CDG begins signups for Cold Turkey Challenge

Andrea Gorsh (pictured), became one of the first Mount Vernon “Fighters” to sign up for the Cold Turkey Challenge.

The statewide Cold Turkey Challenge project is a nicotine cessation contest created by the Reichardt Family Foundation and Above + Beyond Cancer. The contest, which starts locally Jan. 1, 2021, promotes health and wellness in the Mount Vernon and Lisbon area, and gives local community members the opportunity to quit nicotine and raise money for a good cause.

“Andrea was one of the first two community members to sign up,” said Joe Jennison, Chair of the Committee. “She has always been a leader in Mount Vernon and Lisbon, and I was thrilled that she chose to participate with us. I hope that she will be an example to others in the community. I really think that if smokers/chewers/vapers are ready, this may very well be the right opportunity to both quit and help the community you call home at the same time.”

The Local Cold Turkey project committee has contracted with MercyCare Business Health Solutions based in Cedar Rapids to manage the two-month program that will monitor the progress of 20+ local “Fighters” who choose to sign up for the free two-month cessation clinic. Fighters will have access to a weekly Zoom cessation class, three MercyCare-administered nicotine tests throughout the process (one at the beginning, near the middle of the program and at the end), and a network of support services including a free two-month membership to the Lester Buresh Family Community Wellness Center.

Members of the CDG Cold Turkey committee stand inside Scarlett Boutique Alley, home of a future Pocket Park, potentially funded with contest winnings.

One small town in Iowa (under 5,000 in population) will be chosen the winner and will be given a $50,000 grant to be used for a community project. The Local Cold Turkey project committee has chosen to split the money into two local projects: 1) the completion of the Scarlett Boutique Alley Pocket Park, and 2) equipment needed to finish an exercise trail outside of the Community Wellness Center.

 

 

 

 

For more information or to sign up for the program, contact Joe Jennison, CDG Director, at (319) 210-9935 or through email at [email protected]

 


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