Partners in Health & Wholeness

An initiative of the NC Council of Churches

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Health

Local Farmers Supported by People of Faith

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

What do you think of when I say ‘faith and health’? Maybe a congregation exercising together or changing their diet? How about members of a faith community visiting a Farmers Market and supporting local farmers? That’s what Partners in Health and Wholeness is encouraging through its most recent outreach. On June 28, PHW set up […]

Local Farmers Supported by People of Faith

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

What do you think of when I say ‘faith and health’? Maybe a congregation exercising together or changing their diet? How about members of a faith community visiting a Farmers Market and supporting local farmers? That’s what Partners in Health and Wholeness is encouraging through its most recent outreach. On June 28, PHW set up […]

Health Care for All God’s Children — ACA Upheld

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches rejoices in today’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding the Affordable Care Act (ACA) which affirms the decades-long work and concerns of the NCCC for those without health care. This decision means that millions who had no health insurance and thus restricted health care will have their needs met. […]

Health Care for All God’s Children — ACA Upheld

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches rejoices in today’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding the Affordable Care Act (ACA) which affirms the decades-long work and concerns of the NCCC for those without health care. This decision means that millions who had no health insurance and thus restricted health care will have their needs met. […]

Seven Risk Factors to Monitor Your Health

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Did you know that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for Americans? In fact, more than 800,000 people die a year (one in three overall deaths).  The American Heart Association (AHA) lists ‘Life Simple 7’ which are risk factors to help monitor cardiovascular health.  These seven risk factors are not smoking; being physically active; having normal blood pressure, […]

Seven Risk Factors to Monitor Your Health

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Did you know that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for Americans? In fact, more than 800,000 people die a year (one in three overall deaths).  The American Heart Association (AHA) lists ‘Life Simple 7’ which are risk factors to help monitor cardiovascular health.  These seven risk factors are not smoking; being physically active; having normal blood pressure, […]

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Rio+20 and The Climate is Changed!

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

One of my friends just posted this amazing YouTube video of Severn Suzuki who, at age 12, addressed the United Nations at the first Earth Summit in Rio twenty years ago.  Her words ring out with perfect clarity now as they did then, except that the world has done little to heed her child-heart call. […]

Rio+20 and The Climate is Changed!

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

One of my friends just posted this amazing YouTube video of Severn Suzuki who, at age 12, addressed the United Nations at the first Earth Summit in Rio twenty years ago.  Her words ring out with perfect clarity now as they did then, except that the world has done little to heed her child-heart call. […]

Praise Dancing Reaps Benefits

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Mary Swann and Yvonne McGraw have taken an active leadership role in forming the Pee Dee Baptist Association Health Coalition. They have been gathering at least once a month since December 2011 to talk about health and faith. During their most recent gathering in May, members of the coalition did something different. They praised dance for […]

Praise Dancing Reaps Benefits

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Mary Swann and Yvonne McGraw have taken an active leadership role in forming the Pee Dee Baptist Association Health Coalition. They have been gathering at least once a month since December 2011 to talk about health and faith. During their most recent gathering in May, members of the coalition did something different. They praised dance for […]

On the Importance of the State’s Public Health System

By North Carolina Council of Churches

Adopted by the Governing Board, June 5, 2012 The Issue For more than four decades now, the North Carolina Council of Churches has been fighting to protect the health of people of faith and all North Carolinians by advocating for universal health care; quality long-term care for the elderly; sustained funding for mental health, developmental […]

On the Importance of the State’s Public Health System

· by North Carolina Council of Churches

Adopted by the Governing Board, June 5, 2012 The Issue For more than four decades now, the North Carolina Council of Churches has been fighting to protect the health of people of faith and all North Carolinians by advocating for universal health care; quality long-term care for the elderly; sustained funding for mental health, developmental […]

Raleigh Report – June 1, 2012

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The General Assembly leadership is committed to having this short session truly be short, and there’s talk of adjourning by early July. In fact, an adjournment resolution was introduced yesterday with a target date of June 19. This session, which starts in May of even-numbered years, is primarily to tweak the second year of the budget adopted the year before. In addition, certain bills which were introduced last year (mostly ones which passed in one house) can be considered. For a new bill to be introduced this year, it must fit into one of a few specific categories, with most new bills having to do with budgetary matters or coming from a study commission which met during the interim. Finally, pending veto overrides are also thought by the House and Senate leadership to be eligible for consideration.

Also in this Raleigh Report: Guns in Church, Gambling, Death Penalty, Boards and Commissions and more.

Raleigh Report – June 1, 2012

· by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The General Assembly leadership is committed to having this short session truly be short, and there’s talk of adjourning by early July. In fact, an adjournment resolution was introduced yesterday with a target date of June 19. This session, which starts in May of even-numbered years, is primarily to tweak the second year of the budget adopted the year before. In addition, certain bills which were introduced last year (mostly ones which passed in one house) can be considered. For a new bill to be introduced this year, it must fit into one of a few specific categories, with most new bills having to do with budgetary matters or coming from a study commission which met during the interim. Finally, pending veto overrides are also thought by the House and Senate leadership to be eligible for consideration.


Also in this Raleigh Report: Guns in Church, Gambling, Death Penalty, Boards and Commissions and more.

Church Council Bulletin, Spring 2012

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Spring 2012 Church Council Bulletin includes photographs from the Council’s recent Critical Issues Seminar, an update on items of interest in the General Assembly’s short session, a statement on the passage of Amendment One, the Council’s spring appeal, and more.

Church Council Bulletin, Spring 2012

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Spring 2012 Church Council Bulletin includes photographs from the Council’s recent Critical Issues Seminar, an update on items of interest in the General Assembly’s short session, a statement on the passage of Amendment One, the Council’s spring appeal, and more.

Raleigh Report — May 18 Update

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The General Assembly convened this past Wednesday for its regular “short session.” As always, the primary purpose of the short session is to tweak the budget for the fiscal year that starts on July 1, but there are several other important issues either still rattling around from last year or being newly introduced. Because we […]

Raleigh Report — May 18 Update

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The General Assembly convened this past Wednesday for its regular “short session.” As always, the primary purpose of the short session is to tweak the budget for the fiscal year that starts on July 1, but there are several other important issues either still rattling around from last year or being newly introduced. Because we […]

Statement on Passage of Amendment One

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In light of yesterday’s vote to add a discriminatory amendment about marriage to our state’s constitution, it is important to consider what was accomplished through this campaign and what it tells us about progress. First, the fine work of a committed group of people has resulted in alliances and coalitions that hadn’t existed before. People […]

Statement on Passage of Amendment One

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In light of yesterday’s vote to add a discriminatory amendment about marriage to our state’s constitution, it is important to consider what was accomplished through this campaign and what it tells us about progress. First, the fine work of a committed group of people has resulted in alliances and coalitions that hadn’t existed before. People […]

Care of Creation Faith Message Has Legs on Capitol Hill

By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Susannah Tuttle and I had the privilege of representing NCIPL at the annual meeting of Interfaith Power & Light last week in Washington, DC. We spent two days immersed in heady discussions with other state leaders about our mutual work with congregations all across the nation – finding ways to respond positively to the theological […]

Care of Creation Faith Message Has Legs on Capitol Hill

· by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Susannah Tuttle and I had the privilege of representing NCIPL at the annual meeting of Interfaith Power & Light last week in Washington, DC. We spent two days immersed in heady discussions with other state leaders about our mutual work with congregations all across the nation – finding ways to respond positively to the theological […]

Exciting Updates from PHW

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are happy to announce that the North Carolina Council of Churches’ Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Initiative has received continued support from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation. This enables PHW’s continued work to improve the health of clergy and congregants through faith-based health promotion over the next three […]

Exciting Updates from PHW

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are happy to announce that the North Carolina Council of Churches’ Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Initiative has received continued support from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation. This enables PHW’s continued work to improve the health of clergy and congregants through faith-based health promotion over the next three […]

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Being Crazy Christians

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

It was a beautiful day spent at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winston-Salem on April 19.  I was there for the annual NC Council of Churches Critical Issues Seminar; this year’s theme was, Eating Well for Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet.  The Right Rev. Michael Curry, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, […]

Being Crazy Christians

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

It was a beautiful day spent at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winston-Salem on April 19.  I was there for the annual NC Council of Churches Critical Issues Seminar; this year’s theme was, Eating Well for Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet.  The Right Rev. Michael Curry, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, […]

New Curriculum: Eating Well

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

This comprehensive, intergenerational curriculum focuses on the food we eat and why it matters. Featuring 7 lessons with Scripture, prayers, resources, and activities for young children through adults, "Eating Well" will challenge and inspire your church or community group. Download your copy today.

