Welcome to the forum!
To answer your questions in order...
The Forum is very active. I myself try and get on atleast once every day to get caught up on posts. We have alot of other regulars too that are here. Hopefully, you will be another!
I dont know of any programs myself but im sure somone will view this topic and give you edvice. Or what you can do is ask for help in the "Artistic Stuff" Board
here.
Or if you wanted, you could make a topic requestion somone to make one for you, please note though that some people will charge you for there art, so make sure you tell them how much you are able to pay or if it should be free.
Reading the rules of the board is best before posting.
Other then that, I hope you like it here.