Dezi’s story - the beginnings
As we approach the season of celebrating the birth of our Savior, we want to introduce you to Dezi—a woman whose story reminds us why our mission matters and how Jesus transforms lives through His grace, your support, and our initiatives at Watermark Community Development Corporation (CDC).
Before Dezi ever walked through the doors of Financial Catalyst at Watermark CDC, her life was defined by struggle. Despite growing up in a loving, Christian home, Dezi was introduced to drugs at a young age. At just 15 years old, she became addicted to methamphetamines, and the struggle to fund her next high began. “By the time I was an adult,” she shared, “I was just surviving day to day. I didn’t see a way out.”
The grip of a 25 year addiction had a strong hold on Dezi, leading to multiple convictions and incarceration. The first time she was released, she returned to the same environments, the same battles, and the same desperation. Like so many others, she wanted a different life. However, she just didn’t know how to get there. “I didn’t think someone like me got second chances,” she said.
But Jesus. During the second incarceration, her life was radically changed when God met her, and she surrendered to His design and way.
Dezi’s story was not finished when she was released from prison. In our next newsletter, you’ll see what happened when Dezi found a path forward at Watermark CDC.
Because of partners like YOU, people like Dezi get second chances. When you give to Watermark CDC, you open doors that many of our neighbors never thought possible, doors to discipleship, life-changing financial education, career readiness, and pathways for small businesses to thrive. Your generosity doesn’t just fund initiatives; it fuels dignity, development, and lasting transformation.
Jesus’ gift of salvation is the anchor of our hope, especially in this season when we remember that He stepped into our brokenness to bring restoration, healing and new life. As we celebrate His coming, we’re reminded that no story is too far gone, no person is beyond His reach, and no darkness is too deep for His light.
Right now, there are people waiting for help just like Dezi. They don’t know that there is a way out of the hopelessness they are living in. Will you show them that they are not alone and be a part of the story God is writing in our city?
When you give, neighbors like Dezi are given second chances. During this end of year giving season, will you give now and empower the next neighbor to thrive?