Professionally passionate and dynamic, Karen L. Brace of Fredericksburg, Virginia, has carved a unique path combining her expertise in security management with her dedication to wildlife rehabilitation. Ms. Brace holds a master’s degree in business and organizational security management and a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement, both from Webster University. Her career began in the U.S. Air Force, serving for four years. Following her military service, she transitioned into the private sector, working in investigations for a private company and then as a government contractor in security for the U.S. Department of State. In 2022, she founded Awesome Possumz, doing business as Possum-bilities, merging her professional skills with her commitment to wildlife.
Ms. Brace’s interest in wildlife rehabilitation began in 2012 when she became a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in the state of Virginia. Her work as a rehabilitator, particularly with opossums, led her to establish Awesome Possumz. The organization serves as a gift shop and a community hub where people can learn about and interact with opossums. In deserved recognition of Ms. Brace’s efforts, Possum-bilities was awarded Best Gift Shop in the 2024 Best of the Burg contest, reflecting its popularity and impact on the community. Another notable aspect of Ms. Brace’s work is her wildlife education program, which she offers at schools, gatherings of community groups, and various events. The store is also a creative hub for local artists, providing a space for them to showcase their work and engage with the community.
Since 2012, Ms. Brace has volunteered with the Wildlife Rescue League. She has also hosted and sponsored a variety of community and charity events through Awesome Possumz, including a dog art show in 2024 to raise funds for a local humane society. Additionally, she has contributed to wildlife education through a local radio show as a resident wildlife rehabilitator. Further, Ms. Brace was awarded the Certificate of Outstanding Achievement for Environmental Awareness by the Daughters of the American Revolution in 2021. Her prowess with Awesome Possumz has been featured in publications, including Virginia Wildlife Magazine and Northern Virginia Magazine. In 2023, she also was featured in the “Client Spotlight: Awesome Possumz” by the University of Mary Washington. Perpetually growing, Ms. Brace is proud of expanding her store’s floor space between its first and second years of business, doubling its income. As she enters the third year of the store, she aims to triple its gross income. Looking ahead, Ms. Brace remains devoted to her mission of wildlife education and community engagement. Her store will continue to be a safe space and creative center for local artists and a vibrant community hub where people can learn and interact with opossums. This entrepreneur’s journey exemplifies the impact of following one’s passion and making a difference.