This B Corp is known for its brownies, as well as its Open Hiring
system for people with employment obstacles like prison records,
homelessness, and language barriers.
BY SARA KAY
Greyston Bakery
W
hen Greyston Bakery opened in 1982 in the Bronx, its focus was on mindful living.
But after founder Bernie Glassman, a Zen Buddhist monk, realized New York
faced a homeless epidemic, he offered employment to those who needed a job, no
questions asked.
When the bakery relocated to Southwest
Yonkers, its home since 1987, the only thing
that changed was its address. The Open
Hiring system lives on today, offering employ-
ment to anyone regardless of background or
work history. While Glassman now sits
on the Greyston Wisdom Council, Mike
Brady leads the company's initiatives
as CEO.
How It Works
Any person who walks through the bakery's
doors and signs his or her name to the waiting
list will receive a job when one becomes avail-
able. No interview, no background check, and
no resume is required. This way, says Kerry
Sesil, marketing coordinator, Greyston Bakery
can hire individuals who suffer from employ-
ment obstacles—such as a prison record or a
Any person who
signs the waiting
list will receive
a job when one
becomes available—
no interview,
background check,
or resume required.
giving back
PHOTOS:
GREYSTON
BAKERY
A look at suppliers and
buyers who are making a
difference through their
business philosophies,
models, or charitable
efforts.
70 ❘ SPECIALTY FOOD MAGAZINE specialtyfood.com