Channel One has a proud history of aligning with organizations devoted to empowering teens through education and action. It continues to build relationships around issues that encourage and inspire teens to become better informed. Today, we are thrilled to share news of another significant union: Channel One is teaming up with the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, a partnership between the William J. Clinton Foundation and the American Heart Association. Together, we will reach teens where they spend most of their time-- in school-- to empower them with the right tools to adopt lifelong healthy habits.

Channel One's obligation to providing teens with tools that promote healthier choices parallels with the Alliance's mission to eliminate childhood obesity and to inspire all young people in the United States to develop lifelong, healthy habits. The Alliance recognized Channel One's unique standing as a trusted voice for teens and teachers and as a vehicle for generating discussion and awareness in and beyond the classroom. Likewise, Channel One was struck by the Alliance's bold, innovative approach to tackling head-on one of young America's biggest health epidemics.

As educators, you can look to this partnership not only as a valued resource, but as a catalyst for higher levels of engagement, learning and discussion about the issue. For instance, Channel One will broaden its quality programming on healthy living to include segments centered on balanced eating, physical activity, health issues and breaking news. It will air feature stories that chronicle students' and schools' participation in programs such as the 'Healthy Schools Program.' In addition, the Alliance and Channel One are pooling resources to create materials, lesson plans and contests, as well as online initiatives to drive home the importance of increased physical activity and balanced nutrition in and out of school.

As evidenced by Channel One's Teen Town Hall with Governors Huckabee (AR) and Bredesen (TN) and the launch of its "One Step to a Better Me" campaign in 2006, Channel One long ago realized its obligation to message the benefits of an active, balanced lifestyle. With the Alliance for a Healthier Generation we will empower teachers and students to take part in affecting positive, life-long change.

Judy L. Harris
President and CEO, Channel One Network

Robert S. Harrison
Executive Director, Alliance for a Healthier Generation