Hives for Heroes is a national nonprofit service organization dedicated to sustainability, conservation, and providing a healthy transition from service for veterans and first responders. Since 2018, our national network of beekeepers, offer connection, purpose, and healthy relationships by providing access, resources, and funding for Service Members, Veterans, and First Responders and their families.

The First Buzz

Hives for Heroes was born from the personal journey of our founder, Steve Jimenez, a Houston native and Marine Corps veteran. After serving eight years in the Marine Corps, including a deployment during Operation Enduring Freedom, Steve faced the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life. Dealing with physical injuries, post-traumatic stress, and searching for purpose through difficult times, he found solace in an unexpected place: beekeeping.

Introduced to bees by a fellow veteran, Steve experienced a profound sense of calm and connection while working with hives. This newfound purpose not only helped him heal but also sparked an idea: What if other veterans and first responders could experience the same transformation?

The Hive Mentality: Building Community Together

Hives for Heroes believes that connection changes everything. You don't need to start something new to make an impact—join us in this collective effort. We unite people from all walks of life in a shared mission to support Heroes through beekeeping. Whether you’re a novice looking to learn, an experienced beekeeper willing to mentor, or a supporter with resources to share, you are an essential part of serving our Heroes and our planet.

We work with organizations of all sizes—large and small—to amplify the reach and impact. Collaboration is at the heart of success, and we believe that many hands make light work. Like bees - we are better together. By collaborating with local, state, and national organizations, world renowned universities, leading corporations, and forward thinking institutions we continue to lead the beekeeping industry in community building, sustainable practices, and global impact.

Our Proven Process: Mentorship and Growth

Through our flexible, multi-year paths, new participants, known as "NewBEEs," are connected to education, community ad resources, to include experienced mentors to learn the art and science of beekeeping. The goal is to inspire learning, foster growth, encourage leadership, and eventually, mentorship of the next wave of NewBEEs to impact the lives of our Heroes and communities. Our collective efforts have resulted in over 9,000 members and 100,000+ hives managed across all 50 states—an impact made possible through community and collaboration.

Honoring Our Heroes and Our Mission

Hives for Heroes’ dedication has earned recognition on many levels, including:

• Texan by Nature Conservation Award - presented by First Lady Mrs. Laura Bush
• Houston Business Journal's 40 Under 40 Honor
• Texas Business Hall of Fame Award
• Lifetime Presidential Achievement Award - presented by President Joe Biden

These accolades reflect our commitment to not just supporting our Heroes in healing, but to making a lasting impact in conservation and sustainable beekeeping.

Funding the Future

At Hives for Heroes, funding the future means creating real opportunities that transform lives. Through scholarships and fellowships, we are training the next generation of beekeepers while actively creating jobs for Veterans and First Responders. These roles range from education and mentorship to honey production, logistics, and event planning.

Your support also helps fund conventions, community events, and national gatherings—critical moments where our Heroes connect, learn, and grow. These experiences not only expose participants to the world of beekeeping but open doors to lifelong relationships, personal healing, and professional success.

By investing in people and possibilities, we’re building more than hives—we’re building futures.

Media Features

• ABC Australia – The Healing Power of Beekeeping
• Texas Country Reporter – Hives For Heroes
• Localish – Veterans Overcome Personal Battles through Hives for Heroes
• CBS News Sacramento – Hives for Heroes on Good Day Sacramento
• FOX 8 New Orleans – Coast Guard Veteran Helps Fellow Service Members Through Bees
• KFYR-TV – Teaching Veterans the Art of Beekeeping
• KOTA-TV – Hives for Heroes Reaches Growth Milestone
• Action News Now – Hives for Heroes Connects Local Veterans and First Responders to Beekeeping
• VA News – Free Farming and Beekeeping Opportunities for Veterans
• Bee Culture Magazine – Feature on Hives for Heroes
• Texas Monthly – Coverage on Hives for Heroes Initiatives
• U.S. Veterans Magazine – Highlighting Hives for Heroes Programs
• Military.com – Article on Hives for Heroes' Impact
• Epoch Times – Story on Hives for Heroes' Mission
• Backyard Beekeeping Magazine – June/July 2022 Issue Featuring Hives for Heroes
• Project Apis m. – Spotlight on Hives for Heroes
• Kindness Champions – Kindness Champion Spotlight: Hives for Heroes
• Texan By Nature – 2022 Conservation Wrangler: Hives for Heroes

These features underscore the widespread recognition of Hives for Heroes' mission to support veterans and first responders through beekeeping. For more stories and media coverage, visit our Stories Page.

Looking Forward: Strength in Numbers

Our mission continues to evolve, and we invite you to be part of this journey. Together, we’re building a future where Heroes find healing, purpose, and connection through beekeeping. You don’t need to create something new—simply join the movement. Your involvement—whether through mentorship, collaboration, or support—creates a ripple effect that changes and often saves lives.