Partners in Health & Wholeness

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Food

Nourishing Lives During National Nutrition Month

By Partners in Health and Wholeness

Guest Author Kim Eshleman, Faith Communities LiaisonFaithful Families Thriving Communities/Steps to Health (NC State University’s SNAP-Ed program) Nutrition is a word with many connotations and one that may evoke complex emotions – both positive and negative. The word may summon memories of clinical or agency interactions, school lunches, ponderings over labels in the grocery aisle, […]

Nourishing Lives During National Nutrition Month

· by Partners in Health and Wholeness

Guest Author Kim Eshleman, Faith Communities LiaisonFaithful Families Thriving Communities/Steps to Health (NC State University’s SNAP-Ed program) Nutrition is a word with many connotations and one that may evoke complex emotions – both positive and negative. The word may summon memories of clinical or agency interactions, school lunches, ponderings over labels in the grocery aisle, […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Mini-Grant Cycle Now Open

By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

The Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Summer Mini-Grant Cycle is now open. Mini-grants are a great way to support programs in your health ministry that engage church congregants and fulfill a health need in the church and surrounding community. Mini-grants are open to any worshipping community that has applied for or renewed membership to […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Mini-Grant Cycle Now Open

· by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

The Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Summer Mini-Grant Cycle is now open. Mini-grants are a great way to support programs in your health ministry that engage church congregants and fulfill a health need in the church and surrounding community. Mini-grants are open to any worshipping community that has applied for or renewed membership to […]

Join Us for the PHW Faith and Health Summit

By Michelle Peedin, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness

On Thursday, October 19th Partners in Health and Wholeness will host our 2017 Faith and Health Summit. Thursday’s events include a community gardens and permaculture tour throughout the city of Greensboro. Unfortunately this tour is full, but don’t let that discourage you from driving to Greensboro on Thursday. At 6 p.m. that evening all conference […]

Join Us for the PHW Faith and Health Summit

· by Michelle Peedin, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness

On Thursday, October 19th Partners in Health and Wholeness will host our 2017 Faith and Health Summit. Thursday’s events include a community gardens and permaculture tour throughout the city of Greensboro. Unfortunately this tour is full, but don’t let that discourage you from driving to Greensboro on Thursday. At 6 p.m. that evening all conference […]

Now what? Staying Engaged and Grow the Interfaith Climate Movement

By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

We were already living in a time of profound consequence. President Trump’s decision to pull the U.S. out of the Paris Climate Agreement means that while the needs of our endangered climate are increasing, the response to global warming is diminishing at the national level. Our actions now, as climate conscious people of faith, matter more than ever. There […]

Now what? Staying Engaged and Grow the Interfaith Climate Movement

· by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

We were already living in a time of profound consequence. President Trump’s decision to pull the U.S. out of the Paris Climate Agreement means that while the needs of our endangered climate are increasing, the response to global warming is diminishing at the national level. Our actions now, as climate conscious people of faith, matter more than ever. There […]

2018 Budget Proposal is the Antithesis of our Call

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Plenty of analysis is already happening around the 2018 budget proposal out of the White House. The Washington Post provides two helpful graphics here and here. More is being written than most of us can fully absorb, but  Politico offers a key observation: On close reading, the budget is less a credible attempt to eliminate, […]

2018 Budget Proposal is the Antithesis of our Call

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Plenty of analysis is already happening around the 2018 budget proposal out of the White House. The Washington Post provides two helpful graphics here and here. More is being written than most of us can fully absorb, but  Politico offers a key observation: On close reading, the budget is less a credible attempt to eliminate, […]

Budget’s Big Picture: A Crumbling Core

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

So, the question as always comes down to one of vision. The elected chieftains who decide how much money North Carolina’s state government will spend, what it will be spent on and how it will be raised must decide not only which programs and services will thrive and which will dwindle. They must decide to […]

Budget’s Big Picture: A Crumbling Core

· by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

So, the question as always comes down to one of vision. The elected chieftains who decide how much money North Carolina’s state government will spend, what it will be spent on and how it will be raised must decide not only which programs and services will thrive and which will dwindle. They must decide to […]

Apply for PHW Collaborative by May 31 to be Eligible for June Mini-Grant

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The next Partners in Health and Wholeness Mini-grant Cycle will begin June 5. Interested congregations must apply to join the PHW Collaborative (previously PHW Certification) by May 31 to be eligible. Priority is given to projects that address one of PHW’s four cornerstones: healthy eating, physical activity, tobacco prevention and cessation, and mental health. In […]

Apply for PHW Collaborative by May 31 to be Eligible for June Mini-Grant

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The next Partners in Health and Wholeness Mini-grant Cycle will begin June 5. Interested congregations must apply to join the PHW Collaborative (previously PHW Certification) by May 31 to be eligible. Priority is given to projects that address one of PHW’s four cornerstones: healthy eating, physical activity, tobacco prevention and cessation, and mental health. In […]

Raleigh Report — May 10, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For more information on bills, including committee referrals and re-referrals, texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net.] Newly Introduced Bills EDUCATION Three companion bills would impact food served in schools. H 891, Free Breakfast and Lunch in K-12 Public Schools, would […]

Raleigh Report — May 10, 2017

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For more information on bills, including committee referrals and re-referrals, texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net.] Newly Introduced Bills EDUCATION Three companion bills would impact food served in schools. H 891, Free Breakfast and Lunch in K-12 Public Schools, would […]

If a Budget is a Moral Document, Then What Does this One Preach?

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The budget blueprint for 2018 released by President Trump on Thursday cuts a wide swath through programs that serve women, people of color, those of low income (for poor women of color, that would mean the same old same old), the arts, the environment, education, job creation, and science.  Couple it with the proposed health […]

If a Budget is a Moral Document, Then What Does this One Preach?

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The budget blueprint for 2018 released by President Trump on Thursday cuts a wide swath through programs that serve women, people of color, those of low income (for poor women of color, that would mean the same old same old), the arts, the environment, education, job creation, and science.  Couple it with the proposed health […]

PHW Launches Collaborative; Certify for 2017

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are pleased to introduce the PHW Collaborative. Mostly, it is a change in the name, so if your congregation has been a part of the Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program, you actually already know about the PHW Collaborative. At the heart of it, the program is the same. But words are important. The […]

PHW Launches Collaborative; Certify for 2017

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are pleased to introduce the PHW Collaborative. Mostly, it is a change in the name, so if your congregation has been a part of the Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program, you actually already know about the PHW Collaborative. At the heart of it, the program is the same. But words are important. The […]

PHW is Expanding

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Partners in Health and Wholeness is hiring for two new regional coordinators, one to serve in the Charlotte area and the other in the Wilmington area. Both positions are open until filled, but first consideration will be given to applications received by March 9. PHW is an initiative of the Council working with faith communities […]

PHW is Expanding

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Partners in Health and Wholeness is hiring for two new regional coordinators, one to serve in the Charlotte area and the other in the Wilmington area. Both positions are open until filled, but first consideration will be given to applications received by March 9. PHW is an initiative of the Council working with faith communities […]

Getting Back to Our Normal: Some Suggestions for the Long Haul

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friend Rob Schofield over at Policy Watch wrote a column on Tuesday that was as vitally important in its truth-telling as it was hard to read for the future it forecasts. One of the crucial facts he offered — those of us opposed to the policies, personalities, and vicious rhetoric of the current administration […]

Getting Back to Our Normal: Some Suggestions for the Long Haul

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friend Rob Schofield over at Policy Watch wrote a column on Tuesday that was as vitally important in its truth-telling as it was hard to read for the future it forecasts. One of the crucial facts he offered — those of us opposed to the policies, personalities, and vicious rhetoric of the current administration […]

