Baker Industries Inc

I attended Baker Industries gala this year and heard about the incredible work they are doing in providing work and work experience to people with disabilities and for people who are coming out of prison. On the following Monday, I was invited to visit the Baker facility on I Street in Philadelphia. There I saw people engaged in work. People were enthusiastic about their work and about demonstrating what they were doing for visitors. I learned about what Baker does to insure that, by the time people leave Baker Industries, they are equipped to take jobs in other businesses. Baker also works with employers to help find work and help people make the transition from Baker to for profit business. I am very impressed with the quality of Baker's work and with the overwhelming importance that work has for the populations it serves.

Baker Industries is an outstanding non-profit making a significant impact in the lives of people facing challenges. Their programs for recently incarcerated individuals empower them to reintegrate into society and achieve life goals, while their support for workers with disabilities fosters inclusivity and personal growth. With a deep commitment to compassion and community, Baker Industries truly transforms lives and enriches the community as a whole.

Baker has demonstrated consistency and longevity in serving the mission to provide workforce opportunities for adults who face challenges in employment.

Baker Industries is a remarkable organization making a profound and tangible difference in the lives of many. As a volunteer, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside the individuals they support, and it’s been truly inspiring to witness their journeys firsthand. Hearing their personal stories has given me a deeper appreciation for the incredible impact Baker has in empowering individuals and enriching their lives. The organization's contributions to the community are invaluable, providing opportunities and hope to those who need it most.

What sets Baker Industries apart is not just its mission, but also its dedicated and compassionate team. The staff and management are outstanding professionals who approach their work with positivity, empathy, and a genuine commitment to making a difference. Their hard work ensures that the organization runs smoothly and effectively, maximizing its impact. I’m proud to support such an amazing organization and encourage others to get involved. Baker Industries is truly changing lives for the better!

I had an incredible experience volunteering with Baker Industries. They've created a supportive and productive environment for people of all abilities and backgrounds to contribute. The energy was high and it was a pleasure to work with the team for the day. As a parent of a child with special needs, I hope to see this type of opportunity available to him when the time comes.

Fantastic organization to provide work for hard to hire people! Compassionate, caring, professional and well organized organization! Schedule time to volunteer and donate today! You will be glad you did!
Melanie

I enjoyed spending a day at Baker Industries with the Philadelphia Alumni Association of Kappa Kappa Gamma. How happy it made me to visit and learn about this remarkable place which helps people with disadvantages have work, salaries, a sense of purpose and a community of support.
Thank you for allowing everyone to join in and benefit from the spirt of comradery created by Baker Industries.

I was so impressed by the organization of Baker Industries and the products that they help prepare for retailers. Various disabled workers (blind, physically impaired, etc) were assigned to job where they could successfully prepare and package products. What really stuck me was the workers themselves who were proud of their work and happy to be part of this organization that treats them in a caring and professional way. I look forward to volunteering again this fall.

Jayne

I have been volunteering with Baker Industries for roughly 10 years now. I was introduced to the non-profit by going to a work sponsored community day there to volunteer and have since truly admired their mission. I always have an amazing experience and bring along co-workers or friends to the Malvern location. The way that Bakers sticks to their mission and provides this opportunity for vulnerable adults and equipping them to re-enter the workforce is such a unique non-profit. It is run extremely well and everyone involved has such pride in the work that they do. We typically work along the floor and help assist in various tasks and have the opportunity to talk to the employees. Everyone is so friendly and happy to be there. Really love this companies mission and can't wait to see how they continue to grow and foster such a great workplace.

As an intern during the summer of 2024, I had an amazing experience with Baker's organization. While the two locations (Malvern and Kensington) present two totally different scenes with people from very different backgrounds, the support, culture, sense of community, and willingness to go above and beyond to help the participants is consistent throughout. The staff, both behind the scenes and at the forefront of the operations, are understanding, thoughtful, and in many cases, have experiences which make them relatable and inspiring. Furthermore, Baker helps to bring out the best in the participants themselves. I have witnessed many acts of unprompted kindness, caring, and support from participant to participant that has showed me what Baker's mission is and how it has truly succeeded. From my many one on one conversations with participants who face disability, have been incarcerated, and are fighting against addiction - all whom have faced trauma many of us can never understand - I can confidently say they are endlessly grateful and most often transformed by their experience here.