New Curriculum: Eating Well

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

This comprehensive, intergenerational curriculum focuses on the food we eat and why it matters. Featuring 7 lessons with Scripture, prayers, resources, and activities for young children through adults, “Eating Well” will challenge and inspire your church or community group. Download your copy today.

$9.94 Billion Spent to Market Cigarettes

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

In 2008, Big Tobacco spent $9.94 billion to market cigarettes, and sadly, that amount corresponds to ‘new customers’ despite public health efforts to stop the destruction caused by tobacco. Part of the harm is caused by hidden substances within tobacco products which are not labeled, including radiation, and marketing designed to appeal to young people. Dr. Cheryl G. […]

$9.94 Billion Spent to Market Cigarettes

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

In 2008, Big Tobacco spent $9.94 billion to market cigarettes, and sadly, that amount corresponds to ‘new customers’ despite public health efforts to stop the destruction caused by tobacco. Part of the harm is caused by hidden substances within tobacco products which are not labeled, including radiation, and marketing designed to appeal to young people. Dr. Cheryl G. […]

A Personal Story of Faith and Health

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

BCBSNC Foundation

My faith journey began at an early age and in a somewhat nontraditional way. I fondly remember attending weekly prayer meetings and Bible studies at my grandmother’s house in rural North Carolina. Community members would come from all around to worship together in a small, weather-beaten house at the end of a long dirt path. They would read scriptures, sing songs and tell stories of how they were able to overcome various obstacles throughout the week.

A Personal Story of Faith and Health

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

BCBSNC Foundation

My faith journey began at an early age and in a somewhat nontraditional way. I fondly remember attending weekly prayer meetings and Bible studies at my grandmother’s house in rural North Carolina. Community members would come from all around to worship together in a small, weather-beaten house at the end of a long dirt path. They would read scriptures, sing songs and tell stories of how they were able to overcome various obstacles throughout the week.

New County Health Rankings Point to Disparities in Health

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

The 2012 County Health Rankings report, recently released by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, points to major disparities in health by geographic location – with urban areas like Wake, Durham, Mecklenburg and Guilford counties experiencing overall better health than many rural parts of the state like Columbus, […]

New County Health Rankings Point to Disparities in Health

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

The 2012 County Health Rankings report, recently released by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, points to major disparities in health by geographic location – with urban areas like Wake, Durham, Mecklenburg and Guilford counties experiencing overall better health than many rural parts of the state like Columbus, […]

Deadline for Critical Issues Seminar Extended; Eva Clayton to Speak at Lunch

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The deadline to guarantee lunch at the 2012 Critical Issues Seminar has been extended to April 12. This year’s seminar, Eating Well for Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet, takes place on April 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winston-Salem. The event offers a series of workshops focused […]

Deadline for Critical Issues Seminar Extended; Eva Clayton to Speak at Lunch

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The deadline to guarantee lunch at the 2012 Critical Issues Seminar has been extended to April 12. This year’s seminar, Eating Well for Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet, takes place on April 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winston-Salem. The event offers a series of workshops focused […]

Pee Dee Baptist Association Health Coalition Meeting

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Pee Dee Baptist Association Health Coalition, a joint effort of the Association along with Partners in Health and Wholeness, takes place April 3 at 7 p.m at St. Paul’s Missionary Baptist Church, 198 Gaines St., Aberdeen (Jackson Hamlet). Snacks will be provided, and the event is free and open to the public. There are […]

Pee Dee Baptist Association Health Coalition Meeting

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Pee Dee Baptist Association Health Coalition, a joint effort of the Association along with Partners in Health and Wholeness, takes place April 3 at 7 p.m at St. Paul’s Missionary Baptist Church, 198 Gaines St., Aberdeen (Jackson Hamlet). Snacks will be provided, and the event is free and open to the public. There are […]

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Keynoter and Distinguished Service Award Recipient Announced for Critical Issues

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Alexia Kelley will deliver the keynote address for the North Carolina Council of Churches’ 2012 Critical Issues Seminar, and Father Joe Vetter will receive the Council’s Distinguished Service Award at the April 19 event. Kelley, who is Catholic,  is the Director of the Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships Center with the Department of Health and Human Services in Washington D.C. […]

Keynoter and Distinguished Service Award Recipient Announced for Critical Issues

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Alexia Kelley will deliver the keynote address for the North Carolina Council of Churches’ 2012 Critical Issues Seminar, and Father Joe Vetter will receive the Council’s Distinguished Service Award at the April 19 event. Kelley, who is Catholic,  is the Director of the Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships Center with the Department of Health and Human Services in Washington D.C. […]

Champions of Change

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Congratulations to two of the Council’s friends and colleagues on being designated Champions of Change by the White House. Linda Walling, Executive Director, of Faithful Reform in Health Care (and soon to be a NC resident) and native North Carolinian Adam Searing, Director of the Health Access Coalition for the North Carolina Justice Center, were honored […]

Champions of Change

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Congratulations to two of the Council’s friends and colleagues on being designated Champions of Change by the White House. Linda Walling, Executive Director, of Faithful Reform in Health Care (and soon to be a NC resident) and native North Carolinian Adam Searing, Director of the Health Access Coalition for the North Carolina Justice Center, were honored […]

Annual Christian Educational Institute to be held in Dobbins Heights

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

Richmond County Daily Journal

The Pee Dee Baptist Educational Congress, an auxiliary to the Pee Dee Baptist Educational Association, will conduct the Annual Christian Educational Institute from March 19 to 23, 2012, at the Pee Dee Educational Building in Dobbin Heights. There will be classes for church officers and each department in the church.

Annual Christian Educational Institute to be held in Dobbins Heights

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

Richmond County Daily Journal

The Pee Dee Baptist Educational Congress, an auxiliary to the Pee Dee Baptist Educational Association, will conduct the Annual Christian Educational Institute from March 19 to 23, 2012, at the Pee Dee Educational Building in Dobbin Heights.

There will be classes for church officers and each department in the church.

Places of Worship Addressing Youth Health

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

A recent report by the U.S. Surgeon General revealed that a large number of America’s youth – 600,000 middle school students and three million high school students – smoke cigarettes.  At best, this information is disturbing, not only because it shows that progress made over the last decade to reduce youth smoking rates is slowing […]

Places of Worship Addressing Youth Health

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

A recent report by the U.S. Surgeon General revealed that a large number of America’s youth – 600,000 middle school students and three million high school students – smoke cigarettes.  At best, this information is disturbing, not only because it shows that progress made over the last decade to reduce youth smoking rates is slowing […]

New Resources from Partners in Health and Wholeness

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

The NC Council of Churches’ Partners in Health and Wholeness Initiative has created three new fact sheets to help clergy and congregants improve their health.  Do you want to know what our scriptures teach about leading a healthier lifestyle? How many North Carolinians are meeting the mark? Or perhaps simple tips for incorporating physical activity, […]

New Resources from Partners in Health and Wholeness

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

The NC Council of Churches’ Partners in Health and Wholeness Initiative has created three new fact sheets to help clergy and congregants improve their health.  Do you want to know what our scriptures teach about leading a healthier lifestyle? How many North Carolinians are meeting the mark? Or perhaps simple tips for incorporating physical activity, […]

