schools, recreation centers, and public transportation.

 

Community needs. Nonprofits use Census data to understand how to best deliver their services based on the needs of their constituents.

Political representation. Census data is the basis for drawing boundaries for electoral districts. The number of Representatives for each state is affected by Census data.

About 27 percent of Coloradans were not counted in 2000. For every person counted, Colorado receives about $850 in federal funds. For every form returned by mail, $60–70 is saved in follow up.