Army Veteran Eric Grandon had multiple deployments to Iraq over the course of a two-decade career. Retiring in 2005, he started facing bouts of depression, reaching a low point in 2013. Then, he found something that brought back his adrenaline rush like he had in the military, connecting him with fellow Veterans and giving him purpose.
Bees.
“The first time I went into the hive, it was like magic,” he said. “All the anxiety, the outside noise, it all quit.”
That road to quiet the outside noise took some time. Grandon was the first person signed up in West Virginia’s Warriors to Agriculture program, now Veterans and Heroes to Agriculture program. He started attending classes in 2014, but he said it took some time to gain a comfort level.
“For two years, I didn’t go in the hive,” he said. “Thankfully, they survived.”
Each colony has about 40-60 thousand bees. In his first year, Grandon had two colonies. He expanded to 18 the next year and now has around 115 colonies. In addition to taking his mind off war memories, Grandon now sells honey, pollen, wax and propolis.
Additionally, Grandon now trains fellow Veterans on beekeeping, totaling more than 700 the past several years.
Veterans work with bees at Manchester VA Medical Center in 2019.
VA beekeeping program
Valerie Carter, a recreational therapist at the Manchester VA Medical Center, started a beekeeping program two years ago. She knew a Veteran’s wife who was a beekeeper and said that her initial motivation was to find a therapeutic outlet for Veterans.
Carter arranged for installation of two beehives onsite, using a grant through the VA FARMS program. In 2019, she had a dozen Veterans in the program who went in weekly to extract honey. Even though COVID-19 stopped in-person meetings in 2020, she continued the program over VA Video Connect.
Veterans told her that they had improved social connections, along with decreases in post-traumatic stress and depression. One Veteran said he worked with his VA team to reduce mental health medications and visits to his therapist.
According to Carter, the COVID-19 pandemic definitely put a strain on the 2020 program because Veterans weren’t physically at the medical center. However, she noticed Veterans still held each other accountable over the VA Video Connect calls. When Veterans asked about another Veteran who missed a session, Carter opened up a second session.
“Brings me back to now”
Vince Ylitalo is one of the Veterans in the Manchester program. A Concord resident, Ylitalo served more than 38 years in the Army Reserve. He completed two tours in Iraq from 2003-2005 and 2009-2010.
When Carter called him about the program, he joined, saying “I’ll try anything once.” From there, his passion took off.
“To go there and have the camaraderie again is great,” he said. “I was so taken with it.”
Ylitalo’s new-found passion didn’t stop with the VA program. He now has a hive with his sister.
“It brings me back to now,” Ylitalo said. “I’m not fighting in Iraq. It’s me and them. Putting on the suit knowing I’m going (to the hive), I’m psyched for that day and a few days after.”
Ylitalo said he personally benefits from bees, but admitted it takes some courage to start.
“It’s not for everyone,” he said. “Bees are scary. I’ve been stung before.”
However, the fear also gives Ylitalo an adrenaline rush – something that replaces his wartime experience in a safer environment.
“It puts that ‘fight or flight’ back in,” he said. “It’s calming for me.”
For Ylitalo, working with other Veterans is one of the greatest takeaways from the course.
“When it’s face-to-face, elbow-to-elbow, it’s good,” he said.
Advice for other Veterans
Both Grandon and Ylitalo advised other Veterans to find a training program in their local area. Both also admitted that the cost getting into beekeeping isn’t cheap. Grandon advised starting two colonies, which can range from $600-$800 for all the materials. Two colonies allow a beekeeper to compare and make sure both are healthy.
Grandon typically starts working on his farm during March or April, when the weather is 50 degrees during the daytime. When he starts, he said it’s like group therapy.
“It’s like the military,” he said. “It’s so systematic. There’s such harmony in the hive, just like a unit. Everyone’s on the same mission and has the same focus.”
If Veterans can afford the startup cost or find a program that helps fund it, Grandon said Veterans should consider trying it.
“Give it a shot,” he said. “You never know what’s going to help until you give it a try.”
