While a three-legged cow named Lyle and a wheelchair-bearing goat named Lilly may catch your attention first, Tonya Edwards and her husband Dave are helping give more than 60 other animals a second chance at a first impression at Wilson’s Wish. Building an animal sanctuary was part of their vision over five years ago when the Edwards purchased their homestead outside of Luxemburg.

Donkeys, sheep, cats, and alpacas also dot the property, which continues to be improved and expanded as their herd of misfits grows. Lost in the shuffle of all that activity is the notion that it is just a sanctuary for animals. Clients of places like East Shore Industries and Sunshine Resources have been able to come nose-to-nose with animals that have special abilities—much like they do in their own ways. Edwards says that has been a powerful piece of what they do.

Love for the animals does come at a price for the Edwards, who operate Wilson’s Wish as a nonprofit to purchase the necessary feed, bedding, and medicines their residents need. You can learn more about how you can support Wilson’s Wish, including their comedy night at The Rendezvous of Luxemburg on December 6th, by clicking this link.