The Golden Retriever Foundation (GRF) was established in February, 1997 by vote of the Board of Directors of the Golden Retriever Club of America, Inc. (GRCA.) The GRF is a tax-exempt, non-profit charitable IRS 501 (c ) 3 organization established to fund projects that further the welfare of the breed. The Articles of Incorporation set forth the objectives of the GRF and its purpose.

The catalyst for the establishment of the Foundation was an approximately $100,000 bequest from Carol Buckman, who was not a member of the GRCA but who loved her two Goldens dearly. Half of the money was given to the then newly-established AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) and tagged for studies that involved Goldens. The remaining $48,000, coupled with $72,000 from the GRCA's Committee to Assist Rescue gave the Foundation a start-up total of $120,000. The original Buckman Fund is now under the direction of the GRF.

• Annual giving as an elected option through GRCA membership renewals;
• Proceeds from an Annual Art Auction at the GRCA National Specialty Show;
• Funding from generous donors who have offered tributes and memorials to
  favorite dogs, human friends, the celebration of new litters of puppies, etc.

Individual Golden Retriever Clubs across the country also have provided financial support.

Further information regarding the Foundation's current development efforts may be found under Support GRF.

The GRF is governed by a three-person Board of Directors appointed by the GRCA Board of Directors. Each director's term is for three years and each person is eligible to serve for two consecutive terms. The GRF Board functions autonomously, however, it relies on the infrastructure of the GRCA, its committees and the GRCA membership at large for advice and information.