Karen Pfitzer has spent eight years as part of the Mercy family.  She came to Laredo and Casa de Misericordia as part of the Mercy Volunteer Corps, where she served as a volunteer for two years. Sinc then, she has spent six years are shelter manager and data specialist.

As shelter manager, she supervises the shelter advocates insuring training and compliance with funding regulations and agency policies and procedures.  She also oversees grant writing and statistical reporting.

Karen, a native of South Dakota, said her decision to remain in Laredo with Casa grew from the current status quo of female subjugation in this world.

“Casa de Misericordia is a place in which I can work to break the status quo and everyday I learn something new,” she said.

Karen explained she finds the work fulfilling because of the changes brought about by the shelter staff.

“Watching the women and children grow, relax, and gain confidence in their future is extremely rewarding,” she said.  “Working with an awesome staff that is supportive and takes pride in what we do is icing on the cake.”

Karen earned a BA in History from Creighton University and received an MPA from Texas A&M International University.