Through education and outreach, the Healthy Environments for Children (HEC) Initiative strives to protect and improve children’s health as it relates to their environment—in their homes, their schools, and elsewhere.

HEC helps parents and guardians, educators, community leaders, trainers, and other caring adults understand, prevent, and improve environmental conditions that adversely affect the health of children and adults. HEC also helps children understand how to prevent and manage environmental health problems. Working in partnership with local, state, federal, and tribal agencies and organizations, HEC has focused on environmental health issues such as lead poisoning, radon, asthma, and water conservation.

HEC is housed within the University of Connecticut’s Department of Extension.

HEC Services

HEC designs, develops, and conducts programs and materials in areas related to children’s environmental health. HEC offers expertise in writing, editing, instructional design, and curriculum development.

HEC specializes in translating sound research into practical information for a broad range of learners, including children, literacy-challenged adults, and busy professionals. HEC programs are developmentally appropriate, culturally respectful, and instructionally sound.

Awards

• 2009 Second place award for public service announcement in video contest sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• 2008 University of Connecticut Provost's Award for Excellence in Public Engagement (Lead Program)
• 2007 Northeast Extension Director's Award of Excellence (Lead Program)
• 2005 Children’s Environmental Health Recognition Award (in partnership with the Penobscot Indian Nation)