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Partners in Health & Wholeness

Partners in Health & Wholeness

An initiative of the NC Council of Churches

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PHW Voices

Join the Food Day Flash Mob

September 14, 2012 By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness is organizing a statewide Flash Mob on October 24 at 12:05 p.m. There is no single set location for this Flash Mob, which is celebrating Food Day, a national event. Local communities will decide their site. Food Day is a movement for healthy, affordable, and sustainable food. I’m asking people all […]

Join the Food Day Flash Mob

September 14, 2012 · by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness is organizing a statewide Flash Mob on October 24 at 12:05 p.m. There is no single set location for this Flash Mob, which is celebrating Food Day, a national event. Local communities will decide their site. Food Day is a movement for healthy, affordable, and sustainable food. I’m asking people all […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Community Gardens, Food, Health

All Kale, All the Time?

September 13, 2012 By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

It may seem premature to state this…but I love my new job: Partners in Health and Wholeness Regional Consultant.   I started working with the North Carolina Council of Churches on Monday.  So here we are, day four.  And what can I say?  Things are going pretty well.  So far I have been to a […]

All Kale, All the Time?

September 13, 2012 · by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

It may seem premature to state this…but I love my new job: Partners in Health and Wholeness Regional Consultant.   I started working with the North Carolina Council of Churches on Monday.  So here we are, day four.  And what can I say?  Things are going pretty well.  So far I have been to a […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Food, Health

Blue Cross Giving Churches the Tools to Treat Heart Attacks

August 28, 2012 By Trinh Le, Former Strive to Revive Assistant - Partners in Health and Wholeness

Winston-Salem Journal

Placing defibrillators in houses of worship — including eight in Winston-Salem — is part of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of N.C.'s strategy for extending the reach of health care into community gathering places. The insurer and churches hope there will be a pay-it-forward element from the free CPR training that goes along with the automated external defibrillators. "Most people don't want to be in a helpless place when they see someone having a cardiac arrest," said Bruce Hayes, associate pastor at Reynolda Church.

Blue Cross Giving Churches the Tools to Treat Heart Attacks

August 28, 2012 · by Trinh Le, Former Strive to Revive Assistant - Partners in Health and Wholeness

Winston-Salem Journal

Placing defibrillators in houses of worship — including eight in Winston-Salem — is part of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of N.C.’s strategy for extending the reach of health care into community gathering places.

The insurer and churches hope there will be a pay-it-forward element from the free CPR training that goes along with the automated external defibrillators.

“Most people don’t want to be in a helpless place when they see someone having a cardiac arrest,” said Bruce Hayes, associate pastor at Reynolda Church.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

The Food We Waste

August 24, 2012 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

You may have seen news yesterday about a just-released report from the Natural Resources Defense Council on food waste. I read the full report – only 26 pages, and eminently readable. Here’s a taste (!) of it: “Food is simply too good to waste. Even the most sustainably farmed food does us no good if […]

The Food We Waste

August 24, 2012 · by George Reed, Former Executive Director

You may have seen news yesterday about a just-released report from the Natural Resources Defense Council on food waste. I read the full report – only 26 pages, and eminently readable. Here’s a taste (!) of it: “Food is simply too good to waste. Even the most sustainably farmed food does us no good if […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Farmworkers, Food, Health

BCBSNC Grant Funds Defibrillators, Training for Churches

August 17, 2012 By Trinh Le, Former Strive to Revive Assistant - Partners in Health and Wholeness

Durham-Herald Sun

DURHAM – Over the next three years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina will fund 150 Automated External Defibrillators and training for places of worship across the state, with 33 already lined up. BCBSNC President and CEO J. Bradley Wilson made the announcement Tuesday at First Calvary Baptist Church in Durham along with Strive to Revive partners the American Red Cross, the North Carolina Council of Churches and N.C. Rep. Becky Carney (D-Mecklenburg).

BCBSNC Grant Funds Defibrillators, Training for Churches

August 17, 2012 · by Trinh Le, Former Strive to Revive Assistant - Partners in Health and Wholeness

Durham-Herald Sun

DURHAM – Over the next three years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina will fund 150 Automated External Defibrillators and training for places of worship across the state, with 33 already lined up. BCBSNC President and CEO J. Bradley Wilson made the announcement Tuesday at First Calvary Baptist Church in Durham along with Strive to Revive partners the American Red Cross, the North Carolina Council of Churches and N.C. Rep. Becky Carney (D-Mecklenburg).