My company has partnered with Baker Industries on various projects over the last several years. They have a great mission and are always a pleasure to work with. They are a reliable team who is always able to meet deadlines and expectations, and always provides great communication throughout the projects. Would definitely recommend Baker Industries!

We work every day with the fantastic team at Baker Industries. They've helped our business grow substantially, all while working towards a great mission. Thank you!

10/10 would recommend partnering with Baker - program participants and admin have helped our small business grow and thrive - we're so happy to have Baker on our Team!

Baker Industries exceeds expectations because they are different in all the right ways. Staff deeply believes in the mission and the human potential within each of their clients. They are nimble and flexible reacting to client's needs. I would even go so far as to say they are without true peers in their industry. They stand apart and above. It is a pleasure to work with them.

It was a great pleasure to meet and talk with a few of the staff at Baker Industries. They were not only professional but humble and easy to talk to. I felt comfortable the first time a met them. Their work ethic is efficient with a quick turnaround.

Our company annually offers several day of service opportunities. I signed up for Baker Industries this year and it was one of the best volunteer experiences I have had. The day was well organized. They started with a very well put together company overview. We went out on the floor and assisted with different work tasks. We had lunch with the employees. Everyone was very kind and friendly. Their company mission is genuine!

I recently volunteered at Baker Industries for the first time. The few hours I spent was such a rewarding experience getting to work with the employees. Sometimes there is not enough to do in other volunteer opportunities, but this is not the case with Baker Industries. Highly recommended Baker Industries and volunteering here!

I have been involved with Baker Industries for the past 16 years in an ever increasing role. I started with making sandwiches when my Newcomers group hosted holiday luncheons for the Baker participants, and now I curate the silent auction as part of the annual fundraising gala. When going into the community and asking for contributions to the auction, it's interesting to see how many people know of Baker and the good work it does. Many people have volunteered at Baker with their companies. Others have been touched personally with a family member benefitting from the Baker program. Baker Industries has improved SO many lives! And the community is grateful . .

Volunteering for Baker this summer was absolutely incredible — easily the most transformative experience I've ever had working with a nonprofit. Their model gives some of Philadelphia's most vulnerable and challenged citizens real skills, job experience, and economic opportunity. But perhaps more importantly, Baker also imbues its participants with a sense of hope, confidence, and self-esteem; if that wasn't enough, Baker also has a proven track record in the field of more than 40 years. It is through and through a fantastic organization.

As a Job Coach, I visit Baker Industries weekly to support a Participant in his job. Baker Industries provides a supportive environment for it's Participants which makes them feel that they are really making a contribution. The Participants genuinely feel that they are part of a family and they support each other everyday. The Staff are always encouraging the Participants, and truly care about them both as associates and people. It is a pleasure to visit Baker Industries weekly and feel the positivity of the Participants and the Staff.

As a difficult to employ individual, I feel blessed to have found Baker Industries. With their trauma informed care, positivity, and genuine warm inclusiveness, I have managed to stay employed in their administration for over a year and a half now. Before Baker holding a job for even a year was nigh impossible. Baker provides a wonderful service for the participants and our community.

I volunteered at Baker Industries for the first time recently and was so impressed with this organization. The management was so friendly and organized, and they really have a great system in place when bringing in volunteers to help. Everyone working there seemed to really enjoy being there, and you could tell they were proud of what they were accomplishing. Everyone is treated with respect and there is positive training and encouragement on a constant basis. What an outstanding non-profit providing a much needed opportunity for many! I would love to come back on a more regular basis to help.

My name is Darryl Barrett, I work for the GEO Group as an Employment Placement Specialist. The working relationship between my organization and Baker's Industries is fantastic. I've had the distinct pleasure in knowing Lisette Morales and Chanae Bridges for quite some time and they have been very instrumental with employing our returning residents who's looking for a fresh start with getting their life back on track. All of our residents throughout the years have expressed great joy being given the opportunity to work, learn and grow from being connected to Baker's Industries.

I had a wonderful experience working side by side with Carl & Kathy at Baker Industries as part of our Fox & Roach Community Service Day. I know Baker Industries to be a force-positive contributor to providing real opportunities to lift those who are having challenges securing meaningful and fulfilling paid work and supporting success training through independence. Please consider supporting Baker Industries as you allocate your charitable contributions this year.
- Hob

I am a current job coach for a client at Baker Industries and it’s been a great experience! They are very welcoming towards everybody who walks through the doors and create a very fun, engaging environment. It’s been awesome!

