NORFOLK (AP) -- A Norfolk television producer whose time in prison prompted her to start a program to tape greetings from inmates to their children is being honored as one of CNN's Top 10 Heroes.

Carolyn LeCroy spent time in prison 12 years ago for a marijuana charge. She has said that during that time she saw many women who didn't receive visits from their families, so when she got out she started the program that has provided 3,000 video messages since 1999.

As one of CNN's Top 10 Heroes, LeCroy will receive $25,000 and be honored during a tribute in Hollywood on Thanksgiving. The network then will announce its Hero of the Year, who will receive an additional $100,000.

The winner will be chosen by the public in an online poll. Voting began Friday and runs through Nov. 19.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)