Supporting Our Community through Student Work Programs

At Crown Bees, we're honored to partner with local schools to welcome young adults with special needs in work-based learning programs. Seeing the wonder of Mason bees through their eyes renews our passion to share these gentle bees with others. They're excited to have something special to share and proud to be a valued part of our Crown Bees team. Their improve their fine motor skills (with inserts and cardboard tubes), learn counting, and follow directions.

With support these young adults are taking on new responsibilities and shining. Because of you, these students can step into meaningful work and thrive.

How We Work with Students

In local schools, students with special needs use our materials as part of hands-on classroom activities. Filling BeeTubes, counting supplies, labeling boxes, and working through simple steps help them gain fine motor skills, counting options, and learning to follow directions. For these students, this work has become familiar and is part of their curriculum.

More independent students that can take a regional bus have joined us here in our workspace. They help weigh and box products, staple packages, and assist with harvesting and counting Mason bee cocoons. It is real work with "on time" expectations, complex instructions, and working alongside adults. 

Both programs help prepare these young adults for finding a job in their local city. We're honored to help!

How to Get Involved

Any small business can support students in this way. It does not take special training or complicated setups. Each school district works with their students with special needs differently. 

• Reach out to a local school or transition program. Meet with the teachers and learn what their needs are. Look for solutions... you'll find them!
• Choose simple, steady work. Repetitive or step by step tasks help students settle in and feel successful.
• Provide structure and patience. A predictable routine builds confidence.

We are happy to share what we have learned so far to help you get started.

Celebrating Our Students

We've attended many graduations over the years. Watching these young adults complete their final stage of school is always a proud moment. We're honored to have been part of their skills building steps in getting there!