Every rescue has a story. This is ours, from 1991 to today.
Our story • 1991–2026
Over 35 Years of Giving Goldens a Second Chance
From our first rescue in 1991 to a growing community of volunteers, supporters, and friends, explore the milestones that shaped Golden Retriever Rescue of Mid-Florida.
A history of rescue, connection, and community.
1990s
Where It All Began
MFGRC Members Lay the Foundation
Members of MFGRC create the foundation of GRRMF.
Charlie: Our First Rescue
GRRMF’s first rescue is Charlie.
Woody and Rusty
The rescue story of Woody and Rusty becomes part of GRRMF’s early history.
Nonprofit Incorporation
GRRMF is incorporated and recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit by the IRS.
Partner with DVGRR for Transport North
GRRMF partners with DVGRR to transport rescued Goldens north.
Our First Website
The first GRRMF website launches.
Hearts of Gold Newsletter
The inaugural issue of the Hearts of Gold newsletter launches.
A New Way to Reach Us
GRRMF introduces the email address info@grrmf.org.
2000s
Building Our Community
10 Years of Rescue
GRRMF celebrates its 10th anniversary.
Tales of Gold
The newsletter is renamed Tales of Gold and receives a new full-color look.
2010s
Growing Our Reach
GRRMF on Facebook
GRRMF launches its Facebook presence.
20 Years of Rescue
GRRMF celebrates its 20th anniversary.
A New Website
A redesigned GRRMF website goes live.
Hearts of Gold Therapy Program
GRRMF launches the Hearts of Gold therapy program for community outreach.
2020s
Adapting, Connecting & Celebrating
GRRMF Store Opens
GRRMF launches its online store.
Hearts of Gold on YouTube
When COVID-19 shuts down in-person visits, GRRMF launches a Hearts of Gold YouTube channel.
Virtual Home Visits
GRRMF introduces a virtual home visit option.
30 Years of Rescue
GRRMF celebrates its 30th anniversary.
GRRMF on Instagram
GRRMF launches its Instagram presence.
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TBD
These milestones occurred during the 2020s. Their exact years are being confirmed; placement here does not indicate when they occurred.
Board Advisors
Advisors are added to the board of directors.
Golden Guardian Donor Program
GRRMF launches the Golden Guardian donor program.
Givebutter Donations
GRRMF transitions its donation system from PayPal to Givebutter.
A Farewell to the Paper Newsletter
The quarterly paper newsletter is retired.
Monthly eNews Begins
GRRMF launches a monthly electronic newsletter.
Two Distinct Calendars
Separate Hearts of Gold and Rescue calendars are introduced.
GRRMF Calendar Redesign
The GRRMF calendar receives a redesign.
35 Years of Rescue
GRRMF marks its 35th anniversary with custom anniversary merchandise in the GRRMF store.
Our History Is Still Being Written
For 35 years, compassionate people have made GRRMF’s mission possible. The next chapter begins with you.
Be Part of Our Next Chapter
GRRMF’s story has always been written by dedicated volunteers. Share your time and talents to help us continue making a difference for Golden Retrievers in need.
Open Your Home. Change a Life.
Foster families provide the love, care, and safe haven Golden Retrievers need on their journey to a forever home. Your home could be the next important chapter in a Golden’s rescue story
Help Write the Next 35 Years
For 35 years, generosity has helped make GRRMF’s rescue mission possible. Your gift helps provide the care and second chances Golden Retrievers deserve.