Miguel Neavez transitioned from his role in the United States Air Force, back to his home here in San Diego. This is a challenge for any veteran as there is no training to truly prepare you for transitioning back into civilian life. But this challenge led him to find a new mission and purpose; which he found through serving the church and serving his community. Miguel initially found his connection to the Rock Church through the Military Heroes Event and went on to volunteer himself at the Military Heroes Event. Which is an annual celebration that provides critical resources, support and fun for military families and veterans. This year the event continues to honor heroes just like Miguel offering a supportive celebration for military families and veterans alike!

Miguel's path to volunteering his effort and time at the Military Heroes event began through lots of prayer and thoughtful consideration. He knew stepping away from his military career meant finding a new purpose. His journey back home led him to a new community at Rock church where he would later meet his wife, and they go on to serve in impactful ways here in San Diego. 

“I prayed for guidance on where I should go, what I should do,” Miguel recalls. “And Rock Church provided that sense of community I was searching for after my time in the military.” 

In 2023, Miguel attended the Military Heroes Event as a member of the local community. There he saw the impact of the event at which they provided military familes and veterans with groceries, clothing, haircuts, entertainment, and more. By 2024 he was no longer just a participant in the event but actively involved in the church. Together he and his wife got out of their comfort zones and joined the events setup team to find a new way to give back to their local community and their collective veteran community. 

“I was used to serving in hospitality at Rock Church, but volunteering at the Military Heroes Event was different,” Miguel reflects. “Setting up and organizing the event behind the scenes made me realize how essential these volunteers are. It’s not just about serving the people at the event; it’s about ensuring that everyone—volunteers included—feels supported. The event isn’t possible without the people setting it up.”

In 2024, with more experience in supporting the event he helped organize donations and ensured that military families were properly served. A veteran himself, this event was especially important to him, recognizing the struggles faced by veterans and their families alike. Miguel and his wife's combined efforts helped organize clothing and logistics for the event. “We were both doing our part, and it was so fulfilling to serve together as a couple,” Miguel shares. “This was our first time volunteering together, and it was special to see the impact we had on the families that attended.”

Miguel and his wife are a part of an amazing team at Rock church partnered with Liberty Station who organize this event. Serving his community in this capacity Miguel reflects “It’s not just about providing groceries or haircuts,” Miguel explains. “It’s about demonstrating Christ’s love. By meeting the practical needs of military families, we’re showing them that we care, and that we’re here to support them.”

The Military Heroes Event does not just impact the attendees– it is a reminder that volunteers, veterans like Miguel and his family are a part of the larger community. As this event continues to grow, Rock Church is seeking to create lasting relationships that reach beyond the day of the event. To build a community of support where military veterans and their families, can be appreciated and honored for all their sacrifice. 

For more information, to register, or to volunteer visit (http://www.sdrock.com). Your involvement makes a real difference for those who serve our nation. Together, we can continue honoring our military heroes, ensuring they know that their sacrifices are never forgotten.