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Program Aims To Put Defibrillators In Churches

August 17, 2012 By Trinh Le, Former Strive to Revive Assistant - Partners in Health and Wholeness

WUNC 91.5 North Carolina Public Radio

Eric Hodge: Several state organizations are banding together give churches the tools to save lives. Gurnal Scott reports. Gurnal Scott: State Representative Becky Carney of Charlotte will never forget April 2nd, 2009..the day a portable defibrillator revived her after a near-fatal heart attack at the General Assembly Rep. Becky Carney: One story can propel a great movement within a community.

Program Aims To Put Defibrillators In Churches

August 17, 2012 · by Trinh Le, Former Strive to Revive Assistant - Partners in Health and Wholeness

WUNC 91.5 North Carolina Public Radio

Eric Hodge: Several state organizations are banding together give churches the tools to save lives. Gurnal Scott reports.
Gurnal Scott: State Representative Becky Carney of Charlotte will never forget April 2nd, 2009..the day a portable defibrillator revived her after a near-fatal heart attack at the General Assembly
Rep. Becky Carney: One story can propel a great movement within a community.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Aging, Health

Dynamic Pastor and Determined Teens Lead Together

August 13, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Most people don’t think of flying basketballs, high rebounds, and tough competition when you say “I’m meeting with the pastor.” But Dave Halloway, pastor at Godwin Heights Baptist Church in Robeson County, is running some tough b-ball games. Usually, when I meet with pastors, I am dressed up in some fancy outfit with heels. But […]

Dynamic Pastor and Determined Teens Lead Together

August 13, 2012 · by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Most people don’t think of flying basketballs, high rebounds, and tough competition when you say “I’m meeting with the pastor.” But Dave Halloway, pastor at Godwin Heights Baptist Church in Robeson County, is running some tough b-ball games. Usually, when I meet with pastors, I am dressed up in some fancy outfit with heels. But […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Health

Strive to Revive: All Places of Worship Invited to Apply

August 9, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Places of worship across North Carolina are invited to apply for a free Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and CPR training through a program called Strive to Revive (STR). STR is a three-year partnership between the North Carolina Council of Churches, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, the American Red Cross and Representative Becky […]

Strive to Revive: All Places of Worship Invited to Apply

August 9, 2012 · by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Places of worship across North Carolina are invited to apply for a free Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and CPR training through a program called Strive to Revive (STR). STR is a three-year partnership between the North Carolina Council of Churches, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, the American Red Cross and Representative Becky […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Aging, Health

Registration for PHW Faith and Health Summit

August 8, 2012 By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Friday, October 10, 2014; 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. Ardmore Baptist Church 501 Miller Street, Winston-Salem Please use the scroll bar to complete entire form and click submit button. Loading…

Registration for PHW Faith and Health Summit

August 8, 2012 · by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Friday, October 10, 2014; 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. Ardmore Baptist Church 501 Miller Street, Winston-Salem Please use the scroll bar to complete entire form and click submit button. Loading…

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Come to the Table, Community Gardens, Food, Health, Healthcare Reform, Hunger, Rural Life

Win Your Own Olympic Gold

August 2, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Are you following the Olympics? I am just amazed at the beauty and grace of the swimmers, the gymnasts, the volleyball players and so many others. I dreamily imagine myself being the one in those races trying to beat the Olympic record and going for the gold. And on Monday, July 30, the third day […]

Win Your Own Olympic Gold

August 2, 2012 · by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Are you following the Olympics? I am just amazed at the beauty and grace of the swimmers, the gymnasts, the volleyball players and so many others. I dreamily imagine myself being the one in those races trying to beat the Olympic record and going for the gold. And on Monday, July 30, the third day […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

PHW Collaborates to Promote Good Health in Troy

July 29, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Cindy Taylor and Sheila Menendez of Troy, NC planned a spectacular day of taste testing and health pledge signing. Their respective organizations, Bodies for Christ United and Montgomery County Farmers Market Association,  worked with Partners in Health and Wholeness to promote health among people of faith on July 19 in Troy. PHW led a children’s ‘Be […]

