Part of the benefits of membership in the Charleston Beekeepers Association is the support that provided through such efforts as the Mentor Program. The objective for the program is to partner experienced beekeepers with new beekeepers shortly after completing a Certified Beekeepers Course. The purpose being to increase knowledge, establish best practices, give hands-on experience, and to foster self confidence in the new beekeeper. The Charleston Area Beekeepers Association wants to provide quality Mentors in support of new beekeepers. Each Mentor in our program brings a unique style and specific talents. Mentors are experienced beekeepers who volunteer their time a minimum of four times to assist new beekeepers in their journey during the first year.

The Charleston Area Beekeepers Association will try to match Mentees with the nearest, most qualified beekeeper to meet your goals. If there is no Mentor in your area, we will send out a message to the general membership, asking if someone will become involved.

Mentees must complete a Certified Beekeeper Class, join and remain active in the Charleston Area Beekeepers Association, plus complete the Mentor Request Application to participate in the program.

The risk of failure is always present for an inattentive beekeeper-experienced or otherwise. Mentees should do their own research before requesting help and be ready to discuss options with the Mentor. There are many good books and references available. Take responsibility for your bees.

A Mentor is assigned to advise and provide valuable insights based on their experiences that can assist the Mentee in making decisions. Mentors are not assigned to tell a Mentee what to do

Mentees are encouraged to gain knowledge and experience by helping their Mentor with their beekeeping tasks (ex. cleaning frames/supers, assembling frames/supers, cutting the grass around hives, moving hives, etc.).

Time has value for everyone. Be prepared and before a Mentor arrives, the Mentee will everything needed for that day’s visit. (ex. hive bodies, supers, extra frames, a smoker, work site etc.).

If unresolved problems should arise between with a Mentor, contact Mentor Program Coordinator Brian Fahey immediately.  (fahey_brian@yahoo.com)