Rising Above Bakery

In the vibrant village of Nyack, New York, where the Hudson River meets a community rich in culture and heart, Rising Above Bakery stands as a testament to the power of inclusion and the art of fine baking. This is not your average neighborhood bread shop; it is a mission-driven organization that blends high-end culinary skill with a profound social purpose. For those of us in the New York region, we often look for businesses that give back, and Rising Above Bakery does so by providing life-changing vocational training and employment for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. From its base on Main Street, this bakery has transformed the simple act of buying a loaf of bread into an opportunity to support a more inclusive society.

The story of Rising Above Bakery began with Shiri Reuveni-Ullrich, a dedicated speech therapist who recognized the therapeutic and empowering nature of the kitchen. What started as a small project has blossomed into a professional operation known for its "out of this world" cakes and artisanal sourdough. For New Yorkers who value both quality and community impact, this bakery offers a unique "feel-good" moment with every purchase. Every item is hand-crafted using premium ingredients, ensuring that the flavor profile of their scones, cookies, and breads is as exceptional as the mission behind them. In a state that prides itself on diversity and opportunity, Rising Above Bakery is a shining example of how a local business can "rise above" traditional models to create something truly extraordinary.

Location and Accessibility

Rising Above Bakery is located at 70 Main St, Nyack, NY 10960, USA. Positioned in the heart of downtown Nyack, the bakery is part of a bustling corridor known for its walkable streets, historic charm, and eclectic mix of shops. For local residents, the bakery is a convenient stop during a morning walk or a weekend visit to the Nyack Farmers Market. Its central location on Main Street makes it highly visible and easily accessible to anyone exploring the village center.

For those traveling from other parts of Rockland County or commuting from Northern New Jersey and Westchester, the bakery is easily reached via the New York State Thruway and the Mario Cuomo Bridge. While the bakery currently operates with specific retail and pickup hours (typically Wednesday through Friday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm), they have also established convenient pickup locations, such as the Burger Loft in Nyack for evening orders. The shop’s presence at 70 Main Street is marked by its welcoming atmosphere, although visitors should note the specific side-door access and stairs leading to their dedicated workspace within the community hub. As they continue to grow, the organization remains focused on finding a permanent, fully accessible storefront to further expand their reach and welcome more neighbors into their kitchen.

Services Offered

Rising Above Bakery provides a variety of professional services that cater to individual food lovers, local businesses, and community groups. Their service model is designed to be inclusive and high-impact:

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LI Artisanal Sourdough Production: Hand-crafted, naturally leavened breads baked fresh daily using traditional methods and premium organic flour.

LI Made-to-Order Cookie Platters: Custom-designed dessert spreads perfect for corporate meetings, birthday parties, and school events.

LI Wholesale Partnerships: Supplying local New York delis, cafes, and restaurants with fresh, small-batch pastries and breads that elevate local menus.

LI Vocational Training (Knead to Rise): A specialized program offering hands-on baking experience and life-skills preparation for adults with special needs who have aged out of secondary education.

LI Field Trips and Workshops: Engaging, inclusive baking classes for students and community groups, ranging from cookie decorating to sourdough masterclasses.

LI Online Ordering and Local Pickup: A streamlined digital shop allowing customers to pre-order their favorite treats for convenient pickup in Nyack.

Features / Highlights

What makes Rising Above Bakery a standout in the Rockland County food scene is the combination of its high-quality product line and its commitment to social good. Key highlights include:

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LI Inclusive Employment Model: The bakery is powered by a team of over 40 individuals, including bakers with special needs and dedicated volunteers working side-by-side.

LI Premium, Clean Ingredients: A strict focus on sourcing natural and organic ingredients to ensure that every bite is as nutritious as it is delicious.

LI "Excellent" Flavor Profiles: Reviews from customers consistently praise the "awesome taste" of their graham crackers, cranberry/orange loaves, and signature cakes.

LI Traditional Baking Methods: Utilizing time-honored techniques for their sourdough and babka, resulting in a superior texture and depth of flavor.

LI Gift-Ready Presentation: Many customers buy their cookies and cakes as gifts, noting that the beautiful presentation consistently blows recipients away.

LI Community Integration: The bakery is an active participant in local craft fairs and community events, building strong ties throughout the New York and New Jersey region.

Contact Information

To support this wonderful organization or to place an order for your next gathering, you can reach Rising Above Bakery through the following channels:

Address: 70 Main St, Nyack, NY 10960, USA

Phone: (646) 541-4595

Mobile Phone: +1 646-541-4595

What is worth choosing

When you visit Rising Above Bakery, the first thing you must try is their signature handcrafted sourdough bread. It represents the foundation of their baking craft, offering a perfect crust and a tangy, airy interior that rivals the best bakeries in Manhattan. For those with a sweet tooth, the cranberry/orange loaf is a highly recommended seasonal favorite, frequently cited by customers at local markets for its bright, balanced flavor and moist texture.

If you are looking for "pure indulgence," their cakes and cookies are described as being in a league of their own. The graham crackers are another surprising hit—far superior to any store-bought version and perfect for elevated snacks or desserts. For those who want to provide a treat that also tells a story, the made-to-order cookie platters are an excellent choice for local office parties or family celebrations. By choosing Rising Above Bakery, you aren't just getting a world-class dessert; you are investing in the dignity and independence of talented individuals right here in our New York community. Whether you prefer a hearty wheat loaf or a decadent chocolate chip cookie, every selection is made with love and a commitment to excellence that you can truly taste.

Would you like me to help you check the current sourdough workshop schedule or help you draft a catering inquiry for a custom cookie platter?

Rising Above Bakery

70 Main St, Nyack, NY 10960, USA