I've volunteered at a variety of nonprofits over the last 20 years and Baker Industries was, by far, the best experience I've ever had. My team of volunteers were provided an overview and history of Baker which was informative, inspiring and frankly, impressive. Our volunteer time was well organized and supported. We got to work side by side Baker employees and participate in their daily huddle. I can't wait to volunteer again!

The dignity of doing worthwhile work and being paid for it is the kind of everyday dignity that most of us take for granted. But it can be transformative for someone who has watched everyone else go off to work everyday while he or she stayed home. Work and pay is a huge milestone that Baker offers to those who need it badly. The bonus is that Baker's participants gain community, too. This is an organization with heart AND knowhow.

Baker Industries is a fantastic nonprofit. They provide real work and job skills for individuals who have a difficult time finding full-time employment. Their unique mix of real work, trauma informed care, and job readiness has impacted thousands of individuals.
The percentage of donations that go directly to programs is extraordinary!

Baker Industries continues to epitomize the saying, Do Good. Adults with disabilities, adults on parole or probation, adults who struggle with substance use disorder and adults who have housing insecurity are given a chance to work. They are no longer waiting on the sidelines to be seen and to contribute to our society. Participants get to learn new skills and improve their self confidence while earning an hourly wage in a supportive atmosphere. Many go on to solid jobs in our community. We are grateful to our wonderful customers/businesses that make this possible, by giving our participants real work in the areas of assembly, mailing, fulfillment and packaging.

I loved working for this nonprofit! It was amazing to see how well the participants respond to the expectations and challenges Baker sets for them. I am overjoyed that the participants have Baker Industries!

Baker Industries is many things. But, most of all it is a place where struggles become possibilities, where differences unite people, and where hard work brings purpose, hope, and joy to those who need it most.

Baker Industries is humanity at its finest! I know because I volunteer there and see this work in action. I am honored, privileged, and most of all grateful to be a part of this community. Baker is listening. Baker is helping. Baker is caring. Baker is giving.

By writing this I know that you will unite with us to make possibilities, lessen differences, and to create purpose and joy for those who can not possibly do this for themselves.

Thank you,

Diane Bizzarro
Volunteer

Baker is a place that supports and develops the low-income adult population. At Baker, these individuals learn and develop skills needed to transition to the workplace while earning a regular hourly wage. All this is done in a caring and understanding environment. It's a win-win-win situation for the individuals, for the companies that use Baker's services, as well as the companies that hire the Baker graduates.

During my many years of involvement with Baker I have constantly seen the importance of philanthropy as I have seen Baker serve the disabled and former inmates. Assisting our associates to make the transition to full time employment after being trained at Baker is a great accomplishment for all those at Baker as well as serving our mission. This nonprofit will continue to grow and serve our society.

I volunteered at Baker for the summer of 2021. The work they're doing - from the hands-on job training to the personal workshops - brings joy and hope and marketable skills to the most underserved communities in Philadelphia. It was a privilege to be apart of the team and to work alongside the participants. Baker Industries is a great nonprofit.

Baker Industries is a community focused organization that creates opportunities for real change in people's lives. Their team is dedicated and thoughtful-- working hard to create positive outcomes for their participants.

Baker Industries has a program that creates opportunities for those in need of a chance. There is a culture of caring & community throughout the organization. Have not met anyone who has interacted with this group who has not raved about their experience. Baker is an amazing organization.

Baker Industries helps individuals who need help most lead fulfilling lives.They give hope and direction to those who otherwise don't have a clear path to making a positive impact on their own lives and on the world. Rather than looking down on people who have faced adversity and struggled to align with society's standards of success, Baker extends its heart and resources in hopes of helping to create a better future.

Baker Industries makes a positive and dramatic impact in the lives of the participants in their program. No small thing!

I have worked with Baker for more than 20 years - 18 in my current role. Think about that: Virtually everything about print production and distribution has been disrupted in that time period, some items and processes more than once! As a result, when it comes to creating and distributing enrollment packets for hundreds of thousands of eligible customers each year, I have investigated automated solutions, regional solutions - almost any kind of solution that would be more efficient and cost effective. And guess what: I've stayed with Baker every time. There is no substitute for the personal care taken, the desire to learn the business, the collaboration and ultimately the accountability Baker offers, from the people in the front office to the people stuffing folders or envelopes. Today my team considers Baker family, not a vendor. And we've been privileged to be welcomed into their family as well. I value their partnership, and I recommend Baker without reservation as a principled, reliable and long-term resource.

