On May 2, 2026, Toledo Opera will bring volunteers and veteran organizations together for a community day of service at Forest Cemetery ahead of Memorial Day.

Volunteers will clean, pre-mark, and prepare veteran graves in advance of Memorial Day observances, with tasks available for both seated and walking participants. Of the 5,168 known military veterans buried at Forest Cemetery, more than 20 percent of their graves are currently unmarked. The day’s efforts will help ensure flags can be placed on all veteran graves during the May 16-17 Memorial Day preparations.

The event coincides with the Veterans of Foreign Wars National Day of Service, a month-long initiative beginning May 2 that highlights veterans continuing to serve their communities beyond their time in uniform.

“We are deeply honored to spend this day in service at Forest Cemetery, caring for the resting places of those who gave so much for our country. At Toledo Opera, we believe remembrance is an act of gratitude, and this is a small but meaningful way to pay tribute to our veterans and ensure their legacy is never forgotten,” said James M. Norman, General Director of Toledo Opera.

“Sing While You Work: Day of Service” is presented as part of Toledo Opera’s America 250 Week, supported by The Wolfe Family Foundation and the Lucas County Commissioners, recognizing the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary through community-centered programming across Northwest Ohio. Supporting organizations include the Lucas County Veterans Service Commission, the Women’s Veteran Initiative, Scouting America, Owens Corning’s SALUTE Affinity Group, and more than a dozen additional veteran and community groups.

“Sing While You Work: Day of Service” runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time.

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