In a significant move to boost urban agriculture and bee education, Charm City Honey Bees has been awarded BeMobile Verizon’s $5,000 Take the Leap grant. This funding will allow them to expand their community garden and educational programs, deepening their impact in the Baltimore area.
A Family Legacy of Environmental Impact
Charm City Honey Bees was established in 2018 by the Griffin family. It began as a local Eagle Scout Project and has since grown into a thriving business focused on environmental stewardship and community education. Owned and operated by veterans and minorities, the company proudly serves the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia.
The Griffin family—Joseph, Nafre, and their three children—actively partners with local communities and elementary schools to promote urban agriculture. One of their key collaborations is with Arlington Gardens in Baltimore, run by Mr. Mitchell through the City of Baltimore’s Adopt a Lot program. Mr. Mitchell, a dedicated advocate for sustainable urban agriculture, has been crucial to the community garden’s success. Working closely with neighborhood associations, he involves families in gardening, motivating them with his motto, “10% of your plate should be the food you’ve grown.” This aligns perfectly with Charm City Honey Bees’ mission to fight food deserts and eliminate food apartheid.
Expanding Educational Outreach
Additionally, the $5,000 grant will enhance Charm City Honey Bees’ educational programs, focusing on beekeeping, hive relocation, and agriculture. These initiatives are crucial for teaching families how to grow their gardens and understand the importance of bees in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. Through hands-on workshops and community events, participants gain valuable insights, from the basics of ecosystem maintenance to advanced beekeeping techniques.
A Unified Family Effort
One of the most remarkable aspects of Charm City Honey Bees is the full involvement of the Griffin family. All three children, alongside their parents, play a pivotal role in operations. They assist with events, conduct research, and bottle honey. This family-centered approach not only strengthens the community but also equips the next generation with the knowledge and skills needed to continue this essential work.
BeMobile Verizon’s Commitment to Community
Overall, the Take the Leap grant program received thousands of applications. However, Charm City Honey Bees stood out for its commitment to family values, community involvement, and purposeful operation. Jason Prinsen, Chief Revenue Officer at BeMobile Verizon, praised the Griffin family, saying, “The Griffin family is an inspiration! We are proud to contribute to the incredible impact they will make. The success of our Take the Leap grant was evident when we found such a deserving company that shares so many characteristics with BeMobile: family-owned, community-involved, and operating with a distinct purpose. Well done, Charm City Honey Bees!” Charm City Honey Bees continues to make a positive impact locally in the Baltimore area.