Let’s Keep Marching

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

At another time in my life, I would not have spent most of Saturday occupying my tiny square of personal space in the heart of Washington DC, literally shoulder to shoulder with a half million others. But there I was, pink hat and all. I chose to be there because my grandmother cleaned other people’s […]

Let’s Keep Marching

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

At another time in my life, I would not have spent most of Saturday occupying my tiny square of personal space in the heart of Washington DC, literally shoulder to shoulder with a half million others. But there I was, pink hat and all. I chose to be there because my grandmother cleaned other people’s […]

Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Pizazz. Laughter. Friends. Singing. These words describe the Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference. But, did you know that a faith and health national conference even exists? Healthy Churches 2020 held its third annual national conference in Charlotte, NC.  A Balm in Gilead, a non-profit based out of Virginia organizes this conference. They develop educational and […]

Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Pizazz. Laughter. Friends. Singing. These words describe the Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference. But, did you know that a faith and health national conference even exists? Healthy Churches 2020 held its third annual national conference in Charlotte, NC.  A Balm in Gilead, a non-profit based out of Virginia organizes this conference. They develop educational and […]

Pope Francis Advocates for Breastfeeding in Worship

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In the past Partners in Health and Wholeness had a program dedicated to helping worshipping communities promote breastfeeding and support breastfeeding mothers. This week, the most prominent religious leader in the world, the Pope, took it a step further. In a homily during a baptism service in the Sistine Chapel, Pope Francis encouraged mothers to feed their babies […]

Pope Francis Advocates for Breastfeeding in Worship

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In the past Partners in Health and Wholeness had a program dedicated to helping worshipping communities promote breastfeeding and support breastfeeding mothers. This week, the most prominent religious leader in the world, the Pope, took it a step further. In a homily during a baptism service in the Sistine Chapel, Pope Francis encouraged mothers to feed their babies […]

PHW Mini-Grants Now Open

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are excited to announce that we are now accepting mini-grant applications. Congregations who were certified in 2016 (and have not already received a grant from the last cycle) are eligible to apply. We look forward to reading all the wonderful, meaningful, and creative health-related projects your congregations have planned. For great stories on what past grantees have […]

PHW Mini-Grants Now Open

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are excited to announce that we are now accepting mini-grant applications. Congregations who were certified in 2016 (and have not already received a grant from the last cycle) are eligible to apply. We look forward to reading all the wonderful, meaningful, and creative health-related projects your congregations have planned. For great stories on what past grantees have […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Grant Cycle Opens January 6

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

PHW-certified congregations across North Carolina are eligible to apply for a mini-grant to assist in furthering their commitment to health and wholeness. Mini-grant application periods are open twice a year; the current cycle is from January 6 through February 6. To be eligible for this grant cycle, congregations must have been certified in the past […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Grant Cycle Opens January 6

· by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

PHW-certified congregations across North Carolina are eligible to apply for a mini-grant to assist in furthering their commitment to health and wholeness. Mini-grant application periods are open twice a year; the current cycle is from January 6 through February 6. To be eligible for this grant cycle, congregations must have been certified in the past […]

The Rural Oasis: Conetoe Family Life Center

By Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

The amount of grassroots, efficient, and sustainable Kingdom work happening in North Carolina is astounding. People across our state are working together in various communities to promote health and wholeness. People care about health. People recognize that our lives and families depend on us caring about health. Communal work is happening all around us, to […]

The Rural Oasis: Conetoe Family Life Center

· by Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

The amount of grassroots, efficient, and sustainable Kingdom work happening in North Carolina is astounding. People across our state are working together in various communities to promote health and wholeness. People care about health. People recognize that our lives and families depend on us caring about health. Communal work is happening all around us, to […]

The Council Welcomes Your End-of-Year Gift

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Looking ahead to 2017, there is much more work for the Council to do than we ever imagined. Please join us. Your financial support helps us continue what began in 1935 out of the recognition that racial segregation was antithetical to Christ’s teachings. Since that time, the Council’s work has expanded to include issues ranging […]

The Council Welcomes Your End-of-Year Gift

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Looking ahead to 2017, there is much more work for the Council to do than we ever imagined. Please join us. Your financial support helps us continue what began in 1935 out of the recognition that racial segregation was antithetical to Christ’s teachings. Since that time, the Council’s work has expanded to include issues ranging […]

Support North Carolina’s Faithful Voice for Justice, Unity, and Peace

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are living in unsettling times. Progress we once thought inviolable now feels threatened. One constant is the NC Council of Churches and our commitment to a more just, united, and peaceful society. Our faith calls us to love one another, protect the vulnerable, and work together toward a beloved community. We continue to be […]

Support North Carolina’s Faithful Voice for Justice, Unity, and Peace

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are living in unsettling times. Progress we once thought inviolable now feels threatened. One constant is the NC Council of Churches and our commitment to a more just, united, and peaceful society. Our faith calls us to love one another, protect the vulnerable, and work together toward a beloved community. We continue to be […]

2016 PHW Certifications Close on October 31 — Apply to be Considered for January Mini-Grants

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) offers an annual certification program to congregations across the state. Churches participating in PHW actively demonstrate their commitment to improving their health as well as the health of their community. By increasing physical activity, making healthier food and drink choices, eliminating the use of tobacco products and paying attention […]

2016 PHW Certifications Close on October 31 — Apply to be Considered for January Mini-Grants

· by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) offers an annual certification program to congregations across the state. Churches participating in PHW actively demonstrate their commitment to improving their health as well as the health of their community. By increasing physical activity, making healthier food and drink choices, eliminating the use of tobacco products and paying attention […]

PHW Success Story- Soul Harvest Apostolic Church, Spring Lake

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Kaitlyn Brodar, PHW Intern The Soul Harvest Apostolic Church is a gold-level PHW congregation that has been certified since 2012 and is firmly committed to healthy eating.  They have a vibrant community garden that provides a steady source of healthy, fresh vegetables for their soup kitchen, which feeds many individuals in their community.  Their […]

PHW Success Story- Soul Harvest Apostolic Church, Spring Lake

· by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Kaitlyn Brodar, PHW Intern The Soul Harvest Apostolic Church is a gold-level PHW congregation that has been certified since 2012 and is firmly committed to healthy eating.  They have a vibrant community garden that provides a steady source of healthy, fresh vegetables for their soup kitchen, which feeds many individuals in their community.  Their […]

Eating Faithfully

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

What does it mean to eat faithfully?  This is a deeply personal, yet essentially communal question that we often don’t take the time to consider.  Delving into this question, however, can have some profound and worthwhile outcomes. In this article from the Duke Clergy Health Initiative, Reverend Grace Hackney addresses this question. It is a […]

Eating Faithfully

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

What does it mean to eat faithfully?  This is a deeply personal, yet essentially communal question that we often don’t take the time to consider.  Delving into this question, however, can have some profound and worthwhile outcomes. In this article from the Duke Clergy Health Initiative, Reverend Grace Hackney addresses this question. It is a […]

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PHW Reminder: Certify in May to Qualify for Mini-Grants in June

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Certification in the Council’s Partners in Health and Wholeness program is up and running. Faith communities must certify by May 31 to be eligible for mini-grant opportunities in June. In 2016, mini-grant applications will only be considered from June 1 to June 30. The next opportunity to apply will be in January, 2017. Program Coordinator Chris Pernell provides […]

PHW Reminder: Certify in May to Qualify for Mini-Grants in June

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Certification in the Council’s Partners in Health and Wholeness program is up and running. Faith communities must certify by May 31 to be eligible for mini-grant opportunities in June. In 2016, mini-grant applications will only be considered from June 1 to June 30. The next opportunity to apply will be in January, 2017. Program Coordinator Chris Pernell provides […]

Creating Healthier Food Pantries: Workshop and Lunch

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Every congregation I have worked with has collected and donated food as a part of their mission and outreach.  Feeding the hungry is an essential part of both the history and calling of the church, so we host canned food drives, stock food pantry shelves, and fill backpacks. This is important and meaningful work. But […]

