CHICAGO (AP) — Young Illinoisans with ideas for
fighting childhood obesity are being encouraged to apply for grants from
UnitedHealthcare and an advocacy group.
The 2012 Health Heroes grants total up to $1,000
each for hands-on community-centered programs.
It's the fourth year the health insurer has paired
with the Youth Service America group to offer these grants. Last year, $6,000
went to eight groups in Illinois.
Young people work with educators and youth leaders
on these projects.
Wilbur Wright College was among last year's
winners. It worked with Chicago Academy High School on a student-led
service-learning project on Chicago's northwest side. College students educated
kids on obesity issues and held a quiz show and other activities.
Applications for this year's grants are due before
midnight on Oct. 17. They're available online at www.YSA.org/HEROES.
Copyright
2011 The Associated Press.
