DeShawna Neal is an ordained elder in the Church of the Nazarene with over 20 years of ministry experience, bringing transformational hope to communities locally and globally. A lifelong learner, she holds advanced degrees in Business, Healthcare, Law Enforcement, and Ministry, equipping her to provide both practical tools and spiritual guidance. As a mother, spouse, and friend to many, DeShawna is deeply passionate about guiding the lost and uncertain back to the faith community. She believes in meeting people where they are and inviting them into a partnership with Christ as they are. Her dedication to holistic service has earned her the prestigious Humanitarian of the Year award, recognized by Indiana state and local governments for her innovative food programs and community outreach initiatives.
Her approach to ministry is both bold and intentional, and Leadership driven, often stepping into the dark places of brokenness where God’s love can shine most brightly. She believes that the Kingdom is best seen not just in words but in actions, through the beauty of authentic relationships and a commitment to being present with those who are hurting speaking biblical truths with grace. DeShawna is also the founder of Kaizen Movement Inc., a non-profit Christian organization dedicated to empowering individuals to advocate for themselves, rebuild their lives, by focusing on the importance of mental health and holistic care through community-driven initiatives. Additionally, her ministry focus is aimed at avoiding toxic charity, focusing instead on fostering sustainable transformation by meeting immediate needs while encouraging self-sufficiency.
Additionally, she serves as a trauma healing instructor with Reboot Recovery, a faith-based program designed to help first responders, military personnel, and others navigate the pain and challenges of trauma and grief. By combining practical tools with the hope found in Christ, DeShawna helps individuals and families move toward healing and wholeness. DeShawna’s ministry extends beyond her local community, as she partners with safe houses and rescue initiatives worldwide to combat sex trafficking. Her global work reflects her unwavering commitment to standing in the gap for the most vulnerable, bringing God’s light into the darkest of places.
Today, DeShawna is humbled and blessed to serve as Outreach Pastor at South Bend First Church of the Nazarene. She is excited to join this vibrant community and continue her mission of teaching, leading, and partnering with others to be Christ’s hands and feet. Her role is more than a position—it’s a calling to speak truth with grace, empower others to live into their purpose, and embrace the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in every aspect of life.
Here are a few things you may or may not know about me:
Favorite foods: I like all foods, I’m always open to trying something new. Especially when I’m traveling globally.
Favorite Book: The Bible, and Boundaries: When to Say Yes, How to Say No to Take Control of Your LifeBy: Dr. Henry Cloud& Dr. John Townsend
Favorite movie: Follow that Bird & Muppet Treasure Island, I’m a big “Kermit” and Muppet fan
Favorite Songs: Holy Forever, The Goodness of God, How Great Is Our God & Gospel Music
Favorite scripture passage: Isaiah 61:1-3 , “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted…”
Favorite sports teams: The Ohio State Buckeyes
Pet Peeve: When people impose personal thoughts in Christian leadership as teachings of God.
Hobbies: I love to sing, I love spending time with my family. I love rustic camping, hunting, and fishing. And I love DIY projects and listening to stories of past experiences from seniors to give clarity to what really matters.
