Mendoza spent the last 10 years working under Heather Doucet at State Farm, an experience she says laid the foundation for everything she does today.
“My role there taught me everything I know,” Mendoza said. “It built my confidence and showed me how to build on existing relationships. Gaining my community’s trust has meant everything to me.”
Her transition into this new role, she said, was not something she had been seeking, but something she believes was divinely placed in her path.
“God led me to my position at Shelter,” Mendoza said. “I wasn’t looking to move at all, but when this opportunity came, I understood why my plans hadn’t gone the way I thought they would.”
Now serving as lead agent, Mendoza offers auto, home, life, and commercial insurance, along with continuing her work as a notary. While the location may be new, she emphasizes that her approach remains the same, relationship-driven and centered on care.
“What I enjoy most is the relationships,” she said. “I want my customers to know and trust me. When people leave my office, I want them to know without a shadow of a doubt that I care.”
Taking on a leadership role is something Mendoza once believed was out of reach, but encouragement from her family helped shift that perspective.
“Being the lead agent means so much to me,” she said. “It’s not something I feel like I achieved on my own. My son told me, ‘Mom, it’s time for you to do something for yourself.’ That meant everything.”
Driven by a desire to provide for her family and lead by example, Mendoza says her work is rooted in values passed down to her.
“My dad always taught me that nothing is free, you put in the work and you’ll reap the blessings,” she said. “Everything I do is to better provide for my family and to show my children what that looks like.”
Mendoza’s commitment to service extends far beyond her office. She is deeply involved in the community, serving as President of the Hope Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce Board, an active Chamber Ambassador, a member of the United Way Golf and Gala Committee, and a lifetime member of Junior Auxiliary of Hope. Her involvement reflects her belief that strong communities are built through service, connection, and showing up.
“I love this community,” Mendoza said. “I want Hope to grow and be successful, not just for my children but for everyone’s children. I want people to feel pride when they think of Hope.”
In her role, Mendoza aims to serve families and businesses by helping them better understand their coverage and make informed decisions. She notes that one of the most common misconceptions about insurance is that all policies are the same.
“Coverage isn’t one-size-fits-all,” she said. “While the types of coverage may be similar, the limits can and should be personalized to fit each individual’s needs.”
She encourages clients to review their policies regularly, especially during major life changes.
“Got married? Divorced? New baby? New job?” Mendoza said. “Those are all times to review your coverage. I want to help people make sure they’re protected as their lives change.”
As she settles into her new position, Mendoza says her mission remains simple, to continue working hard, serving others, and building on the trust she has spent years earning.
“My plan is to keep doing what I’ve always done,” Mendoza said. “Work hard, serve my community, and be someone people can count on.”
Mendoza’s office is located at 1221 S Main in Hope. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with appointments available after 4 p.m.