Creating Healthier Food Pantries: Workshop and Lunch

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Every congregation I have worked with has collected and donated food as a part of their mission and outreach.  Feeding the hungry is an essential part of both the history and calling of the church, so we host canned food drives, stock food pantry shelves, and fill backpacks. This is important and meaningful work. But […]

Wake Divinity School Grooms Young Leaders With Soil

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I have the pleasure of continuing to work with Fred Bahnson, director of the Food, Faith, and Religious Leadership Initiative at the Wake Forest University Divinity School. Partners in Health and Wholeness sent several of our leaders during the past few years, including Regional Coordinator Shannon Axtell Martin, and faith leader, Linda Tyndall, to the summer […]

Wake Divinity School Grooms Young Leaders With Soil

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I have the pleasure of continuing to work with Fred Bahnson, director of the Food, Faith, and Religious Leadership Initiative at the Wake Forest University Divinity School. Partners in Health and Wholeness sent several of our leaders during the past few years, including Regional Coordinator Shannon Axtell Martin, and faith leader, Linda Tyndall, to the summer […]

Partnerships that Work: Linda Tyndall

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Sister Linda Tyndall has been a beautiful champion for health and faith outreach in Lumberton. Without her, I would not have known how to reach so many people in such a short time. A leader with the Come to the Table program said the same thing to me over the phone once. He mentioned that he […]

Partnerships that Work: Linda Tyndall

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Sister Linda Tyndall has been a beautiful champion for health and faith outreach in Lumberton. Without her, I would not have known how to reach so many people in such a short time. A leader with the Come to the Table program said the same thing to me over the phone once. He mentioned that he […]

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Pre-Diabetic?

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I just found out that I was pre-diabetic. This has never shown up in my blood draws before and I was stunned. “Really?” I say laughing, not sure how exactly to take this. “Well, you should watch what you eat, watch your protein/carbohydrate ratio, decrease stress levels, exercise regularly, and decrease how much sugar you […]

Pre-Diabetic?

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I just found out that I was pre-diabetic. This has never shown up in my blood draws before and I was stunned. “Really?” I say laughing, not sure how exactly to take this. “Well, you should watch what you eat, watch your protein/carbohydrate ratio, decrease stress levels, exercise regularly, and decrease how much sugar you […]

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Kneading Bread Over the Holidays

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Waking up at 4:30 in the morning, oven alerting the baker to the first batch of fresh bread coming out of the oven — that is what I most remember about the holidays. My dad would hum and gallivant in the kitchen between mixing bread dough, basting loaves that were heading into the oven, and […]

Kneading Bread Over the Holidays

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Waking up at 4:30 in the morning, oven alerting the baker to the first batch of fresh bread coming out of the oven — that is what I most remember about the holidays. My dad would hum and gallivant in the kitchen between mixing bread dough, basting loaves that were heading into the oven, and […]

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PHW Intern Reflections

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

By Brian Hollingsworth, PHW Intern, Wake Forest University School of Divinity A few years ago, my faith needed a breath of new life. Despite having grown up in church, being heavily involved in youth group and college ministry, and even finding a wonderful job in full-time camp ministry after college, somehow I still felt something […]

PHW Intern Reflections

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

By Brian Hollingsworth, PHW Intern, Wake Forest University School of Divinity A few years ago, my faith needed a breath of new life. Despite having grown up in church, being heavily involved in youth group and college ministry, and even finding a wonderful job in full-time camp ministry after college, somehow I still felt something […]

CNN Honors Rev. Richard Joyner of Conetoe Family Life Center

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The garden at Conetoe Family Life Center in Conetoe, NC  is more than just about growing food; it’s about changing mindsets, bodies, and redefining food equity power structures. In response to the racialized history that keeps many blacks from farming and the health crisis experienced by many folks there, Reverend Richard Joyner says,  “When I […]

CNN Honors Rev. Richard Joyner of Conetoe Family Life Center

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The garden at Conetoe Family Life Center in Conetoe, NC  is more than just about growing food; it’s about changing mindsets, bodies, and redefining food equity power structures. In response to the racialized history that keeps many blacks from farming and the health crisis experienced by many folks there, Reverend Richard Joyner says,  “When I […]

Learning to Grieve, Part 2

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Grieving is a healthy response to life’s brokenness. When we grieve we allow our emotions to catch up with our minds. It allows us to think more clearly, make better choices, and we might be able to avoid the “comfort” foods that can mask our pain or negatively affect our own health. I noticed that […]

Learning to Grieve, Part 2

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Grieving is a healthy response to life’s brokenness. When we grieve we allow our emotions to catch up with our minds. It allows us to think more clearly, make better choices, and we might be able to avoid the “comfort” foods that can mask our pain or negatively affect our own health. I noticed that […]

Job Opening — Application Deadline November 30

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council is hiring a full-time position for our Partners in Health and Wholeness program. Responsibilities for the Project Manager role include:| Administrative oversight for the Certification Programs and Mini-Grant Program. Specifically: disseminate information, oversee application process, solicit renewals, maintain databases, and organize files. Organize, prioritize, and respond to electronic and regular mail correspondence. Conduct outreach for regional […]

Job Opening — Application Deadline November 30

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council is hiring a full-time position for our Partners in Health and Wholeness program. Responsibilities for the Project Manager role include:| Administrative oversight for the Certification Programs and Mini-Grant Program. Specifically: disseminate information, oversee application process, solicit renewals, maintain databases, and organize files. Organize, prioritize, and respond to electronic and regular mail correspondence. Conduct outreach for regional […]

Update: Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference Details

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Wednesday-Friday, November 4-6 Hilton Charlotte University Place 8629 Jim Keynes Drive, Charlotte Experience a world-class faculty convened to provide tools for sustainable health interventions. If you are a pastor or a person responsible for the health ministry, annual health fair, kitchen ministry, nurse’s ministry or other aspects of health education, promotion and compassion within your […]

Update: Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference Details

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Wednesday-Friday, November 4-6 Hilton Charlotte University Place 8629 Jim Keynes Drive, Charlotte Experience a world-class faculty convened to provide tools for sustainable health interventions. If you are a pastor or a person responsible for the health ministry, annual health fair, kitchen ministry, nurse’s ministry or other aspects of health education, promotion and compassion within your […]

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Breastfeeding Collaborative Update

By Monica Motley, Former Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The Breastfeeding Collaborative (BFC) mini-grant, certification, and training program will not continue at this time. The Partners in Health and Wholeness program is still fully committed to promoting and supporting breastfeeding education, resources, services, practices, trainings, cultural competency, etc. within faith communities. Congregations can still support breastfeeding by signing the “Breastfeeding Friendly Congregation Statement.” Additionally, some […]

Breastfeeding Collaborative Update

· by Monica Motley, Former Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The Breastfeeding Collaborative (BFC) mini-grant, certification, and training program will not continue at this time. The Partners in Health and Wholeness program is still fully committed to promoting and supporting breastfeeding education, resources, services, practices, trainings, cultural competency, etc. within faith communities. Congregations can still support breastfeeding by signing the “Breastfeeding Friendly Congregation Statement.” Additionally, some […]

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Healthy Alternatives for Youth Groups

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I was talking with colleagues, friends, and co-laborers who strive for better health on a population level and discovered that many of us had the same problem within our faith community. We saw that our children, our beloved future leaders, were being fed high-calorie, low-nutrient foods, such as hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, soda, and sweets. […]

Healthy Alternatives for Youth Groups

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I was talking with colleagues, friends, and co-laborers who strive for better health on a population level and discovered that many of us had the same problem within our faith community. We saw that our children, our beloved future leaders, were being fed high-calorie, low-nutrient foods, such as hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, soda, and sweets. […]

