About Us
Colonial Newfoundland Rescue (CNR) began as part of the Colonial Newfoundland Club, which has proudly supported Newfoundland dogs in our region since 1986. For many years, rescue efforts throughout DC, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia (excluding the panhandle) operated under the Club.
As the need for rescue continued to grow, we established Colonial Newfoundland Rescue, Inc. as its own 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2016. Becoming a separate nonprofit allows donations to be tax-deductible and ensures we can provide the medical care, rehabilitation, and support that many of our Newfoundland dogs need before they’re ready for adoption.
Today, CNR is 100% volunteer-run. There are no paid positions — just dedicated dog lovers committed to giving Newfs a second chance. We operate solely on donations and the generosity of our community.
Every Newf who comes into our care is evaluated by a veterinarian and a rescue volunteer. Dogs receive any necessary medical treatment, are brought up to date on vaccinations, and are spayed or neutered before adoption. Our goal is simple: to set each dog and their future family up for success.
Not ready to adopt? You can still make a life-changing difference. We gratefully accept monetary donations, and we’re always looking for foster homes, transport volunteers, groomers, trainers, and helping hands of all kinds.
Because every Newf deserves
a safe landing and a loving home.
Mission & Vision
Colonial Newf Rescue is a foster-based, all-volunteer 501(c)(3) dedicated exclusively to Newfoundland dogs in the DMV region.
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Every dog lives in a foster home
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Full veterinary care and medical treatment provided before adoption
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In-person home visits for every placement
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Ongoing support for adopters throughout the dog’s life
We believe careful matches create lasting homes — and that’s what we’re built to do.
Colonial Newfoundland
Board of Directors
Our leadership team works behind the scenes, but the real stars of Colonial Newf Rescue are the dogs we serve. Humans by title. Newfs at heart.
Standing Committees
Governance & Compliance Committee
Chair: Donna M.
Oversees nonprofit compliance, policy review, conflict-of-interest enforcement, and board governance best practices.
Finance & Audit Committee
Chair: Margaret M.
Provides financial oversight, budgeting review, and fiscal stewardship.
Development & Fundraising Committee
Co-Chairs: Donna M. & Alex E.
Leads donor engagement, fundraising initiatives, sponsorship development, and long-term sustainability planning.
Marketing & Communications Committee
Chair: Alex E.
Oversees branding, website strategy, digital communications, public relations, and community engagement.
Program & Operational Leadership
Adoption Coordinator - Stephanie P.
Adoptions Support - Ellen I.
Applications Coordinator - Laura M.
Events & Community Outreach Coordinator - Sarah C.
Intake Coordinator - Michele M.
Medical Coordinator - Donna M.
Merchandise Coordinator - Lisa S.
Newsletter Editor - Mandy W.
Post Adoption Coordinator - Michele C.
Professional Support - Ira R.
Social Media Coordinator - Nicole M.
Technology & Systems Coordinator - Alex E.
Volunteer Coordinator - Andrea B. & Tina C.
CNR’s rescue operations are led by volunteer coordinators overseeing intake, medical care, adoption placement, volunteer engagement, and community outreach.
All rescued Newfoundlands receive veterinary evaluation, appropriate medical care, vaccinations, and spay/neuter prior to adoption.
Stewardship Commitment
We are committed to responsible financial management, ethical governance, and transparency in service of the Newfoundland dogs entrusted to our care.
Newf Beginnings Newsletter
Coming soon. Until then, Join Our Mailing List!