I worked for Summit Container Corporation and we received three very large contracts to supply protective packaging for Verizon, CTDI and Comcast. These boxes were designed to protect video black box programing devices. They were built so that the interiors of the box could be reused over many cycles. We had to find a company in the Philadelphia area that could handle the massive amount of corrugated boxes we would be shipping daily. We found Baker Industries to be that company. They had the storage facilities to handle such large volumes. Baker also built the boxes, saved the corrugated inserts for recycling into new boxes, AND shipped sometimes five or six 52 foot long trailers daily. Baker Industries never let us down and it was a very successful contract for Summit Container.

Baker Industries is a very special non-profit organization that I have been a supporter of for many years. Baker is unique place that helps people who may not "fit" into regular work environments and allows them to regain self esteem, learn new skills and make the most out of their abilities on a daily basis. Baker Industries is truly a fantastic and life changing place!

We have worked with Baker for the last decade (Kitting / Fulfillment, Assembly, Packaging / Repackaging & Shrink Wrapping) and know that we will continue for many more decades to come!
Anything from the ease of doing business, to the quality of work, to knowing the positive impact in lives of many hard to employ adults; makes it an easy decision continue to partner with Baker year over year.
If I could give Baker even more than 5 stars – I would do it in a heartbeat!

Such an amazing place with countless lives changed for the better!

Baker Industries is an amazing place, they are not many like them! What the offer to those in need of jobs is above and beyond. And the dedication from all is fantastic. I highly recommend Baker Industries.

Organizations like Baker Industries that are dedicated to providing a future to otherwise under appreciated members of our society are too few and far between. I applaud Baker's dedication and am proud to be one of their business partners.

They do excellent work helping people in need. I have known them and watched their progress for the last 15 years, amazing people doing important work.

Just recommended Baker to one of our most important clients. I do so with the greatest of confidence knowing what a great organization Baker is, let alone the vital role Baker plays in our community and in the lives of the many people they help!
David Gural

My husband Dan found Baker Industries from his previous employer whom he was retiring from 3 years ago. He was looking to contribute to others and find something that he was good at delivering and he was referred into the company. Dan was hired by Baker and his impact has been obvious in the change for the better of Baker Industries. Most recently Baker hosted my daughter (she is a senior this year in HS)for the morning on the working assembly line as she learns about non-profits and the impact it can make on peoples lives. Our family is blessed to be connected the Baker and we will continue to advocate for the cause and help in any way we can. Thank you

I feel great contributing to Baker because you can see directly where the support goes. Baker Industries is a top notch non-profit, with human goodness at its core.

All you have to do is walk through the door at Baker Industries and you know immediately that you are in a space that believe EVERYONE has value. Baker Industries promotes and celebrates dignity and hard work and humanity in every thing they do.

This organization reminds you that there's still good in people! I love their mission of helping those less that are dealt different circumstances in life, to get integrated into a sustainable work environment with a living wage. Our society thrives when people are engaged in their communities and have a purpose. Baker embodies these principles.

Having dealt with Baker Industries for nearly 20 years I know this organization has done exceptional work helping those of us who are needed a chance. The leadership of Baker is extraordinary and I feel Baker is a great model for any nonprofit.

Baker Industries provides essential work opportunity and training for the vulnerable population, helping them navigate through everyday situations. Additionally, it allows each individual to showcase their best qualities in the work environment and gives the opportunity to build confidence and create a path for success. We enjoy the opportunity to continue support of Baker Industries and their mission.

As a volunteer for nearly 20 years I have seen Baker Industries strive and succeed at transitioning members of our society who for a variety of reasons are difficult to hire into respectful, respected and reliable employees when given a supportive chance. "Bakerites" are given an opportunity to find fulfillment in work and also provided with the resources and encouragement to bloom and grow as individuals.

I have worked with these folks for over 20 years. Great organization, wonderful people. My clients love the work Baker produces.

As a long time neighbor of Baker Industries i have seen first had what they do on a daily basis.
With out question they make a impactful positive change to individuals lives and the lives of their families.
We do our small part to support them and I am proud to be their neighbor.