UNC-CH Minority Caucus Holds 33rd Annual Minority Health Conference

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness is proud to promote the 33rd Annual Minority Health Conference, presented by the Minority Student Caucus at UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health. PHW believes in closing the health disparities gap, which is a central goal for this annual conference. The conference features the 14th Annual William T. Small, […]

UNC-CH Minority Caucus Holds 33rd Annual Minority Health Conference

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness is proud to promote the 33rd Annual Minority Health Conference, presented by the Minority Student Caucus at UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health. PHW believes in closing the health disparities gap, which is a central goal for this annual conference. The conference features the 14th Annual William T. Small, […]

Register for 2012 Critical Issues Seminar — “Eating Well: For Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet”

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

To register for the 2012 Critical Issues Seminar and to choose your workshops, complete the form below. The Seminar is taking place April 19 in Winston-Salem.  This exciting day-long event focuses on the social justice implications of what we eat and how it is grown, and features experts on issues from farmworkers to food security […]

Register for 2012 Critical Issues Seminar — “Eating Well: For Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet”

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

To register for the 2012 Critical Issues Seminar and to choose your workshops, complete the form below. The Seminar is taking place April 19 in Winston-Salem.  This exciting day-long event focuses on the social justice implications of what we eat and how it is grown, and features experts on issues from farmworkers to food security […]

Announcing the “Eating Well” Curriculum!

By Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

I’m pleased to announce the North Carolina Council of Churches has a new curriculum in the works! “Eating Well: For Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet” is an introduction to the issues surrounding the way we grow, harvest, and eat our food. Designed for groups of all ages, “Eating Well” uses games, activities, prayer and […]

Announcing the “Eating Well” Curriculum!

· by Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

I’m pleased to announce the North Carolina Council of Churches has a new curriculum in the works! “Eating Well: For Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet” is an introduction to the issues surrounding the way we grow, harvest, and eat our food. Designed for groups of all ages, “Eating Well” uses games, activities, prayer and […]

New Nutritional Standards for School Lunches

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

Back in November, I told you about the political battle that was ensuing over school lunches in our country.  More specifically, the Obama Administration was calling for healthier meals made with less fat and sodium as well as more fruits and vegetables, while the spending bill passed by Congress recognized tomato paste as a vegetable […]

New Nutritional Standards for School Lunches

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

Back in November, I told you about the political battle that was ensuing over school lunches in our country.  More specifically, the Obama Administration was calling for healthier meals made with less fat and sodium as well as more fruits and vegetables, while the spending bill passed by Congress recognized tomato paste as a vegetable […]

Upcoming AME Zion Church Health Conference on Feb. 25

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Francis Jones is organizing a district wide health conference to be held on February 25 from 10am-12:30pm at St. Marks AME Zion Church in Durham (531 S. Roxboro Street).  Representatives of Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) will speak about the Being Healthy, Being Faithful 2012 initiative for all churches.  This is an opportunity to […]

Upcoming AME Zion Church Health Conference on Feb. 25

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Francis Jones is organizing a district wide health conference to be held on February 25 from 10am-12:30pm at St. Marks AME Zion Church in Durham (531 S. Roxboro Street).  Representatives of Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) will speak about the Being Healthy, Being Faithful 2012 initiative for all churches.  This is an opportunity to […]

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Get Inspired (…and Help Us Raise Money in the Process)!

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I am very excited to share with you an online storytelling initiative that has just launched, called Inspired. A program of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC) Foundation, Inspired is telling the stories of select individuals and organizations from across the state that are making a positive impact in their communities.  […]

Get Inspired (…and Help Us Raise Money in the Process)!

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I am very excited to share with you an online storytelling initiative that has just launched, called Inspired. A program of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC) Foundation, Inspired is telling the stories of select individuals and organizations from across the state that are making a positive impact in their communities.  […]

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Churches Set a Unity Plan: Being Healthy, Being Faithful 2012

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thanks to Mary McKeithan for being a key instrumental player in uniting churches in Bladen County on Monday November 28, 2011 at Elizabethtown Presbyterian Church on 800 Broad St. Ms. McKeithan and Joy Williams of Partners in Health and Wholeness collaborated with Bladen churches to set a health focus 2012 calendar for willing congregant members. […]

Churches Set a Unity Plan: Being Healthy, Being Faithful 2012

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thanks to Mary McKeithan for being a key instrumental player in uniting churches in Bladen County on Monday November 28, 2011 at Elizabethtown Presbyterian Church on 800 Broad St. Ms. McKeithan and Joy Williams of Partners in Health and Wholeness collaborated with Bladen churches to set a health focus 2012 calendar for willing congregant members. […]

Richmond County Kicks Off Being Healthy, Being Faithful 2012 on Jan. 29

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Richmond County has answered the call to Being Healthy,  Being Faithful 2012. Mary Swann and Yvonne McGraw of the Pee Dee Baptist Association have both been instrumental in rallying Baptist churches together to learn more about health as a faith issue. The first 2012 event is scheduled for January 29th from 3-5  p.m. at the […]

Richmond County Kicks Off Being Healthy, Being Faithful 2012 on Jan. 29

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Richmond County has answered the call to Being Healthy,  Being Faithful 2012. Mary Swann and Yvonne McGraw of the Pee Dee Baptist Association have both been instrumental in rallying Baptist churches together to learn more about health as a faith issue. The first 2012 event is scheduled for January 29th from 3-5  p.m. at the […]

Obese Corpses Rejected for Medical Research

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

Carrying excess weight poses a number of health and other problems, but who knew such problems could extend past death?  According to a recent report by MSNBC, many donation programs are refusing corpses that weigh more than 200 to 300 pounds because they simply do not have the equipment or manpower to handle them.  East […]

Obese Corpses Rejected for Medical Research

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

Carrying excess weight poses a number of health and other problems, but who knew such problems could extend past death?  According to a recent report by MSNBC, many donation programs are refusing corpses that weigh more than 200 to 300 pounds because they simply do not have the equipment or manpower to handle them.  East […]

2012 Critical Issues Seminar — Eating Well for Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Everyone eats. How and from where we get that food, how much is available to us, how it is grown, and what happens when there isn’t enough all have implications for our world and its inhabitants. We need to consider this very fundamental part of our lives as a faith issue. So we hope you’ll join […]

2012 Critical Issues Seminar — Eating Well for Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Everyone eats. How and from where we get that food, how much is available to us, how it is grown, and what happens when there isn’t enough all have implications for our world and its inhabitants. We need to consider this very fundamental part of our lives as a faith issue. So we hope you’ll join […]

Free Resources to Help You Begin 2012 Tobacco Free

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

Our friends at the NC Division of Public Health would like to help current tobacco users quit by offering NC residents, 18 years of age or older, free nicotine replacement therapy (i.e., patches, gum or lozenges) while supplies last. In addition to being a NC resident and at least 18 years of age, you must […]

Free Resources to Help You Begin 2012 Tobacco Free

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

Our friends at the NC Division of Public Health would like to help current tobacco users quit by offering NC residents, 18 years of age or older, free nicotine replacement therapy (i.e., patches, gum or lozenges) while supplies last. In addition to being a NC resident and at least 18 years of age, you must […]

Free AEDs and CPR Trainings for Congregations

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

Have you ever been in church when someone suffered a heart attack?  If so, you know that helpless feeling of having to wait for help to arrive as critical seconds, then minutes go by.  In 2009, Representative Becky Carney went into sudden cardiac arrest while at the legislative building, and her life was saved with […]

Free AEDs and CPR Trainings for Congregations

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

Have you ever been in church when someone suffered a heart attack?  If so, you know that helpless feeling of having to wait for help to arrive as critical seconds, then minutes go by.  In 2009, Representative Becky Carney went into sudden cardiac arrest while at the legislative building, and her life was saved with […]

Too Many Victims — Gun Violence Vigil on January 8

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As part of the national “Too Many Victims” campaign, there will be a vigil in Raleigh on Sunday, January 8. That day is the one-year anniversary of the Tucson shootings, which claimed the lives of six and wounded 13 others, including Congressperson Gabrielle Giffords. The vigil will remember all of those who have been killed or […]

Too Many Victims — Gun Violence Vigil on January 8

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As part of the national “Too Many Victims” campaign, there will be a vigil in Raleigh on Sunday, January 8. That day is the one-year anniversary of the Tucson shootings, which claimed the lives of six and wounded 13 others, including Congressperson Gabrielle Giffords. The vigil will remember all of those who have been killed or […]

NC Ranks 21st in Protecting Youth from Tobacco

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

According to a recent report released by top public health organizations, NC spends just 16.2% of the $106.8 million recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on programs to prevent youth from using tobacco and to help current smokers quit.  The Health and Wellness Trust Fund (HWTF), which was abolished by state lawmakers […]

NC Ranks 21st in Protecting Youth from Tobacco

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

According to a recent report released by top public health organizations, NC spends just 16.2% of the $106.8 million recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on programs to prevent youth from using tobacco and to help current smokers quit.  The Health and Wellness Trust Fund (HWTF), which was abolished by state lawmakers […]

Placing Obese Children in Foster Care: Does the Punishment Fit the “Crime”?

