Westchester County officials are conducting a survey for the Latino community for the first time in over two decades.
It's being offered by the county's Hispanic Advisory Board and is the first needs assessment of its kind in more than 20 years.
Board chair Dr. Carmen Martinez-Lopez shared why the survey is needed now more than ever.
"The survey is in partnership with Pace University and will allow us to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences and needs of the Hispanic or Latino population in Westchester county," Martinez-Lopez said.
Martinez-Lopez said participants can fill out the survey on the county's website. Topics include housing, childcare, education, employment, and much more. Martinez-Lopez shared what the county plans to do with the data.
"The results of this survey will guide the development of policies and programs to improve the quality of life for the Hispanic or Latino community," Martinez-Lopez said.
Longtime Westchester resident Ana Guzman said she plans to fill out the survey. She works directly with members of her community as the executive director and founder of Ossining Padres Hispanos.
She said she believes the survey is a good chance for the Latino community to make their voices heard and help shape their future.
"We're growing you know. That's like the next generation...That is the future of Westchester," Guzman said.
Guzman said she appreciates that the county is taking the time to listen to her community's input.
"If they give us opportunity, we can advance."