Mrs. Albertville 2012, Samantha Pfeifer, a wife and mother of two, started making appearances with her title in December by wrapping gifts for the Healing Haiti Boutique.

Since then she's been busy getting ready for her run at Mrs. Minnesota 2012, which will take place on March 3 at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul. At the pageant, she'll compete against six other women in four different categories–interview, swimsuit, evening gown and costume.

St. Michael Patch: How did you get involved and decide to run for Mrs. Minnesota?

Pfeifer: I always wanted to change the world. I quit my job when I was pregnant with my son, who is now 6 years old, and just kind of lost myself in my job as a wife and mom. I wanted to find my voice again and get involved with the community. Two years ago I said something about it and then let it go to the wayside for awhile.

St. Michael Patch: What does the competition entail?

Pfeifer: First and foremost it's a beauty pageant, but it's also about being involved in the community.

St. Michael Patch: Do you have a platform or something specific you're standing for?

Pfeifer: My platform is to help kids. I'm the co-founder of Minnesotans against Child Exploitation which raises money to help protect and defend children who have been abused and trafficked internationally. I'm also involved as a spokesperson, fundraiser and mentor at Free Arts Minnesota where I have the opportunity to help children who have been abused or neglected to use their thoughts and fears in an artistic expression.

St. Michael Patch: What do you have to say to other wives and moms who may be interested in doing this?

Pfeifer: I want to inspire moms to take care of themselves, get yourself to the gym, don't forget about you while you're busy taking care of your home and your husband and your kids. Anyone can do this and it's important to always have a goal.

If Pfeifer is chosen as Mrs. Minnesota in March, she will go on to compete for Mrs. America later on in 2012.

"It's a very exciting opportunity," she said.

If any organizations or groups are interested in appearances from Mrs. Albertville you can contact her via e-mail.