Committee will work to ensure accuracy and equity in the 2020 census

The City of Somerville is seeking members and supporting volunteers for the city’s 2020 U.S. Census Complete Count Committee.

Members who are trusted voices in the Somerville community will strategically amplify outreach efforts, connect with and assist traditionally hard-to-count populations, help promote census jobs, increase awareness of the importance and benefits of responding to the census, and ultimately drive participation in the 2020 census to benefit our community. Through leadership, outreach, education, and events, this committee – with the support of city staff – will help to ensure an accurate count of Somerville.

Conducted once every ten years, the U.S. Census directly impacts federal funding for the city over the following decade. Accurate census data also helps to ensure fair representation. Census counts determine how many congressional seats each state has in the House of Representatives.  Every voice in Somerville is vital, and a complete count strives for fair and equitable representation of all residents.

Community leaders and anyone committed to advocating for hard-to-count communities are encouraged to apply to join – or volunteer to support – the Complete Count Committee. Examples of traditionally hard-to-count populations include (but are not limited to) recent immigrants, young children, renters, seniors, students, persons with disabilities, and low-income households. The 2020 Census also marks the first time that online responses will be the primary method for households to respond, which means residents without Internet connections/access/comfort will need additional outreach and support.

The Complete Count Committee will be composed of community leaders and representatives, as well as elected officials and city and school district representatives. It will be supported by city staff including a Complete Count Coordinator. All interested persons are encouraged to apply for Committee membership, especially persons and representatives of organizations and institutions with strong connections to hard-to-count populations.

The Committee will convene in September 2019 and meet monthly through fall 2020. As needed, subcommittees will meet independently in addition to full committee meetings. Volunteers interested in supporting the efforts of the Complete Count Committee are also encouraged to sign up to be on call for Complete Count activities, especially during the official count period March through July 2020.

To apply to serve on the Complete Count Committee:

Please email a brief statement of interest, a summary of relevant qualifications and/or resume, and contact information to Community Engagement Specialist Taylor Ko at tko@somervillema.gov. Please put “Complete Count Committee Member Application” in the subject line of the email. Applications will be accepted through Monday, Sept. 9.

To sign up to volunteer to support Complete Count efforts:

Please email your contact info and any relevant skills or interest areas (such as event staffing, outreach, languages spoken, etc.) to Taylor Ko attko@somervillema.gov. Please put “Complete Count Volunteer” in the subject line. There is no deadline to sign up to volunteer.

Paper applications for membership or volunteer signups may also be hand-delivered to the City Hall Welcome Desk, 93 Highland Ave., or mailed to Taylor Ko, Somerville City Hall, Communications Dept., 93 Highland Ave., Somerville MA 02143.

For more information, please contact Denise Taylor, Director of Communications and Community Engagement, at dtaylor@somervillema.gov or 617-625-6600 x2103.

Individuals with disabilities who need auxiliary aids and services for effective communication, written materials in alternative formats, or reasonable modifications in policies and procedures, in order to access the programs and activities of the City of Somerville or to attend meetings, should contact Nency Salamoun, at 617-625-6600 x2323 or NSalamoun@somervillema.gov.