When Mercy Housing Mountain Plains Resident Services Coordinator Chantal was asked to lead the National Anthem for a Naturalization ceremony in Denver this Spring, she immediately felt honored. “I was excited and proud to have been selected for such a responsibility, she recently shared. “It was a moment to showcase my skills and patriotism, and I appreciated the significance of the opportunity.”

Chantal joined the resident services team at Grace Apartments earlier this year. “My favorite part of my job is being able to help others in my community, especially those who share similar experiences and need support.” She oversees the Out-of-School Time programming at the Mercy Housing Mountain Plains family community.

Chantal Becomes a Naturalized Citizen

A refugee, Chantal, and her family came to the United States from the Congo 20 years ago. Shortly after, she became a U.S. citizen, which brought her tremendous pride. “Becoming a Naturalized citizen meant the world to me,” she explained. I never thought I’d have the opportunity to belong to a country. Explaining how refugee status limited her opportunities, “gaining American citizenship has transformed my life,” she said.

Grace Apartments is home to residents from five countries, and 19 languages are spoken. “It’s rewarding to make a positive impact in the lives of others,” she shares.

When she isn’t spending time with her Grace Apartments family, Chantal loves spending time with her own family. Creating memories with her husband and kids through outdoor activities and cooking are among her favorite things to do. “These moments bring me happiness and help me recharge.”

She adds, “I’m incredibly proud to call myself an American citizen, and I’m grateful for the rights, freedoms, and opportunities that come with it.”