A bakery in Yonkers, New York, challenges expectations and redefines what it means to be a conscious business. Greyston Bakery not only produces brownies for iconic brands like Ben & Jerry's; it is a symbol of hope and an example of how businesses can play a powerful role in healing society.
The story of Greyston Bakery begins with Bernie Glassman, a Zen Buddhist master who sought to alleviate the suffering of those around him rather than build a company. Bernie had always believed in the importance of compassionate action, which led him to establish what he called “Street Retreats.”
These immersive experiences took Bernie and his students to the streets of Yonkers—a place marked by high levels of poverty, crime, and addiction—where they spent time with homeless individuals, sharing their daily struggles.
During one of these retreats, Bernie had a clear realization: he needed to do more than just observe. A practical solution was necessary to help people break free from marginalization and despair.
The Birth of Greyston Bakery
In 1982, Bernie made the decision to establish Greyston Bakery with that idea in mind.
This bakery was different from the start. It did more than bake brownies; it provided an opportunity for people who had been rejected by society.
Bernie proposed a radical hiring strategy known as “open hiring”—a model that required no background checks or interviews. Anyone seeking work, regardless of their past, including those with criminal records, had a chance.
This open hiring policy broke away from traditional employment practices, offering a second chance to people who were typically excluded from the job market. Greyston Bakery became a beacon of hope for those looking to rebuild their lives, providing not just a job, but also a path to dignity and self-sufficiency.
Soon, the bakery was filled with stories of transformation.
James, who had been incarcerated for several years, found more than just a job at Greyston—he found a new purpose in life. Working at the bakery was not only about learning a trade; it was about reintegrating into society with pride, knowing he was contributing to something greater than himself.
Another employee, Mary, had battled addiction for a long time. When she arrived at Greyston, she wasn’t just looking for a paycheck; she was looking for a place where she could rebuild her life.
The bakery provided her with stability and support, something she had lacked for years. Mary found not just a job, but a community that embraced her and helped her recover.
These are just a few of the many stories that emerged from Greyston Bakery, where Bernie Glassman’s commitment to compassion and inclusion began to make a significant impact on people’s lives.
However, Greyston’s mission extended beyond the bakery walls. Bernie saw the power of open hiring and decided to expand his model so that other companies could adopt it. This led to the creation of the Greyston Open Hiring Center, a resource for businesses looking to transform their hiring practices.
Major corporations like Unilever and academic institutions like NYU’s Stern Business School took an interest in the model. Even Ben & Jerry's, a strong supporter of Greyston since the beginning, started exploring ways to implement open hiring in its operations.
A Legacy of Conscious Capitalism
Greyston Bakery is living proof of Conscious Capitalism, a business model that prioritizes people. Through its commitment to inclusive hiring and community well-being, the bakery has demonstrated that economic success can be accompanied by deep social impact.
The story of Greyston is not just about inspiring other businesses to rethink their hiring practices—it is a powerful example of how businesses can be a force for healing social sorrow.
By creating opportunities for marginalized people, Greyston is contributing to a more equitable world in which work is not just a source of income but also a path to redemption and purpose.
Bernie Glassman’s vision and Greyston Bakery’s achievements remind us that capitalism's true power lies in its ability to transform lives, not just generate profits.
By embracing compassion, inclusion, and social responsibility, businesses can play a crucial role in healing social wounds and building a more just and humane future for all.