Three Tips for Beginners to Get Your Congregation Healthier

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I love being in the North Carolina country. There is nothing better than riding with your windows down, smelling the fresh air (sometimes loaded with smells of farm animals), the wind blowing your lips into a smile, and just looking at open land. I love it! Small towns like Star, Pendleton, or Pembroke are just […]

Three Tips for Beginners to Get Your Congregation Healthier

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I love being in the North Carolina country. There is nothing better than riding with your windows down, smelling the fresh air (sometimes loaded with smells of farm animals), the wind blowing your lips into a smile, and just looking at open land. I love it! Small towns like Star, Pendleton, or Pembroke are just […]

Priorities and the Jet that Ate the Budget

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

A recent article in Raleigh’s News and Observer focused on the F-35 jet. The American Friends Service Committee calls this weapon system the “plane that ate the budget” and puts the lifetime cost at $1.5 trillion. Over the same period of years that Lockheed Martin has encouraged Congress to continue funding the most expensive weapon […]

Priorities and the Jet that Ate the Budget

· by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

A recent article in Raleigh’s News and Observer focused on the F-35 jet. The American Friends Service Committee calls this weapon system the “plane that ate the budget” and puts the lifetime cost at $1.5 trillion. Over the same period of years that Lockheed Martin has encouraged Congress to continue funding the most expensive weapon […]

Bills Wink at Polluters, Abusers

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For a boatload of lofty, noble and wise sentiments, look no farther than the opening fanfares of Chapter 113A, Article 1, N.C. General Statutes. The reference is to a law commonly known as SEPA, or the State Environmental Policy Act. It was enacted in 1971, during the great upsurge of the modern environmental movement that […]

Bills Wink at Polluters, Abusers

· by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For a boatload of lofty, noble and wise sentiments, look no farther than the opening fanfares of Chapter 113A, Article 1, N.C. General Statutes. The reference is to a law commonly known as SEPA, or the State Environmental Policy Act. It was enacted in 1971, during the great upsurge of the modern environmental movement that […]

Warm Weather Recipe: Cranberry-Ginger Ade

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Looking for a cool and refreshing way to make use of those cranberries you have in the freezer from the holidays? I chose to make a spring digestive aid and was pleasantly surprised at how delicious and light this drink is. I don’t like turning on my AC, especially when there is an outside breeze, […]

Warm Weather Recipe: Cranberry-Ginger Ade

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Looking for a cool and refreshing way to make use of those cranberries you have in the freezer from the holidays? I chose to make a spring digestive aid and was pleasantly surprised at how delicious and light this drink is. I don’t like turning on my AC, especially when there is an outside breeze, […]

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Diabetes Alert Day

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Today is Diabetes Alert Day. Seven million Americans don’t know they have diabetes. African Americans, Hispanics/Latino/as, Native Americans, Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and people who have a family history of the disease are at an increased risk for type 2 diabetes. PHW is proud to support “Diabetes Alert Day.” The American Diabetes Association, NC Division of […]

Diabetes Alert Day

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Today is Diabetes Alert Day. Seven million Americans don’t know they have diabetes. African Americans, Hispanics/Latino/as, Native Americans, Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and people who have a family history of the disease are at an increased risk for type 2 diabetes. PHW is proud to support “Diabetes Alert Day.” The American Diabetes Association, NC Division of […]

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We Believe

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

By Nicole Johnson, PHW Intern March is already here, with the official start of spring only days away.  Is your New Year’s resolution a distant memory?  Resolutions are so inspiring; it is a New Year and the future looks so bright. We’re more optimistic and believe that whatever comes next will be better in some way. […]

We Believe

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

By Nicole Johnson, PHW Intern March is already here, with the official start of spring only days away.  Is your New Year’s resolution a distant memory?  Resolutions are so inspiring; it is a New Year and the future looks so bright. We’re more optimistic and believe that whatever comes next will be better in some way. […]

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NC Alliance for Health Releases New Poll

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The NC Alliance for Health recently released poll results that show 70% of North Carolina voters are in support of funding a Healthy Corner Store Initiative to improve access to healthy food.  The NC Alliance for Health, “is an independent, statewide coalition advocating for policies that promote wellness and reduce the impact of obesity and tobacco.”  Below are some […]

NC Alliance for Health Releases New Poll

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The NC Alliance for Health recently released poll results that show 70% of North Carolina voters are in support of funding a Healthy Corner Store Initiative to improve access to healthy food.  The NC Alliance for Health, “is an independent, statewide coalition advocating for policies that promote wellness and reduce the impact of obesity and tobacco.”  Below are some […]

2014 Advent Guide

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s 2014 Advent Devotional Guide is now available as a free download. Each year, Council staff take a social justice theme as a focus for these guides to be used during the season of Advent or Lent. For this Advent season, that focus is the care and well-being of children. As we say in the introduction: As […]

2014 Advent Guide

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s 2014 Advent Devotional Guide is now available as a free download. Each year, Council staff take a social justice theme as a focus for these guides to be used during the season of Advent or Lent. For this Advent season, that focus is the care and well-being of children. As we say in the introduction: As […]

Council Post-Election Road Shows to Charlotte and Asheville

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

What do Tuesday’s elections mean for North Carolina? How can people of faith in the state continue to affect positive change? Join the staff of the North Carolina Council of Churches as we visit Charlotte and Asheville to discuss ways our programs are providing a progressive, faithful voice for issues facing NC residents and how […]

Council Post-Election Road Shows to Charlotte and Asheville

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

What do Tuesday’s elections mean for North Carolina? How can people of faith in the state continue to affect positive change? Join the staff of the North Carolina Council of Churches as we visit Charlotte and Asheville to discuss ways our programs are providing a progressive, faithful voice for issues facing NC residents and how […]

The Bounty of Fall: The Wisdom of Seasonal Eating

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The slight nip in the air during the early morning hours as I make my way to an 8:00 am class tells me that summer is over. Fresh strawberries, abundant cucumbers and zucchinis are giving way to pumpkins, butternut squash, acorn squash, cabbage, kale, crisp apples, and luscious pears. The golds, reds and oranges that […]

The Bounty of Fall: The Wisdom of Seasonal Eating

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The slight nip in the air during the early morning hours as I make my way to an 8:00 am class tells me that summer is over. Fresh strawberries, abundant cucumbers and zucchinis are giving way to pumpkins, butternut squash, acorn squash, cabbage, kale, crisp apples, and luscious pears. The golds, reds and oranges that […]

Start Your Pre-Holiday Eating Survival Plan

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

“[God] has given you every plant yielding seed that is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit; you shall have them for food.” (Genesis 1:29, NRSV) Thank you, Lord, for this reminder during this upcoming holiday season. As you embark on this season, it can be daunting […]

Start Your Pre-Holiday Eating Survival Plan

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

“[God] has given you every plant yielding seed that is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit; you shall have them for food.” (Genesis 1:29, NRSV) Thank you, Lord, for this reminder during this upcoming holiday season. As you embark on this season, it can be daunting […]

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PHW Faith and Health Summit: Appreciation, Connection, and Moving Forward

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Months of planning and networking for the Partners in Health and Wholeness Faith and Health Summit culminated in a day that birthed a community choir and an anthem that was specially written for PHW. Jill Crainshaw, Blackburn Professor of Worship and Liturgical Theology at Wake Forest University School of Divinity; Brad Wilson, President and Chief […]

PHW Faith and Health Summit: Appreciation, Connection, and Moving Forward

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Months of planning and networking for the Partners in Health and Wholeness Faith and Health Summit culminated in a day that birthed a community choir and an anthem that was specially written for PHW. Jill Crainshaw, Blackburn Professor of Worship and Liturgical Theology at Wake Forest University School of Divinity; Brad Wilson, President and Chief […]

Olive Oil: What’s New to Know?