How to start
Beekeeping is not a nationwide VA program, but VA does offer it at select locations. Veterans should check with their local recreational therapist to see if a program is in their area. In addition to VA programs, many nonprofits offer support for Veterans to get into beekeeping.
Heroes to Hives offers a Veteran program. Dr. Adam Ingrao, himself a Veteran, offers a nine-month program online. Veterans throughout the U.S. can participate in the online portion of the course. Deadline submission is Feb. 28. This program is provided free to all Veterans, Reservists, National Guard, active duty personnel and dependents of those individuals.
For 2021, on-ground instruction will take place at the following locations (note COVID restrictions may prevent some or all on-ground sessions in 2021):
Michigan (offered by Michigan State University Extension): Benton Harbor, Hickory Corners, East Lansing, Novi, Newberry, and Escanaba (students outside of Michigan are welcome to travel to these workshops).
Missouri (offered by the University of Missouri Extension): Warrensberg.
Minnesota (offered by the University of Minnesota): Minneapolis and Rochester.
Nebraska (offered by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln): Lincoln.
2021 Heroes to Hives Application (qualtrics.com)
Watch the Heroes to Hives program
Additional programs
University of Minnesota Bee Veterans program
Hives for Heroes | Nonprofit Veteran Beekeeping
Farmers Veterans Coalition, an 18,000 strong organization
West Virginia’s Veterans and Heroes to Agriculture
About VA FARMS
In 2018, Congress directed VA to create a pilot program that provides Veterans with agricultural vocational training and mental health care services from licensed providers.
In response, VA’s Office of Rural Health partnered with several VA program offices to establish the VA Farming and Recovery Mental Health Services (VA FARMS) program at nine designated VA medical centers.
VA FARMS uses agritherapy, an approach that incorporates mental health care and services with agricultural vocational training, to support Veterans’ behavioral and mental health needs.
Watch Eric Grandon talk about beekeeping
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Is there a program in Mississippi?
HI my name is Cliff Lambert I am 68 and a Viet Nam vet . I would love to get involved in the program but don’t how. I am in Petersburg VA can you point me in the right direction?
HI my name is Cliff Lambert I am 68 and a Viet Nam vet . I would love to get involved in the program but don’t how. I am in Petersburg VA. Can you point me in the right direction?
Is there any programs or grants in the Missouri for Veteran wanting to get started in Beekeeping
I live in Bakersfield which is part of Los Angeles VA system. I’m not sure how to find the local recreational therapist Where do I look for one?
Hi I filled out the application on February and path and submitted it but have not heard whether I got in the course. So far no email confirmation. Do you have any idea what the next step is?
Thank you,
Jo-An
February 10th
Same with me no reply from the University
Try here buddy.
Amanda Steele, CTRS
Supervisor, Recreation Therapy Service (11K)
VA Palo Alto Health Care System
795 Willow Rd (11k)
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Thank You Adam Stump. I can see you’re a man with character. Two tours in Afghanistan, I commend you for your service. My brother served 26 years in the Army with four tours in Iraq. Hindsight is 20/20 but I wish I could have served 20+ years in the Navy. I did get an honorable discharge after 6 years in the Navy.
Anyway, I wanted to Thank You for your on going commitment with our veterans. Kudos!
The link to the Michigan State University program took me to a webpage that was not active. (https://msu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6XMggo7mc9xqi6p) A message said that the annual registration period is from November to February, and to come back during that time. However, it IS that time. Providing a non-functioning link is not helpful and does little for my psyche.
Sir–over the weekend, we found out Michigan State University closed registration because they had over 6,000 enrolled students. They are allowing Veterans to fill out a form for the 2022 program. You can find out about that at https://msu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5u5MMEHGexIhbWS. From their site:
THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST IN THE 2022 HEROES TO HIVES PROGRAM!!!
DUE TO OVERWHELMING ENROLLMENT (OVER 6,000 STUDENTS ENROLLED) FOR THE 2021 COURSE WE HAVE HAD TO CLOSE REGISTRATION FOR THE YEAR AND ARE CURRENTLY ACCEPTING INTEREST FORMS FROM THOSE OF YOU THAT WERE UNABLE TO JOIN US IN 2021.
