The "Color Me Healthy" nutrition program received the 2005 Nemours Vision Award for Excellence in Child Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. The award was presented to Dr. Carolyn Dunn, nutrition specialist with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, and Cathy Thomas with the North Carolina Division of Public Health, co-authors of "Color Me Healthy."

The Nemours Vision Award recognizes the work of one U.S. community organization or government agency from outside of Delaware that have developed visionary and effective programs for children and their families. Debbie Chang, senior vice president and executive director, Nemours Health and Prevention Services, presented the award at a ceremony in Wilmington, Del., on December 9, 2005. "Color Me Healthy" received a crystal statue and $5,000 to be used for the program in the coming year.

"Color Me Healthy" is a program developed to reach children ages 4 and 5 with fun, interactive learning opportunities on physical activity and healthy eating. It stimulates all of the senses of young children: touch, smell, sight, sound, and, of course, taste. Through the use of color, music and exploration of the senses, "Color Me Healthy" teaches children that healthy food and physical activity are fun.

To date, more than 6,000 North Carolina child care providers have been trained to use the program. "Color Me Healthy" is being used in 40 states across the nation.

- Natalie Hampton