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SEBC Mentorship Program


Mission:

To support and inspire SEBC members at every stage of their journey by fostering meaningful connections, hands-on learning, and a strong sense of community within SEBC.

Objectives:

  • Provide guidance and encouragement for new and developing beekeepers
  • Share practical knowledge and best practices for healthy, thriving hives
  • Build confidence through hands-on experiences and real-world support
  • Strengthen relationships among members and create a welcoming bee community
  • Champion the wellbeing of honey bees through education and mentorship

About the Program:

  • SEBC membership is required to participate in the program
  • One-on-one mentoring from Spring - Fall
  • Pairs are matched by apiary location to reduce travel
  • Mentors and mentees meet about once a month or whenever works for them
  • Suggested discussion topics will be provided
  • The program is free and designed as a volunteer opportunity
  • New beekeepers are strongly recommended to take a beginning beekeepers course prior to enrolling in the SEBC Mentorship Program.
Sign-Up Here to Bee a Mentor or Mentee
Mentee Guide
Mentor Guide

FAQs

Who can participate?

Participants must be current members of the Southeast Beekeeping Club (SEBC).

Both mentors and mentees must complete the online signup form.

When does the program run?

The mentorship program runs from spring through fall (approximately April–September).

Signups open in March, and mentor/mentee matches are announced in early April.

Is there a cost to participate?

No. The program is free and entirely volunteer-based.

Am I guaranteed a mentor?

We have a limited number of volunteer mentors. While we do our best to match as many members as possible, placement is not guaranteed.

Priority may be given to first-year beekeepers.

Who is responsible for my bees?

You are responsible for all decisions, management, equipment, and outcomes related to your hives.

Mentors provide guidance and suggestions, but hive management decisions remain the responsibility of the beekeeper.

What kind of support will I receive as a mentee?

Mentorship is informal and flexible. Most mentor/mentee pairs:

  • Meet about once per month (or as agreed upon)
  • Stay in touch via text, phone, or email
  • Discuss hive inspections, seasonal management, and common challenges

The format is determined by each pair.

How much time does mentoring require?

Most mentors spend 1–2 hours per month actively meeting or communicating with their mentee.

Time commitments may vary depending on the needs of the pair.

What if the pairing is not a good fit?

If you feel your match is not a good fit, please contact the Mentorship Coordinator at SEBCbeemail@gmail.com. We will work with you to address concerns or explore alternatives when possible.

What if I need additional support?

In addition to the mentorship program, SEBC offers:

  • Monthly club meetings
  • Apiary events
  • Educational workshops
  • Opportunities to connect with experienced members

Mentorship is one of many ways to engage and learn within SEBC.

Still Have Questions?

Please contact:

Chrystine Mills
📧 SEBCbeemail@gmail.com

Suggested Monthly Topics:

  • March: Assess winter survival, determine if feeding is necessary
  • April: First inspections, feeding, reversing deeps, hive splitting techniques
  • May: Package/nuc installation, begin regular inspections, swarm prevention, monitoring for mites
  • June: Swarm prevention, honey supers, monitor queen performance
  • July: Monitor for mites, honey flow
  • August: Honey harvesting, begin fall prep
  • September: Honey harvesting, begin winterizing, monitor for mites
  • October: Feeding, monitor for mites, candy boards, quilt boxes, insulation, mouse guards
  • November: Monitor weight from the outside, add emergency feed if needed, clean and repair equipment, plan for next season
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