Meet The Team
Krystal Grant
Program Founder/Executive Director
Krystal Grant is a graduate of University of Lynchburg and obtained a B.S. in Psychology. She has served the Lynchburg community for over 15 years in various capacities: Therapeutic Day Treatment clinician within Lynchburg City Schools, Youth Director in her local church, coordinated college mentoring programs at Jubilee Family Development Center, worked as mentor for Difference Makers youth services, assisted in the development of AAU basketball programming, volunteered countless hours working with children and families, and is now the founder and director of MERCY Mentoring. She is passionate about advocating for youth and empowering them spiritually, socially, intellectually, and environmentally. She is a firm believer that children LEARN what they LIVE, and continues to provide opportunities for children to broaden their horizons and model what they’ve learned in weekly Bible Studies. Krystal’s impact on the children that she serves is long lasting, and evident as they become positive contributors to society they come back to pour into other children in the program.
Jessica Smalls
Founding Mentor
Jessica Smalls was radically saved by Jesus in a group home that led her to be passionate towards youth empowerment. She is a founding member and coordinator of Mercy Mentoring and is instrumental in managing program operations. She is currently working in an addiction treatment at a methadone clinic, servicing individuals with substance abuse addictions. Jessica desires to use the life God gave her to encourage and support others! Jessica is married to her wonderful Husband Dominique and together they have a son, Dominique Jr “DJ.”
Brianna Bernard
Mentor
Brianna Bernard grew up in Clearwater Florida and received her motivation to work with children after having mentors pour into her from a young age. With their guidance and motivation, along with supportive family, she decided to move 14 hours from home and attended Liberty University. She graduated in 2018 with her bachelors of science in elementary education. She is a Jesus worshipping, teacher and mentor. “I love seeing young people love the Lord and lead boldly in their communities out of that love.” Being a mentor in Mercy 12 brings me joy that is found in fellowship.