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

The debate over whether to place morbidly obese children in foster care or to leave them in an unhealthy home environment resurfaced a few days ago when a 200-pound eight-year-old boy from Ohio was removed from his home. Case workers grew concerned when their attempts to work with the mother to reduce the child’s weight proved […]

Placing Obese Children in Foster Care: Does the Punishment Fit the “Crime”?

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

The debate over whether to place morbidly obese children in foster care or to leave them in an unhealthy home environment resurfaced a few days ago when a 200-pound eight-year-old boy from Ohio was removed from his home. Case workers grew concerned when their attempts to work with the mother to reduce the child’s weight proved […]

Churches Unite: Being Healthy Being Faithful 2012

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Each year in North Carolina, thousands of people die of preventable diseases and almost 1.5 million North Carolinians currently lack health insurance. As Christians, we follow Christ, The Great Physician; someone who heals the sick, guides the lost, and liberates the oppressed. The NC Council of Churches shares God’s concern for all areas of our […]

Churches Unite: Being Healthy Being Faithful 2012

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Each year in North Carolina, thousands of people die of preventable diseases and almost 1.5 million North Carolinians currently lack health insurance. As Christians, we follow Christ, The Great Physician; someone who heals the sick, guides the lost, and liberates the oppressed. The NC Council of Churches shares God’s concern for all areas of our […]

The Debate over Healthier School Lunches

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

As the U.S. grapples with falling home prices, rising unemployment and poverty, members of Congress can’t even agree on what to serve our school-aged children for lunch!  The Obama administration – in concert with the First Lady’s flagship health initiative, Let’s Move! – has been working to improve the foods our children eat during the […]

The Debate over Healthier School Lunches

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

As the U.S. grapples with falling home prices, rising unemployment and poverty, members of Congress can’t even agree on what to serve our school-aged children for lunch!  The Obama administration – in concert with the First Lady’s flagship health initiative, Let’s Move! – has been working to improve the foods our children eat during the […]

NC Smoke-free Law Results in Fewer Heart Attacks

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

North Carolina has scored another victory!  About a week ago, you joined me in celebrating our record low infant mortality rates; now there’s evidence that since the enactment of smoke-free restaurants and bars in North Carolina in January 2010, our heart attack rates have dropped, too – by 21 percent! Other states and countries have […]

NC Smoke-free Law Results in Fewer Heart Attacks

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

North Carolina has scored another victory!  About a week ago, you joined me in celebrating our record low infant mortality rates; now there’s evidence that since the enactment of smoke-free restaurants and bars in North Carolina in January 2010, our heart attack rates have dropped, too – by 21 percent! Other states and countries have […]

Bladen Churches Unite: Being Healthy, Being Faithful 2012

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

BladenJournal.com

Joy Williams of Partners in Health and Wholeness, a Christian-based organization, will collaborate with churches and the parish nurse on Monday, Nov. 28, at 5:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Elizabethtown Presbyterian Church at 800 W. Broad St. (across from the Municipal Building), to make local churches healthier for the glory of God.

Bladen Churches Unite: Being Healthy, Being Faithful 2012

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

BladenJournal.com

Joy Williams of Partners in Health and Wholeness, a Christian-based organization, will collaborate with churches and the parish nurse on Monday, Nov. 28, at 5:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Elizabethtown Presbyterian Church at 800 W. Broad St. (across from the Municipal Building), to make local churches healthier for the glory of God.

How Our Health Affects the Bottom Line

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

A new report by the Trust for America’s Health examines how the health of a community affects its ability to attract new businesses and to ultimately stimulate economic growth.  Businesses across the country are discovering that unhealthy employees are more expensive to retain, as they are more likely than their healthy counterparts to miss days […]

How Our Health Affects the Bottom Line

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

A new report by the Trust for America’s Health examines how the health of a community affects its ability to attract new businesses and to ultimately stimulate economic growth.  Businesses across the country are discovering that unhealthy employees are more expensive to retain, as they are more likely than their healthy counterparts to miss days […]

Seven Billion and Growing

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The temperatures are dropping. The leaves are changing. Holidays are speeding by. We’ve already passed Halloween, Dia de los Muertos, All Hallow’s Eve, Reformation Day, All Saints’ Day, All Soul’s Day. Thanksgiving is bearing down on us, and there’s already Christmas music playing in the stores. But with all of these occasions, there’s another significant […]

Seven Billion and Growing

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The temperatures are dropping. The leaves are changing. Holidays are speeding by. We’ve already passed Halloween, Dia de los Muertos, All Hallow’s Eve, Reformation Day, All Saints’ Day, All Soul’s Day. Thanksgiving is bearing down on us, and there’s already Christmas music playing in the stores. But with all of these occasions, there’s another significant […]

Being Healthy, Being Faithful: Elizabethtown

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Joy Williams of Partners in Health and Wholeness, an initiative of the NC Council of Churches, will collaborate with Bladen churches and the Parish Nurse on Monday, November 28th at 5:30pm in the fellowship hall of Elizabethtown Presbyterian Church at 800 W. Broad Street (across from the Municipal Building), Elizabethtown, NC, to make our churches healthier […]

Being Healthy, Being Faithful: Elizabethtown

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Joy Williams of Partners in Health and Wholeness, an initiative of the NC Council of Churches, will collaborate with Bladen churches and the Parish Nurse on Monday, November 28th at 5:30pm in the fellowship hall of Elizabethtown Presbyterian Church at 800 W. Broad Street (across from the Municipal Building), Elizabethtown, NC, to make our churches healthier […]

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New Report: NC’s Infant Mortality Rate Lowest in State History

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

North Carolina has cause to celebrate – our 2010 infant mortality rate is the lowest ever, down 11.4 percent from 2009.  According to the NC State Center for Health Statistics, there were seven infant deaths for every 1,000 live births in 2010, compared to 7.9 infant deaths per 1,000 live births the previous year.  The […]

New Report: NC’s Infant Mortality Rate Lowest in State History

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

North Carolina has cause to celebrate – our 2010 infant mortality rate is the lowest ever, down 11.4 percent from 2009.  According to the NC State Center for Health Statistics, there were seven infant deaths for every 1,000 live births in 2010, compared to 7.9 infant deaths per 1,000 live births the previous year.  The […]

Farm Bill and Your Health—What’s the Connection?

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Interested in healthy and affordable foods? Well, then you are interested in the Farm Bill. Check out the forum that Harvard School of Public Health Held on October 20th regarding the health implications of the renewal of the 2012 Farm Bill. Click here. –Joy Williams, PHW Regional Consultant Partners in Health and Wholeness is an initiative […]

Farm Bill and Your Health—What’s the Connection?

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Interested in healthy and affordable foods? Well, then you are interested in the Farm Bill. Check out the forum that Harvard School of Public Health Held on October 20th regarding the health implications of the renewal of the 2012 Farm Bill. Click here. –Joy Williams, PHW Regional Consultant Partners in Health and Wholeness is an initiative […]

Sleeping Beauty Wake Up!

