Union County’s efforts to protect children from the dangers of lead exposure have earned national recognition. The County’s Environmental Health's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Campaign received recognition from both the Communicator Awards and the National Association of Counties (NACo) for its creative, community-driven approach to raising awareness about childhood lead poisoning prevention.

The campaign, led by Union County Public Health’s Children’s Environmental Health team, was first launched to raise awareness about the risks of lead exposure, especially for children under six, who are most vulnerable to its harmful effects on the brain and nervous system. Building on last year’s success, the 2025 campaign expands its focus beyond families to include medical providers and residents in Union County’s historic home districts. By partnering with local pediatricians, the campaign encourages regular lead testing for young children during wellness visits. Outreach in older neighborhoods will help homeowners, landlords, and tenants learn how to spot and safely address potential lead hazards, such as aging paint, soil contamination, or old plumbing.

At the center of the campaign is an interactive lead education dollhouse, which helps families visualize where lead might be found inside a typical home. The dollhouse continues to be featured at outreach events, including a recent Lead Prevention Story Time at the Union County Main Library, where children and families enjoyed a story, activities and take-home resources on lead safety.

“We’re proud to see Union County’s work recognized nationally, but even prouder of the impact it’s having right here at home,” said Charlotte Keziah, Environmental Health Division manager. “Every conversation, every event, and every test helps make our homes, and our community, safer for kids.”

The Union County Children’s Environmental Health Childhood Lead Prevention Program works under the North Carolina Rules Governing Lead Poisoning Prevention in Children (15A NCAC 18A .3100) to investigate lead hazards, educate families and reduce the risk of exposure. Even small amounts of lead can cause developmental delays, learning difficulties and behavioral problems in children.

Learn more about common sources of lead, how to test for it, and steps to keep their homes safe by visiting the County’s Lead-Safe Union County webpage.