Every ten years, the U.S. Census determines how political representation is apportioned and how billions in federal funding flow to states and communities. Yet those most reliant on these resources are often the least likely to be counted. In Pennsylvania, while overall response rates in 2020 exceeded the national average, many urban and rural communities fell below 50%, with young children, renters, low-income households, and communities of color disproportionately undercounted. The consequences are long-lasting: reduced funding for schools, healthcare, and infrastructure, and diminished political voice. Even small undercounts can shift representation. This session makes the case for early philanthropic action. Funders cannot wait until 2029. Instead, they can act now to build trust, support community-based outreach, and align around a shared strategy. We will examine lessons from 2020, including barriers such as limited broadband access, language differences, distrust of government, and concerns about privacy and politicization. Participants will explore examples from state and national efforts and focus on moving from awareness to coordinated action—centering collaboration, clarity of purpose, and early investment. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of what’s at stake and practical steps to help ensure every resident is counted and every community receives its fair share.