As a Board member for over 20 years, I have seen the amazing success of Baker Industries as it has grown from the garage of the founders to a business-like environment occupying two separate locations. Hundreds of high level handicapped individuals and reformed offenders have been helped through Baker's efforts. Baker Industries works with these employees to help teach work and life skills that they were previously not exposed to. The network of volunteers to assist the "Bakerites" is vast and is evidence of the importance of Baker Industries in the community.

Baker Industries addresses such a fundamental need in our society today-- helping adults who face seemingly insurmountable challenges, whether it be intellectual and/or physical disability, former incarceration, substance abuse, or homelessness, to develop the skills, confidence, and pathways to find and sustain fulfilling employment. Everyone deserves this opportunity, and everyone benefits. Baker brings out the best in everyone, by helping combat society's rejection of vulnerable populations, and instead lifting them up and presenting opportunities for self-development, self-esteem, and self-sufficiency. There is no greater gift, and I am proud to be a part of this amazing team of dedicated staff, volunteers, participants, and customers that are doing such profoundly important work.

I was introduced to Baker Industries through a women's social club, the Newcomers & Neighbors of the Upper Main Line. We host an annual Holiday Luncheon for the Baker employees. It is one of the most uplifting and positive experiences I've ever had, and so I had to become more involved. In the last 10 years I began by running the Holiday Luncheon program, then by increasing club involvement with Baker, both through donations and volunteerism. In 2014 I started helping with their annual Gala. I've seen Baker achieve it's goals through several years and find that the positives never end. They help their employees achieve the dream of useful, productive and life changing employment, giving hope to the previously hopeless. I especially appreciate that they have built this non-profit from the ground up with no State or Federal funds.

For the last seven years I have volunteered with both resume writing and small group book discussions, honored to be working with some of the most dedicated and caring people I have ever met. These employees, who themselves have overcome major challenges, are so giving that they volunteer themselves in their scarce extra time at their churches or with children's sports games to help others. Baker supports the concept that humanity depends upon being aware of and helping others, a concept we dearly need in these times.

I have been a supporter of Baker Industries for many years. Baker is a very special non-profit organization. People who may not “fit the mold” in a general workplace due to a disability or an unfortunate history have a facility to learn the skills that can help get them back on their feet. Baker gives people a chance when others do not, and they focuses on people’s abilities rather than their disabilities. Baker is truly a fantastic and life changing institution!

A wonderful organization that exceeded all our expectations. Baker Industries provided a great service with wonderful individuals that were always attentive to our needs, as well as, our customers. As a manufacturing company, we needed to move one of our operations off site. Baker stepped up and gave us space in their facility and a dedicated individual, who was trained and certified in our operations. They excelled at product assembly and distribution from day one and afforded our company the opportunity to continue to supply a product to our industry customers without skipping a beat. Thank you Baker for all your assistance. Keep up the great work!

Baker Industries created a whole life for the sister of my next door neighbor . She loved her job and her co-workers so much that she would come to work early . Thank you Baker Industries .

This is one of the great non-profits! It takes folks who are "down and out" due to disability, post imprisonment and post addiction and assists building their self-worth and employability. Its track record is excellent.

I am a long time donor and have had a favorable history with them. I attend events at Baker frequently and see stories of success as well as discussing individual situations with Baker employee/clients. Baker creates and improves the self esteem of their individual clients through targeted employment.

When our manufacturing company went through reorganization in 2016 we evaluated outsourcing one of our fabrication operations. Baker Industries provided the best proposal and we moved our operation to their Malvern facility. Baker exceeded all of our expectations. They provided space, fabrication labor and shipping expertise which enabled us to continuing serving our customers as well, if not better, than we had served them with our own fabrication staff. And, the best part is that Baker did it for a far lower price which increased our profitability. I would recommend BAKER without hesitation. They simply did an OUTSTANDING job for our organization. John B. McGowan, Jr., CEO, Utility Supply Inc., Great Valley Corporate Center, Malvern, PA

Baker has created a phenomenal workplace development program for those who need it the most. In the short 3 month I worked there, I was able to connect with those currently in the program but also with those who graduated and are now working full time elsewhere. The impact of Baker’s mission and goals are real and effective. There’s no other place like it.

My wife and I are so happy to be able to support the important and wonderful work Baker does for the Philadelphia community. Excellent and caring management and a meaningful unique mission makes giving an easy choice for us.

Baker offers a comfortable environment to people in need. They provide hope and opportunity every day.

