Letter from the Director

As we approach the close of 2024, it’s an honor to reflect on all we’ve accomplished together and look ahead to what’s next. This year has been especially significant, as we celebrate ten years of inspiring and educating the next generation of environmental stewards. The journey from our humble beginnings with one school partnership at Sullivan’s Island Elementary in Charleston, SC, to collaborating with over 2,000 schools today is something we’re deeply proud of.

Our community’s impact has been powerful. Through programs like Bee a Friend to Pollinators, made possible with the support of partners such as Atlantic Packaging and Clemson University, we’ve been able to expand our reach to schools and outdoor educational organizations across the Southeast with pollinator gardens, teacher training and educational events. Additionally, last year we launched Puerto Rico’s first Bee Sanctuary in partnership with Puerto Rico-based non-profits Para La Naturaleza and Be a Bee thanks to Charleston-based Dixie Vodka’s sponsorship. Conceptualized in response to the devastating losses of Puerto Rico’s bee population after Hurricane Maria, this sanctuary provides a haven for bees and a space for public education, marking a new stage in the restoration of the island’s natural habitats. These initiatives underscore the importance of our mission and the significant role you, our supporters, play in protecting pollinators and their ecosystems.

In 2025, we’re excited to expand the reach and impact of The Bee Cause by building deeper connections within communities, schools, and local organizations. Our community-centered programs will focus on creating accessible pollinator education through partnerships with public libraries, community centers, and gardens nationwide, engaging people of all ages in pollinator conservation. Additionally, we will continue developing educational resources for students of all grade levels, enabling teachers and students to participate more actively in conservation efforts.

We’re also growing our habitat and sanctuary initiatives, inspired by the success of our Puerto Rico Bee Sanctuary. Plans are underway to establish additional sanctuaries in areas where bee populations are vulnerable, providing safe habitats for bees and educational opportunities for visitors. Furthermore, we aim to empower young environmental advocates through youth-led projects and school programs, fostering conservation leadership among students and engaging them through hands-on projects like student-run gardens.

These goals are only achievable with the continued support of our community and partners. Your generosity and commitment have been instrumental in bringing our mission to life, and we are deeply grateful for your role in our journey. As we step into this new year of growth, we invite you to continue supporting The Bee Cause as we work together to protect pollinators and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. Thank you for making this vital work possible.