On August 7, 2025, Sunshine State Labrador Rescue began with a simple goal: to give Labrador Retrievers across Florida a second chance. One year later, we’re celebrating a remarkable first chapter made possible by an extraordinary community of volunteers, fosters, adopters, donors, veterinary partners and supporters.

Our first year was filled with important milestones. We received approval of our Florida Department of Agriculture application, officially adopted the Sunshine State Labrador Rescue name, logo, and brand colors, and established a Board of Directors, Financial and Veterinary Consultants along with Regional Managers to serve communities throughout Florida. And….our website SSLR.org went live!

On October 6, 2025, SSLR achieved another major milestone when we were officially recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. That designation not only affirmed our mission but also gave us the ability to actively fundraise, allowing us to expand our lifesaving work. With our official documentation in hand, we introduced Sunshine State Labrador Rescue to shelters across Florida and began welcoming our first rescue dogs into the program.

The response from our supporters exceeded every expectation. Our fundraising efforts during the first quarter were an overwhelming success, providing the resources needed to accept dogs requiring extensive medical care—dogs that might otherwise have had nowhere to turn.

Our volunteer family also grew at an incredible pace, surpassing 200 dedicated volunteers in less than a year. Together, they made it possible for SSLR to reach another milestone we could only dream about in our early days: more than 100 Labrador Retrievers rescued and adopted into new homes in just 11 months.

As we celebrate our first anniversary, we’re excited to introduce the Sunshine Swag Store, giving our volunteers, adopters, and supporters a fun new way to show their SSLR pride while helping support our mission.

The past year has been nothing short of amazing. Every dog rescued, every foster home opened, every donation made, and every volunteer hour given has helped write the first chapter of the Sunshine State Labrador Rescue story.

Here’s to an incredible first year – and to saving many more Labradors together in the years ahead!

EVENTS

Come to any of our events to learn about volunteering, fostering, or adopting with us!