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

In the short duration of my food system studies (since 2000-ish), I have come across several controversial topics, one of which deals with  olive oil. I was once told that if you refrigerate olive oil and it solidifies, then it is authentic. Great. Simple. Done. However, as I have progressed in my health journey, I have […]

Olive Oil: What’s New to Know?

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

In the short duration of my food system studies (since 2000-ish), I have come across several controversial topics, one of which deals with  olive oil. I was once told that if you refrigerate olive oil and it solidifies, then it is authentic. Great. Simple. Done. However, as I have progressed in my health journey, I have […]

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2014 Faith & Health Summit: Registration Deadline Extended

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

The deadline to register for the 2014 Faith and Health Summit has been extended until this Friday, October 3. More than 200 people have already reserved their space at this important event, but there’s still room for you! Click here to take advantage of this special opportunity. The Summit will take place on Friday, October […]

2014 Faith & Health Summit: Registration Deadline Extended

· by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

The deadline to register for the 2014 Faith and Health Summit has been extended until this Friday, October 3. More than 200 people have already reserved their space at this important event, but there’s still room for you! Click here to take advantage of this special opportunity. The Summit will take place on Friday, October […]

Breastfeeding Collaborative Awards First Mini-Grant

By Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

Congratulations to Doorkeeper International Ministries, of Raleigh for being recognized as a breastfeeding-friendly congregation by the Partners in Health and Wholeness Breastfeeding Collaborative. They were also presented with a $5000 mini-grant, the first to be awarded by the Collaborative. Congregations in the Breastfeeding Collaborative are recognized for signing on to the breastfeeding-friendly congregations statement, distributing written materials […]

Breastfeeding Collaborative Awards First Mini-Grant

· by Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

Congratulations to Doorkeeper International Ministries, of Raleigh for being recognized as a breastfeeding-friendly congregation by the Partners in Health and Wholeness Breastfeeding Collaborative. They were also presented with a $5000 mini-grant, the first to be awarded by the Collaborative. Congregations in the Breastfeeding Collaborative are recognized for signing on to the breastfeeding-friendly congregations statement, distributing written materials […]

PHW Success Story – Paradise Outreach Ministry, Greenville

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

We at Paradise Outreach Ministry are making great strides in involving our congregation in healthy initiatives. It is a pleasure to announce that we just completed our 2nd Annual CPR and First Aid Training Class! As a member of the Health Ministry, we are in the process of organizing a walk-a-thon to improve health awareness […]

PHW Success Story – Paradise Outreach Ministry, Greenville

· by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

We at Paradise Outreach Ministry are making great strides in involving our congregation in healthy initiatives. It is a pleasure to announce that we just completed our 2nd Annual CPR and First Aid Training Class! As a member of the Health Ministry, we are in the process of organizing a walk-a-thon to improve health awareness […]

Fun Ways to Drink More Water

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

We can all relate to the desire to drink more water. However, the reality is that it just doesn’t happen for most of us. We forget it. Or some of us find the taste of water to be boring or off-putting. I personally love water. I am grateful that it helps to clear my skin […]

Fun Ways to Drink More Water

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

We can all relate to the desire to drink more water. However, the reality is that it just doesn’t happen for most of us. We forget it. Or some of us find the taste of water to be boring or off-putting. I personally love water. I am grateful that it helps to clear my skin […]

NCCC Eating Well Curriculum is a National Resource

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

If you haven’t had a chance to take a look at the Council’s curriculum, “Eating Well: For Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet,”  I urge you to do so. You will find food justice interwoven with all of the Council’s areas of work. You will see how eating well affects your body, environment, farmworkers, and even […]

NCCC Eating Well Curriculum is a National Resource

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

If you haven’t had a chance to take a look at the Council’s curriculum, “Eating Well: For Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet,”  I urge you to do so. You will find food justice interwoven with all of the Council’s areas of work. You will see how eating well affects your body, environment, farmworkers, and even […]

2014 Faith & Health Summit: Calling All Volunteers

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

The NC Council of Churches’ 2014 Faith and Health Summit is now less than a month away, and we are delighted to have people of faith, public health professionals, faith and health experts, and other community members from all across the state joining us. The event will be held on Friday, October 10 at Ardmore […]

2014 Faith & Health Summit: Calling All Volunteers

· by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

The NC Council of Churches’ 2014 Faith and Health Summit is now less than a month away, and we are delighted to have people of faith, public health professionals, faith and health experts, and other community members from all across the state joining us. The event will be held on Friday, October 10 at Ardmore […]

Healthy Eating Equipment Grants Are Cooking Up Thanks

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation partnered together to offer twenty churches Healthy Eating Equipment Grants. These churches received up to $5,000 to buy equipment that will help them provide healthy food options within their places of worship. Church of God of Prophecy of Morven and St. […]

Healthy Eating Equipment Grants Are Cooking Up Thanks

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation partnered together to offer twenty churches Healthy Eating Equipment Grants. These churches received up to $5,000 to buy equipment that will help them provide healthy food options within their places of worship. Church of God of Prophecy of Morven and St. […]

Corporations Model Taking Steps Toward Health

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

There are some exciting advances happening in the world of public health, and these are in the form of policies created by major corporations.  Although it is right to hold corporations accountable when they are not doing justly, we can also celebrate when they take steps in the right direction. After all, they have vast […]

Corporations Model Taking Steps Toward Health

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

There are some exciting advances happening in the world of public health, and these are in the form of policies created by major corporations.  Although it is right to hold corporations accountable when they are not doing justly, we can also celebrate when they take steps in the right direction. After all, they have vast […]

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The Right Step At Home—A New Fitness Guide

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Forget the yoga mats and fitness tapes, and step your way to health in your home, while using less toxic products. I enjoy the work of Partners in Health and Wholeness and I get excited about how we are connected to all the other programs at the Council. I appreciate even more when we can […]

The Right Step At Home—A New Fitness Guide

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Forget the yoga mats and fitness tapes, and step your way to health in your home, while using less toxic products. I enjoy the work of Partners in Health and Wholeness and I get excited about how we are connected to all the other programs at the Council. I appreciate even more when we can […]

American Eating Habits

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

A 12-year study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health found that Americans improved their eating habits slightly over the years, but that was not the case for America’s poor. Harvard assigned individuals different scores based on their food choices, creating a healthy diet index. A perfect score was 110 and reflected a higher […]

American Eating Habits

· by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

A 12-year study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health found that Americans improved their eating habits slightly over the years, but that was not the case for America’s poor. Harvard assigned individuals different scores based on their food choices, creating a healthy diet index. A perfect score was 110 and reflected a higher […]

Natural Oral Health Tips That Can Even Help Your Heart

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

By taking care of your teeth, you can gain a beautiful smile, fewer cavities, fresh breath, and possibly, according to increasing scientific evidence, better heart functioning…did I surprise you with that one? Yes, it is true. Although the medical community isn’t quite firm on the link, there is agreement that there is evidence tying the […]

Natural Oral Health Tips That Can Even Help Your Heart

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

By taking care of your teeth, you can gain a beautiful smile, fewer cavities, fresh breath, and possibly, according to increasing scientific evidence, better heart functioning…did I surprise you with that one? Yes, it is true. Although the medical community isn’t quite firm on the link, there is agreement that there is evidence tying the […]

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Blessed in the Small Things

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The Bible states in Zechariah 4:10, “Do not despise the day of small things.” I have been constantly reminded of that verse lately. I saw it on Facebook, then I heard it in a sermon, and lastly, it was a daily verse on my phone. When I witness a recurring theme such as this, I wonder, Lord […]

Blessed in the Small Things

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The Bible states in Zechariah 4:10, “Do not despise the day of small things.” I have been constantly reminded of that verse lately. I saw it on Facebook, then I heard it in a sermon, and lastly, it was a daily verse on my phone. When I witness a recurring theme such as this, I wonder, Lord […]

