2014 Top-Rated Nonprofit

California Wolf Center

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Animals, Protection of Endangered Species

Mission: "Create a sustainable future in which wolves and people share a healthy ecosystem". California Wolf Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the return of wild wolves to their natural habitat and to the people who share the landscape with them. We foster communities coming together to ensure wolves, livestock, and people thrive in today's world.

Community Stories

48 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

Elena T.1 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

01/05/2022

CA Wolf Center is comprised of some of the most dedicated and selfless unsung heroes. The gravity of their work cannot be understated—the Center provides absolutely CRITICAL conservation efforts that should be funded by the federal government as they protect and rehabilitate endangered species. It cannot be understated how hard everyone works towards the mission of this extraordinarily worthy cause.

Alex V.5 Volunteer

Rating: 5

12/28/2021

One of the most dedicated, animal-first organizations I've ever dealt with. And that means something- these are people who are dedicated to the mission first and foremost, and the love they have for the species they're looking to protect says everything. I had no qualms about volunteering for them when I heard about the organization (because who doesn't love wolves), but was blown away by their passion. The people who work here are some of the finest folk I've ever known, and every penny they get goes a mile.

SonnyLawrence Volunteer

Rating: 5

12/27/2021

I had an incredible experience in the Wolf Handling course sponsored by CWC. It was a three day event. We had detailed lectures and experiences concerning many aspects of wolf care: vaccinations, darting, medical examination, capture techniques, etc. The third day was spent capturing 9 wolves, three of which were ultimately sedated in order to implant birth control. I was able to vaccinate and draw blood on wolves. The experience was far more than I imagined it would be.

Lindsay28 Donor

Rating: 5

10/30/2014

I am a fine artist and was searching for wildlife organizations to support with my artwork. When I found California Wolf Center about a year ago, it launched an amazing relationship that continues to build. I am astounded by the clarity and dedication of this organization and all of its people. They take a refreshing approach to conservation and education efforts that stress finding solutions to living in harmony with the animal, instead of just protecting the animal. The education that supports their mission is immense, including working hand in hand with ranchers and the public where wolves have territory to establish non lethal practices of living in harmony. I have had the opportunity to photograph the wolves at the center and they have all made it into my artwork. Every time I create a piece for the organization my heart expands, knowing that my contribution is worthwhile.

Lindsay Carron lindsaycarron.com

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Gayle D. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/30/2014

I love volunteering at the California Wolf Center. The group of volunteers and employees are dedicated to the wolves' survival and educating the public about the species and it is so awesome to get to spend time around these magnificent creatures. I have a lot of love and respect for the wolves and I think anyone who visits the center leaves with a smile on their face and are in awe at seeing these wolves up close and personal as much as the wolves will allow.

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Linden L. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/30/2014

This is a wonderful center that allows visitors to learn about these magnificent predators. Education is the key and I highly applaud the California Wolf Sanctuary for its role in teaching so many about wolves and dispelling old myths. The work they do is invaluable!

Sherry47 Donor

Rating: 5

10/30/2014

We have been donors And members of California Wolf Center for several years and this organization far exceeds its goals set for itself each year by its staff and volunteers. They are all knowledgeable and willing to go the extra mile for their wolves and also members. The tours are always informative and fun! Thank you CWC for being the best!

verukah1 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/30/2014

I enjoy every trip to the Ca Wolf Center. The way they treat the wolves with love and respect. The animals are magestic. Thank you CWC.

Previous Stories

General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

04/05/2013

They have a beautiful place for their wolves. The wolves are healthy an happy.

Deb864 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/29/2014

I have been enjoying my trips to the California Wolf Center for the past 9 years. Every time I bring more and more people to enjoy the wonderful tours and, of course, the wolves. Each person associated with this organization seems so passionate about their work and about wolf recovery. It is engaging and effective, and I hope I can continue to bring people to this center to learn about the importance of wild wolves.

Wadewolfman Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/29/2014

I have been a member for many years to this wonderful organization. Recently I decided to become a volunteer. This has been one of the most rewarding opportunities I have ever had in my life. Almost all assets that go into the program are used specifically for the wolves. All the people who either work, volunteer, or intern are passionate about the wolves and it's re-introduction into California. Wolves are fascinating animals and a key stone animal. Without them the ecosystems struggle and possibly fail. I am proud to volunteer my time at The California Wolf Center!

myboysteve Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/29/2014

The people who run the California Wolf Center(Erin, Heidi, Christine, and Chelsea to name a few) are the most amazing, dedicated and passionate folks I've had the pleasure to work with in my 70 years on earth. I volunteer for a lot of organizations who are also self-motivated to promote the cause they work for, but given all of the obstacles the CWC has to work with they truly are in a class by themselves! They love the wolves they serve, bend over backwards to inform and educate the public about their worthy efforts to reintroduce this magnificent species back into the wild, and all with incredible patience and grace! We are all...my self especially...blessed by the incredible efforts by the California Wolf Center.

