September 30th marks the deadline for people to respond to the 2020 Census! Every 10 years, the federal government strives to count the entire population of the United States, and an accurate census count matters greatly to Main Street communities. By providing a snapshot of our nation – who we are, where we live and so much more – the 2020 Census will inform more than $1.5 trillion in federal funding that supports essential programs related to economic development, housing, transportation and hundreds of other initiatives benefiting local governments, nonprofit organizations, and small businesses. Main Street programs and their partners will benefit, both directly and indirectly, from the information and allocation of funds determined by the census, particularly for rural communities and small towns.

“In many cases, these funds make it possible for public-private partnerships to fuel comprehensive community development. An inaccurate count would exacerbate existing inequities, hindering the vital work of community-based organizations, state and local governments, and others striving to expand access to resources and create healthy, thriving and sustainable communities across the country.” – Matt Josephs, Senior Vice President, LISC

Everyone counts, and that’s why Main Street America (MSA) challenges you to complete the census to shape the future of your community! Inspire others by telling everyone—your friends, family, neighbors and co-workers—that you will complete the census, and that they should respond now, too! If you need assistance sharing and/or promoting the census within your community, download these helpful and easy-to-use social media graphics to share on social media.

Click here to respond to the 2020 U.S. Census!

Lead Image: www.aclu.org