PHW Success Story – Savannah Missionary Baptist, Fayetteville

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Savannah Missionary Baptist Church is committed to developing a holistic ministry. For the past six years our congregation has made a concerted effort to improve the health of our members and reach out to the community. We have declared our campus Tobacco Free and have posted signs on church grounds. We also have a bulletin […]

PHW Success Story – Savannah Missionary Baptist, Fayetteville

· by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Savannah Missionary Baptist Church is committed to developing a holistic ministry. For the past six years our congregation has made a concerted effort to improve the health of our members and reach out to the community. We have declared our campus Tobacco Free and have posted signs on church grounds. We also have a bulletin […]

The 5K Challenge

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

When most people think of 5K, they think of running. Well, this time, not so much. This 5K challenge has to do with raising awareness of health and faith through driving. And, there is another hiccup. A 5K stands for 5 kilometers or 3.1 miles. However, I really mean 5,000 miles. Not correct in any sense, […]

The 5K Challenge

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

When most people think of 5K, they think of running. Well, this time, not so much. This 5K challenge has to do with raising awareness of health and faith through driving. And, there is another hiccup. A 5K stands for 5 kilometers or 3.1 miles. However, I really mean 5,000 miles. Not correct in any sense, […]

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Pressing On

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

As you may remember, I pledged to make some healthy lifestyle changes of my own. I stated that these changes would be incremental so as not to be overwhelming and make me contemplate giving up on them. In addition, I shared that these changes and the results were a journey and not a destination; they are a new lifestyle. So far […]

Pressing On

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

As you may remember, I pledged to make some healthy lifestyle changes of my own. I stated that these changes would be incremental so as not to be overwhelming and make me contemplate giving up on them. In addition, I shared that these changes and the results were a journey and not a destination; they are a new lifestyle. So far […]

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NC’s Plan to Improve Health in Rural Communities

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

I had the pleasure of serving on the North Carolina Institute of Medicine’s (NCIOM) Task Force on Rural Health, which was charged with creating a roadmap for better health in rural parts of our state. This plan includes strategies that do not require additional funding to support, but rather stronger partnerships across different sectors, such […]

NC’s Plan to Improve Health in Rural Communities

· by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

I had the pleasure of serving on the North Carolina Institute of Medicine’s (NCIOM) Task Force on Rural Health, which was charged with creating a roadmap for better health in rural parts of our state. This plan includes strategies that do not require additional funding to support, but rather stronger partnerships across different sectors, such […]

Watershed Discipleship — Radical and Urgent Change

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The Watershed Discipleship Course was held June 16-20 at in Warren Wilson College in Swannanoa.  This conference was sponsored by the Food, Faith, and Religious Leadership Initiative at Wake Divinity with support from Kalleiopeia Foundation. Four of PHW’s influential liaisons came together along with other powerful minds to confront the “interlocking crises of deepening climate change, resource […]

Watershed Discipleship — Radical and Urgent Change

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The Watershed Discipleship Course was held June 16-20 at in Warren Wilson College in Swannanoa.  This conference was sponsored by the Food, Faith, and Religious Leadership Initiative at Wake Divinity with support from Kalleiopeia Foundation. Four of PHW’s influential liaisons came together along with other powerful minds to confront the “interlocking crises of deepening climate change, resource […]

Take Action For Health

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I am roughly halfway through my internship with Partners in Health and Wholeness, and the pressure is on. There are a lot of behind-the-scenes activities that make PHW successful. For instance, it can be difficult to engage the community to embrace the idea of a healthy lifestyle, coordinating the events, and research different topics as a small non-profit. […]

Take Action For Health

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I am roughly halfway through my internship with Partners in Health and Wholeness, and the pressure is on. There are a lot of behind-the-scenes activities that make PHW successful. For instance, it can be difficult to engage the community to embrace the idea of a healthy lifestyle, coordinating the events, and research different topics as a small non-profit. […]

2014 Faith & Health Summit – Register Now!

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Please join the North Carolina Council of Churches at the 2014 Faith and Health Summit, which will be held on Friday, October 10, 2014 at Ardmore Baptist Church in Winston-Salem (501 Miller Street). Special thanks to Wake Forest University’s Food, Faith and Religious Leadership Initiative for co-sponsoring the event! The program will run from 9:30am to 3:30pm, […]

2014 Faith & Health Summit – Register Now!

· by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Please join the North Carolina Council of Churches at the 2014 Faith and Health Summit, which will be held on Friday, October 10, 2014 at Ardmore Baptist Church in Winston-Salem (501 Miller Street). Special thanks to Wake Forest University’s Food, Faith and Religious Leadership Initiative for co-sponsoring the event! The program will run from 9:30am to 3:30pm, […]

Finding Amazement With Teens and Worms

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness continues to amaze me. I had a chance to visit Laurinburg Presbyterian Church where PHW is incorporating their program for healthier lifestyles. Of course this is with the help of some congregation members and local teenagers in the community who seemed very excited to be a part of the health […]

Finding Amazement With Teens and Worms

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness continues to amaze me. I had a chance to visit Laurinburg Presbyterian Church where PHW is incorporating their program for healthier lifestyles. Of course this is with the help of some congregation members and local teenagers in the community who seemed very excited to be a part of the health […]

How to Make a Diabetes Emergency Kit for Your Congregation

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Do you have people in your congregation with type 2 diabetes? Have you considered creating an emergency kit especially for them? PHW liaison, Dr. Renee Lea-Currie of Philadelphia Seventh Day Adventist Church in Burlington, shared the information below with PHW staff to pass along to you. Thank you, Renee! I have encountered too many type 2 […]

How to Make a Diabetes Emergency Kit for Your Congregation

· by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Do you have people in your congregation with type 2 diabetes? Have you considered creating an emergency kit especially for them? PHW liaison, Dr. Renee Lea-Currie of Philadelphia Seventh Day Adventist Church in Burlington, shared the information below with PHW staff to pass along to you. Thank you, Renee! I have encountered too many type 2 […]

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The Great Tomato Festival

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

On Saturday I had the chance to attend the 5th Annual Great Tomato Festival, which is a collaboration between the Cooperative Extension of Guilford County and NC A&T University. Extension master gardener volunteers plant, tend, harvest and prepare the tomatoes for the event. NC A&T provides land for growing the tomatoes and the venue for the […]

The Great Tomato Festival

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

On Saturday I had the chance to attend the 5th Annual Great Tomato Festival, which is a collaboration between the Cooperative Extension of Guilford County and NC A&T University. Extension master gardener volunteers plant, tend, harvest and prepare the tomatoes for the event. NC A&T provides land for growing the tomatoes and the venue for the […]

2014 PHW Youth Conference

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The Lord raised up Laquanda Bowden of Empowering Word Ministries and her church crew to organize an incredible 2014 Youth Conference. Yes, Partners in Health and Wholeness co-hosted this event, and I don’t want to downplay the role that Willona Stallings played or our summer intern, Johnny Rogers, without whom the PHW side could not […]

2014 PHW Youth Conference

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The Lord raised up Laquanda Bowden of Empowering Word Ministries and her church crew to organize an incredible 2014 Youth Conference. Yes, Partners in Health and Wholeness co-hosted this event, and I don’t want to downplay the role that Willona Stallings played or our summer intern, Johnny Rogers, without whom the PHW side could not […]

Food, Fairness and Faith

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

“How is this equal?!” I often articulate this simple phrase whenever I take a look at the world these days. Sometimes I mutter the sentence under my breath in disbelief, and sometimes I exclaim it with disgust or utter shock. The question of equality always surfaces whenever I acknowledge the issues we humans face, particularly […]

Food, Fairness and Faith

· by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

“How is this equal?!” I often articulate this simple phrase whenever I take a look at the world these days. Sometimes I mutter the sentence under my breath in disbelief, and sometimes I exclaim it with disgust or utter shock. The question of equality always surfaces whenever I acknowledge the issues we humans face, particularly […]

