About Charm Rescue
Our Mission
Chesapeake Animal Rescue Mission (CHARM) is a Maryland-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to saving animals in need. Formerly known as the Animal Welfare Society of Howard County (AWSHC), we rebranded in 2025 to reflect our expanded mission and long-term vision.
Founded in 1944 and officially recognized as a nonprofit in 1951, AWSHC has spent decades rescuing, rehabilitating, and advocating for animals. As CHARM, we continue this legacy by providing adoption services, training and behavioral support, and accessible veterinary care, including low-cost vaccines and spay/neuter programs.
Our Facilities
CHARM Rescue is 100% foster supported; our shelter buildings are in dire need of updates and repairs before we can house animals on the property. Your donations are helping to fund the cost of renovating our shelter buildings so that we may reopen our Cat Sanctuary and host our animal wellness initiatives.
Our Adoption Process
We strive to match our animals to the perfect forever family. Our animal matchmakers work to find the best homes for all CHARM animals to ensure their happily every after. Our adoption process includes an adoption questionnaire, a meet and greet with the animal's foster, reference checks, and a background check.