Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Mercedes Bristol

We recently had the chance to connect with Mercedes Bristol and have shared our conversation below.

Mercedes, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity, because without it we are unreliable, and both intelligence and energy are wasted when others can’t depend on us.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
“I am the Founder and Executive Director of Texas Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (TXGRG). As a grandmother raising my own grandchildren, I deeply understand the challenges kinship caregivers face. My passion is to empower and support grandfamilies through advocacy, resources, and community connections. Over the years, I have worked to build relationships with community partners, funders, and service providers so that grandparents never feel alone on this journey.” Aa a nonprofit organization Texas Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (TXGRG) is dedicated to supporting grandparents and other kinship caregivers who step in to raise children when parents are unable to do so. We provide practical resources, emotional support groups, educational workshops, and advocacy to ensure grandfamilies have the tools they need to thrive. Currently, we serve hundreds of families across Texas, helping them navigate legal, financial, and emotional challenges while fostering a strong sense of community.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I sometimes believed my voice didn’t matter. Today, I know my story and my voice have power — not just for me, but for others who need encouragement

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I struggled with the fear of not being enough — not strong enough, not wise enough, not capable enough. It kept me quiet when I should have spoken up. Today, I know that being ‘enough’ isn’t about perfection, it’s about showing up with love and persistence.”

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I am committed to the belief that no grandparent raising grandchildren should ever feel alone. Building systems of support, advocacy, and resources for grandfamilies is my lifelong mission — no matter how long it takes. Even if the full vision isn’t realized in my lifetime, I know this work will continue, carried forward by others who share the same passion and commitment.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes, because the real reward is knowing I’ve left something better for those who come after me. Praise fades, but the difference you make can last for generations.

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