BY SUBMITTING THIS FORM YOU WILL BE ABLE TO FILL OUT THE 2022 APPLICATION 1 MONTH BEFORE ANY ONE ELSE. THAT MEANS WE WILL EMAIL YOU THE REGISTRATION LINK FOR THE 2022 COURSE IN EARLY OCTOBER OF 2021 (REGISTRATION FOR EVERYONE ELSE WILL OPEN IN NOVEMBER OF 2021).
iS THERE A MUSHROOM GROWING PROGRAM?
WOW BEE’S.
WHAT A GREAT PLAN. GO FOR IT VETS.
I M BUSY WITH TWO DOGS THAT WERE MY CHOICE TO CALM THE PTSD…
I have two hives and it has been my experience that one should spend a season learning what is at a minimal amount of knowledge in maintenance of a hive. I am coming up on my third year. I started with one hive it split twice. Now I have two hives, having gave one away. That is why one should spend a year to understand all the information of what happens with having a hive.
Joseph, your assessment is correct. Bee Keeping is an art and needs be thoroughly investigated prior to becoming involved. More than an art it is a commercial enterprise regulated in many states (like here in PA) and needs to be closely watched for the many foibles that can befall a hive. I spent time with a free course put on by Penn State and have all the equipment for a single hive but not the land. This is and will be a great therapy for me when I can finally do it, 24 year vet through 3 branches, 3 conflicts.
I have had a small garden for years and have always been interested in keeping bee’s. When bee’s are around my garden is very productive. I am very interested in the on line course, but I work full time for the VA. If I sign up, would I be required to log on to the computer at certain times? I would like to do the on line portion in the evenings and weekends. Is this possible?
This looks like an awesome program. I am fascinated by bees. I also like to eat honey :-)
It is a plus on multiple levels – good for vets, but also good for our planet and our food supply.
Win -Win all around.
QUESTION:
So, I how many different types of honey are there?
Answer: how many types of flowers are there?
In interest in bee keeping
N any help I cane get to set up about 20 hive
I started last year whith 2 hives one die
I got 4 more going out in April got box
Have the nucs order
I’m 100% ptsd a Nuther 100% for fiscal stuff
But i will never step foot in a v.a again
So if I can get some help graet
I have goats n cows n dogs Thayer my support critter n need them more than thay need me
hi my name is arnold moore are there any beehive programes
here i southern indiana???
arnold walter moore
I am a Vietnam vet who is a member of COBA Central Ohio Beekeepers Association. Although I do not have a lot of experience with bees (2-3) years I volunteer as a mentor for new beekeepers. So I could volunteer as a mentor to any new vet beekeeper in the central Ohio area.
Are there any programs in the North Texas, DFW, area for beekeeping? I am very interested, but the locations offered only seem to be out of state of Texas at this time. Thank you.
Hey Arlan,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive as a mentor and we will get you connected with a veteran NewBEE in your area!
We are founded out of Houston and have a large network in all of the major Texas cities!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Do you have anything going on in Alabama?
Hi Tib,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive as a mentor and we will get you connected with a veteran NewBEE in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
if any body gets stuck I was keeping bees 4 28 yrs, I had 75 colonies and put out 2800 ibs. of honey in a good year. I took the coresponce course at Cornell university. I would still be doing it today if my back didn’t fail me. Good luck every body..
Hi James,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive as a mentor and we will get you connected with a veteran NewBEE in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Mr and Mrs Knobel,
I am a disabled veteran living between Galveston and Houston and have been a beekeeper for 45 continuous years here. I teach beekeeping one on one so if you live on the Gulf Coast near Galveston, maybe you would be interested. Ed
Hi Ed,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive as a mentor and we will get you connected with a veteran NewBEE in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I have already applied but as with any government program it sounds like a protracted process. By my message I had hoped someone personally would respond and we could start with the beginning of the current season in March. We’ll see!
