Objective The prevalence of childhood obesity in the USA is growing at an alarming rate. Healthcare professionals, community leaders and concerned citizens are struggling to find ways to help address the problem.

Methods In order to slow or perhaps reverse the trend, a coalition of community leaders was built to implement strategies to improve the health of Omaha children.

Results In 2006, a coalition of community leaders met to strategise and implement ways to address the obesity epidemic in Omaha. An innovative community dialogue known as a decision accelerator identified key issues and solutions. Six areas of focus, or planks, were identified and specific strategies and implementation timelines were articulated. A healthcare subcommittee has also been formed to make recommendations to local providers for the implementation of childhood obesity prevention into their practices.

Conclusion Following the decision accelerator, monthly meetings of the executive committee began. The executive committee’s role is to oversee the development of a permanent organisational structure, serve as a place for the integration of activities in the planks, ensure culturally appropriate approaches and outcomes and determine how to support the attainment of the vision. This presentation will summarise the executive committee’s plans and discuss the proposed strategic plan of action.