Ileana A. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/29/2014

If you want information as well as education this is the place to get it. You can always ask questions and they will respond with an educated answer. They believe as the ones that are with them in the importance of the wolf to our ecology. The best place to seek an answer and receive the correct responce & get lots of wonderful information all up to date and not hearsay.

Alimcnelson Donor

Rating: 5

10/29/2014

My introduction to wolves was at the Museum of Natural History where my daughter had a sleep over with her Girl Scout troop. A featured guest was a grey wolf and her handler. I immediately fell in love with them, their story, and the battles they face. The California Wolf Center does a great job informing and educating people. They moved me to become a donor and spread the word. Amazing resource and much needed! Great job guys!!

shetahad Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/29/2014

The California Wolf Center is doing a great and essential job. Information, education and preservation are so important. Keep on going.

CheyenneTaku Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/29/2014

The California wolf center does a great job on educating the public on wolves and on wolf recovery to the US lands where they once roamed. They are a member of the species survival program (SSP) for the Mexican Grey Wolf and breed and prep their Mexican wolves for the pre release program sites in AZ and NM. The wolf center also works on educating ranchers on non lethal techniques to detour wolves from their livestock. The CWC loves their wolves and treats them with great care and respect. I now live over 600 miles away from the wolf center and still continue to volunteer for them and will always help them anyway I can because they are such a wonderful and productive organization.

Jim_126 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/29/2014

They are doing a wonderful job preserving the Mexican wolf and educating the public as well. We visit them often.

Jeanette12 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/27/2014

A great resource for conservation. I hope children and generations to come use this to develop respect not only for the wolves but other species in the wild, perpetuating cycles of more organizations that uphold similar beliefs regarding education and conservation.

Barbara192 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/27/2014

As a teacher, I found the California Wolf Center to be an incredible resource. I have taken several classes for field trips. The sessions are very educational, giving students a better understanding of how the prey/preditor lives work. Visitors also have close encounters (behind fences, of course) with the wolves--an awesome experience. The facility is staffed by a group of caring, dedicated people. All in all, a wonderful outing.

Leslie69 Donor

Rating: 5

10/27/2014

I was so happy to see on my recent visit to the California Wolf Center, that there were so many people present for the tour. That means that more word will be spread about all the Center is doing to protect these wolves and their work on re-introducing the Mexican Gray to the southwest. It is a wonderful place to visit, and the presentation before the tour was informative and well received. The wolves themselves are so beautiful and it is thrilling to see them up close. We were told they have minimal handling to preserve their wildness, and I am glad of that. The work to protect and save these animals needs to continue and the education as well. The myths about the wolf need to be dispelled and replaced with a new and far-reaching respect. Two thumbs way up for the California Wolf Center!

Lyndseyparker General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/27/2014

The California Wolf Center is such a wonderful resource that successfully connects and educates the public to the worlds wolf populations and conservation efforts. They provide the ideal balance of encounter and education that sends a strong message to its visitors about the importance of true conservation, rehabilitation, and repopulation. The center promotes respect for our wildlife while giving its visitors a once in a lifetime experience!

Nancy193 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/27/2014

I love the California Wolf Center. The drive to Julian is always nice. We like to go and see the beautiful majestic wolves. They have a nice little gift shop. All of the employees and volunteers are friendly and love to answer questions. I fell in love with Wolves from my experiences at the center. We don't have any wolves in the wild left in California, although one lone wolf ventured in this year before going back up to Oregon. Someday with the help of the center we will have Lobos again!

Alissa5 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/27/2014

The California Wolf Center is a great place! They find a wonderful balance with education, protection and being able to view wild animals without endangering the wolves.
I've always loved wolves and after visiting this place, I was amazed at how much we need these beautiful animals in our environment. Thank you for the wonderful experience!

JenofLA Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/24/2013

The California Wolf Center is a wonderful, educational place. I love that they are informing the public about an issue that most people don't know about; the plight of the wolf. The work they are doing is actually helping to save a species, and that is just so valuable.

Casey J. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/23/2013

Love to visit the California wolf center. the information i received was enough to make me want to become a volunteer and help with the recovery efforts of the gray wolf God bless. CWC

Jennifer280 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/23/2013

The California Wolf Center is a place that renews my faith in nonprofits that work for animal conservation. Their goal really is to help with recovery of wild wolf populations and they do so not by "fighting enemies" of that goal but they do it by educating people and getting them to realize we don't have to fight nature to meet our own needs but we can live in harmony with nature. They have an awesome facility that helps breed Mexican Grey Wolves for the Species Survival Plan, and they educate their volunteers on every aspect of how the whole facility works. Anyone that wants a to help can find a way to do so if they choose, whether it is as a keeper, doing office work, educating the public, or just giving a donation, everyone is welcome to help! I am a very new volunteer (still going through volunteer training which is organized and really good), but I already feel like this is going be the best place I have volunteered in conservation for.

