Making the Case for Change: Using Data to Identify Community Needs and Spur Action

Data helps policymakers, activists, and other stakeholders understand the needs of their neighborhoods, helping to ensure that their advocacy efforts are tailored to the real challenges of communities and not their assumed needs. This brief provides an introduction to using Census data and community surveys to gain a better understanding of community needs, challenges, and assets. It outlines what Census data is; how to access Census data; and how to transform Census data into a meaningful story about one's community.