Baker Industries is a very special program that provides a workforce development program for four different segments of the low/no income vulnerable adult population. In addition to providing training through a real job, they provide workshops and training in a wide variety of life skills. They pay everyone a real wage even while the participants are off-the-floor in a workshop. All staff and management have been through extensive training in Trauma - they are truly a trauma-informed organization. All is done without any government funding for operations.

I got involved with Baker Industries a couple of years ago, when I joined the Board. Having spent many years in human resources and general management roles, I recognize the challenge of creating a safe, caring workplace and the value of a job to a person's self worth and well-being. Enter a Baker location and you immediately sense the caring and dedication of program participants and staff for their job and for each other. Baker Industries is a special enterprise!

My aunt has been a Baker industries employee for over a decade now, and I was fortunate enough to share a home with her for the first 18 years of my life. She was a constant, glowing presence, always offering encouragement and a listening ear. But my aunt's path in this life has not been easy. She struggled for almost 50 years with a disability before finding Baker industries. But Baker Industries, and especially the Baker community of workers, volunteers, and staff, truly changed her life. The people are what set this organization apart, and they have helped my aunt find passion and purpose. The counseling, training, and social events, from Phillies games to improv sketches, are invaluable components of the program as well, giving our Bakerites a support system that is hard to come by these days.

Baker industries is a gem! They provide a means for those that are "hard to employ" to gain a foothold in the workplace, regain their self esteem and get their lives back on track. Self funded with no government subsidies, Baker operates like a buisness but does the work of a social non profit, improving the lives of their workers while delivering quality products to their customers.

My son got a job at Baker Industries and the change in him has been remarkable. This is his first official job, and his attitude has done a complete 180 degree turnaround. He now feels as if he has a sense of purpose and understands the importance of responsibility. The staff at Baker has been there to guide him along the way, either by allowing him to learn new skills or to just make sure he stays focused on doing his job. I cannot say enough good things about Baker Industries

I had the pleasure of working with Baker Industries when a group from my company spent a Community Partnership Day at the Malvern location. The staff explained the mission their mission, the approach to helping others build skills and self-esteem thru employment, and work with people to move them forward for future opportunities.The staff has a strong passion for their vision. We spent the day working with employees on an assembly line and had the pleasure of getting to know some of them. It was wonderful to hear them discuss their future goals. More programs such as those offered by Baker Industries are needed. This should be seen as a model for other locations throughout the country.

Baker Industries is a well run business that provides real work for persons with disabilities and for people recently released from incarceration. They enable people to learn merketable job skills which they can continue to use at Baker or take with them to new opportunities. They are very accomodating of idiosyncrasies that other employers might not tolerate. I highly recommend them as an employer and only wish more businesses would adopt their willing attitude to improve the lives of the vulnerable and marginalized.

This is an amazing non profit. All funding comes from private sources which is VERY rare. The benefits received by participants at Baker Industries are unlike any these populations are able to receive elsewhere. The self esteem, independence and hope for the future made accessible are life changing. It is an honor to be affiliated with such a unique and successful organization.

I love to spend several mornings and afternoons doing volunteer work at Bakers Industries. The staff is extremely supportive and everyone working at the facility feels like family. They plan all sorts of communal events for the workers and each one of them feels special and recognized for their skills.

Baker is simply amazing. To do what they do, with such little is nothing short of astounding. They take the lives of those who are at their lowest & take the time, dedication, & care to build them back up. They help make people feel special and show them that they care. After all, who does not want to be accepted and love?

Baker stands for the good in the world. That everyone is human, no matter what issues they face or what turmoils they have went through. Thank you Baker, for giving people another chance.

Baker is a non-profit that is unique in its ability to help so many different people within the community. They are really making a difference in people's lives and the family that they have created is a strong support system for those who have experienced adversity in their life and strive to better themselves at Baker and after Baker.

Baker Industries not only cares about their employees, but they lead the way in providing an opportunity for each member of the team to succeed. It has been an amazing story for me to follow over the last six years and I commend the leadership for their hard work and effort.

My nephew was having trouble finding a job so decided to spend some time working as a part time volunteer at Baker. The people at Baker were wonderful and the experience really opened his eyes and invigorated him to pursue his own goals. He helped some of the folks at Baker and they helped him right back! Thanks Baker!

Baker industries is a unique employer dedicated to serving the members of our community who need employment assistance most. Congratulations and thank you for all the wonderful work you do!

