Humane Action Pennsylvania is a regional leader in grassroots conservation work including community-driven environmental initiatives through the HAP Hive campaign, a flagship program dedicated to addressing the decline in pollinator populations.
Recognizing that bees and other pollinators are essential to healthy ecosystems and food systems security, the program emphasizes efforts to expand natural habitats through native plantings and the installation of “bee hotels” that provide safe nesting spaces for these vital species.
Through the HAP Hive campaign, HAP has installed and supported multiple community pollinator gardens across the region, transforming underused and vacant spaces into thriving green areas.
Formerly neglected lots and unused spaces have been reimagined as flourishing habitats that invite biodiversity back into local neighborhoods.
Beyond their environmental benefits, these gardens strengthen community connections, enhance public spaces, and encourage residents to participate in sustainable land stewardship.
One such garden in Swissvale was formally recognized with the 2024 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence, highlighting the program’s significant impact on environmental stewardship and community wellbeing.
"From the beginning, when we first conceived of the idea of creating the pollinator park in 2022, HAP has been an indispensable partner, helping to plan the project, lay the groundwork, and encourage the community to become involved through volunteer workdays,” said Rep. Abigail Salisbury. “Today, the park has grown and is thriving, providing a critical habitat for our pollinators. That is thanks to the vision, energy, and environmental leadership of HAP staff. We are deeply grateful for their partnership.”
“Being recognized by Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful is an incredible honor and a meaningful reflection of the work our team and community partners have poured into the HAP Hive program,” said Shannon Dickerson, Director of Operations, Humane Action Pennsylvania.
“These pollinator gardens are more than green spaces-- they represent a commitment to biodiversity, environmental stewardship, and creating healthier, more connected communities.
“We’re proud to be part of a growing movement across Pennsylvania that is reimagining how we care for our shared environment, and we’re grateful to Representative Salisbury for her support and nomination,”
“At a time when environmental care is more important than ever, Human Action Pennsylvania serves as a shining example of how grassroots action can create real and lasting change on a countywide scale. Their dedication helps protect Allegheny County’s natural resources and promotes a culture of sustainability that benefits everyone,” said Shannon Reiter, Executive Director, Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful.
The Community Pride Award is available to elected officials to recognize those in the community working to change behaviors at the local level.
Elected officials interested in nominating a constituent, should visit the KPB Community Pride Award webpage for more information. The award is open on a rolling basis.
Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful’s vision is a clean and beautiful Pennsylvania. Since 1990, Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful has supported hundreds of thousands of volunteers across the state in their community improvement efforts.
Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful’s core programming focuses on litter and illegal dump prevention, cleanup, community greening, and proper waste handling and sustainable practices.
(Photo: Louis Ransom Jr., Braddock Borough Manager; Natalie Ahwesh, Executive Director, Founding Member, Humane Action Pennsylvania; Shannon Dickerson, Director of Operations, Humane Action Pennsylvania; Rep. Abigail Salisbury (Allegheny); Delia Lennon-Winstead, Braddock Mayor; Rob Dubas, Program and Data Coordinator, Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful.)
[Posted: May 12, 2026] PA Environment Digest
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