Our Story of Rescue and Compassion
How It All Began
Golden Retriever Rescue of Mid-Florida (GRRMF) began with one golden in need and two dedicated members of the Mid-Florida Golden Retriever Club (MFGRC), Sandy Guy and Sarah Davis, who refused to look away. More than 30 years later, our all-volunteer organization has rescued, healed, and rehomed thousands of goldens across mid-Florida, supported by people who love this breed as deeply as we do.
It All Started With Charlie
In 1991, a golden named Charlie needed double hip surgery. Two dedicated members of the Mid-Florida Golden Retriever Club (MFGGRC), Sandy Guy and Sarah Davis, stepped forward to help. The MFGRC community rallied around them, contributing more than enough to ensure Charlie received the surgery he desperately needed.
That leftover fund became the spark that changed everything. Sandy and Sarah formed a small “Rescue Committee,” dedicated to helping goldens in need across mid-Florida. What began as a single act of compassion quickly grew into a mission that would shape the future of GRRMF.
Building the Foundation (1991–1996)
1991: Creating Structure and Support
As more goldens needed help, Sandy and Sarah began building the foundation that still guides GRRMF today:
- Connecting with rescue groups across the country
- Developing guidelines for intake, foster care, and adoption
- Creating educational materials for new adopters
- Drafting the first adoption contract
Early Challenges
In those early days, we actively searched for goldens in need while working through significant financial and space constraints. But the commitment never wavered — every golden in mid-Florida deserved a chance.
1996: A Turning Point
By 1996, more than 300 goldens had been rescued. The need was growing — but the Rescue Committee had only $30 left in the bank. It was clear that the mission needed a stronger foundation.
The decision was made: GRRMF would become a nonprofit organization.
Becoming a Nonprofit (1997)
In 1997, GRRMF received a $1,000 seed grant from the Mid-Florida Golden Retriever Club to begin the nonprofit application process. Volunteers created the first merchandise to raise funds, and GRRMF officially became a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
With nonprofit status came new opportunities — and new responsibilities. GRRMF was ready to grow.
Growth and Momentum (1998–2000s)
1998: A Year of Expansion
1998 marked a major leap forward:
- A surge in goldens needing rescue across mid-Florida
- Launch of the first GRRMF website
- A grant from the Golden Retriever Club of America
- Creation of the GRRMF newsletter
- New volunteers joining throughout the region
Growing Pains and Gains
As GRRMF grew, so did the need for structure. Volunteers with professional expertise stepped in to help with operations, medical coordination, fundraising, and communications. Every donation went directly to the dogs — a commitment that remains true today.
GRRMF Today
More than three decades after Charlie’s rescue, GRRMF is a thriving, respected, all-volunteer organization serving goldens across mid-Florida. Today, we are proud to have:
- Thousands of goldens rescued, rehabilitated, and rehomed
- 200+ dedicated volunteers
- A skilled Board of Directors and experienced coordinators
- Robust programs including rescue, medical care, sanctuary dogs, and therapy teams
- A compassionate community of donors and supporters
Our mission remains the same: to give every golden in need a chance at a healthy, happy life.
Be Part of Our Mission
Your support makes rescue possible. Whether you donate, volunteer, foster, or adopt — you help save lives.
Support Our Work
Your generosity helps provide medical care, safe homes, and brighter futures for goldens in need.
Volunteer Your Time
Your time and talents help our dogs — and the people they touch — feel supported and cared for.
Open Your Home
Fostering gives a golden a safe place to heal, decompress, and prepare for their forever family.