The census has launched a series of tools for local officials to help them in their efforts to ensure everyone in their community is counted.  Through its "Take 10" campaign, local officials will be able to get updates on the proportion of households that have mailed back the 2010 Census forms. You also will be able to view differences between your community's participation rates and those of neighboring communities or other areas across the country.

The Census Bureau's "Take 10" campaign gives you a wide range of tools to inspire your community to meet our challenge. These include:

  • an interactive, map-based, "Take 10" web site that allows local areas to track and compare their 2010 census mail back participation rates, which will be updated on a daily basis at http://2010.census.gov/2010census/take10map/ and to look up their 2000 census particpation rates.
  • an electronic toolkit is available which includes talking points, sample speeches, new releases, newsletter copy, event suggestions, flyers, stickers, and doorknob hanger templates and more. 
  • Suggestions on how to use friendly competition with other communities to inspire participation in the census.

Local officials play a key role in encouraging residents to mail back their forms. Most 2010 Census questionnaires are delivered from March 15-17, 2010. Forms need to be completed between March 15 and April 15 but the good news is that the census form is a short 10 questions that will take only about 10 mintues to complete. 

The census is used as the basis for funding for so many programs as well as congressional representation.  Please do all you can to ensure participation.  Arnold Weinfeld covers federal issues for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail

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