Whirlpool Employees Transform 25 Homes in Latin America for Habitat for Humanity


08/02/2024


We're expanding our GroMoreGood initiative and strengthening our Pollinator Promise by launching a new bee yard, or apiary, at our Marysville, Ohio, campus. This project, a collaboration between ScottsMiracle-Gro, Ortho, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation, and the Central Ohio Beekeepers Association (COBA), aims to provide educational opportunities for beekeepers of all experience levels.
 
The opening was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by ScottsMiracle-Gro associates, members of the Ortho team, and representatives from COBA and Union County. During the event, COBA volunteer and beekeeper Rich Herman shared insights about the hive and introduced a new beekeeper course. The apiary, along with the surrounding pollinator garden, will serve as a hands-on learning environment where participants can gain a deeper understanding of the critical roles pollinators play in our world.
 
Katherine Dickens, Director of ESG and Social Impact, highlighted the importance of pollinators, stating, "With pollinator populations declining globally, we are committed to protecting these vital creatures that not only enhance our gardens and communities but also support the health of our global ecosystem and food supply."
 
This is COBA's fourth apiary and their first in Union County, which will focus on lab education, particularly 5-frame hives and strategies for helping bees survive the winter. The new apiary will not only serve as an educational resource but will also enhance local ecosystems and improve overall pollinator health.
 
Additionally, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation is offering a grant to The Central Ohio Beekeepers Association Charitable Foundation to support their beekeeping school scholarship fund for U.S. veterans. Our company has a deep commitment to supporting veterans, and we are excited to assist veteran beekeepers in Union County.
 
Looking ahead, we plan to expand our educational outreach, extending the benefits of this apiary beyond our immediate community.