As a big proponent of local aquarium and cichlid organizations, I make a concerted effort to bring awareness to these groups. The Aquarium Club of Maryland (ACM), a recently established 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Havre de Grace, Maryland, is one such group.
Community-based organizations play a huge role in promoting the hobby and, perhaps more importantly, they facilitate conservation efforts. ACM is no different. As stated on their website, they “began with a passion to protect endangered aquatic species through action and education.” Also a participant in the CARES program, ACM and its members support sustainable hobby practices and promote efforts to educate fish keepers.
Havre de Grace, Maryland, is roughly halfway between Baltimore and Philadelphia. If you live anywhere in the vicinity, you might consider joining the ACM. Even if you do not reside close enough to attend their regular meetings, you might still consider joining. They offer multiple membership options from individual ($20/yr) to family ($40/yr). Benefits include a regular newsletter, participation in breeder and horticultural award programs, and fish store discounts to name a few. They also have lots of events planned this year, including hosting numerous speakers. I belong to two, non-local community groups, and their benefits exceed their membership costs. In fact, I posted about this in January 2026.
If nothing else, join their Facebook group. Also, if you’re a vendor or a local business owner, consider donating in-kind. You can reach the ACM here – aquariumclubofmd AT gmail.com.