The World Needs Honey Bees

Hives for Heroes® is a national non-profit military veteran service organization focusing on honey bee conservation and a healthy transition from service. Alongside The National Beekeeping Network is a goal of connection, purpose, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping.
A 2022 Texan by Nature Conservation Wrangler
After military service, many veterans struggle with depression, unhealthy relationships, and addictive behaviors. Beekeeping is a unique hobby that aligns well with those who have experienced military service. Similar to combat, beekeeping allows a veteran to suit up, experience healthy adrenaline, overcome fear, accomplish a goal through process-oriented techniques, and walk away with a sense of accomplishment. This therapeutic practice easily translates to their personal and professional lives when dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder and other traumas from service. Veterans are also able to learn a new trade while contributing to Hives for Heroes’ broader goal of pollinator conservation.
Sustainable beekeeping practices are increasingly important, as honeybees in the United States are experiencing severe population declines. Threats to bees include habitat loss, invasive species, pesticide use, pathogens, and improper management practices. The decrease in pollinator biodiversity and abundance has negative impacts on air quality, agricultural production and food security, and the health of native vegetation.
To support a healthy transition from service and alleviate stress on bee populations, Hives for Heroes regularly serves the community and fellow bee conservationists through volunteering and assisting in apiary management, whether it be in a large outdoor space or a single hive backyard management.