PAL Youngsters Learn the Art of Honey Making in the Bronx
A Sweet Experience for Third Graders
Third graders from the Police Athletic League’s (PAL) Webster Center in the Bronx recently had the opportunity to learn the process of harvesting and extracting honey from beehives on the roof of the center. The hands-on experience was guided by a beekeeper, who taught the children how to uncap honeycomb cells and use a centrifugal extractor to spin the honeycombs, filtering the raw honey.
A Taste of Urban Honey
The honey was then jarred and labeled, allowing the kids to take home their harvest and share it with their families. This exercise provided the children with a behind-the-scenes look at the artisanal honey extraction process, as well as an introduction to the unique characteristics of urban honey.
A Bee-utiful Partnership
PAL’s urban beehives serve as a safe haven for honeybees, while bringing nature closer to the children participating in the PAL program. This partnership with Alvéole, a social enterprise dedicated to nature-based solutions, introduces honeybee hives, pollinator habitats, and bee-friendly gardens to urban buildings, promoting greener cities.
Building Confidence through Hands-on Learning
In addition to supporting sustainability, this workshop and other after-school programs at PAL help children build confidence through hands-on learning experiences. Many of PAL’s initiatives focus on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) education, offering activities such as coding, hydroponics, and dance workshops. Beyond enrichment, PAL provides essential resources like homework help, tutoring, internships, and career development opportunities, ensuring a well-rounded support system for participants.
About PAL
Founded in 1914, New York City’s Police Athletic League is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children and teens. Each year, it serves approximately 15,000 young people across the city with recreational, educational, cultural, and social programs designed to inspire and empower.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of PAL’s beehives?
A: The beehives serve as a safe haven for honeybees, while bringing nature closer to the children participating in the PAL program.
Q: What is the goal of the partnership with Alvéole?
A: The partnership aims to introduce honeybee hives, pollinator habitats, and bee-friendly gardens to urban buildings, promoting greener cities.
Q: What types of programs does PAL offer?
A: PAL offers a range of programs, including STEAM education, recreational activities, and social programs, as well as resources like homework help, tutoring, and career development opportunities.
Q: How many young people does PAL serve each year?
A: PAL serves approximately 15,000 young people across the city each year.
