The Silent Spring: Losing Over 80% of Our Hives in Cleveland, Ohio—But There’s Hope
This winter, we faced a heartbreaking challenge—over 80% of our hives vanished. That’s more than 80 hives of bees, each one playing a critical role in the environment, the economy, and even in the lives of children in our community. Thousands of honeybees that we’ve nurtured and relied on for years are now gone, the victims of colony collapse disorder. This loss goes beyond our beekeeping operation; it’s a loss for the environment, for pollination, and for Cleveland’s future.
What Does This Mean for Cleveland?
The death of so many hives doesn’t just affect honey production; it impacts the very heartbeat of our ecosystem. Bees are vital pollinators responsible for 1 out of every 3 bites of food we eat, from fruits and vegetables to the wildflowers that beautify our landscape. Without them, our city faces a future with fewer crops, less biodiversity, and a weakened ecosystem.
But the effects aren’t just environmental—there are financial implications, too. With fewer hives, no honey means no revenue for our work program, which helps children with disabilities gain crucial job skills. These kids have learned how to be responsible and work as a team, all while caring for our bees and making Cleveland a more sustainable city. Now, our program is in flux, and we need your help to rebuild it.
A Glimpse of Hope: The Power of Community
Despite the challenges, we’re not giving up. We believe in the strength of community—and we know that Cleveland has always been a city that stands together in tough times. This isn’t just about bees. It’s about our future—one where bees once again thrive, pollination is abundant, and our kids have the tools to succeed.
We’re calling on local businesses, corporations, and individuals to join us in rebuilding. There are ways you can help:
Sponsor a Hive: Your sponsorship will directly fund new beekeeping equipment, restoration efforts, and support for our children’s work program. It’s a direct, impactful way to contribute to the future of beekeeping in Cleveland.
Plant Wildflowers: Partner with us to plant wildflowers around your business, campus, or home. These flowers not only beautify the space but also help our bees thrive by providing essential pollen and nectar.
Support Local Honey: Buy honey produced locally to help offset the financial strain caused by hive loss. Not only does it support our program, but it also supports local agriculture.
Spread the Word: Tell your friends, family, and network about our mission. Share this blog and our social media pages. Help us raise awareness for the declining bee population and get more people involved in rebuilding the hive populations in Cleveland, Ohio.
Why Bees Matter to Your Business
You may wonder, “Why should I care about bees?” The answer is simple: honeybees directly support local economies. They pollinate crops that businesses—especially in agriculture, food, and hospitality—rely on. The honey industry itself generates millions of dollars annually, but bees do much more than make honey—they provide critical ecosystem services that sustain all sorts of industries. When bees are in trouble, the local economy is in trouble.
By partnering with us to support pollination and rebuild our hives, your business can show its commitment to sustainability, support the local community, and help ensure food security for the future. Plus, bees are a powerful symbol of teamwork and community, values that resonate deeply with Cleveland’s identity. Imagine how your company’s involvement in rebuilding our local bee populations can foster a positive public image.
The Power of Your Support
We are calling on the Cleveland community—businesses, schools, families, and individuals—to help us rebuild our hives, restore local pollination, and give our children the chance to continue their valuable learning. Together, we can create a buzz about saving the bees and reviving Cleveland’s urban ecology.
Be Part of the Solution
Whether you’re a local company or an individual who cares about the future of bees, the environment, or the kids in our community, we have a place for you in our mission. Don’t let this story be one of loss—let it be one of resilience, action, and hope.
Here’s how you can make a difference:
Sponsor a Hive Today – Your support is directly tied to new hives being placed around Cleveland. Get your company’s name on a hive as a community partner.
Plant Pollinator-Friendly Flowers – Get involved in the ‘B the Change’ initiative and help plant flowers around Cleveland.
Join the Conversation – Follow us on social media, and share our posts. Let your network know how they can contribute to our mission of saving bees in Cleveland.
Together, We Can Rebuild—One Hive at a Time
The smallest actions lead to the biggest impacts. Together, we can save the bees, restore Cleveland’s environment, and give our kids the future they deserve. Let’s come together to make sure that the bees stay buzzing in our beautiful city!
