"I came to Next Level yearning to fit in and be accepted. I had a laundry list of failures that I was ashamed of. I went to Empowerment Track, joined a small group and found community. That's when my freedom journey really began. I learned that my past failures don't define me because Jesus bought my past. I learned to see people the way Jesus sees them and to freely forgive them. I learned that I don't have do things in my own strength but to walk at the pace of grace and partner with God in doing my life. I was accepted, set free and restored here. And now I'm deeply planted and flourishing here. From the pastors that have walked this journey with me, to the sisterhood that drew me out of shame and isolation, the worship team that embraced me, and the culture of unity that simply loves and accepts me. I'm so thankful I've found a home here."