'We intend to show how to achieve collaboration in communities -- the key to getting more families and children involved.'

Both groups plan to analyze data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other sources to assess the need for, and the best methods of, combating obesity among black and Hispanic children. Statistics have long showed these minority youngsters to be at especially high risk for obesity.

Healthier Lifestyles

Based on the information they receive, the two organizations will create separate detailed guides for black and Hispanic community leaders to help create and expand programs to help families adopt healthier lifestyles.

The ACFN and ADAF plan to enlist respected organizations in the black and Hispanic communities to take part in the development and distribution of these guides.

Collaboration in Communities

"ACFN and the ADA Foundation are ideal partners to address a need that goes beyond putting great nutrition and physical activity resources into the hands of community leaders. We intend to show how to achieve collaboration in communities -- the key to getting more families and children involved," registered dietitian Cecilia Pozo Fileti, a member of the ACFN advisory board, the ADA, and head of the Latinos and Hispanics in Dietetics and Nutrition, said in a prepared statement.

More information: The American Obesity Association has more about preventing childhood obesity.