In recognition of the importance of the 2020 Census, State Senator Dale Fowler (R-Harrisburg) distributed grant funding to several student groups in the 59th District for their efforts to promote and encourage engagement in the 24th census.
As part of the Illinois Count Me In 2020 program, seven student groups in Southern Illinois worked to distribute, promote and display census participation materials throughout their communities. Materials included: posters, yard signs, pamphlets, banners and social media campaigns.
“The 2020 Census plays a critical role in how funding is allocated to our communities, making participation critical for Southern Illinois. The data collected for the 2020 Census will impact our region both financially and help ensure that we are properly represented for years to come,” said Sen. Fowler. “These student groups went above and beyond to ensure that the public was aware of its importance and their efforts deserve to be acknowledged.”
Recognizing their dedication and efforts to encourage census participation, each student group was awarded a $750 grant locally administrated through the Southern Illinois Community Foundation as part of a partnership with the Illinois Count Me In 2020 program. On Sept. 2, Sen. Fowler traveled around the district to present the checks to each group.
Groups that participated included:
Gallatin County Family, Career and Community Leaders of America
Hardin County FFA
Pope County FFA
Massac County 4-H
Alexander County FFA
Pulaski County FFA
Johnson County Student Council
“Participation in the 2020 Census has never been more important for the state of Illinois and certainly in southernmost Illinois where the response rates are low,” said Byram Fager, Executive Director of the Southern Illinois Community Foundation. “We appreciate the collaboration with Senator Fowler in reaching groups that can assist us in the promotion of taking the Census and how much it affects communities on a local level.”
The census is mandated by the United States Constitution and is a count of the United States population that takes place every ten years. The deadline for the 2020 Census is Sept. 30. To fill out the 2020 Census, visit 2020census.gov or simply fill out and return the mailed materials.