Volunteer opportunity: Public planting day

As the Upper Midwest’s finest example of a rural garden cemetery, Forest Home boasts dozens of garden beds and thousands of annual and perennial plantings throughout our nearly 200-acre property.

The majority of these plants are placed in late May so we don't run the risk of cold temperatures that would threaten new plants. With our Memorial Day event, that leaves a very tight window to get everything in the ground for our small grounds staff.

We could use your help to get the plants in the ground! Join us for a fun and rewarding day outdoors, working together to beautify our cemetery.

Event Details:

• Date: May 17, 2024
• Location: Forest Home Cemetery & Arboretum
• Time: 9 am to 2 pm (come for a couple of hours or stay the whole time!)

What We Need:

1. Enthusiastic Volunteers: We are looking for individuals of all ages and backgrounds who are passionate about community gardening and sustainable living.
2. Garden Enthusiasts: If you have experience in gardening or landscaping, we need volunteer leads. However, no prior experience is necessary – just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to dig in!
3. Tools and Equipment: If you have gardening tools such as shovels, rakes, gloves, etc., please bring them along. We will also provide some tools for those who may not have them.

ABOUT FOREST HOME CEMETERY & ARBORETUM

Established in 1850, Forest Home Cemetery is Milwaukee’s oldest operating cemetery, open to all since its inception. Forest Home Cemetery is on the National Registry of Historic Places and is the finest example of a Victorian-era rural garden cemetery in the Upper Midwest.

In 2021, Forest Home became the city’s first accredited arboretum, Milwaukee’s largest green space with more 2,600 trees on nearly 200 acres.

Our 189 acres are open daily to the public. Leashed dogs, jogging, strollers and bicycles are welcome. Each year, we host public and private historical and nature-based tours and wellness events, birding opportunities, Doors Open, a Memorial Day event, a Dia de los Muertos 5K and festival and our new Spirits of the Silent City after-dark historical tours. Sign up for our newsletter on the website and follow us on Facebook and Instagram (use #foresthomecemetery) so you don’t miss any of our tours and events!

If you enjoy our beautiful space, stay longer! Stop in the office Monday-Friday 8-4:30 and Saturday 10-3:30 or call a counselor (414) 645-2632 to find out about our many burial options.