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

If we were to write a modern-day fairy tale about sleep, the storyline would be how the princess was robbed of going to sleep.  She would be a reflection of our society. You and I are constantly telling ourselves to wake up, and this is exactly what would happen in this fairy tale. There would […]

Sleeping Beauty Wake Up!

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

If we were to write a modern-day fairy tale about sleep, the storyline would be how the princess was robbed of going to sleep.  She would be a reflection of our society. You and I are constantly telling ourselves to wake up, and this is exactly what would happen in this fairy tale. There would […]

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Nonprofit Offers Pharmacy Program

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

The Sanford Herald

Giang said N.C. MedAssist representatives wanted to travel to each county to meet with eligible residents and explain the enrollment process. The organization contacted the North Carolina Council of Churches and expressed interest in partnering with faith-based organizations willing to host one-day enrollment programs. The Rev. Mechelle Myers of Sanford's New Endland AME Zion Church received an e-mail from the Council about the initiative and was the first person to respond.

Nonprofit Offers Pharmacy Program

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

The Sanford Herald

Giang said N.C. MedAssist representatives wanted to travel to each county to meet with eligible residents and explain the enrollment process. The organization contacted the North Carolina Council of Churches and expressed interest in partnering with faith-based organizations willing to host one-day enrollment programs. The Rev. Mechelle Myers of Sanford’s New Endland AME Zion Church received an e-mail from the Council about the initiative and was the first person to respond.

National Food Day Was Cooked Just Right!

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

People nationwide celebrated National Food Day on October 24th.  The mission of National Food Day is “…to bring together Americans from all walks of life–parents, teachers, and students; health professionals, community organizers, and local officials; chefs, school lunch providers, and eaters of all stripes–to push for healthy, affordable food produced in a sustainable, humane way.” […]

National Food Day Was Cooked Just Right!

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

People nationwide celebrated National Food Day on October 24th.  The mission of National Food Day is “…to bring together Americans from all walks of life–parents, teachers, and students; health professionals, community organizers, and local officials; chefs, school lunch providers, and eaters of all stripes–to push for healthy, affordable food produced in a sustainable, humane way.” […]

November is American Diabetes Month

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

The American Diabetes Association has launched a new faith-based program called "Live Empowered" which is designed to assist churches with integrating diabetes awareness messages and life application principles into worship services. Also, in observance of American Diabetes Month, the American Diabetes Association is sponsoring "Super Diabetes Sunday" on November 13th. Super Diabetes Sundays will include materials and giveaways to help your congregation join the fight against diabetes.

November is American Diabetes Month

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

The American Diabetes Association has launched a new faith-based program called “Live Empowered” which is designed to assist churches with integrating diabetes awareness messages and life application principles into worship services. Also, in observance of American Diabetes Month, the American Diabetes Association is sponsoring “Super Diabetes Sunday” on November 13th. Super Diabetes Sundays will include materials and giveaways to help your congregation join the fight against diabetes.

Here’s Harvard’s Plate!

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Harvard School of Public Health has put out a new plate—different from the USDA’s revamp of the Food Guide Pyramid. Among the differences, the USDA’s MyPlate does not talk about nutrient dense choices within their food guide. For example, the USDA says that a quarter of your plate should be grains. Harvard does not dispute that […]

Here’s Harvard’s Plate!

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Harvard School of Public Health has put out a new plate—different from the USDA’s revamp of the Food Guide Pyramid. Among the differences, the USDA’s MyPlate does not talk about nutrient dense choices within their food guide. For example, the USDA says that a quarter of your plate should be grains. Harvard does not dispute that […]

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Radiation in Cigarettes

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

This might strike you as surprising, as it did me, but radiation has been in cigarettes for more than forty years! We all have heard just how bad cigarettes are, but to know that they contain alpha particles on top of the other harmful substances is alarming, to say the least. And it is appalling to know that tobacco companies knew this and covered up the truth.

Radiation in Cigarettes

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

This might strike you as surprising, as it did me, but radiation has been in cigarettes for more than forty years! We all have heard just how bad cigarettes are, but to know that they contain alpha particles on top of the other harmful substances is alarming, to say the least. And it is appalling to know that tobacco companies knew this and covered up the truth.

Safety Net Programs: They’re Worth Fighting For

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

NC Policy Watch

It’s no wonder why our political leaders are scrambling to find solutions, even while bumping heads in the process. Both sides want what’s best for America, but the process through which we work to achieve that has become increasingly contentious and politically charged. And I can’t help but believe that our own personal experiences and beliefs, not the persuasive views of political pundits, ultimately determine on which side of an issue we fall and what we deem worth fighting for. Let me share a story.

Safety Net Programs: They’re Worth Fighting For

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

NC Policy Watch

It’s no wonder why our political leaders are scrambling to find solutions, even while bumping heads in the process. Both sides want what’s best for America, but the process through which we work to achieve that has become increasingly contentious and politically charged. And I can’t help but believe that our own personal experiences and beliefs, not the persuasive views of political pundits, ultimately determine on which side of an issue we fall and what we deem worth fighting for.

Let me share a story.

The Daniel Fast is Not a Diet

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I’ve been thinking about Daniel a lot lately. Daniel and his buddies were in the first wave of exiles to Babylon. King Nebuchadnezzar had them brought to the palace and assigned them a daily portion of royal food and wine. But Daniel refused to eat the rations. Why? They were royal, sumptuous. But they weren’t […]

The Daniel Fast is Not a Diet

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I’ve been thinking about Daniel a lot lately. Daniel and his buddies were in the first wave of exiles to Babylon. King Nebuchadnezzar had them brought to the palace and assigned them a daily portion of royal food and wine. But Daniel refused to eat the rations. Why? They were royal, sumptuous. But they weren’t […]

Navigating the State Fair

By Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

When the weather starts to cool, I begin thinking more and more about the North Carolina State Fair, which takes place this year Oct. 13-23. The fair has become an important part of my fall season during my years here. Still, let’s face it: it is a somewhat hazardous part of the fall season, too. There’s […]

Navigating the State Fair

· by Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

When the weather starts to cool, I begin thinking more and more about the North Carolina State Fair, which takes place this year Oct. 13-23. The fair has become an important part of my fall season during my years here. Still, let’s face it: it is a somewhat hazardous part of the fall season, too. There’s […]

View Our Informational PHW Webinar

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Please take a look at our Partners in Health and Wholeness Informational Webinar.  You will have an opportunity to learn more about Partners in Health and Wholeness and hear questions from our attending audience. Please feel free to use the contact information offered during the webinar to network. If you have any questions, please leave a comment, […]

View Our Informational PHW Webinar

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Please take a look at our Partners in Health and Wholeness Informational Webinar.  You will have an opportunity to learn more about Partners in Health and Wholeness and hear questions from our attending audience. Please feel free to use the contact information offered during the webinar to network. If you have any questions, please leave a comment, […]

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We Accomplished Another Victory!

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

PHW had our second joint training with YES! On September 17th at Mt. Zion AME Zion Church in Eastover.  We had different denominations, adults, and youth, who were gathered together to learn, discuss, and talk about health, health advocacy, and our faith! What a blessing it was for everyone. To top it off, we had a […]

We Accomplished Another Victory!

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

PHW had our second joint training with YES! On September 17th at Mt. Zion AME Zion Church in Eastover.  We had different denominations, adults, and youth, who were gathered together to learn, discuss, and talk about health, health advocacy, and our faith! What a blessing it was for everyone. To top it off, we had a […]

What’s in Season?

By Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

I am a terrible meal planner. I frequently arrive at the grocery store without a plan and hungry, which, as any seasoned cook will tell you, guarantees only two things: spending too much money and not making healthy choices. For some people, this is not an issue. A past roommate of mine turned trips to […]

What’s in Season?

