A record of 162 Alberta communities participated in Communities ChooseWell 2008/2009 and 26 are recognized for going the extra mile. To view the just released information bulletin please visit: http://alberta.ca/acn/200905/25846FCF7EECB-A734-32D4-20047FFD0EFF0C00.html

The overall high achieving community from Southern Alberta is the Town of Penhold and from the Northern Alberta, the Municipality of Strathcona County takes the lead.

Other communities recognized for their Progress and Achievement towards a Healthy Community in Northern Alberta include the Town of Tofield, Town of Beaumont and St. Luke Catholic School. In Southern Alberta the Town of Bow Island, Town of Pincher Creek and the Town of Lacombe are being recognized as high achievers.

Other category high achievers include: Village of Berwyn, Village of Longview, Town of Lac La Biche, Town of Bassano, CFB Wainwright/Denwood, Town of Chestermere, City of Leduc, Town of Okotoks, Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, City of Lethbridge.

To see the community's backgrounders please click here.

What it's all about?

Communities ChooseWell, a part of the popular Healthy U campaign, is sweeping across Alberta this year by helping communities realize the value of healthy eating and active living.  Congratulations to the 162 registered communities who accepted the challenge to help residents in their community ChooseWell!

A simple initiative with big rewards.

Communities of all sizes spread the eat right and be active message and encourage residents to make changes in their physical activity and eating habits on the road to healthier living. By demonstrating their efforts and progress, communities are recognized for their commitment, and high achieving communities win great prizes.

Each community receives the opportunity to showcase and receive recognition for their existing and new physical activity and healthy eating programs. Free promotional materials are available to help get each community to communicate what the initiative is all about.

The goal of the Communities ChooseWell is to recognize and empower Alberta communities to offer innovative programming, promotion, participation, and community partnerships towards achieving a healthier Alberta. The message is timely and essential and the initiative has proven to be an effective tool in generating awareness and motivating Albertans to make healthier choices every day.

This year's program took place from May 31, 2008 to February 15, 2009.

For more information see choosewell.arpaonline.ca.