IMPACT Community Outreach Ministry is the outreach ministry of South Bend First Church of the Nazarene, created to serve individuals and families through Christ-centered, trauma-informed care rooted in both truth and grace. IMPACT exists to meet people where they are—spiritually, emotionally, and practically—walking alongside them with compassion and dignity while faithfully pointing toward the transforming work of Christ.
At the heart of IMPACT is the conviction that belonging comes before becoming, and that holiness is not about perfection, but partnership with God in the ongoing work of sanctification. We believe people grow best when they feel safe enough to be honest, supported enough to be challenged, and loved enough to keep walking forward. Our approach to discipleship reflects the gentle, restorative way of Jesus—who meets us as we are, tells us the truth in love, and invites us to be continually formed by His grace.
Leadership & Facilitation
IMPACT Community Outreach Ministry is led by Pastor DeShawna R. Neal, an ordained Elder in the Church of the Nazarene and the Community Outreach Pastor at South Bend First Church of the Nazarene. The ministry is supported by a leadership team that includes professionally trained clergy and licensed mental health & social work facilitators within the church community, allowing IMPACT to provide biblically grounded discipleship that is also emotionally informed and responsibly guided.
While IMPACT does not replace professional therapy, our facilitators are equipped to create safe, supportive environments where discipleship and healing can occur side by side. An will make referrals out to other community organizations when needed to ensure the best outcome for the community we serve. We also work in partnership with our other ministries and Pastoral leadership in the church.
For More Information Contact Us: outreach@sbfnaz.org
IMPACT Resource Center: Care That Meets Real Needs
Open 9am – 1pm on Wednesdays @ SBFN in WC 102
The IMPACT Resource Center serves as a tangible expression of God’s care by providing practical support, referrals, and guidance to individuals and families navigating life challenges. Or if you just want to come in and have a quiet workspace, and talk to Pastor DeShawna for pastoral counseling or prayer. The Resource Center functions as a place of connection—helping people access resources, understand next steps, and build stability while being treated with respect and dignity. Rather than offering one-time solutions, the IMPACT Resource Center focuses on relationship-based support, empowering individuals to take meaningful steps forward while knowing they are not alone. All pastors at SBFN are here to partner with you in your faith walk, and speak truth with grace no matter where you are in that journey.
Spring Wednesday Night Discipleship @SBFN
Starting Feb. 4th, 2026
6:00pm to 7:30pm in The IMPACT Resource Center WC102
Holy Belonging: Discipleship Rooted in Identity and Healing
Holy Belonging is a 12-week Bible study offered through IMPACT that invites participants to explore their identity in Christ, grow in holiness, and experience spiritual formation in a gentle, Scripture-centered environment. The study integrates biblical teaching, reflection, and guided discussion to support both spiritual growth and emotional awareness.
The study unfolds in four intentional sections:
- Embracing Holiness as Our Identity – Exploring what it means to be set apart for God, cultivating a pure heart, and learning to live surrendered lives rooted in Christ (Weeks 1–3).
- Receiving Healing Through Christ – Encountering Jesus as our healer and restorer, and discovering God’s redemptive work in places of weariness, loss, and brokenness (Weeks 4–6).
- Following the Spirit in Discipleship – Learning to walk daily in the Spirit’s power, remain rooted in Christ, and live as witnesses for God’s Kingdom (Weeks 7–9).
- Formed Together in Christ’s Community – Growing through confession, community, and shared mission as we are sent to serve and make disciples (Weeks 10–12).
Holy Belonging is grounded in trauma-informed discipleship, recognizing that lived experiences shape how people hear Scripture, relate to God, and engage in community. Participants are never pressured to share personal stories. Instead, the study creates space for faith and healing to grow together at a healthy, Spirit-led pace.
You may notice that IMPACT Outreach Ministry uses a trauma-informed discipleship approach. I understand this language may feel new within the faith community. This approach does not change the gospel—it reflects the way Jesus consistently met people with patience, compassion, and dignity. It helps create space where biblical truth can be received without fear and where spiritual growth is nurtured through safety, relationship, and the work of the Holy Spirit.
This study is ideal for individuals seeking deeper faith, renewed hope, and a greater sense of belonging in Christ and His Church.