PHW Collaborates to Promote Good Health in Troy

July 29, 2012 · by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Cindy Taylor and Sheila Menendez of Troy, NC planned a spectacular day of taste testing and health pledge signing. Their respective organizations, Bodies for Christ United and Montgomery County Farmers Market Association,  worked with Partners in Health and Wholeness to promote health among people of faith on July 19 in Troy. PHW led a children’s ‘Be […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Community Gardens, Farmworkers, Food, Health

The Affordable Care Act’s Prognosis for Farmworkers

July 23, 2012 By Daryn Lane, Former Student Action with Farmworkers Intern

Every day, about 243 agricultural workers suffer injuries that cost them work time; about five percent of these injuries result in permanent impairment. Agriculture consistently ranks among the three most hazardous industries in the United States. In 2008, the National Safety Council ranked it as the most dangerous industry, and the U.S. Department of Labor […]

The Affordable Care Act’s Prognosis for Farmworkers

July 23, 2012 · by Daryn Lane, Former Student Action with Farmworkers Intern

Every day, about 243 agricultural workers suffer injuries that cost them work time; about five percent of these injuries result in permanent impairment. Agriculture consistently ranks among the three most hazardous industries in the United States. In 2008, the National Safety Council ranked it as the most dangerous industry, and the U.S. Department of Labor […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Farmworkers, Food, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, Rural Life

PHW ‘Be A Star’ Children’s Event On July 19 in Troy

July 16, 2012 By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Sizzling pans and laughing children will fill the Troy Farmers Market on July 19. Tomato Day at the market will feature local tomato-recipe tastings.  And Partners in Health and Wholeness will co-sponsor a free children’s Be A Star event where children can place stars on a Montgomery County map of places where healthy eating or physical activity is […]

PHW ‘Be A Star’ Children’s Event On July 19 in Troy

July 16, 2012 · by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Sizzling pans and laughing children will fill the Troy Farmers Market on July 19. Tomato Day at the market will feature local tomato-recipe tastings.  And Partners in Health and Wholeness will co-sponsor a free children’s Be A Star event where children can place stars on a Montgomery County map of places where healthy eating or physical activity is […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Food, Health

Local Farmers Supported by People of Faith

July 5, 2012 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

July 5, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Food, Health, Rural Life

Health Care for All God’s Children — ACA Upheld

June 28, 2012 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

June 28, 2012 · 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. […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, People with Disabilities, Religion & Society

Seven Risk Factors to Monitor Your Health

June 21, 2012 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

June 21, 2012 · 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, […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Rio+20 and The Climate is Changed!

June 19, 2012 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!

June 19, 2012 · 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. […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Environment, Food, Fracking, Good Government, Health, Human Rights, Interfaith, Religion & Society, Rural Life

Praise Dancing Reaps Benefits

June 14, 2012 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

June 14, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health, Worship

On the Importance of the State’s Public Health System

June 7, 2012 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

June 7, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health, Healthcare Reform

Raleigh Report – June 1, 2012

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

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.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Environment, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Housing, Immigration, Mental Health, Public Education, State Budget

Church Council Bulletin, Spring 2012

May 29, 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

May 29, 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.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Food, Good Government, Health, Immigration, LGBTQ, News, State Budget

Raleigh Report — May 18 Update

May 21, 2012 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

May 21, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Religion & Society, State Budget

Statement on Passage of Amendment One

May 9, 2012 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

May 9, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Domestic Violence, Equality & Reconciliation, Gender, Good Government, Health, Human Rights, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Religion & Society

Care of Creation Faith Message Has Legs on Capitol Hill

May 8, 2012 By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

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

May 8, 2012 · by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Environment, Food, Good Government, Health, Religion & Society, Rural Life

Exciting Updates from PHW

April 30, 2012 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

April 30, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Being Crazy Christians

April 27, 2012 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

April 27, 2012 · 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, […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Economic Justice, Food, Health, Religion & Society, Worship

New Curriculum: Eating Well

April 17, 2012 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

April 17, 2012 · 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.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Community Gardens, Farmworkers, Food, Health, Rural Life

$9.94 Billion Spent to Market Cigarettes

April 16, 2012 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

April 16, 2012 · 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. […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Health

A Personal Story of Faith and Health

April 12, 2012 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

April 12, 2012 · 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.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Food, Health, Healthcare Reform, Interfaith