Tracey T. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/23/2013

This facility and others like it are essential in introducing people to wolves and educating them on why we need wolves in the wild.

Dogee95 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/23/2013

I have been a member of the California Wolf Center for 16 years. I love going to the facility and enjoying the company of staff and the wonderful wolves! There is always something new to learn. My kids, grandkids, nieces and nephews are also introduced to the Center at an early age. Taking our winter trip to see the wolves is something that happens every year without fail. Can't say enough good about the Center. Thanks so much for all you do for the wolves!!!

Previous Stories

General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

07/29/2012

I have been a member of the Wolf center for many MANY years. I am still thrilled every time I go and see the wolves...they just take my breath away. I have introduced many friends and family to the center over the years. The staff is very friendly and knowledgable and is always more the ready to help with questions and explainations. I would recomend that anyone interested in wildlife, especially wolves take a trip to the center. It is so great to have them so close. Many years ago when I first started loving wolves I was prepared to take a trip to Yellowstone to see them and here they were in my own back yard. Can't say enough good about the Center and all of the great work they do to preserve the wolf.

Scott36 Donor

Rating: 5

10/16/2013

The CWC is involved in all levels of wolf conservation and are very active in the preservation and reintroduction back to the wild, the most endangered mammal in North America, the Mexican Wolf. This is probably one of the highest functioning non-profits i have had the pleasure to support. I highly value the work they do. Thank you.

Previous Stories
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Donor

Rating: 5

09/23/2012

When i first heard about the CWC I was very surprised that we had such a facility in Southern California. After my first visit, I was hooked. The work they do on behalf of the Mexican Gray is vitally important to the survival of the species. With the return of wolves in the wild beginning to return to California, it's very encouraging that a species which has been extinct in the wild in this state for many years has such a vital and resourceful advocate in the CWC. Their work in educating all aspects of the communities impacted by the wolf's return (including government agencies) may make all the difference in whether or not this species is able to successfully return and survive in California again. I am so proud of the work they do and encourage you to visit the facility and review their programs. Scott Anderson, San Diego, CA.

Ced L. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/06/2013

I'm glad that organizations like california wolf center are around to give wolves a chance at not only surviving, but living hand in hand with humans instead of being seen as a menace! Wolves are much needed, and are now the prime targets of hunters who see collared wolves as the ultimate prize! we need better wolf management & protection world wide so that the worlds eco systems keep working at maximum capacity! Considering there is a "wolf genocide" happening world wide they need all the help they can get in order to survive whats to come if we don't soon act!

Mel R. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/06/2013

The hard work to save wolves and to educate society in invaluable. Unfortunately there is a lot of ignorance and a culture to hunt ant torture these animals and without the work of this wonderful charity these beautiful animals fate would be far worse than what it is today. Well done guys for your hard work.

Christopher31 Donor

Rating: 5

08/03/2013

I met with the founders of the California Wolf Center when I first became involved in working to restore the Mexican Gray Wolves to Arizona during the early 1990s. I was impressed with the hands on way the organization was working for the sake of the wolves. I remain impressed and will continue to support the California Wolf Center and the wolves in their endeavor to survive.

Mara Clear Spring Donor

Rating: 5

08/02/2013

I brought my Shamanic Training students to the California Wolf Center and they were blown away! Between the educational presentation and the visit with the packs everyone felt more connected with wolves and upgraded their one day passes to annual membership. The wolves were interested in us, too, coming up to the fence line to sniff us out. I truly enjoy support the CWC and encourage all to visit and support this organization.

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hujhbphi Volunteer

Rating: 1

11/19/2012

It was boring. It's not worth the money. Some wolves in a cage. Yawn. Imagine the zoo with only one species of animal.

Janet39 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/02/2012

I volunteered as an intern in the Fall of 2010. In the short time I was there, it was apparent how knowledgable and passionate the staff at the CWC are. The amount of daily chores and responsibilities in caring for the wolves is enormous; from figuring out how to keep crows away from their food hoppers to preparing their food to cleaning their water troughs and more. It was a wonderfully rewarding learning experience. The respect for the wolves and responsibility for their proper care was always the main priority with the CWC. They do a difficult, honorable, and valuble service to the wolves, contribute considerably to the scientific community, and foster a spirit of education and concern about a unique and beautiful creature to the general public.

KodiakDean General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/27/2012

So amazing. I didn't know what to expect. Great and quick slide show and info before you head outside. How scary to see what happened when wolves vanished in certain regions. Then, to understand the information you just heard and to experience it. Very nice. Such an important place. I tell everyone now they it is a MUST.

