Dear valued member -
While so much has changed in the last few weeks, and while we all share feelings of uncertainty, I remain so proud to live in Abilene, Texas, and to serve as President & CEO of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce. We have come together as a community to face this current challenge head-on, and though the landscape is shifting daily, we continue to do what we do best here: identify and solve problems, together.
As we all work through this virus crisis together, I do want to encourage you not to overlook one of the most impactful ways we can make our community better — completing your 2020 Census. This year’s Census is made for social distancing: it can be done online or by phone in under 10 minutes. Completing the Census has never been easier, and your participation is critical.
You see, funding for our hospitals, fire departments, schools, roads all depend on the results of the census data. In fact, for each man, woman or child that is not counted could result in a loss of $1,500 per person, per year for our community over the next decade. Folks, that’s a lot of money.
Along with the funding for our hospitals, fire departments, schools, roads, etc., the census data determines how many seats Texas will have in the U.S. House of Representatives. Texas is projected to gain representatives this year, but only if we’re adequately counted.
Other Census data inform businesses about trends in residency, giving information that business can use to make siting decisions for everything from offices to factories to stores. Your favorite shop might be located where it is based on Census data.
Though we must maintain our physical distance, we can still do what we do best at the Chamber. Spread the word to your employees, to your co-workers and to your friends and family. Together, let’s make today the day we get it done for our community. Go to 2020census.gov and be counted!
Onward!
Douglas Peters
President & CEO
Abilene Chamber of Commerce