Golden Guardian

Tom Donovan Fund

The Heart of a Hero

Neuse River Golden Retriever Rescue received an incredibly generous gift from the estate of Tom Donovan, a longtime friend of NRGRR. Over the last twenty plus years, Tom adopted a number of Golden Retrievers beginning with his beloved Butterscotch in 1997. The other dogs lucky enough to become part of Tom’s home and heart included Bonnie, Holly, Adam. Thelma, Bernie, Caroline, Tibbs, and Mya. Tom’s family were his Goldens. They were at the heart of all he did. When he moved to the mountains, Tom named his new home the “Three Dog Farm” for the three Goldens that moved with him. His return address labels proudly stated “Three Dog Farm.”

Even though Tom was hours away in western NC, Tom continued to be engaged with all things NRGRR and the rescue of dogs. Tom was a humble gentle man who loved his dogs and never would want a big fuss made over him. Tom passed in February 2019 and he left Neuse River Golden Retriever Rescue an extraordinarily generous gift. If asked Tom how he would like the Rescue to use his gift, we imagine he would simply say “save dogs”.

His commitment and gift to NRGRR has afforded us the opportunity to ensure the future of NRGRR by establishing a Sustainability Fund, similar to an Endowment, that will enable us to Rescue.Rehab.Adopt Goldens and golden-hearted dogs in need for years by providing crucial support for care during even the most challenging of times like the pandemic we have been experiencing for the past two years.