We hope everyone is staying happy, healthy and connected to who & what they love! With a new month upon us, we wanted to share a few things that this month brings, besides the extended shelter-in-place. (If you are seeking support or resources pertaining to COVID-19, please feel free to visit our previous blogs HERE.)
So awhile back, you may recall that we announced that the National Association of Realtors® had joined the 2020 Census as a National Partner, and outlined some differences notable in this decennial event. Since then, we have seen some sources calling April 1st the ‘deadline’ and wanted to provide some clarification about what that reference date means as well as how you can reply!
April 1st is actually Census Day, a key reference date for the 2020 Census— not a deadline. The Census Bureau uses this date to determine who is counted and where in the 2020 Census. When you respond, you'll tell the Census Bureau where you live(d) as of April 1, 2020, and include everyone who usually lives and sleeps in your home. Responses are accepted BEFORE and AFTER that date, and are encouraged ASAP. Learn more and respond HERE.
Above you will find a list of important dates, including the actual deadline of August 14th which is your last chance for households to respond. We have also included a reminder of why participation truly counts as it relates to housing below.
OTHER HAPPENINGS
Did you know that April is also National Autism Awareness Month? In our current year, 1 in 59 children has a diagnosis of autism. Those challenges are heightened by COVID-19 in many ways that most of us are unaware, and as such many resources are available to support families. Access the Autism Society of America Toolkit HERE and view additional resources from Autism Speaks® HERE. You can also use and search the hashtag #celebratedifferences on social media to join in this ongoing and critically important conversation.
Ironically, April is also Stress Awareness Month. WalletHub released a study this month revealing the most stressed states (California is actually #30), while Psychology Today has released stress reduction tips from a counseling professional HERE. We also encourage anyone struggling to reach out to the County of Santa Clara Behavioral Health Services Department for coping strategies related to COVID-19 and more. You are not alone.
*Here are a few more fun days to look forward to…
April 16th – Wear Pajamas To Work Day: We all have this one in the bag this year since many of us are working from home! As we ‘celebrate’, let’s not forget our essential workers and and find ways to show them some well-deserved gratitude!
April 11th – National Pet Day: Are your pets loving having you home…?!
April 19th – National Garlic Day: How about ordering a garlic dish from your favorite small business eatery? They need you - and you need garlic. #winwin
April 22nd – National Earth Day: Follow our FB page for ideas to celebrate this in the weeks to come!
Wishing you all a month in which we make the days count and try not to count the days! The impact of every choice and action we take today has the power to shape so many futures, may we not take a moment for granted.
All our best,
Mark Barber
Homes of Silicon Valley