Another Spirit-filled Weekend with Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness co-hosted a youth conference on Saturday, July 12, with Empowering Word Ministries in Wadesboro.  I was honored to be able to participate as a PHW intern. Empowering Word Ministries Church held a spirit filled-praise and worship service with groups from the community and surrounding counties on Friday night, which I attended. […]

Another Spirit-filled Weekend with Partners in Health and Wholeness

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness co-hosted a youth conference on Saturday, July 12, with Empowering Word Ministries in Wadesboro.  I was honored to be able to participate as a PHW intern. Empowering Word Ministries Church held a spirit filled-praise and worship service with groups from the community and surrounding counties on Friday night, which I attended. […]

PHW Welcomes Courtney Ward

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Courtney Ward is a summer intern with the Alliance of Baptists, working with Pullen Memorial Baptist Church and lending her aid to the Partners in Health and Wholeness Initiative. Born and bred in Frederick, Maryland, Courtney received a Bachelor’s degree in History and a Bachelor’s degree in Religion (both concentrating in American Studies) from Hood […]

PHW Welcomes Courtney Ward

· by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Courtney Ward is a summer intern with the Alliance of Baptists, working with Pullen Memorial Baptist Church and lending her aid to the Partners in Health and Wholeness Initiative. Born and bred in Frederick, Maryland, Courtney received a Bachelor’s degree in History and a Bachelor’s degree in Religion (both concentrating in American Studies) from Hood […]

Internship with PHW More than Expected

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

From this internship with Partners in Health and Wholeness, my main expectations were to strengthen my employment applications after graduation by adding additional experiences. However, after my first day in the field with Joy Williams, my expectations have changed. Seeing her passion and commitment to her calling has made me realize how important this internship […]

Internship with PHW More than Expected

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

From this internship with Partners in Health and Wholeness, my main expectations were to strengthen my employment applications after graduation by adding additional experiences. However, after my first day in the field with Joy Williams, my expectations have changed. Seeing her passion and commitment to her calling has made me realize how important this internship […]

“A Conspiracy of Sunlight and Sugar”

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Blueberries, blackberries, persimmons and plums!  What is your local fruit IQ?  Do you know when local fruit is in season and where to get it?  The blog  below, written by Barth Anderson, is about his discovery of in-season local fruit. I found it entertaining, enlightening and encouraging. It was also a humorous reminder that if you don’t […]

“A Conspiracy of Sunlight and Sugar”

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Blueberries, blackberries, persimmons and plums!  What is your local fruit IQ?  Do you know when local fruit is in season and where to get it?  The blog  below, written by Barth Anderson, is about his discovery of in-season local fruit. I found it entertaining, enlightening and encouraging. It was also a humorous reminder that if you don’t […]

Men’s Health Week and Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

There’s lots to celebrate this month. Besides my birthday (smile), the month of June is when we observe Men’s Health Week and National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month. These two issues, each important enough on their own, also overlap as men are encouraged to eat nutritious, well-balanced meals in order to remain healthy and strong. Our nation’s dietary guidelines are updated every five years, with the most recent set of guidelines released in 2010. In this report, the US Department of Agriculture advises both men and women to...

Men’s Health Week and Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month

· by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

There’s lots to celebrate this month. Besides my birthday (smile), the month of June is when we observe Men’s Health Week and National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month. These two issues, each important enough on their own, also overlap as men are encouraged to eat nutritious, well-balanced meals in order to remain healthy and strong. Our nation’s dietary guidelines are updated every five years, with the most recent set of guidelines released in 2010. In this report, the US Department of Agriculture advises both men and women to…

One-Woman Show Kicks Off Breastfeeding Collaborative

By Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

The Partners in Health and Wholeness Breastfeeding Collaborative kicks off with a performance by Anita Woodley of her one-woman show, “Mama Juggs.” Woodley is a nationally renowned local performer and former producer of WUNC-FM’s “The Story.” Her show about breastfeeding and the health of women and children is a fiercely funny, powerful experience that incorporates true stories […]

One-Woman Show Kicks Off Breastfeeding Collaborative

· by Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

The Partners in Health and Wholeness Breastfeeding Collaborative kicks off with a performance by Anita Woodley of her one-woman show, “Mama Juggs.” Woodley is a nationally renowned local performer and former producer of WUNC-FM’s “The Story.” Her show about breastfeeding and the health of women and children is a fiercely funny, powerful experience that incorporates true stories […]

Representative Holley Endorses the Breastfeeding Collaborative

By Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

District 38 representative Yvonne Holley recently visited the offices of the North Carolina Council of Churches. She came to express her support for one of the Council’s newest initiatives, The Partners in Health and Wholeness Breastfeeding Collaborative. Rep. Holley is pictured above with the Collaborative’s project director, Marnie Cooper Priest, and with PHW Coordinator Willona […]

Representative Holley Endorses the Breastfeeding Collaborative

· by Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

District 38 representative Yvonne Holley recently visited the offices of the North Carolina Council of Churches. She came to express her support for one of the Council’s newest initiatives, The Partners in Health and Wholeness Breastfeeding Collaborative. Rep. Holley is pictured above with the Collaborative’s project director, Marnie Cooper Priest, and with PHW Coordinator Willona […]

Food Drive at Critical Issues Seminar for Backpack Buddies

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In conjunction with the Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education in June, the NC Council of Churches will be collecting non-perishable items to support Inter-Faith Food Shuttle’s Backpack Buddies program. In addition, Catering with a Cause, an IFFS job-training program, is providing the lunch for seminar participants. According to Feeding America, North Carolina ranks in the ten worst […]

Food Drive at Critical Issues Seminar for Backpack Buddies

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In conjunction with the Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education in June, the NC Council of Churches will be collecting non-perishable items to support Inter-Faith Food Shuttle’s Backpack Buddies program. In addition, Catering with a Cause, an IFFS job-training program, is providing the lunch for seminar participants. According to Feeding America, North Carolina ranks in the ten worst […]

‘Tis the Season for Local Food

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Wait, isn’t that a line from a Christmas song?  Well, yes.  But, when it comes to living a healthy life, what time of year could be better than right now? Temperatures are warming up and farmers markets are opening, making it more desirable to get outside to exercise […]

‘Tis the Season for Local Food

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Wait, isn’t that a line from a Christmas song?  Well, yes.  But, when it comes to living a healthy life, what time of year could be better than right now? Temperatures are warming up and farmers markets are opening, making it more desirable to get outside to exercise […]

PHW Community Hero: Helen Livingston of Scotland County

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Meet one of our community leaders: Helen Livingston of Scotland County. I was able to get her to tell us a bit about herself and her community involvement. Joy: Ms. Helen, could you tell us a bit of a bio of your life and ways that you have contributed to the community? Helen: I grew […]

PHW Community Hero: Helen Livingston of Scotland County

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Meet one of our community leaders: Helen Livingston of Scotland County. I was able to get her to tell us a bit about herself and her community involvement. Joy: Ms. Helen, could you tell us a bit of a bio of your life and ways that you have contributed to the community? Helen: I grew […]

Healthy North Carolina 2020: Are We Gaining or Losing Ground?

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Healthy North Carolina 2020 is a health improvement plan for our state. It addresses a wide range of issues that impact our health, such as tobacco use, physical activity and nutrition, mental health, and injury and violence. Optimal goals have been established in each of these areas, with a 2020 deadline for achieving them. So […]

Healthy North Carolina 2020: Are We Gaining or Losing Ground?

