Hispanic Heritage Series (Part V of V)
Her husband passed away without life insurance, and nobody had ever spoken to Aerni about the importance of the subject. At the time, she was working doing retail consulting and real estate when she got a call about a job in the insurance field.
The person calling her was persistent and spoke with her about the insurance industry before she eventually gave it a try.
“When I met him, my first thought was why did nobody talk to me about insurance and protecting ourselves,” said Aerni. “I got into the life insurance part of the business, and I did really well there, mostly within my community. But I became interested in owning my business.”
Today, Aerni operates her own State Farm Insurance Agency and offers services in both English and Spanish. She specializes in a variety of services and offerings including financial planning, IRAs, life insurance, car insurance, and much more. Aerni’s favorite part of her job is educating the community about finances, how to supplement retirement, budgeting, and anything with financials.
“I enjoy most of the financial stuff because it’s just not part of our culture… I love the educational part I provide,” she said.
Aerni grew up in Mexico until she was 10 and a half years old and moved to Houston. Her father was the oldest of 18 children and came to the United States for work and to help financially provide for his family. A graduate of Galena Park High School in Houston, Aerni has lived in Colorado for the past 25 years.
Outside of her business, Aerni has served on several boards including Mi Casa Resource Center, a nonprofit focused on advancing the economic prosperity of the Latino community, and Arrupe Jesuit High School in Denver. She also serves as a mentor to young women through the Latinas First Foundation, an organization that provides a network and support for Latinas to reach their highest potential.
Reflecting on Hispanic Heritage Month, Aerni said the meaning of it means a little of the same to all of us, but a little different to others as well.
“It’s something for me that gives me a warm and fuzzy feeling and a proud feeling to know that even Hispanics who are third or fourth generation, who may not speak Spanish or many not have experienced what I have coming from Mexico, are proud (of who they are). It’s a time to help others and to put the light on people that are the leaders in our community and that are leading by example by serving others.”
You can reach Jessika Aerni’s insurance agency by calling 303-377-5433.
