The New York Department of State has announced the second annual "Caring for Your Cemetery Day," which will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025. The event invites community members to volunteer at participating cemeteries across the state to assist with essential spring cleanup activities in preparation for the upcoming season and Mother’s Day visits.

In St. Lawrence County, two cemeteries will be participating in this statewide initiative: Maple Grove Cemetery, North Lawrence, will begin cleanup efforts at 10 a.m. For more information or to volunteer, contact Belle Burgoyne at burgoynebelle@gmail.com. Also, Union Cemetery, Stockholm, will also host a cleanup starting at 10 a.m. Reach out to Bruce Winters at winters4@att.net for details.

The “Caring for Your Cemetery Day” program is designed to recruit volunteers, trustees, officers, and directors for cemetery organizations, while also raising awareness about the vital work that goes into maintaining these historic spaces. The program encourages local communities, particularly younger individuals, to become more involved in cemetery care and preservation.

In 2024, over 25 cemeteries across New York participated in the inaugural event. This year, more than 75 cemeteries, including those in St. Lawrence County, are expected to take part. Tasks for volunteers will include cleaning debris, removing downed branches and weeds, removing old seasonal decorations, planting flowers, scattering grass seed, and other light maintenance activities that do not require specialized training.

This initiative, run by the Division of Cemeteries, highlights the department’s ongoing efforts to support the state’s 1,700 not-for-profit cemeteries. Through technical assistance and educational workshops, the division helps cemetery operators maintain the grounds, keep accurate financial records, and ensure long-term sustainability.