After the success of the rebranded SpringFest (now known as the Eastern Bluebird Fest), the Warrenton Revitalization Committee combined the shopping and entertainment experience of Harvest Market and the fun and thrills of Fright Night to create the first Harvest-Ween on Saturday, October 26, 2024.

Photo Credit: Crystal Myrick/Warrenist

Harvest Ween 2024

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Heritage Cultural Farm hosts Festival on the Farm, a celebration of African American heritage and culture in Warrenton, NC.

Festival on the Farm 2024

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Nominated by the Warren County Health Department, Perfecting Praise Ministries was the recipient of the prestigious Partnership in Public Health Award, presented at the North Carolina Public Health Association (NCPHA) Fall Education Conference held in Cherokee, NC in September. This recognition highlights the ongoing collaboration between the ministry and the health department in their efforts to promote health and wellness within the community.

Bishop J. Terrell Alston and Perfecting Praise Ministries has been an active partner in numerous public health initiatives aimed at addressing critical health concerns. Some of their notable collaborations include hosting a drive-thru COVID-19 vaccination clinic, an HIV/AIDS Awareness event, and a town hall meeting titled “Coping Mentally and Spiritually,” which was hosted by the NAACP. In addition, the ministry organized a Mental Health Forum that focused on faith-based communities, bridging the gap between spiritual and mental health support.

This award acknowledges the significant impact that partnerships like these can have on improving public health outcomes, particularly in rural communities such as Warren County. By combining spiritual guidance with health education and resources, Perfecting Praise Ministries has played a vital role in addressing both the physical and mental well-being of the community.

Alston also serves as Director of Community Engagement & Empowerment at Trillium Health Resources.

The North Carolina Public Health Association is the leading professional association for people dedicated to promoting and protecting the health and environment of all North Carolinians. The Guiding Principles of the North Carolina Public Health Association are: integrity, dignity and respect, pride and commitment, inclusion and education for individuals and communities.