Bonnie J. Volunteer

Rating: 4

09/27/2012

just heard of this organization,I support all wildlife and animal protectors.we need to step in and help out this is very important.

askeptic General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/27/2012

I did a "wolf pack" tour at the wolf center where we were given a great presentation on the wolves and importance of wolf preservation. Then we got to observe 2 wolf packs and question/answer about them. They came right up to the fence to sniff us out and mark with their scents. I sponsored a wolf pup and was sent pictures and great information about my wolf pup. They send wolf updates and are always updating facebook with info about the wolves and what's going on and ways to help. I think this preservation is very critical and the work they do is great. They were very knowledgeable and well organized and I will definitely be staying a member of the wolf pack! I would love to volunteer but I live in northern california... but I can't wait to come back and visit. :)

Verukah Donor

Rating: 5

09/27/2012

A perfect place for the perfect animal. I love their work and will support them as long as I can.

1

Kathy64 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/27/2012

I thought it was a very interesting place and well run. It serves a wonderful purpose raising Mexican Wolves and if we could only get the politics out of everything and move on with science, maybe we could release of few of them. Nice location, nice giftshop and they give very good and informed information.

Belle D. Donor

Rating: 4

09/23/2012

My sister and I visited the California Wolf Center some years ago when Denali was still alive. As I stood by the enclosure trying to take a good picture through the fence I suddenly realized that five wolves had approached me to get a look at me. I was amazed at their beauty and curiousity. I have been a supporter and fan since and appreciate the hard work of those that care and protect our wolves from slaughter and extinction. I plan on visiting again soon. Belle DuCharme

Peggy15 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/22/2012

I recently visited California Wolf Center for the first time in May of 2012. I loved it!!!!! I have been a firm believer in the protection of our diminishing wildlife especially the wolves for several years. Before visiting CWC, I donated because I highly stand by their efforts to protect and care for these amazing animals. I live approx. 5 hours away from Julian Ca. where CWC is located and made the trip just to visit CWC. I was amazed by the true beauty of the wolves and their size. I learned even more about these animals while I was there and am also now a member, and plan on visiting again real soon.I keep in touch with CWC through facebook.I highly reccomend this organization.

mamcgui Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/30/2012

Having grown up in San Diego as an animal and conservation enthusiast, I have always enjoyed the wildlife organizations that the city has to offer. The California Wolf Center is a hidden gem in the beautiful mountain town of Julian, CA, in eastern San Diego county. During the summer of 2011, I spent three months interning at the California Wolf Center, and fell absolutely in love with the facility, the wolves, the staff members, and the globally impacting goals that this non-profit pursues. I definitely recommend that everyone comes and visits this center because it is an experience that you will forever enjoy taking part in.

1

syauyeung Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/29/2012

Having found out about a non-profit that focuses on conservation and wolves in San Diego County where I grew up, I made it a bucket list item that I will work for this non-profit before I die. Dramatic, I know. But hey, I love wolves. I was lucky enough to be chosen as one of their summer interns & I loved the job so much, I ended up staying on as a volunteer for another 5 months after my 3 month internship, having only left because I've since moved to Africa & it would be immensely unfeasible to commute! The California Wolf Center is a small NPO with some big plans in mind, run by an insanely dedicated group of volunteers and only 3 underpaid staff members who always do much more than their jobs entail. Every weekend, public tours are available for people to come and learn about the importance of the wolf as a top predator in its habitat and how that affects the entire ecosystem and to also see wolves up close and personal, if the wolves so which desire. The philosophy of the CWC is admirable and the wolves' well-being is a very high, if not top, priority and it is well reflected by the senior residents, especially Chaco, the oldest ever-recorded Mexican Gray wolf, at the golden age of 17. In addition to the weekend tours, there are many other avenues to get your CWC fix: private weekday tours, photography tours during winter, off-site presentations, virtual presentations, the possibilities are endless! Maybe not literally, but still. I cannot emphasize how awesome this organization is and how underappreciated they are! This is a definite must-see if you're in the San Diego area and you want to see something a bit different from the typical tourist attractions that San Diego is famous for.

mokter91 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

07/29/2012

My boyfriend and I had the most educational and amazing day here! Wolves are one of my favorite animals, but I still learned so much! highly recommend everyone come here to learn about one of our most important top predators and how to help them. The drive is also breathtaking, will definitely be coming often :)

Saunieindiego

Saunieindiego General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

07/28/2012

Just outside San Diego , located in picturesque Julian, past Cuyamaca Lake. The facility and staff are top-notch. Extremely knowlegable and friendly. They are doing great things for wolves. They also attend other community events like the Alpine butterfly release, where I saw their booth just a couple of months ago. Highly recommend for San Diego locals and visiting tourists.

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