Jeff Neel
💫 Jeff is the Executive Director of NCYFC. He has been working with NCYFC since 2001 and has found his passion here. He became keenly aware that kids need to Heal & Belong before they can Hear & Believe. Many kids have hurts by religion in the past or from adults they were supposed to be able to trust. This has led them to feel alone and unaccepted which closes them off from hearing the amazing story of God's love in their lives. Therefore, he strives to help these kids heal from their pains and belong to a community that cares for them so we can earn the opportunity to help them hear the gospel and believe in God's love.
I find joy in leaning into helping connect with people who typically don't think they would want to connect to a Christian. I am growing in my love for leading a team of people with this passion in mind and I'm finding that I find fulfillment in leading teams and training others in how to approach people this way. Turns out, I'm loving this journey of leading toward mental health through a Christian approach--but showing how that is different than a typical Christian approach.
What’s a small but meaningful way you show others they’re truly heard?
I try to repeat the last 3 or 4 words they say when they pause so they know I'm engaged and even interested in hearing more. I like this better than a summary because I can't get this wrong with my summary assumptions, but it still shows that what they are saying is important to me.
What advice would you give to others who want to build stronger connections within their faith communities?
Be willing to build the bridge and expect that they won't come to you. Meeting in their space or in neutral space is the best chance to build trust. Beginning with playful engagement in conversation or activities is a great way to start building that trusted relationship.
What is one book that shaped your approach to ministry?
Field Notes on the Compassionate Life (amazon)--it's a secular book. But it shows so clearly how loving others is physically and mentally healthy for us. It is showing how science also agrees with the benefits of treating people the way Jesus said to treat people.
What is one podcast you’d recommend?
Stuff You Should Know--amazing conversation comes from this. Building a bridge of friendship is easier when you have non-threatening and neutral conversation to start with, and this podcast gives you plenty of that type of information.
What’s your favorite fast food meal and why?
Popeyes chicken sandwich--ohhh so crunchy and it's a favorite outing for my daughter and I.