Antonio was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and relocated to the great city of Las Vegas, Nevada at 8 years old. Antonio was raised by his grandmother, Virginia Bowen. He graduated from Rancho Magnet High School then attended Sierra Nevada Job Corps, graduating college with a degree in Business Administration. He furthered his education and also earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology and Masters in Clinical Christian Counseling from Kingdom Builders Institute. Antonio will be graduating in 2024 with a Doctorate in Divinity. Antonio has served as the President of the Historical Westside Chamber of Commerce. He also served as the COO for its 501 (C)3 charity. Antonio joined Together CD to support our youth, families, and school.
Our CVA, Belinda Mercado, joined the TOGETHER! for Youth team in March of 2023. Belinda has an Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting and has 10 years experience working in the medical field. In addition, she is a Certified Peer Counselor in which she utilized at Catholic Charity Services under the PATH Program (Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness Services) providing outreach services to homeless individuals challenged with mental health. She then transitioned to the PACT Team (Program Assertive Community Treatment) as a Peer Specialist sharing the journey towards recovery, while honoring everyone’s unique path towards a meaningful life. Currently, Belinda is finishing up her Associate of Arts and Science Degree at Wenatchee Valley College while playing Goalkeeper for the Women’s Soccer Team. Belinda is looking forward to connecting further with the community to advocate for the underserved.