· by Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

I am a terrible meal planner. I frequently arrive at the grocery store without a plan and hungry, which, as any seasoned cook will tell you, guarantees only two things: spending too much money and not making healthy choices. For some people, this is not an issue. A past roommate of mine turned trips to […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Launches Information Webinar

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches wants you to know how important it is to view health as a faith issue.  Please join our free introductory short webinar about Partners in Health and Wholeness and why health is a faith issue on September 16th from 11 -11:45am.   You can also check out our interactive website. Partners […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Launches Information Webinar

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches wants you to know how important it is to view health as a faith issue.  Please join our free introductory short webinar about Partners in Health and Wholeness and why health is a faith issue on September 16th from 11 -11:45am.   You can also check out our interactive website. Partners […]

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The Cost of Obesity

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

Last week, I wrote briefly on the efforts local churches in Mississippi have made to improve the health of their communities. Unfortunately, our nation is trending in the opposite, less-healthy direction. A recent report on the international obesity crisis from The Lancet states that half of U.S. adults will qualify as obese by 2030. That’s […]

The Cost of Obesity

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

Last week, I wrote briefly on the efforts local churches in Mississippi have made to improve the health of their communities. Unfortunately, our nation is trending in the opposite, less-healthy direction. A recent report on the international obesity crisis from The Lancet states that half of U.S. adults will qualify as obese by 2030. That’s […]

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Improving the Health of Communities from Within

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

“I’ve been eating this way my entire life.” “It tastes better this way.” “This is how we’ve always done it.” Statements like these are how many support their less-than-healthy eating habits. However, in these days of bleak health statistics about obesity, diabetes, and lowered life expectancies, improving our habits is becoming essential rather than optional. […]

Improving the Health of Communities from Within

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

“I’ve been eating this way my entire life.” “It tastes better this way.” “This is how we’ve always done it.” Statements like these are how many support their less-than-healthy eating habits. However, in these days of bleak health statistics about obesity, diabetes, and lowered life expectancies, improving our habits is becoming essential rather than optional. […]

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Raleigh News & Observer: Community gardens are in residents’ hands

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The Council has long been touting the benefits of community gardening in both urban and rural settings alike. Community gardens offer healthy local foods that are often more nutritious than their grocery-story or food-bank counterparts. Gardens also help community members become more active, and they are a great way for congregations, local organizations and neighborhoods to collaborate together. Last Sunday the Raleigh News & Observer highlighted this growing movement, using the example of Highland United Methodist Church.

Raleigh News & Observer: Community gardens are in residents’ hands

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

The Council has long been touting the benefits of community gardening in both urban and rural settings alike. Community gardens offer healthy local foods that are often more nutritious than their grocery-story or food-bank counterparts. Gardens also help community members become more active, and they are a great way for congregations, local organizations and neighborhoods to collaborate together. Last Sunday the Raleigh News & Observer highlighted this growing movement, using the example of Highland United Methodist Church.

Rural Life Committee Supports Ban on Fracking

By North Carolina Council of Churches

The experiences of landowners in other states indicate that hydraulic fracturing can have profound negative impacts on rural communities. The Rural Life Committee of the North Carolina Council of Churches supports the current ban on hydraulic fracturing in North Carolina. The above concerns need to be addressed with careful attention to landowners' property, landowners' rights, and the care for creation's gifts. Furthermore, we call on our member bodies and faith leaders to share reliable information about hydraulic fracturing with their communities. We believe that we are called by God to be good stewards of the good gifts of community, health, water and soil. Trusting in God, we refuse to trade this bountiful inheritance for the empty promises of energy that may be cheap in terms of dollars but which we know will be costly in terms of our livelihoods.

Rural Life Committee Supports Ban on Fracking

· by North Carolina Council of Churches

The experiences of landowners in other states indicate that hydraulic fracturing can have profound negative impacts on rural communities. The Rural Life Committee of the North Carolina Council of Churches supports the current ban on hydraulic fracturing in North Carolina. The above concerns need to be addressed with careful attention to landowners’ property, landowners’ rights, and the care for creation’s gifts. Furthermore, we call on our member bodies and faith leaders to share reliable information about hydraulic fracturing with their communities. We believe that we are called by God to be good stewards of the good gifts of community, health, water and soil. Trusting in God, we refuse to trade this bountiful inheritance for the empty promises of energy that may be cheap in terms of dollars but which we know will be costly in terms of our livelihoods.

Food or Medicine?

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

Buy food or buy medicine?  That’s the choice that far too many uninsured individuals face every day, but our friends at NC MedAssist – a statewide non-profit pharmacy providing FREE prescription medicines to low-income, uninsured North Carolinians – are here to solve the dilemma.  Below, is a message from one of their representatives: “There are […]

Food or Medicine?

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

Buy food or buy medicine?  That’s the choice that far too many uninsured individuals face every day, but our friends at NC MedAssist – a statewide non-profit pharmacy providing FREE prescription medicines to low-income, uninsured North Carolinians – are here to solve the dilemma.  Below, is a message from one of their representatives: “There are […]

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Your Faith Community’s Health Advantage

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For anyone who has ever been frustrated when trying to increase their exercising or improve their diet, Matthew Feinstein has a suggestion for you. Go to church!  Feinstein, lead investigator in a recent religion and obesity study writes: “Churches already have infrastructures in place, groups of people gathering regularly and providing social support. That’s hugely […]

Your Faith Community’s Health Advantage

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For anyone who has ever been frustrated when trying to increase their exercising or improve their diet, Matthew Feinstein has a suggestion for you. Go to church!  Feinstein, lead investigator in a recent religion and obesity study writes: “Churches already have infrastructures in place, groups of people gathering regularly and providing social support. That’s hugely […]

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Get Out and Play!

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

Our friends at Be Active North Carolina are challenging churches and other community groups to join the fight against childhood obesity by creating organized events where people can get out and play.  North Carolina Play Daze is the official name of this statewide campaign to promote physical activity, and your church can show your support […]

Get Out and Play!

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

Our friends at Be Active North Carolina are challenging churches and other community groups to join the fight against childhood obesity by creating organized events where people can get out and play.  North Carolina Play Daze is the official name of this statewide campaign to promote physical activity, and your church can show your support […]

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Youth Empowerment Training: Laurinburg

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) held our first joint training with Youth Empowered Solutions (YES!) on Saturday, August 6, in Scotland County.  There were valuable opportunities to network with other churches and organizations to promote a growth in organizational capacity.  We also shared challenges and advice in program coordination.  As a team, we problem […]

Youth Empowerment Training: Laurinburg

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) held our first joint training with Youth Empowered Solutions (YES!) on Saturday, August 6, in Scotland County.  There were valuable opportunities to network with other churches and organizations to promote a growth in organizational capacity.  We also shared challenges and advice in program coordination.  As a team, we problem […]

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The Parable Garden

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

Looking for a little inspiration to plant a garden at your church or in your community?  Have questions about the whole process or need a little grant money to get you started?  Well, keep reading….  A United Methodist church in Hickory, NC and the First Lady’s Let’s Move Faith and Communities Initiative might have just […]

The Parable Garden

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

Looking for a little inspiration to plant a garden at your church or in your community?  Have questions about the whole process or need a little grant money to get you started?  Well, keep reading….  A United Methodist church in Hickory, NC and the First Lady’s Let’s Move Faith and Communities Initiative might have just […]

Youth Empowerment Training for Clergy: Eastover

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW), in partnership with Youth Empowered Solutions, will hold its second youth empowerment training for clergy and other adults who work with youth on Saturday, September 17, 2011 from 10am-2pm in Eastover, NC.  Clergy will learn how to motivate youth to create positive community change through strong health advocacy.  Examples […]

Youth Empowerment Training for Clergy: Eastover

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW), in partnership with Youth Empowered Solutions, will hold its second youth empowerment training for clergy and other adults who work with youth on Saturday, September 17, 2011 from 10am-2pm in Eastover, NC.  Clergy will learn how to motivate youth to create positive community change through strong health advocacy.  Examples […]

