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Center Projects and Initiatives

During recent years, in an effort to more efficiently and effectively handle programmatic and financial operations, the Center for Health and Healing, a GBSC affiliated nonprofit entity, was developed. The Center, in partnership with the Office of Health and Human Services (OHHS) and its parent, the General Baptist State Convention of NC (GBSC), continues the care agenda of enabling
churches to engage in whole person health promotion activities. The Center for Health and Healing hosts a variety of projects and initiatives dedicated to addressing specific needs of underrepresented minorities in various disparate health-related areas.

Tobacco Free Environments Project: This project uses a comprehensive approach to address youth exposure to secondhand smoke. The project’s intervention strategies consist of three main project components — a Tobacco Free Church Grounds Initiative, training for adult leaders who serve minority youth groups, and a culturally sensitive media component. Funding is provided by the North Carolina Health and Wellness Trust Fund Commission.

Minority Health Careers Initiative: This initiative is geared towards recruiting middle and high school aged youth in order to expose them to different health careers as a possible path for their future. The youth participate in a health careers club while learning about various health professions and professional development. The project curriculum provides a roadmap for club activities. Funding is provided by a Duke Endowment grant to the NC Hospital Association.
Northampton Healthy Beginnings Infant Mortality Reduction Project: The project is designed to improve the health of women and children by training church and community women and children to provide support, information, and practical assistance. Funding is provided by the Women and Children’s Health Section, Division of Public Health, NC Department of Health and Human Services.

Project FRIENDS (Faith & Research Institutes Engaged in Nutrition Education to Save Lives): The goal of Project FRIENDS is to prevent diabetes and its complications. Using the familiar and supportive environment of the church, the project will teach participants the importance of nourishing the body, mind and spirit through healthy eating and lifestyle changes. Funding is provided by the Department of Justice, NC Attorney General’s Office.

Other Activities

In service to the Convention, its members, and communities, the Center continuously seeks to enhance the lives of those we serve. The Center has initiated and/or participated in such diverse programs as the Faith and Health Initiative (an initiative to reduce the risk of and complications from chronic diseases through dietary practices, physical activity, and theological understandings); NC Senior Care prescription assistance initiative; a fatherhood program targeting African-American men; a stress management workshop for church leaders; and a retreat to focus on issues surrounding terminally ill patients and their families. The Center will continue to address pressing health related needs and serve as an advocate for improved health services and resources.