Dezi’s story - the exponential impact
In our latest newsletter, we shared Dezi’s testimony showcasing how your generosity helped open doors for her to experience discipleship, life-changing financial education, and the opportunity to purchase her home!
The economic empowerment through Watermark Community Development Corporation (CDC) helped Dezi step into a future she once believed was impossible. What began as a desperate search for stability became the foundation for a transformed life.
But Dezi’s journey didn’t end with her own restoration. It multiplied.
After graduating from Financial Catalyst, Dezi didn’t simply move forward with hope, she gave it in return. She serves today as a volunteer small group leader and seminar speaker with Financial Catalyst. Also Dezi is working full-time with Cornbread Hustle - an employment agency for people with criminal records. She supports others walking the same difficult road she once traveled.
Today, she sits beside women who feel trapped in addiction, shame, or hopelessness and offers them the compassion, truth, and encouragement she desperately needed years ago. She reminds them that change is possible, and that Jesus reaches out to them in their darkness with community and initiatives, like Financial Catalyst, providing economic empowerment.
We are grateful for the many volunteers and partnerships that made Dezi’s transformation possible - Kelli Green, Allie Beth Allman & Associates; Kevin Grainer, Loan Depot; and Veritex Community Bank now part of Huntington Bank.
Dezi is living proof that transformation doesn’t end with one person—it ripples outward.
Stories like Dezi’s happen because of you.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors — we have a 1:1 match up to $40,000! ✨
Every dollar you give through the end of the year will be matched — DOUBLING your impact and helping twice the amount of neighbors step into the same life-changing path as Dezi.
During December each year, generous donors provide 12-15% of our annual budget through end of year giving. Our operational budget is $1.4 million for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. We are funded by a combination of Watermark Community Church (10%), bank partners (25%), and individual donors like you (75%).
Your gift today helps us welcome the next Dezi, the next neighbor longing for hope, the next life story ready to be redeemed by God’s sufficient grace.