Baker Industries gives second chances to people who are down on their luck.I know some people personally who work there and it has given each one renewed hope.

Baker Industries does great things for people who don't have opportunities elsewhere. Because they are a caring and socially aware company they are willing to accept and take the chance on employees who either have limits to their capacities or who have made mistakes in their pasts.

I got a great start after 5 years incarceration at Baker, and will always be grateful for that opportunity! I have since moved on to another job; still in the non-profit sector, with Habitat for Humanity. Thank you Baker Industries for making my transition much better than it otherwise might have been!

Harry B

Talk about diversity and equality, Baker has it! This place of special opportunity offers those from many walks of life the chance to participate in competitive employment with support as needed. It is a cavalier approach to combine those with developmental / psychiatric disabilities along with those who have an abuse or criminal background but somehow they all realize what they have going and a compatible joint effort rises to get the job done and develop a community. Not dependent on government funding, they are well deserving of what the accomplish.

Our daughter worked at Baker for six months as a transition job. It was a total transformation. Baker helped increase her self confidence and self esteem while helping her control her anger management and anxiety. They were kind, compassionate and understanding whenever issues arose and helped her believe in herself. Occupational therapy was also provided and gave her many tools to help her deal with everyday challenges and stresses. Everyone deserves a second chance and Baker delivers.

Baker is an amazing place which gives an opportunity for real work to several special segments of the work force. For physically and mentally challenged workers who are not otherwise able to work in the competitve world, it provides a caring and "safe" place to realize their capabilities, socialize with others, and earn self-esteem as well as a paycheck. For recovering substance abusers , ex-offenders and homeless individuals, Baker provides a supportive but structured environment where they can get a fresh start, develop good working habits and begin to build a resume for future jobs in the "real world". Volunteering at Baker for 11 years has been very gratifying, and I have watched so many people overcome their hurdles to develop into contributing members of the company and of their communities. If you can spare some time every week or only every now and then, this is a place to check out!

Baker Industries has a lean, but highly committed and highly effective management structure. The money they raise goes directly to making the community stronger. A tour of the facility makes it clear that there is a personal bond between the staff and the people served.

Baker Industries fills a vital link in our community. By providing employment to people with mild disabilities and criminal records, they enable those who would other wise end up on welfare become productive members of society. They combine meaningful work with occupational and career counseling, training on proper workforce behavior and an atmosphere of love and respect. The employees and volenteers at this wonderful organization really feel like a family. At the same time, Baker Industries fills a much need role for their clients here in the Philadelphia area and nationwide.

When I volunteer at Baker, I am priviledged to meet some of the employees and work along side them. They are consistantly positive and grateful for the opportunity to work at Baker. They are well supported by the staff and for many, this is their family. Hiring those that are marginalized, this organization fills a gap that is sorely lacking in our society.

Over the years we have bought Baker Industries products to give them support for their noble work. They do marvelous work with their "employees" and are very well managed and led. Truly inspirational.

Baker Industries helps the handicapped and former prisoners to develop sound work habits and job skills to make them more employable. As both a donor and a former volunteer, I have never seen an organization that combines compassion and tough love so effectively. The mission of Baker Industries has been a true labor of love for Charlie and Weezie Baker, who founded the organization, and that mission has been expanded over the years to include a highly competent professional staff that has the best interests of employees at heart. Baker is the only organization I know of whose goal is to lose its best employees; Baker trains people in a real-world working environment of accountability for performance so that they can go on to a better vocational future with for-profit and nonprofit firms.

Baker Industries is truly making a difference in the lives of many people as well as being a great asset to the business community. They not only do meaningful work but also provide meaningful employment to people in many walks of life. I was touched when I volunteered there by the caring and extra effort the staff took to be there for the employees while also ensuring that the job gets done right.

Baker Industries makes a difference in the lives of so many, primarily because the organization has consistently excellent leadership and broad community support.

Baker Industries provides a valuable service by training and employing people who are often marginalized. This non-profit empowers individuals to be meaningful contributors to their communities and society. Lori Valentino-Smith, MSS, LSW

Baker Industries fills a void by employing and training those that other companies won't take a chance on hiring. Bravo!

A well organized non-profit that benefits members of society with a variety of handicaps by providing employment, benefits and friendship. It gives the employees a feeling of self-worth!

Very pleased to work with Baker Industries. Baker Industries is eager to help individuals who need it. It has been a wonderful experience to work with them.