After three years of buzzing success inside Bria Communities‘ four residences, the Bee Well Project is spreading its wings. This unique wellness initiative, which connects seniors with the fascinating world of honeybees, is now available to seniors’ communities across North America.
For the first time, the eight-session Bee Well Project program can be licensed through Patreon for just $250 CAD. Developed and field-tested within Bria Communities, the program creates opportunities for seniors and pollinators to thrive together.
A Year in the Life of Bees—and Seniors
At the heart of the Bee Well Project is Chief Beekeeper Julia Common, who guides participants through her beekeeping season. Each session blends beekeeping, storytelling, hands-on activities, and reflection to encourage seniors to engage mind, body, and spirit.
From tasting honey to rolling beeswax candles and making pollinator-friendly seed bombs, seniors can get their hands sticky, their minds curious, and their spirits refreshed.
Residents Find Meaning in the Hive
Arthur Allen, a resident of The Waterford Seniors Community in Tsawwassen, has been part of the Bee Well Project since its first year.
“It’s something where we become familiar with the bees to start with, which most of us were not familiar with at all,” Arthur says. “It has been so interesting, and I’m still learning every time I take part.”
For Arthur, the project transformed his perspective: “Before, we thought, ‘Oh, a bee—look out!’ But not anymore. Now it’s about protecting them. We have a garden project at The Waterford where each year we replant a certain number of pots. With Julia’s help, we’ve all become more particular about the plants we buy, choosing ones that will nourish the little bees.”
From Bria’s Back Yard to a Continental Stage
The Bee Well Project will have its North American launch at the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA) Conference in Anaheim, California on October 15, 2025.
“From the very beginning, the ICAA’s Seven Dimensions of Wellness have shaped the Bee Well Project,” says Tanya Snow, Director of Operations at Bria Communities.
“We’re proud to have created a tool that makes it simple for Life Enrichment and Recreation teams to engage all seven dimensions—but especially the Environmental dimension. Helping seniors connect with nature and support pollinators has been one of the most meaningful outcomes of this journey.”
What began as a local wellness experiment has grown into a comprehensive, ready-to-use educational package. Now, any retirement or seniors living community can implement the Bee Well Project as part of their wellness programming, supporting both residents’ quality of life and the health of pollinators.
Join the Movement
Communities that subscribe will gain access to:
- Eight complete Bee Well sessions with feature videos and facilitator guides
- Interactive activity instructions designed for seniors’ engagement
- Meditation moments fostering calm and reflection
- Ongoing support via the Bee Well Project help desk
Where to Begin
To bring the Bee Well Project to your community, visit The Bee Well Project on Patreon or visit the Bria Communities Bee Well page.
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