New County Health Rankings Point to Disparities in Health

April 10, 2012 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

April 10, 2012 · 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, […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Community Gardens, Economic Justice, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Food, Gender, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Race/Ethnicity

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

April 2, 2012 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

April 2, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Community Gardens, Economic Justice, Environment, Farmworkers, Food, Health, Interfaith, Peace, Religion & Society, Rural Life

Pee Dee Baptist Association Health Coalition Meeting

March 29, 2012 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

March 29, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Keynoter and Distinguished Service Award Recipient Announced for Critical Issues

March 26, 2012 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

March 26, 2012 · 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. […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Community Gardens, Environment, Farmworkers, Food, Health, News, Peace, Religion & Society, Rural Life

Champions of Change

March 26, 2012 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

March 26, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health, Healthcare Reform

Annual Christian Educational Institute to be held in Dobbins Heights

March 19, 2012 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

March 19, 2012 · 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.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Christian Unity, Food, Health, Healthcare Reform, News, Rural Life

Places of Worship Addressing Youth Health

March 16, 2012 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

March 16, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Food, Health, Healthcare Reform

New Resources from Partners in Health and Wholeness

February 20, 2012 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

February 20, 2012 · 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, […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Food, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health

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

February 16, 2012 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

February 16, 2012 · 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, […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Food, Health, Race/Ethnicity

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

February 10, 2012 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”

February 10, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Community Gardens, Economic Justice, Environment, Farmworkers, Food, Health, Immigration, Peace, Rural Life

Announcing the “Eating Well” Curriculum!

February 2, 2012 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!

February 2, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Environment, Farmworkers, Food, Health, News, Rural Life, Worship

New Nutritional Standards for School Lunches

February 2, 2012 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

February 2, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Food, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Public Education

Upcoming AME Zion Church Health Conference on Feb. 25

February 1, 2012 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

February 1, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Food, Health

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

January 27, 2012 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)!

January 27, 2012 · 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.  […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health, News

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

January 20, 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

January 20, 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. […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Christian Unity, Food, Health

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

January 13, 2012 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

January 13, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Christian Unity, Food, Health

Obese Corpses Rejected for Medical Research

January 11, 2012 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

January 11, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Aging, Food, Health, Healthcare Reform

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

January 10, 2012 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

January 10, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Environment, Farmworkers, Food, Health, Human Rights, Peace, Rural Life

Free Resources to Help You Begin 2012 Tobacco Free

January 5, 2012 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

January 5, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health, Healthcare Reform, Substance Abuse

Free AEDs and CPR Trainings for Congregations

January 4, 2012 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

January 4, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Aging, Gender, Health, Healthcare Reform, People with Disabilities, Race/Ethnicity

Too Many Victims — Gun Violence Vigil on January 8

January 3, 2012 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

January 3, 2012 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Religion & Society

NC Ranks 21st in Protecting Youth from Tobacco

December 5, 2011 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

December 5, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, State Budget

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

November 30, 2011 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”?

November 30, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Environment, Food, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform

Churches Unite: Being Healthy Being Faithful 2012

November 28, 2011 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

November 28, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Food, Health, Peace, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society

The Debate over Healthier School Lunches

November 22, 2011 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

November 22, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Community Gardens, Food, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform

NC Smoke-free Law Results in Fewer Heart Attacks

November 16, 2011 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

November 16, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Aging, Health, Healthcare Reform

Bladen Churches Unite: Being Healthy, Being Faithful 2012

November 14, 2011 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

November 14, 2011 · 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.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Aging, Food, Health, Healthcare Reform, Mental Health, Substance Abuse

How Our Health Affects the Bottom Line

November 10, 2011 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

November 10, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Economic Justice, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Living Wage, State Budget

Seven Billion and Growing

November 9, 2011 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

November 9, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Environment, Food, Health

Being Healthy, Being Faithful: Elizabethtown

November 9, 2011 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

November 9, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

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

November 8, 2011 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

November 8, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Health, Healthcare Reform, Race/Ethnicity

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

November 8, 2011 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?

November 8, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health, Rural Life

Sleeping Beauty Wake Up!

November 4, 2011 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!

