Earth Month Cleanup at the National AIDS Memorial Grove

Photos by Bill Wilson

Dozens of volunteers, including San Francisco Bay Times columnist Joanie Juster, participated in a special Community Volunteer Workday at the National AIDS Memorial Grove to honor, clean, and help preserve this sacred space for hope, healing, remembrance, and togetherness. The gathering within the grove at Golden Gate Park took place on April 18, 2026, just days before Earth Day on April 22 and during Earth Month.

Speakers shared stories about the grove and its importance. It was a powerful sight to see the many participants form a circle, concentrating their energy and thinking of those lost to HIV/AIDS who are memorialized at the beautiful, verdant grove that the volunteers continue to help maintain.

The next Community Volunteer Workday at the grove will be on May 16 from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. https://www.aidsmemorial.org/