For application to the program, look in the paragraph “How To Start”. All the way at the end of the paragraph is the link to the 2021 Heros to Hives Application copied and pasted below. I applied last night after I read the newsletter. Its a simple questionnaire really.
https://msu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6XMggo7mc9xqi6p
Are these programs also available to the surviving spouse?
With these programs be accessible to surviving spouses? Like the beekeeping farming information
Diana Pollard,
In the “How To Start” paragraph copied below it is stated the on ground classes through the listed Universities are available to Veteran dependents, that would be surviving spouses.
“Heroes to Hives offers a Veteran program. Dr. Adam Ingrao, himself a Veteran, offers a nine-month program online. Veterans throughout the U.S. can participate in the online portion of the course. Deadline submission is Feb. 28. This program is provided free to all Veterans, Reservists, National Guard, active duty personnel and dependents of those individuals.
For 2021, on-ground instruction will take place at the following locations (note COVID restrictions may prevent some or all on-ground sessions in 2021):
Michigan (offered by Michigan State University Extension): Benton Harbor, Hickory Corners, East Lansing, Novi, Newberry, and Escanaba (students outside of Michigan are welcome to travel to these workshops).
Missouri (offered by the University of Missouri Extension): Warrensberg.
Minnesota (offered by the University of Minnesota): Minneapolis and Rochester.
Nebraska (offered by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln): Lincoln.”
Thank you. I will look into to it.
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization, currently in 45 states, focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive as a NewBEE Veteran and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
If you have beekeeping experience and are interested in working with a NewBEE Veteran, you can apply online as a mentor at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/mentor-application.
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Is there any program like this in Oregon. Would be very interested in taking the course to help with my depression.
Hi Toby,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online as a NewBEE Veteran at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/newbee-membership and we will match you with a beekeeping mentor.
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Hello Toby. I checked out VA Farms and found a facility in Portland that offers agricultural advice and training. I believe that VA Farms program is only located in 9 VA facilities. I am from WA.
The email link does nor work…
I live here in Montana’s cold winters… I’ve been a beekeeper for near 10 yrs. another veteran here in Great Falls and myself started a beekeeping group about 8 yrs ago. He is a master beekeeper now, but I was thinking this veteran program would be an excellent for our area…
so my question is how can we help?
Hello Howard,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You and your friend can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/mentor-application to be mentors in the program. We will match you with a NewBEE Veteran in your area.
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I want to be in the bee program I’m a 100% disabled is there a form to register I can’t find it here
Hi Rick,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/newbee-membership as a NewBEE Veteran and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Rick, the link to the application is:
https://msu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6XMggo7mc9xqi6p
is there a link I am missing, I worked in Pest Control, and did a lot of Green pesticide work, only person in my company, that rescued Bee Colonies. I would Love to do this course. Thank You
Im in Carrollton Georgia and would like to sign up for whatever I can. I have 2 top bar hives that I will be re filling with bees in april. Lost my first hive to bald faced hornets.. I miss my bees so awsome for my depression/anxiety.
Anything for N/C residents??
Hey Jim,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Anything available for North Carolina.
Is there anywhere in Texas where I can look into a program like this? Who would we contact if we need assistance with possibly starting a small business. I’ve lost numerous jobs over the last 3 years. Need to find some purpose and escape.
Hey Brian,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Brian,
I am a disabled veteran living between Houston and Galveston. I have been a beekeeper for 45 years and am proud to teach beekeeping to individual near me. If you are in this general area let me know and I’m sure we can work something out.l
Ed Boyer
Hey Ed,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. We have many NewBEE Veterans in the Galveston, Clear Lake area looking for a mentor since there is not a county beekeeping association down there.
We are based out of Houston and would love to connect with you!
You can apply online as a mentor at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/mentor-application.
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I would like to sign up for the program.
I would like more information about bee keeping.
I would like more information about bee keeping. I live in the greater Cincinnati area.
Hey Robert,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I would love to see a program here in the Rochester, NY area. I have been wanting to do this for many years and would welcome a chance at it.