November 4, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Nonprofit Offers Pharmacy Program

November 4, 2011 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

November 4, 2011 · 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.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Aging, Health, Healthcare Reform, Living Wage, Mental Health, People with Disabilities

National Food Day Was Cooked Just Right!

November 3, 2011 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!

November 3, 2011 · 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.” […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Christian Unity, Community Gardens, Environment, Food, Health

November is American Diabetes Month

November 3, 2011 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

November 3, 2011 · 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.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Food, Health, Healthcare Reform, People with Disabilities, Race/Ethnicity, Worship

Here’s Harvard’s Plate!

October 31, 2011 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!

October 31, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Food, Health

Radiation in Cigarettes

October 27, 2011 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

October 27, 2011 · 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.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Environment, Food, Health, Rural Life, Substance Abuse

Safety Net Programs: They’re Worth Fighting For

October 26, 2011 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

October 26, 2011 · 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.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Aging, Economic Justice, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, State Budget

The Daniel Fast is Not a Diet

October 13, 2011 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

October 13, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Farmworkers, Food, Health, Religion & Society, Rural Life

Navigating the State Fair

October 6, 2011 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

October 6, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Farmworkers, Food, Health, Rural Life

View Our Informational PHW Webinar

October 4, 2011 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

October 4, 2011 · 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, […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

We Accomplished Another Victory!

October 3, 2011 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!

October 3, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Health

What’s in Season?

September 15, 2011 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?

September 15, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Community Gardens, Farmworkers, Food, Health, Rural Life

Partners in Health and Wholeness Launches Information Webinar

September 8, 2011 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

September 8, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

The Cost of Obesity

September 2, 2011 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

September 2, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Food, Health

Improving the Health of Communities from Within

August 25, 2011 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

August 25, 2011 · 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. […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

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

August 19, 2011 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

August 19, 2011 · 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.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Community Gardens, Food, Health, Rural Life

Rural Life Committee Supports Ban on Fracking

August 18, 2011 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

August 18, 2011 · 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.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Economic Justice, Environment, Fracking, Health, Rural Life

Food or Medicine?

August 17, 2011 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?

August 17, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Your Faith Community’s Health Advantage

August 13, 2011 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

August 13, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Get Out and Play!

August 12, 2011 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!

August 12, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Youth Empowerment Training: Laurinburg

August 11, 2011 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

August 11, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

The Parable Garden

August 9, 2011 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

August 9, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Community Gardens, Food, Health

Youth Empowerment Training for Clergy: Eastover

July 31, 2011 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

July 31, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Tell Your Story to Help Medicaid and Medicare

July 22, 2011 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

July 22, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health, Healthcare Reform, Religion & Society

Free Youth Empowerment Training for Clergy

July 19, 2011 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

July 19, 2011 · 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

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Being Consumed by Our Food

July 15, 2011 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

July 15, 2011 · 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, […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Bishop Curry Interviews Dr. Kathy Shea about NC IPL

July 1, 2011 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

July 1, 2011 · 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.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Environment, Food, Health

The NFL Needs Your Help to Combat Childhood Obesity

June 23, 2011 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

June 23, 2011 · 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).

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Take Action to Protect Medicaid

June 20, 2011 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

June 20, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Economic Justice, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform

Tarheel Footprints in Health Care

June 20, 2011 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

June 20, 2011 · 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.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Environment, Health

Welcome, Joy Williams!

June 16, 2011 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!

June 16, 2011 · 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 […]

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Free Tools to Help You Live Healthier

June 15, 2011 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

June 15, 2011 · 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

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Proper 6, Year A

June 1, 2011 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

June 1, 2011 · 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.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Health, Healthcare Reform, Worship

Raleigh Report – May 20, 2011

May 24, 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

May 24, 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.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Race/Ethnicity, State Budget

Upcoming Health Events in Wake and Chatham Counties

May 19, 2011 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

May 19, 2011 · 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

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Better Choices, Better Health

May 12, 2011 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

May 12, 2011 · 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

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health, Healthcare Reform

Free Webinar on Physical Activity for Churches

May 6, 2011 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

May 6, 2011 · 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.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Health

Raleigh Report – April 26, 2011

April 28, 2011 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

State Deadline Passes and Most New Bills Introduced

Raleigh Report – April 26, 2011

April 28, 2011 · by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

State Deadline Passes and Most New Bills Introduced

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Environment, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, Public Education

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