MEET OUR TEAM
Assistant Chaplain
Jeff Thomas
Jeff Thomas is a Fort Wayne native of 57 years. Together, Jeff and his wife have four children. From an early age it was clear that there would be many obstacles and challenges along his journey. It was through overcoming those obstacles that developed Jeff's desire to help others.
Jeff is passionate about empowering individuals and guiding them into the truth of God's unconditional love. Drawing from his own life experiences, he connects with others in a relatable and authentic way, offering dynamic teaching, training, and transformative experiences.
With a rich background in ministry, Jeff has led recovery groups, served as a jail chaplain, provided leadership and church growth training to various congregations, and pastored his own church for many years. Currently, Jeff and his wife lead Back To The Garden Ministries, located in New Haven, IN. His commitment to seeing lives changed and strengthened in faith continues to inspire and equip those he serves.
Secretary
Anita M. Payton
Born and raised in Lima, OH. Born AGAIN in May 1976 at Mt. Olivet Church of God in Christ, she answered the call to ministry as Teacher, in July 1980. Moved to Fort Wayne, IN August 1982 to attend International Business College where she earned her accounting degree. Anita has been married to Pastor Michael Payton, Sr. for 41+ years. They have 2 adult children. She co-founded Restoration Center Church of God in Christ in January 2000. She's a missionary to Fort Wayne, South and Central America.
Anita retired in May 2019, after 35+ years in corporate America and most recently as a Sr. Business Process Trainer with a focus on new hire orientations. She is the author of "The God of Restoration", released in January 2023. She is Founder/CEO of Rehoboth Outreach, Inc., a non-profit organization where essential services are provided for the homeless community. Anita serves on the board and Executive Committee of the Fort Wayne Black Chamber of Commerce. She is a volunteer for the Fort Wayne Rescue Mission, NeighborLink, and The Chaplaincy at the Allen County Jail. Anita loves serving Christ through serving others, reading, traveling, and meeting new people.
Anger Management Class Facilitator
Dr. Gregory Andrews
Greg Andrews, a Fort Wayne native and former U.S. Navy combat veteran of Operation Desert Shield / Storm, the Gulf War, is an IT professional specializing in Cybersecurity and Windows engineering. He also works as a counselor at Out From Darkness Counseling, an ordained chaplain through Christian Chaplains and Coaching (Leesburg, GA), pastor, church administrator (Church of Jesus in Fort Wayne), musician, singer, and songwriter with Jacob’s Well Band.
Greg holds a doctorate from The Kingdom of Heaven School of Counseling and Bible College (Champaign, IL / Fort Wayne, IN) and is married to Natasha Y. White-Andrews, with five children and nine grandchildren.
Chaplain
Mark Broom
Chaplain Mark is a Pastor and Chaplin with the Foursquare denomination. He has served in the United States Marine Corps and is a retired correctional officer from the California Department of Corrections. He has also completed the Chaplin course through Life Pacific University. He has served in various ministries and roles with the Foursquare church and with Celebrate Recovery ministry. Chaplain Mark has been married for 15 years to his wife Stephene Broom and has five children and one grandchild.
Associate Chaplain
Natasha W. Andrews
Natasha White Andrews is a dedicated community advocate with extensive experience supporting children and families in need. She serves as a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) for children requiring vital services, demonstrating her strong commitment to child welfare. Natasha also provides spiritual support as a Chaplain, offering guidance and comfort to those facing difficult circumstances.
In leadership roles, Natasha is the Executive Board President of The Journey and Executive Vice President of For Lake’s Sake, where she actively works to improve community health and well-being. Her passion for advocacy and service has made a meaningful impact on many lives throughout her career.
Natasha is married to Gregory Andrews, and together they have built a large, loving family with five children and nine grandchildren. Her dedication to both her community and family reflects her values of compassion, leadership, and commitment.
Associate Chaplain
Deborah "Debbie" Vance
Born and raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Deborah Vance is a loving mother of three sons and is blessed with eleven grandchildren.
Through the tragedies and hardships of life, Deborah became devoted to outreach, discipleship, and overall a source of love and light to those struggling. Deborah was a Sunday school teacher for over 10 years.
Over the last 20 years, Deborah has served in teaching bible studies and outreach to others at Kingston Long Term Care Facility and Dupont Hospital. Deborah is currently qualified with a UPC license and aims to earn her Chaplain’s license.
Since late 2024, Deborah has volunteered at the Allen County Jail as an assistant to the associate chaplain in domestic violence classes. She also volunteers at St. Joseph Missions teaching bible studies and discipleship. Deborah is a proud member of Abundant Life Church where she serves on the outreach, altar, prayer, and baptismal teams. Her church awarded her with two "Heart and Honor" awards for serving on the altar team and her strong suit of ministering to others.
Overall, Deborah’s calling is to bring God’s mercy and light into dark places, reminding them that they are known and loved by God and have a purpose, plan, and hope, as referenced in Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV).
Associate Chaplain
Amar DeSilva
Born again in December 05, 1995 and called to serve the rejected - outcast - victims in the society. Started in Allen County Jail in 2018 as a volunteer chaplain and continues to serve with The Chaplaincy team.
2026 Board of Directors
Don Harvey
Roger Reece
Carl Hoffman
Julie Wood
Lisa Otis
Will Curry
Carl Hoffman
Stephanie Lee
Bennie Lewis
Mick Lomont
Bob Washburn
Everleina Wattley
Robert Wearley
Tomra "Tomi" Cardin