NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF STATE ANNOUNCES FIRST "CARING FOR YOUR CEMETERY DAY"

The New York State Department of State announced today the first annual “Caring for Your Cemetery Day” will take place Saturday, April 27, 2024.

To raise awareness of the hard work and dedication that goes into cemeteries’ care, maintenance and preservation, the Department of State is launching a campaign to work with cemeteries to welcome volunteers to help prepare for the Spring season and Mother’s Day visits. Through this pilot program, the Department and participating cemeteries hope to generate interest in local cemeteries, especially among younger people, recruit future volunteers or even officers and trustees/directors, and identify local people with skills that cemeteries need. More than two dozen cemeteries will participate.

Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said, “Protecting our cemeteries benefits our communities, preserves our history, and provides individuals with a place to mourn and reflect. Our goal is to teach a new generation of New Yorkers about the importance of our communities’ cemeteries. If you want a creative way to get involved in your community, try volunteering at your local cemetery and help future generations learn to appreciate the history, culture, and unique stories our cemeteries offer.”

Nathan Romagnola, President, New York State Association of Cemeteries said, “New York's Cemeteries work diligently to honor and preserve our communities, but we can’t do it without you. Volunteerism is essential to properly support New York's Not-for- Profit cemeteries and ensure that these sacred places are preserved for future generations. NYSAC thanks the New York State Department of State for their steadfast leadership and welcomes you to join Caring for Your Cemetery Day on April 27.”

Clean-up day tasks may include:

1. Cleaning up small debris and trash
2. Removing downed branches, weeds, and overgrowth
3. Removing old seasonal decorations
4. Planting flowers
5. Scattering grass seed
6. Other light tasks appropriate for untrained volunteers

The mission of the Department’s Division of Cemeteries is to ensure that regulated cemeteries do not become a burden on their communities by continuing to operate on a not-for-profit basis. The division regulates approximately 1,700 not-for-profit cemeteries in New York State by, among other things, providing technical assistance in cemetery operations and financial accounting. The division also offers training workshops year-round to educate cemetery operators and other interested individuals on how to maintain cemeteries, keep financial records, and try to ensure long-term viability.

Participating cemeteries include:
 

Capital Region

Central New York

Finger Lakes

Hudson Valley

Mohawk Valley

North Country

Southern Tier

Western New York

If you are interested in participating, you may reach out to any of these cemeteries.  You may also contact the division at [email protected] or call 518-474-6226 with any questions.