May 2026 Business of the Month
Wreaths Across America - Webster New York
May 2026 Business of the Month is a little different—but in the best possible way. We’re recognizing Wreaths Across America – Webster, New York, an organization that reminds us what service to a community really looks like.
Wreaths Across America started back in 1992 with a simple idea: honor and remember our veterans. Here in Webster, that mission took root in 2021 thanks to Cherie Wood, who wanted to honor her father’s service in World War II.
What started with 600 wreaths at one cemetery has grown into honoring all 2,500 fallen veterans across five cemeteries in Webster. That doesn’t happen by accident, that happens because someone refuses to let people be forgotten.
Their message is powerful: we die twice—once when we pass, and again when our name is spoken for the last time. Every wreath placed means a name is said out loud. Someone is remembered. That matters.
And here’s what really stands out - this is entirely community-driven. No government funding. Every wreath is sponsored by individuals and businesses, year after year. That’s 2,500 acts of generosity, every single year.
Cherie may call herself a volunteer, but she’s leading something much bigger. She supports active-duty families, works with Gold Star families, helps veterans find resources, and stands in honor at services, making sure families know their loved ones will never be forgotten.
Then there’s Wreath Day. After the ceremony, up to 1,000 people from our community come out to place wreaths. It’s one of those moments that reminds you what a community can be when people show up for something bigger than themselves.
And Cherie doesn’t stop there. She’s involved with Blue Star Mothers, Gold Star Mothers, ROC Veterans, the Webster Garlic Fest, the town’s 250th celebration, and even serves as Historian for Webster Union Cemetery. She’s not just preserving history—she’s actively shaping it.
One moment says it all: a Vietnam veteran told her last year that placing a wreath was the first time in 60 years he felt proud of his service. Think about that for a second, that’s the impact.
And in true fashion, Cherie’s learned to “work the problem” along the way—advice from a Marine at a windy Garlic Fest that stuck. Honestly, not bad advice for any of us.
We’ are not just recognizing an organization, we’re recognizing purpose, commitment, and what it looks like to truly give back.
Congratulations to Wreaths Across America – Webster, New York as our May 2026 Business of the Month!
Click here to view previous Businesses of the Month!