Census training begins in Cherokee County

    Andrews – According to the Census Bureau, 384 Cherokee County census taker applicants are required to achieve a complete and accurate 2020 survey.
    This week, the Andrews Valley Initiative, Andrews Chamber of Commerce, Nantahala Public Libraries and volunteers mobilized by Mary Ann Anderson serve the county to bring those Census jobs, as well as the federal funding and just representation that will follow.
    The community joins the 2020 Census Community Partnership and Engagement program in a Census recruitment kick-off headquartered at the Andrews Chamber of Commerce. Volunteers and partnership specialist Debbie Denise Reese will engage and prepare local residents to apply as 2020 Census takers.
    The 2020 Census partnership effort in Cherokee County seeks a 100 percent applicant recruitment and 100 percent response to the 2020 Census next April.
    The Census Recruitment kickoff runs this week between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Attendees will learn how to prepare and submit a Census application. They will learn why an accurate Census count is essential for services that affect everyone in Cherokee County. The count determines funding for programs such as roads, education, housing, economic development, and assistance to children, young mothers, seniors and veterans.
    The kickoff sessions target prospective applicants and those in the community who provide services to individuals who might apply as Census takers (train-the-trainer). The schedule repeats every hour, with some flexibility:
    * On the hour: Why the 2020 Census Is Important to Everyone in Cherokee County.
    * First quarter hour: A video of the Murphy High School varsity cheerleaders performing the 2020 Census song “Count Everyone” represents Cherokee County Schools’ Census partnership.
    * On the half Hour: The 2020 Census taker application – Presentation followed by questions and answers.
    For details, call 678-662-2816 or email debbie.d.reese@2020 census.gov.