The Hive welcomes United Way volunteers, hosts monthly pop-up shop

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — The Hive Inc. hosted two community-focused events Thursday morning, welcoming volunteers for United Way’s annual Day of Caring while also holding its monthly Busy Bee Pop-Up Shop.

After severe weather earlier in the week forced a schedule change, employees from Pan Oston spent the morning completing landscaping and cleanup projects around The Hive’s campus as part of the annual volunteer initiative.

United Way’s Day of Caring connects local businesses with nonprofit organizations, giving employees the opportunity to donate their time and talents through community service projects.

Lindsay Bysel, marketing manager for Pan Oston, said supporting local nonprofits extends beyond financial contributions.

“I think it’s so important for companies to help support nonprofits like The Hive because they truly rely on community support, not only through donations but also through volunteering your time and talents,” Bysel said. “It was really important for us to come out here today and see how we could get involved and help.”

At the same time, The Hive held its monthly Busy Bee Pop-Up Shop, where adults with disabilities sell handmade products while gaining valuable workplace experience.

The program allows participants to develop skills in budgeting, inventory management, customer service and cash handling while interacting with members of the Bowling Green community.

“Everything is made by our members,” said The Hive founder Laura Orsland. “They do the budgeting, the inventory, they set up the shop, and they count the money. It’s our way of showing the community that we’re here and that we’re valuable members of the community.”

Organizers say events like Day of Caring and the Busy Bee Pop-Up Shop help strengthen community partnerships while providing meaningful opportunities for adults with disabilities to build confidence, develop workforce skills and showcase their talents.