The census comes around once every 10 years, making it that much more important to get an accurate count. Locally, the population determines federal funding and representation in Congress. Onondaga County is working to have every person counted.

Renters, elderly, children under five, and neighbors without internet access are just a few of the groups most likely to be underrepresented in the upcoming census. New Americans are also at risk -- just ask Jay Subedi, a former Bhutanese refugee, about his experience a decade ago.

"I was counted maybe, but I was not used to the system, so this is a good opportunity for us to be included in steering committee," said Subedi, now a U.S. Citizen and the chairman of the New American Forum.

The Syracuse-Onondaga County Complete Count Committee is working to break down barriers, so everyone is recorded.  One way is to have census takers who look like our neighbors.

“People are more likely to talk to the person they trust,” said Robyn Smith, the Central New York Community Foundation Director of Strategic Initiatives. “Census people don't understand the importance and some people are a little nervous about completing it, what that means for them, so having someone they trust tell them to do it, it works out better."

Over the next few months, committee members will go into religious centers, schools and community groups to explain the process. Leaders say some immigrants and refugees are afraid of the government -- and unfamiliar with the process.

“In Central New York we have a very close community,” said Subedi. “This is a big opportunity for us to get our community together and learn about the culture, get to the people and help the Census 2020 get every person counted."

For every person not counted, local governments lose out on federal money. Because of underrepresentation, leaders estimate Syracuse has been missing out on $5 million every year since the last census.

"These are funds that we rely on every day to take care of some of our most vulnerable populations, and we need every penny of it," said Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh.

This census will be completed between March and July 2020, and the committee will be working hard until then to make sure every voice is heard.

Local leaders tell us Onondaga County is one of the Upstate New York communities that is growing. They say an accurate census will represent the area's resurgence and spur economic growth.