MONTICELLO, NY – The NYS Department of State has declared Saturday, April 27 the inaugural “Caring for Your Cemetery Day,” an initiative to raise awareness about the maintenance and preservation that cemeteries require.

Through a campaign with participating cemeteries, the department encourages volunteers to prepare for the spring season and Mother’s Day visits. By engaging local communities, especially younger generations, the program seeks to recruit volunteers and trustees.

Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said cemeteries serve as historical repositories and places of reflection. Volunteering at local cemeteries provides a creative way to engage with the community and appreciate the unique stories and cultural heritage they hold, he said.

Nathan Romagnola, president of the New York State Association of Cemeteries, said volunteers are essential in preserving these sacred spaces for future generations.

Clean-up day tasks may include cleaning up debris, removing downed branches and overgrowth, removing old decorations, planting flowers, scattering grass seeds, and other light tasks.

The department’s Division of Cemeteries provides technical assistance and financial accounting to ensure that regulated cemeteries do not become a burden on their communities. The division also offers training workshops year-round on maintaining cemeteries, keeping financial records, and ensuring long-term viability.

For more information or to participate, email cemeteries@dos.ny.gov or call 518/474-6226.