Launched by the First Lady in February 2010, Let’s Move! is a comprehensive initiative dedicated to solving the problem of obesity within a generation, so that children born today will grow up healthier and able to pursue their dreams.

As part of this initiative, Let’s Move! Cities, Towns and Counties (LMCTC) calls upon local elected officials to adopt long-term, sustainable and holistic approaches to addressing childhood obesity. Local elected officials who sign up as an LMCTC site are willing to commit to five goals. Developed with the role of local elected officials in mind, the five goals are designed to promote sustainable strategies intended to improve the health of local constituents.

LMCTC goals were identified because they are achievable and measurable, and because they leverage existing federal initiatives. In addition, active participation in LMCTC and adoption of the five LMCTC goals will highlight local action; enable city, town and county leaders to track their progress and that of their peers in communities across the nation; and accelerate momentum in promoting concrete, sustainable strategies for healthy eating and active living in communities. Local elected officials have the opportunity to earn gold, silver and bronze medals as they proceed in accomplishing the five goals.

The National League of Cities (NLC) is working in partnership with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the National Association of Counties, and other nonprofit organizations to assist local elected officials who join LMCTC as they implement policy and environmental changes to prevent childhood obesity.