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Tell Your Story to Help Medicaid and Medicare

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I was on a Faithful Reform in Health Care conference call this week and one of the participants was Cynthia Abrams from the United Methodist Church — General Board of Church and Society. She emphasized the need to share our personal stories with our Congress people. If you have a personal story about how Medicaid […]

Tell Your Story to Help Medicaid and Medicare

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I was on a Faithful Reform in Health Care conference call this week and one of the participants was Cynthia Abrams from the United Methodist Church — General Board of Church and Society. She emphasized the need to share our personal stories with our Congress people. If you have a personal story about how Medicaid […]

Free Youth Empowerment Training for Clergy

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness, in partnership with Youth Empowered Solutions, will provide FREE TRAININGS to clergy and other adults who work with youth to create positive community change through strong health advocacy, particularly as it relates to increasing access to healthy foods, physical activity and tobacco use prevention. The date, time and location of the first training

Free Youth Empowerment Training for Clergy

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness, in partnership with Youth Empowered Solutions, will provide FREE TRAININGS to clergy and other adults who work with youth to create positive community change through strong health advocacy, particularly as it relates to increasing access to healthy foods, physical activity and tobacco use prevention. The date, time and location of the first training

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Being Consumed by Our Food

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

It should be no surprise to anyone that obesity rates in the United States are still rising, as a recent report emphasized by giving America an “F” as in fat. Neither should it be too surprising that the rates of increase seem to be leveling out in the last couple of years. Various public leaders, […]

Being Consumed by Our Food

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

It should be no surprise to anyone that obesity rates in the United States are still rising, as a recent report emphasized by giving America an “F” as in fat. Neither should it be too surprising that the rates of increase seem to be leveling out in the last couple of years. Various public leaders, […]

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Bishop Curry Interviews Dr. Kathy Shea about NC IPL

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

In a recent edition of Please Note, Bishop Michael Curry of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina interviewed Dr. Kathy Shea about her work as director of NC Interfaith Power & Light.

Bishop Curry Interviews Dr. Kathy Shea about NC IPL

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

In a recent edition of Please Note, Bishop Michael Curry of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina interviewed Dr. Kathy Shea about her work as director of NC Interfaith Power & Light.

The NFL Needs Your Help to Combat Childhood Obesity

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

If your congregation is looking for a fun, creative way to combat childhood obesity, then the NFL – that’s right, the National Football League – has just the answer for you! The NFL is partnering with schools and community organizations, including churches, across the country to host a FREE skills competition for boys and girls ages 6 to 15 called, “Punt, Pass and Kick” (PPK).

The NFL Needs Your Help to Combat Childhood Obesity

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

If your congregation is looking for a fun, creative way to combat childhood obesity, then the NFL – that’s right, the National Football League – has just the answer for you! The NFL is partnering with schools and community organizations, including churches, across the country to host a FREE skills competition for boys and girls ages 6 to 15 called, “Punt, Pass and Kick” (PPK).

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Take Action to Protect Medicaid

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faithful Reform in Health Care is urging people of faith to act to protect Medicaid–health care for the voiceless and our most vulnerable citizens. This is our chance to be a voice for God’s children who often have no voice. Medicaid cuts are being considered in Congress that will hurt the sick, disabled and poorest […]

Take Action to Protect Medicaid

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faithful Reform in Health Care is urging people of faith to act to protect Medicaid–health care for the voiceless and our most vulnerable citizens. This is our chance to be a voice for God’s children who often have no voice. Medicaid cuts are being considered in Congress that will hurt the sick, disabled and poorest […]

Tarheel Footprints in Health Care

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

North Carolina Medical Journal

The NCMJ features Dr. Kathy Shea, Executive Director of North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light, on page 87 of its March/April 2011 edition.

Tarheel Footprints in Health Care

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

North Carolina Medical Journal

The NCMJ features Dr. Kathy Shea, Executive Director of North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light, on page 87 of its March/April 2011 edition.

Welcome, Joy Williams!

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

The North Carolina Council of Churches is proud to welcome Joy Williams as our new Partners in Health and Wholeness Regional Consultant.  Joy will assist the Council in promoting health as a practice of our faith, focusing on program implementation in Anson, Bladen, Columbus, Cumberland, Montgomery, Richmond, Robeson and Scotland counties. To learn more about Joy […]

Welcome, Joy Williams!

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

The North Carolina Council of Churches is proud to welcome Joy Williams as our new Partners in Health and Wholeness Regional Consultant.  Joy will assist the Council in promoting health as a practice of our faith, focusing on program implementation in Anson, Bladen, Columbus, Cumberland, Montgomery, Richmond, Robeson and Scotland counties. To learn more about Joy […]

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Free Tools to Help You Live Healthier

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness, an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is pleased to bring to your attention the following free health tools which are designed to help you and your loved ones make healthier choices

Free Tools to Help You Live Healthier

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness, an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is pleased to bring to your attention the following free health tools which are designed to help you and your loved ones make healthier choices

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Proper 6, Year A

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Key Fact: Over 1.5 million North Carolinians ages 0-64 do not have health insurance. That is approximately 1 out of every 5 people in our state. Children account for over 280,000 of the 1.5 million uninsured.

Proper 6, Year A

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

Key Fact: Over 1.5 million North Carolinians ages 0-64 do not have health insurance. That is approximately 1 out of every 5 people in our state. Children account for over 280,000 of the 1.5 million uninsured.

Raleigh Report – May 20, 2011

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The focus of this issue is a handful of the most important items currently under consideration at the General Assembly. These are issues that are under challenge by the current majorities in both houses.

Raleigh Report – May 20, 2011

· by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The focus of this issue is a handful of the most important items currently under consideration at the General Assembly. These are issues that are under challenge by the current majorities in both houses.

Upcoming Health Events in Wake and Chatham Counties

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

Friends of the Council are encouraged to participate in one or both of the following community events, each of which is designed to help you take better care of your health

Upcoming Health Events in Wake and Chatham Counties

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

Friends of the Council are encouraged to participate in one or both of the following community events, each of which is designed to help you take better care of your health

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Better Choices, Better Health

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

Our friends at the Living Healthy Chronic Disease Self Management Program (CDSMP) would like to invite members of your congregation to take advantage of their FREE online workshop – Better Choices, Better Health™ – which is designed to help individuals self-manage their chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, chronic pain, anxiety, etc.). Specifically, the workshop can help you and the people you care about

Better Choices, Better Health

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

Our friends at the Living Healthy Chronic Disease Self Management Program (CDSMP) would like to invite members of your congregation to take advantage of their FREE online workshop – Better Choices, Better Health™ – which is designed to help individuals self-manage their chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, chronic pain, anxiety, etc.). Specifically, the workshop can help you and the people you care about

Free Webinar on Physical Activity for Churches

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

Our friends at Body & Soul, a faith-based health initiative, are offering a free Webinar to clergy and congregants who are looking for creative ways to be more physically active during church events and services.

Free Webinar on Physical Activity for Churches

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

Our friends at Body & Soul, a faith-based health initiative, are offering a free Webinar to clergy and congregants who are looking for creative ways to be more physically active during church events and services.

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Raleigh Report – April 26, 2011

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

State Deadline Passes and Most New Bills Introduced

Raleigh Report – April 26, 2011

· by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

State Deadline Passes and Most New Bills Introduced

Raleigh Report – April 19, 2011

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

New Bills Edition: Attack on Workers Comp by New Bill H 709/S 544 misnamed Protect and Put NC Back to Work.

Raleigh Report – April 19, 2011

· by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

New Bills Edition: Attack on Workers Comp by New Bill H 709/S 544 misnamed Protect and Put NC Back to Work.

Raleigh Report – April 18, 2011

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Budget Edition: Last week the chairs of the House Appropriations Subcommittees started revealing their plans for the 2011-13 budget. Not surprisingly, their plans differ in significant ways from the budget proposed by Governor Perdue. The most important difference is that the House leaders will not approve the continuation of any of the emergency tax increases enacted in 2009.

