The story of Declaration Honey begins with service, continues through innovation, and blooms into purpose.
Aaron Wagener served in the United States Navy from 1988 to 1994, spanning the Gulf War era. After six years of active-duty service and an honorable discharge, he carried forward the discipline, leadership, and mission-orientation that define military service into civilian life.
Following his military career, Aaron went on to co-found BlueMarble Weather, an AgTech startup at the University of Illinois Research Park that builds environmental monitoring systems for agriculture. His work in agriculture technology deepened his appreciation for the connection between land, livelihood, and community.
In 2026, everything changed when a fellow Hives for Heroes member gifted Aaron a colony of bees. That single act of kindness — a veteran helping a veteran — sparked the idea for Declaration Honey Co.
The mission was clear from day one: house those bees, harvest the honey, and donate every dollar of profit back to the organization that made it possible.
Hives for Heroes is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has grown from a single hive in Houston, Texas in 2018 to the largest beekeeping network in the United States. Their model, "One NewBEE, One Mentor, One Hive," pairs each new veteran beekeeper with an experienced mentor.
Declaration Honey Co. completes the circle: the organization that gifted the bees receives the financial benefit of what those bees produce, funding the next veteran's journey. Every jar of Declaration Honey you purchase helps more veterans discover the healing power of beekeeping.
Learn more about Hives for HeroesBeekeeping requires patience and presence. The bees operate on their own timeline — not ours. For veterans accustomed to the fast pace of military service, this shift to a slower, more intentional rhythm can be profoundly therapeutic.
Bees are a living ecosystem that depends on the beekeeper's attention and care. This responsibility gives veterans a sense of purpose and accountability — something that can be hard to find after military service.
Beekeeping connects veterans with a community of fellow service members who understand the unique challenges of transitioning to civilian life. It's a brotherhood — not of arms, but of bees.
"Declaration Honey channels the healing power of beekeeping into a self-sustaining giving engine. As the apiary grows through natural colony splits, the donation stream grows with it — compounding impact, powered by bees."
Be the first to know when Declaration Honey is available. Every purchase supports veteran beekeeping programs through Hives for Heroes.