Hey Chris,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
We are connected with the NY State Beekeeping Association and would love to get you connected!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I would like to sign up in Arkansas agriculture and bees
Hey there Juliet,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
We have a strong presence in Arkansas and would love to get you connected!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
dear folks:
both my son and I are marine corps veterans. my son is an iraqi and I am a Vietnam and we both reside in New York State.
do you have a direct contact so that we can save time w/calls, etc.?
Semper Fi, Charlie. Northshield
Hey Charles,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You and your son can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I would like to get more information for VA Farms in NC. I have started a 10 year plan for fruit and nut trees and bushes. Is there someone I can contact to discuss developing the process.
I am an disabled army veteran (dessert storm era) and would love to get back involved in beekeeping. I tried fir 5 years but non of my hive grew enough to survive the winters. I did find bee keeping very there put ice but could not keep my bees alive. I found the failure year over year very depressing. Can someone please contact me? I live in Illinois near STL, John Cochran VA.
Thanks Julia Schneidewind
Interested in thia program. How do I sign up.
Jerry Rillo
Hey Jerry,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
can I apply? navy vet living in Puerto Rico. would love to participate and help the cause here in US territory.
Hi Rafeal,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
We are also working to get established in 4 other countries!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
how do i gegister for the bee course
Hello Ken,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I retired in 1996 from the US NAVY, I have a small farm in Deerfield township New Jersey. I began beekeeping in 2011 after I found myself unemployed. I started with 2 hives and as progress to present I now have 24 hives (this is as much as I can handle by myself at age 71). I am very competitive and entered NJBA honey contest starting in 2018, In 2019 I earn a blue ribbon for the state of New Jersey for Extracted Amber Honey. I was so happy that all those days of me working the bees payed off in both knowledge and gratitude of the little bees that work so much harder than me at keeping their colony safe and happy, I love beekeeping for is relaxation, sense of need and appreciation for nature. In all it has kept me alive through lymphoma stage 4 cancer. My farm PJFarmsLLC is very small but nothing is more beautiful in late spring then at the farm to me. Even though I am deep in south Jersey I would be glad to help in any way I can. From apprenticeship, to tours to connections the New Jersey Bee Association (I belong to the south Jersey Chapter. With Covid 19 and my restrictions I find beekeeping my cure for everything. Look at the small Facebook site for PJFarmsLLC to get an idea what an old man can do. by himself. Bee Happy.
Frank Fernandez
Hi Frank,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online as a mentor at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a NewBEE veteran in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Interested in whether you ever got any help from VA Farms or any other source? From Cheri Dyer, another veteran trying the “orchard” approach to life!
congratulations!!!!!!!
Hi,
I am a US Army veteran, honorably discharged in 1975.
Currently I am living in an apartment sponsored by Soldier On, Inc., on the grounds of a US VAMC in the town of Northampton, Massachusetts.
I also own an old house on a few acres of land in a rural/agricultural region of eastern Connecticut, where I have a tractor and all of the tractor-driven implements needed to maintain a one and a half acre field. The field was once used for cutting and bailing hay but my cattle farmer neighbor who needed the hay is no longer with us and so I now have that fine field land, quite agriculturally good, in need of something productive to do with it.
Aha! I saw this; https://news.va.gov/84440/veterans-use-beekeeping-to-improve-well-being/ I appreciate the need for bees and, because I have never put any synthetic fertilizers or any other synthetic products on that field since 1958, that land could qualify for “organic” status and an acre and a half of good farmland could produce enough flowering crops to support a few bee hives.
Not for profit. but could this be done as a tax deductible business?
Hey Douglas,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping.
We also have options for apiary management which can get land owners agricultural exemption status to help with property taxes!
Check us out at http://www.hivesforheroes.com
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I am a 100% disabled Vet in Oakland CA and would like help in procuring a special self emptying hive from Australia. My primary interest is the pollination in my neighborhood. The only hives near me are being moved out of my neighborhood and healthy plants need bees. The hive I need is around $900 last time I checked and way out of my reach.
