The U.S. Census is about to be underway across much of the country, and, in Carter County especially, volunteers are still needed to make the process more efficient. There is even the possibility of financial compensation for their time.

Kevin Flanery, Partnership Specialist for the Philadelphia Region, of which Carter County is a part, said the census itself is crucial for local representation in many levels of government.

“The results of the 2020 Census will help determine each state’s representation in Congress, as well as how certain funds are spent for schools, hospitals, roads, and more,” Flanery said. “This is your chance to play a part in history and help ensure that everyone in your community is counted.”

The census keeps tally of citizens’ personal information, including age, ethnicity and more, so governments can better understand their populations. Funding for school systems, government agencies and the amount of representation in state and federal Congress all hinge on these numbers.

“Federal funds, grants and support to states, counties and communities are based on population totals and breakdowns by sex, age, race and other factors,” he said. “Your community benefits the most when the census counts everyone.”

This means, he said, literally hundreds of millions of dollars in funding are on the line for a citizen’s community.

“When you respond to the census, you help your community get its fair share of the more than $675 billion per year in federal funds spent on schools, hospitals, roads, public works and other vital programs,” he said.

To that end, the Census Bureau is still looking for dozens of volunteers to go to people’s homes throughout their communities and help get more people to fill out the census. There is even financial compensation available.

“The pay rate for Carter County is $13.50/per hour and .58 cents/per mile fuel reimbursement,” Flanery said.

Flanery said he is looking forward to encouraging a high participation rate in the region.

“We have built strong ties within Carter County with partners in areas such as education, government, healthcare and business,” he said. “The 2020 Census is only six weeks away from beginning and we are eagerly looking forward to ensuring that Carter County has a high participation rate.”

Those interested in volunteering can do so by applying online at www.2020census/jobs. Applicants will require a background check because of the nature of the job.