Jennifer Harris-Mercado

Jennifer's Story

Jennifer was born in Eschenbach, Germany while her father was stationed there as an Air Force officer. She was raised in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Jennifer was blessed to grow up with loving and supportive parents, however, her mother was very ill and often hospitalized or bed ridden. There were many nights throughout weeks that were spent sitting by her mother’s bedside in the hospital and later nights completing school work and studying. Jennifer did graduate and go on to college. While in college, Jennifer became pregnant with her son. She persevered and graduated with her young son. Jennifer was a young, single mother out in the world with education but no specific work experience relevant to her degree or real-life knowledge on how to navigate the working world. She did find employment and had her daughter, again becoming a single mother. She always had support from her friends and family, however, seemed to be lacking that professional development and guidance. Jennifer eventually found a job that offered that growth and mentorship that helped her advance in her professional life - that sort of support is life-altering and she feels that everyone deserves that opportunity and resource. Being part of G.R.A.C.E. Jennifer is able to pay it forward.

Though professionally Jennifer was thriving, her personal life began to falter. She did have a partner but the relationship was volatile. In the midst of evaluating her options, her mother - role model, best friend - died suddenly and unexpectedly. While juggling her grief, raising her children, and working Jennifer’s relationship escalated dangerously. Jennifer found herself making the necessary but terrifying decision to end the relationship. There are so many complex factors that play into this decision and often very scary repercussions and residual effects that do not get talked about. Colorado offers a variety of resources and programs to support survivors of domestic violence and through G.R.A.C.E., Jennifer and her co-founders are able to create another pillar of professional and financial pathways.

Jennifer is now happily married and blessed with a blended family. She can confidently say that she is the woman she is because of her community - both personally and professionally. Jennifer’s core values are reflected with G.R.A.C.E. and she is proud to be able to share and provide these opportunities to others!