Tennessee and Mississippi would really benifit from a hive program, not to mention the decline in bee population in both these states.
Hey Jason,
We are in both of those states!
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I am very interested I’ve farmed hogs walnuts almonds growing up. I’ve been contemplating how to get back into farming.
We used bees to assist in pollination of our orchards. This is very interesting given our state of pollination and bees in North America.
Hi Bryan,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I’m interested in finding more about the bee keeping.
Hey there Alan,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Is there a group in New Mexico
Hey Raymond,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Hello, I am a 100% Disabled Vet due to PTSD. I live in South Carolina and I saw this article for Vets and Bee’s. I Started with 2 swarms and I made my own Long hives and frames in my wood shop. Does the VA give benefits for equipment for this program? I would like to attend the online training, but I am too far for the hands on training. I don’t have a mentor near me and the bee clubs around here are not doing anything due to Covid scare. I am learning bee keeping from You tube. So far my bees are strong.
Thank you,
Dennis Lintz -US Navy Retired (EXW)(CC)
Hi Dennis,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
If available near Frederick Maryland in the future may be something worth the per suit.
Thank You
Hi Dave,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
srrewou i’m not going to be your lackey
I just did. Did you censor it or just do you normal act keep asking tghe person questions until he quits and curses.
screw you. Tried didn’t have a website and no captkca
Help How do you reply to this
I would like to have More Information
I would like more information about Beekeepers in Central Texas
Austln and Washington Counties
I’m a beekeeper in the Austin Pflugerville area
Hi Chad,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online as a mentor at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a NewBEE veteran in Austin/Pflugerville!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Hi Wayne,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
Texas is our most populated state for beekeeping mentors and NewBEE veterans!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I’m in the very center the US agricultural area where we grow avocado, strawberry, 22 types of lettuce, garlic, artichoke, grapes, raspberries, and so much more. I’m also in an area where the local VA is bogged down by homeless vets who need assistance rejoining the population. We are also in the middle of one of the highest populations of migrant workers in the nation. I see opportunity to give purpose to my fellow vets, and benefit the local farmers. This is right in the heart of central California in the Salinas Valley, and continues north to just south of San Jose, and south to Bakersfield right in the heart of Wine Country USA. Why are these programs not here? I’m not even sure if the local VRC has looked at this, but I’m seeing a big opportunity here.
Guy L. Allgood
USN Retired
Is there any way we could get a H2H program started at the Butler, VA using the H2H training pgm.
This is the 4th summer I have run a local beginner bee keeping club. I have 25 yrs experience. Not all continuous. 5 yrs in 4H in the ’50’s. 10 yrs in the ’70’s. I got a couple again when I retired in 2009.
Would there any financing for bees and equip. and suits ?
Let me know if you can get this started. I’m interested. I live in West Sunbury.
Hey Michael,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area! We already have multiple mentors in VA state and are connected with the VA state beekeeping association!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Hi Robert,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online as a mentor at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a NewBEE Veteran in your area!
We already have a connection and large group of support with the VA State Beekeeping Association!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I’m a Vietnam veteran, spent nine years in the AF. I had six bee hives in the 70s while in service, in Calif. I captured several swarms on base and the hobby took off. I purchased some bees and queens from a bee keeper at UC Davis. I had all the equipment back then. When I got out of the service in 79 I moved to Idaho. I set the hives up for the winter on ten ackers. The hives were vandalized and destroyed. Today I live off grid in Eastetn WA on 20 ackers and want to get started back into bee keeping. I can manage the startup cost just not sure how to get back into it.
Hi Edward,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Any beekeeping near Jacksonville NC?
Is there anything with beekeeping available for me near Jacksonville, NC???
Hi Thomas,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I’m really interested and would like to know where to start, thanks a lot!
Hi Jeffery,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Very interested.
78 y.o. vet.
Live near Seattle, Washingston state.
Anything in my area that I can learn beekeeping from.
Thanks,
Steve Paulson
Hey Steve. check our website. Home of the Original Pacific Northwest Survivor stock. We give discounts to Vets.