Raleigh Report – April 18, 2011

· by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Budget Edition: Last week the chairs of the House Appropriations Subcommittees started revealing their plans for the 2011-13 budget. Not surprisingly, their plans differ in significant ways from the budget proposed by Governor Perdue. The most important difference is that the House leaders will not approve the continuation of any of the emergency tax increases enacted in 2009.

Community Gardens Springing Up in Raleigh

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

For churches and other nonprofits in Raleigh that wish to grow a community garden but currently lack the land space to do so, your dream may soon become a reality thanks to proposed changes in land use restrictions.  In July, Raleigh City Council members will review a policy which would allow nonprofits and community groups […]

Community Gardens Springing Up in Raleigh

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

For churches and other nonprofits in Raleigh that wish to grow a community garden but currently lack the land space to do so, your dream may soon become a reality thanks to proposed changes in land use restrictions.  In July, Raleigh City Council members will review a policy which would allow nonprofits and community groups […]

Raleigh Report – April 4, 2011

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The drumbeat of bad bills continues. Suffice it to say that it’s a tough year for those of us who have advocated for public policy decisions promoting social justice, protecting vulnerable people, and caring for God’s creation. We can’t respond to every bad idea or bad bill. On many of these issues, we feel like we are butting our heads against a wall. Our tendency may be to throw up our hands in despair.

Raleigh Report – April 4, 2011

· by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The drumbeat of bad bills continues. Suffice it to say that it’s a tough year for those of us who have advocated for public policy decisions promoting social justice, protecting vulnerable people, and caring for God’s creation. We can’t respond to every bad idea or bad bill. On many of these issues, we feel like we are butting our heads against a wall. Our tendency may be to throw up our hands in despair.

Chronic Disease Legislative Awareness Day

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

More than two dozen public health organizations, including the Council’s very own Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Initiative, gathered together for Chronic Disease Legislative Awareness Day on Wednesday, March 23 at the NC General Assembly.  We were on hand to share information and materials with state legislators about the cost of chronic disease and […]

Chronic Disease Legislative Awareness Day

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

More than two dozen public health organizations, including the Council’s very own Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Initiative, gathered together for Chronic Disease Legislative Awareness Day on Wednesday, March 23 at the NC General Assembly.  We were on hand to share information and materials with state legislators about the cost of chronic disease and […]

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Praise the Lard? Religion Linked to Obesity in Young Adults

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

A recent study conducted by researchers at Northwestern University found a link between religious activity and obesity in men and women who, at the start of the study, were between the ages of 20 and 32 and of normal weight.  After eighteen years of follow-up, however, those participants who had attended a religious function at […]

Praise the Lard? Religion Linked to Obesity in Young Adults

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

A recent study conducted by researchers at Northwestern University found a link between religious activity and obesity in men and women who, at the start of the study, were between the ages of 20 and 32 and of normal weight.  After eighteen years of follow-up, however, those participants who had attended a religious function at […]

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Building Hope, One Chicken Coop at a Time

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Last Saturday I got to meet Cecilia.  She used to work in North Carolina’s tobacco fields, but that left her with health problems.  A mother of five children, now she’s struggling to make ends meet.  So when she heard about the Building Hope Project, which partners volunteer groups with community members to build chicken coops, […]

Building Hope, One Chicken Coop at a Time

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

Last Saturday I got to meet Cecilia.  She used to work in North Carolina’s tobacco fields, but that left her with health problems.  A mother of five children, now she’s struggling to make ends meet.  So when she heard about the Building Hope Project, which partners volunteer groups with community members to build chicken coops, […]

Raleigh Report – March 21, 2011

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

New bills on the budget, care of creation, criminal justice, election and campaign law, gambling, guns, health and health care, immigration, mental health, developmental disabilities, substance abuse services, public eduction, and taxes.

Raleigh Report – March 21, 2011

· by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

New bills on the budget, care of creation, criminal justice, election and campaign law, gambling, guns, health and health care, immigration, mental health, developmental disabilities, substance abuse services, public eduction, and taxes.

Calling all Community Sparkplugs!

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

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation - in partnership with the North Carolina Council of Churches, Center for Environmental Farming Systems, North Carolina PTA, and North Carolina Recreation and Park Association - is looking for "Community Sparkplugs" to help build a healthier North Carolina. So, what exactly is a Community Sparkplug?

Calling all Community Sparkplugs!

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

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation – in partnership with the North Carolina Council of Churches, Center for Environmental Farming Systems, North Carolina PTA, and North Carolina Recreation and Park Association – is looking for “Community Sparkplugs” to help build a healthier North Carolina. So, what exactly is a Community Sparkplug?

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Grants to Create Healthier Communities

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

ENCToday.com

Lenoir County is the first county in the state to receive grant awards through the “Spark Plug” program, an initiative of the Blue Cross/Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation to promote healthy activity and nutrition. Ten organizations and government entities in Pink Hill, Grifton and Kinston each received a $3,000 award for projects that inspired physical activity or greater nutrition in the community. “If every county has spark plugs in it like Lenoir County does, this is going to be a huge success,” Danielle Breslin, vice president of operations for the BCBSNC Foundation, said of the program.

Grants to Create Healthier Communities

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

ENCToday.com

Lenoir County is the first county in the state to receive grant awards through the “Spark Plug” program, an initiative of the Blue Cross/Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation to promote healthy activity and nutrition.

Ten organizations and government entities in Pink Hill, Grifton and Kinston each received a $3,000 award for projects that inspired physical activity or greater nutrition in the community.

“If every county has spark plugs in it like Lenoir County does, this is going to be a huge success,” Danielle Breslin, vice president of operations for the BCBSNC Foundation, said of the program.

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Raleigh Report – March 7, 2011

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Governor Bev Perdue on Saturday vetoed H 2, the misnamed “Protect Health Care Freedom” bill. (It should be called the “Freedom to be Uninsured and Unable to Get Health Care” bill.) The bill was an attack on federal health care reform and purported to remove North Carolinians from the mandated purchase of health insurance, which is the basis of federal reform which will move millions of uninsured Americans into the ranks of the insured.

Raleigh Report – March 7, 2011

· by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Governor Bev Perdue on Saturday vetoed H 2, the misnamed “Protect Health Care Freedom” bill. (It should be called the “Freedom to be Uninsured and Unable to Get Health Care” bill.) The bill was an attack on federal health care reform and purported to remove North Carolinians from the mandated purchase of health insurance, which is the basis of federal reform which will move millions of uninsured Americans into the ranks of the insured.

Video from Come to the Table Conference

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

On a blustery March day that saw snow flurries up in the mountains, more than a hundred people gathered at Black Mountain’s First Baptist Church to talk about food, faith and farms. The full-length videos below offer fresh insight into the deep connections between the food we eat and the faith to which we are […]

Video from Come to the Table Conference

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

On a blustery March day that saw snow flurries up in the mountains, more than a hundred people gathered at Black Mountain’s First Baptist Church to talk about food, faith and farms. The full-length videos below offer fresh insight into the deep connections between the food we eat and the faith to which we are […]

Prospect Presbyterian’s Health Efforts Noted

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

Salisbury Post

Prospect Presbyterian Church, 9425 W. NC Hwy 152 in Mooresville, has achieved the North Carolina Council of Churches’ first Gold Certification for the congregation’s commitment to better health. The Rev. Joanne Hull serves as Prospect’s pastor with Sybil Perrell, RN, as the parish nurse for this rural church in the edge of Western Rowan County.

Prospect Presbyterian’s Health Efforts Noted

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

Salisbury Post

Prospect Presbyterian Church, 9425 W. NC Hwy 152 in Mooresville, has achieved the North Carolina Council of Churches’ first Gold Certification for the congregation’s commitment to better health.

The Rev. Joanne Hull serves as Prospect’s pastor with Sybil Perrell, RN, as the parish nurse for this rural church in the edge of Western Rowan County.

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