In 2025, the City of Griffin launched the first Griffin Gives Back initiative, a community-wide cleanup series that removed more than 19,000 pounds of garbage and nearly 300 tires from City rights-of-way. On February 24th, the Board of Commissioners unanimously selected Union Cemetery as the 2026 Griffin Gives Back Community Service Project.

Important groundwork has already been laid. Laine Thacker and Harrison Slye chose Union Cemetery for their Junior Service Project at St. George's Episcopal School, partnering with community advocate Tyrone Ward with Griffin Lodge #317 to bring renewed attention to the site and advocate for its long-term care.

Located at Placid Road and Grandview Drive, Union Cemetery holds deep historical significance, particularly within the African American community, and is believed to be the resting place of at least 350 individuals, including church leaders and military veterans.

With the adoption of a resolution declaring the property abandoned, the City is authorized to move forward with restoration and long-term preservation efforts. The first step of this challenge is to clear the underbrush and overgrown vines from around the site. Join us on Saturday, August 8th, for a community workday. The City will be providing tools, gloves, dumpsters and restroom facilities, as well as snacks and water. To register to volunteer, click here.