Peer support is powerful, especially when it comes to your health.   For example, a recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found people with diabetes who managed their symptoms together had better outcomes than doing so on their own.  And for the increasing number of people living with hypertension, diabetes, arthritis and cancer, the combination of skills development and peer support can make a difference in how they cope with their condition and the pain, anxiety and fatigue that often comes with it

Based on the work of Stanford University researcher Kate Lorig, DrPH, Better Choices, Better Health™, (available at selfmanage.org) is an online workshop that teaches self-management management skills in the context of a virtual group.  Rigorous studies have demonstrated that this program helps individuals decrease their fatigue, exercise more, expand their self-confidence and improve their health.

The National Council on Aging is currently piloting Better Choices, Better Health in Iowa. While the program is valued at approximately $200 per person, it is now provided free of charge to participants, thanks to pilot funding from The Atlantic Philanthropies.

Better Choices, Better Health:  How It Works

Throughout the six-week workshop, individuals interact with peers and trained facilitators - many of whom have a chronic condition themselves. They come together and set their own goals and build action plans to achieve them.  Participants discuss ways to reduce stress, find and use community resources, and learn better ways to talk to their doctor and families about their health.

Available Online and In the Community

Better Choices, Better Health is the online version of Stanford University's internationally recognized Chronic Disease Self Management Program (CDSMP), which takes place in-person in community-based settings.

Iowa also offers the community-based program, called Iowa Healthy Links available at www.iowahealthylinks.org or (617) 624-5440, which is provided through the state Department of Public Health.  Both Iowa Healthy Links and Better Choices, Better Health programs are effective in addressing a wide range of chronic health conditions.

You can view a video of the community-based version of the program here: http://www.ncoa.org/improving-health/chronic-disease/healthier-lives.html

I'd like to put you in touch with Jay Greenberg, SVP of Social Enterprise at NCOA, Kate Lorig, founder of CDSMP and director of the Stanford Patient Education Research Center, or a program instructor or participant to further discuss how Better Choices, Better Health and Iowa Healthy Links are impacting the local community.

Hersong, the Quad Cities Women's Chorus, strives to promote and develop women's music as a significant expression of the strength, dignity, and sisterhood of all women, as well as social justice, world peace, cultural diversity, the healing of the environment and community outreach. St. John's Lutheran Church is a place for All people. They are very involved with their community and open their doors to all who walk in. Visit their calendar of events at www.stjohnsri.org.

Theplace2b, provides a safe haven for our community's youth, The numbers of homeless, displaced and near homeless youth have been steadily increasing in the Quad-Cities. Theplace2b offers a variety of support services to these youth, ranging from house options to counseling services to academic support. They have an ongoing need please check their website www.theplace2b.org.

For more information or to donate, please contact Brooke Wilson Clemons by email Hersong@earthlink.net or 309-737-9898.

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The annual recital performance of The Arc Holiday Choir will be held Sunday, December 5, 2010, at 7 p.m. with a reception immediately following the concert. The performance will take place at First Lutheran Church, 1230-5th Avenue in Moline.  The recital performance is free of charge and open to the public.

The Arc Holiday Choir is directed by Mary Vande Voorde, LSW, graduate of Augustana College and 21-year member of Hersong, the Quad Cities Women's Chorus. Vande Voorde is Director of Developmental Training for The Arc of Rock Island County and supervises the fine arts elements of The Arc's day programming including The Arc Holiday Choir, Music Therapy, the Spring Art Fair, and visiting artists.

Founded in 1952, The Arc of Rock Island County serves more than 325 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities daily. Day programs are offered in both Moline and Rock Island. The Arc promotes living and working in partnership with the community to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

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With the holiday retail season upon us, The Arc of Rock Island County announces it is currently accepting new consignments from area artists for The Arc's One of a Kind shop.

One of a Kind sells unique handmade gifts made by local artisans. Products include jewelry, paintings, weavings, carved walking sticks, candles, soaps and lotions, and many other unique gift options.

Consigning artists set the retail price and receive 75% of the sale price. The Arc retains 25% which supports programming, developmental training, and wages for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. One of a Kind provides paid employment opportunities for individuals in a retail setting. Individuals are trained and involved in all aspects of store operations-creating original artwork, cashiering, maintaining displays, inventory control, and customer service.

One of a Kind is located at 4016 9th Street in Rock Island.

Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm.

Founded in 1952, The Arc of Rock Island County promotes living and working in partnership with the community to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. The Arc serves more than 325 individuals throughout the Quad Cities community on a daily basis.