On Saturday January 16th, 2010, after various hours of door knocking and community organizing the New Americans Count fellows started their first meeting. They shared various inspirational and encouraging stories about how their first week as Census fellows went. They shared strategies and tips on how to make their campaign more effective in their respective areas. One fellow shared the story about a family who actually invited them over for coffee as they were canvassing the neighborhood. Another fellow shared the enthusiasm and optimism of their volunteers and how they encouraged her to excel as a fellow in her community. They also participated in various activities that involved team building, leadership and public speaking.

For the past week, sixteen exceptional fellows have been working in our communities to send the message that each one of us counts and the importance of filling out the Census form when it arrives in the month of March. They have also participated in dozens of community meetings to emphasize the work their doing and why it is important for every one to get involved. For the next couple of months these talented, outstanding men and women will be door-knocking in our neighborhoods and we need to make sure that everybody in our community gets counted because New Americans Count!