What the 2020 Census Will Tell Us About Community

The 2020 Census efforts are in high gear. What does that mean for you? In the next month, you will have the opportunity to participate by phone, mail or online and help shape the future of your community. Within Greater Des Moines (DSM), community leaders — including teachers, business owners and more — are affected by the Census count. Responses are used to determine funding within communities and assess congressional and legislative districts within the state.

The official Census Day is Wednesday, April 1. Now in its 230th year, the 2020 Caucus count is done in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories, including the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

Census Data + the DSM Community

There are many ways the 2020 Census data will be used within DSM. From forecasting future transportation needs to planning for hospitals to the development of rural areas to attracting new businesses, Census information plays a critical role in the growth of the region.

Laying Out Plans for DSM

Community services may need to expand if the report shows growth in particular areas. By analyzing the Census data, community leaders will better understand the needs of the region. Census data shows how we can plan/outline the following:

• Urban land use.
• Outreach strategies.
• School projects.
• School district boundaries.
• Emergency services maps conducive to households in need of assistance.
• Future government services.
• Public safety strategies.
• Health and educational services for people with disabilities.
• Possibly reallocate House of Representatives seats.
• Spotting trends.
• Distributing state funds.

These are just a few of the ways in which the Census data can be used. Read the full list of 50 ways here.

It is important to note that Census information obtained by the Census Bureau is completely confidential and only used to produce statistics. Information is bound by law. The Census Bureau will never ask you for money/donations, bank account numbers or your social security number.

For more information on avoiding scams and the importance of Census data during the 2020 Census, visit 2020census.gov.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 24 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and more than 365 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.