Hi Steve,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
This is nice program and I want to share my research results.
I am very interested in this program. I am a researcher and want to join the teamwork.
Thanks.
Any live bee courses around the Gulf coast area??
Hi Henry and Belinda,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I am that Vet. beekeeper…
> Rod <
Hi Rod,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online as a mentor at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a NewBEE veteran in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I have a small farm and I started to plant some fruit trees. I would really like to be able to raise some bees for the honey and to help pollenate my trees andI will try to grow some crops also that need to be pollenated. I need to learn ore about bee keeping and would love to take some classes.
Hi Henry,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
How do I find out more for something in my area (Iowa)
Hey Dennis,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I am interested in learning more. I have concerns because of being allergic to bee stings, but growing my ranch and producing my own food. Planning to plant to attract birds, bees and butterflies. Would love to sell local bee products at my ranch store.
Hey Brenda,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
So who do I ask about this bee keeper program? I’m in central NC near the Salisbury VA hospital
Hey Stephen,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Very Cool and Thanks!! I’ve been keeping bees since I was 11 , and an Air Force Vet too! When I need a break from the World, I go out by the bees and sometimes just sit there with them. Thanks to you guys for helping these new Vets and if you need help let me know. Rick. REDHORSE!!
Hey Rick,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online as a mentor at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a NewBEE veteran in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
i would like to enter into a training program as a beekeeper.
Hey Jerry,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online as a mentor at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a NewBEE veteran in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
We have a healthy natural been hive we would like removed, only because we want to protect their survival.
We are in Pinellas Park, FL. The hive appeared this fall. It is not bothering us, & we are just leaving it alone, but if you would be interested in transfering it to your program, we would be very happy to have it go to a protected & cared for home.
I am a career retired veteran & came across a VA advertisement by SECVA on beekeeping. I have some experience while living/caring for African Bees from 2017-2019. I would like further information about the course/setting up a Veteran based bee business, if feasible, in Central Montana.
Hey Eric,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online as a mentor at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a newBEE veteran in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Wooohoo! Glad to see the VA doing more agriculture therapy.
Would lovew to do the program but need more info for Texas
Hey William,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
Is there any way I can take the virtual class and then help veterans in my local community?
I have been doing bees for 7years and would love to help other veterans. I live in williston fl. I am restricted to number of hives due to financial. But still willing to help any way I can.
Hey Stephen,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online as a mentor at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a NewBEE veteran in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
I am in Saint Cloud FL there is a tree with a hive close to my house several times I have removed grass that reaches the entrance to the hive I being planing to bring the hive to the house, but I will be having surgery on my kneed in a couple of months. Can someone suggest a book so it will help me when I am able? thanks.
Hey Manuel,
Praying for a good surgery and quick recovery!
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
What about Florida?
Hey Stuart,
Hives for Heroes is a national military veteran non-profit organization focusing on honey bee conservation, suicide prevention, and a healthy transition from service. We are a national network of beekeepers and veterans providing purpose, education, and healthy relationships fostering a lifelong hobby in beekeeping. You can apply online at https://www.hivesforheroes.com/the-hive and we will get you connected with a beekeeping mentor in your area!
In service,
Your Support Team
Hives for Heroes, 501c3 Non Profit
save bees – save vets
support@hivesforheroes.com
great! i went into this for many reasons as stated on my own spent close to $1300.00 over three years. the neighbors spraying legal agent orange AKA round -up from monsano kept killing my bees…no one would listen and people in america are selfish and egocentric. i stopped buying bees just to see them murdered by the freaks who spray poisons…..
I am building two layens bee hives myself, and have also built two swarm traps. I am hoping and praying to finish building frames and boxes soon and hope to trap a couple of swarms this spring of feral bees. I would love any help i could get from anyone keeping bees strictly naturally.
There is also a program here in PA sponsored by PA Veteran Farming Project/Troops to Tractors contact person Mimi Thomas-Brooker, Project Director http://www.troopstotractors.org and the Pennsylvania State Beekeepers Assoc.