Indy child health group hires leader

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - A Michigan woman who has overseen efforts to bring solar ovens and clean water to East Africa is the new leader of an Indianapolis-based nonprofit that works to protect children from potential environmental threats.

Dolores E. Weis of Hillman, Mich., becomes the new executive director of Improving Kids' Environment on Thursday.

Board President Indra Frank says Weis brings a wealth of experience, new perspectives and ideas to the group.

"Making the environment safer for children protects not only them, but future generations to come," Weis said.

She had been executive director for Solar Cookers International, which brings solar-powered cookers to sun-drenched areas of Africa faced with dwindling sources of cooking fuel. Her other leadership posts over the years include directing a nonprofit social services agency on a Navajo reservation.