· by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Healthy North Carolina 2020 is a health improvement plan for our state. It addresses a wide range of issues that impact our health, such as tobacco use, physical activity and nutrition, mental health, and injury and violence. Optimal goals have been established in each of these areas, with a 2020 deadline for achieving them. So […]

New Health Resource Focuses on Early Childhood Brain Development

By Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

The brain, one of the only organs not fully developed at birth, experiences 90% of its development before age eight. The 2000 days between birth and the start of kindergarten is the focus of a new resource, released by The North Carolina Early Childhood Foundation, for congregations that would like to help each child to […]

New Health Resource Focuses on Early Childhood Brain Development

· by Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

The brain, one of the only organs not fully developed at birth, experiences 90% of its development before age eight. The 2000 days between birth and the start of kindergarten is the focus of a new resource, released by The North Carolina Early Childhood Foundation, for congregations that would like to help each child to […]

Food Justice Event on April 12

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Last year, I did not see many church leaders and pastors at the food and faith events I attended. I wondered if they knew about these events. As I reflected, I asked another question, “How can the valuable information I am learning about hunger, food insecurity, and food justice be accessible to church leaders and pastors?” Partners […]

Food Justice Event on April 12

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Last year, I did not see many church leaders and pastors at the food and faith events I attended. I wondered if they knew about these events. As I reflected, I asked another question, “How can the valuable information I am learning about hunger, food insecurity, and food justice be accessible to church leaders and pastors?” Partners […]

The Benefits of Breastfeeding

By Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

Recent, widely disseminated news reports claim that the benefits of breastfeeding have been drastically overstated. This is a startling assertion. It contradicts prolific and long-standing research that has formed the foundation for pro-breastfeeding policies and recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the Institutes of Medicine, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the U.S. Department […]

The Benefits of Breastfeeding

· by Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

Recent, widely disseminated news reports claim that the benefits of breastfeeding have been drastically overstated. This is a startling assertion. It contradicts prolific and long-standing research that has formed the foundation for pro-breastfeeding policies and recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the Institutes of Medicine, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the U.S. Department […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Circle Maker, Chapter One

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “The Circle Maker” by Mark Batterson. Just look for the picture of the apple on the books and […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Circle Maker, Chapter One

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “The Circle Maker” by Mark Batterson. Just look for the picture of the apple on the books and […]

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PHW-Certified Congregation Receives Funding to Improve Access to Healthy Foods

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Love Fellowship Believers – a PHW Silver-Certified Congregation located in Greensboro and under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Kevin Webb – was awarded a Statewide Pioneering Healthier Communities Youth Advocacy grant to take on the issue of healthy food access in their local community. With rising childhood obesity rates in our state and country, a […]

PHW-Certified Congregation Receives Funding to Improve Access to Healthy Foods

· by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Love Fellowship Believers – a PHW Silver-Certified Congregation located in Greensboro and under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Kevin Webb – was awarded a Statewide Pioneering Healthier Communities Youth Advocacy grant to take on the issue of healthy food access in their local community. With rising childhood obesity rates in our state and country, a […]

A Time to Mend: A Social Justice Study for Lent

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Economic circumstances too often define us. How much we do or do not earn can put us on a path that either buffers our failures or tempers our successes. The people who make the least amount of money have the fewest opportunities to succeed, no matter how much they work or how hard they study. For Christians, the biblical calls to justice and to providing for the least of these are foundations of our faith. At the same time, we as a nation mark this year the 50th anniversary of the war on poverty. Under different circumstances we might celebrate the milestone, but there is still too much to be done.

A Time to Mend: A Social Justice Study for Lent

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Economic circumstances too often define us. How much we do or do not earn can put us on a path that either buffers our failures or tempers our successes. The people who make the least amount of money have the fewest opportunities to succeed, no matter how much they work or how hard they study.

For Christians, the biblical calls to justice and to providing for the least of these are foundations of our faith. At the same time, we as a nation mark this year the 50th anniversary of the war on poverty. Under different circumstances we might celebrate the milestone, but there is still too much to be done.

Gardening With a Purpose

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Recently, I received a notice from a local community garden organizer about a grant opportunity sponsored by a fertilizer company. I shared it with my e-mail group and found one response, in particular, intriguing. Within this email, a local community leader expressed the importance of gardens, eating healthy, and making healthy local food accessible to […]

Gardening With a Purpose

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Recently, I received a notice from a local community garden organizer about a grant opportunity sponsored by a fertilizer company. I shared it with my e-mail group and found one response, in particular, intriguing. Within this email, a local community leader expressed the importance of gardens, eating healthy, and making healthy local food accessible to […]

My Personal Food and Faith Story

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

How did faith play a role in shaping my food and faith experience? Food was very much a part of my growing up and interactions with both of my parents’ families. Food was not the only reason why we came together. We came together to rekindle, reconcile, and just have fun together, but food was an […]

My Personal Food and Faith Story

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

How did faith play a role in shaping my food and faith experience? Food was very much a part of my growing up and interactions with both of my parents’ families. Food was not the only reason why we came together. We came together to rekindle, reconcile, and just have fun together, but food was an […]

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2014 PHW Certification & Mini-Grants: We’re Now Accepting Applications!

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

New activities and requirements for the 2014 Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program are now posted on our website! We hope that you will join this statewide movement to improve the health of people of faith through increased physical activity, healthy eating and tobacco use prevention and cessation. PHW-certified congregations are taking charge of […]

2014 PHW Certification & Mini-Grants: We’re Now Accepting Applications!

· by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

New activities and requirements for the 2014 Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program are now posted on our website! We hope that you will join this statewide movement to improve the health of people of faith through increased physical activity, healthy eating and tobacco use prevention and cessation. PHW-certified congregations are taking charge of […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, Chapter Nineteen

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life” by Barbara Kingsolver. Just look for the picture of the […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, Chapter Nineteen

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life” by Barbara Kingsolver. Just look for the picture of the […]

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Are We Past The Holiday Pounds?

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I know that we are past the holidays, but are we past the pounds that we might have packed on? Many times, we are so bombarded by the holiday hype that we hardly have time to consider tips to avoid weight gain. So with 2013 behind us, here are some ideas to consider for 2014 […]

Are We Past The Holiday Pounds?

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I know that we are past the holidays, but are we past the pounds that we might have packed on? Many times, we are so bombarded by the holiday hype that we hardly have time to consider tips to avoid weight gain. So with 2013 behind us, here are some ideas to consider for 2014 […]

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A Canine’s Love for Health

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Have you ever thought about what your pet may think of your diet? I had some fun exploring this idea with a friend’s pet. Heidi is a dachshund with a remarkable story about how her diet has changed within the past several years, due to her owners changing their diet.  Healthy habits are beneficial, even […]

A Canine’s Love for Health

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Have you ever thought about what your pet may think of your diet? I had some fun exploring this idea with a friend’s pet. Heidi is a dachshund with a remarkable story about how her diet has changed within the past several years, due to her owners changing their diet.  Healthy habits are beneficial, even […]

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PHW Book Club Discussion: Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, Chapter Seventeen

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life” by Barbara Kingsolver. We are posting updates through the PHW […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, Chapter Seventeen

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life” by Barbara Kingsolver. We are posting updates through the PHW […]

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Pope Supports Breastfeeding in Public

By Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

Breastfeeding mothers everywhere have another reason to smile. On two separate occasions, one at the General Audience in December and another during a Baptism last week at the Cistene Chapel, Pope Frances encouraged mothers to go ahead and feed their babies, even though they were out in public  — and in the presence of the Pope! […]

Pope Supports Breastfeeding in Public

· by Marnie Cooper Priest, Former Project Director for the Breastfeeding Collaborative

Breastfeeding mothers everywhere have another reason to smile. On two separate occasions, one at the General Audience in December and another during a Baptism last week at the Cistene Chapel, Pope Frances encouraged mothers to go ahead and feed their babies, even though they were out in public  — and in the presence of the Pope! […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, Chapter Sixteen

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life” by Barbara Kingsolver. We are posting updates through the PHW […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, Chapter Sixteen

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life” by Barbara Kingsolver. We are posting updates through the PHW […]