What is the difference between the Census and the American Community Survey?

The Census Bureau conducts the official population census every ten years. The last decennial census was conducted in 2000. During each decennial census, the Census Bureau collects data from every household in the U.S. and its territories.  The Census Bureau also conducts the American Community Survey (ACS).  The ACS collects and produces population and housing information every year instead of every ten years. Data from the 2006 ACS are available for geographic areas with a population of 65,000 or more.  Both the decennial census and the ACS gather information regarding households, income, education, homeownership, age, race, income, commute time to work, home value, veteran status, and other important data.

Why do some indicators seem more current than others?

Unfortunately, there is often a lag between the end of the reporting period and the time that the data is released to the public.  Some times, this lag can be substantial, while others are released much more frequently.  We have attempted to include the most current data from our sources.

What is the purpose of the indicator web site?

The purpose of this indicator web site is:

•  to serve as a repository for data specific to Pierce County;
•  to report United Way of Pierce County’s progress in  addressing Community Impact goals;
•  to watch for emerging community issues ;
• to inform the public and deepen its  commitment to our community’s health and wellbeing. 

How often are the indicators updated?

You can expect quarterly updates to the web site for new indicators and to refresh existing indicators.  

Will other indicators be included?

We are continuously looking for new data, and new data sources, that are relevant to Pierce County.  Your comments, suggestions, and questions will help us to be as inclusive as possible as the project grows.

How do I contact the persons responsible for the indicators?

To contact us, please email your questions, comments, or suggestions to indicators@uwpc.org.

What is GIS, and how are the maps generated?

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is an information system that captures, analyzes, manages, and presents spatial data, usually in the form of a map.  The maps on this site are primarily developed using census block-group data.

What if I want to know more?

This site is just one tool for your research and we encourage you to do further research in the topic or area of your choice.  If you have a suggestion for an indicator that you would like to see included on this site, feel free to contact us.  Additionally, there are links to all of the data sources in the “About Us” section of this site. 

Is there just one indicator that would tell me how the community is doing?

Our community is complex and we would not advocate that you use only one indicator to judge the well-being of Pierce County.  Informed decision making relies on a variety of information and information sources. 

If I use data from your web site, how should I write my citation?

With the exception of the indicators related to the 2-1-1 call center, which is provided by us at United Way of Pierce County, we recommend that you go directly to the source of the data (which we provide for each indicator), obtain a copy of the data for yourself, and write your citation accordingly.  For help writing citations you can visit this web site, http://www.bedfordstmartins.com/online/citex.html, for guidance on a variety of citation styles.