Veterans leave our program with a broad depth of beekeeping knowledge, as well as personal and professional relationships that open new opportunities and ensure long-term peer support. Our students understand the importance of pollinators in US agriculture and stand to protect managed honeybees through small-scale sustainable beekeeping operations.
Heroes to Hives students participate in a 9-month comprehensive education program that couples online lectures with hands-on learning. Students receive 2-6 hours of lecture content every month from March-November that is pre-recorded so that they can learn at their own pace. On-ground training takes place April-October at our Heroes to Hives apiary located on the University of Central Missouri Mitchell Street Farm, MU Southwest Research Center, Three Rivers Community College and the University of Missouri–St. Louis. Hands-on training includes hive handling, hive inspections, pest and pathogen management, and beekeeping ergonomics. Students who complete the course are eligible to receive a certificate of completion.
Disabled Navy Veteran Kit Smith found more than just a hobby — he found healing, connections and value through Heroes to Hives and Missouri AgrAbility. His incredible journey shows how veterans facing disability and PTSD can rediscover purpose and thrive through necessary support and community.
