Deadline Extended for Census Specialists

The Census Bureau has extended until Aug. 31 the deadline for applications for community partnership specialists.

The previous deadline was July 31.

The bureau is looking for individuals to locate and develop relationships with community groups such as area churches, social agencies and homeowners associations.

The specialist would then help the different groups convey to their constituents the importance of filling out and returning census forms.

In the last census in 1990, 4.7 million people nationwide were uncounted, officials said.

Community partnership specialists are needed in various locations in Southern California, including the San Fernando Valley, according to Van Nuys bureau spokesman Jim Foy.

“It’s vital we start getting prepared now for the census because it’s a tremendous undertaking,” he said.

The 2000 census, which is projected to cost $3 billion, is the largest peacetime project the government tackles every 10 years.

To make the census count more accurate, the bureau has expanded the role of community specialists.

“The groups that serve these communities can be the best messenger because the people trust them and will listen to them,” specialist Cera Clark said.

Applicants for the specialists positions must be college graduates. The job pays from $26,000 to $47,000 a year, depending on education and experience, officials said.

People interested in the position should contact the Census Bureau at (818) 904-6606 or toll free at (888) 325-7733.