by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 4:59 PM ET, Thu October 26, 2017
When was the last time you hiked with a pack of wolves? If you're like most people, the answer is probably never.
Those who have, however, describe it as almost a mystical experience, according to a recent article in Forbes about Los Angeles-based Wolf Connection.
A wolf and dog sanctuary about one-hour north of Los Angeles, Wolf Connection is a 165-acre property that's home to about 25 wolves. Once each month, the sanctuary, which believes that people's connection with animals will help save the world, invites visitors to hike with its rescue wolves.
It's an experience that has attracted celebrities such as Moby and Heather Graham, among many others.
Those who have already participated in a hike rave about it.
"What made it special was how unique it was to be able to hike with wolves. That's something people only dream about," Michelle Cano, a Los Angeles resident and animal enthusiast told Forbes. "It's amazing to see these animals who are abandoned then rescued, get a second chance at life while helping others."
In addition to hosting the community hikes and private visits, Wolf Connection has a charitable element. The sanctuary reaches out to troubled students and offers them a chance to spend time volunteering with the animals, learning responsibility in the process, according to Forbes.
The sanctuary for rescued wolves was established in 2009 by Teo Alfero, who was among those featured in the book "100 Making a Difference," a publication showcasing people such as Serena Williams, George Clooney and more. They are recognized as being among the most impactful social champions in the world.
Alfero has a grand vision for the future of his wolf sanctuary and compound.
His plans include expanding to house about 80 wolves. But that's just the beginning. Alfero told Forbes he'd also like to establish a summer camp for kids that would include a 120-seat mess hall, art studios, yoga studios and an amphitheater.
If all of Alfero's vision comes to pass, the property will also allow 36 young men and women to live on the property for between six to 18 months serving as junior level employees and learning job skills.
Alfero, whose mother is a retired school principal and whose grandmother was also a teacher and great-grandfather a congressman, said serving people and the planet is in the family's blood.
"I think there's a lineage of educators (in the family) and people concerned with being of service to the next generation," Alfero said.
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