PHOTOS BY KRISTY GRAVER

Rachel Herskowitz works for Bunny Bakes & Specialty Coffee in Squirrel Hill, even on her days off. 

“She recruits a lot of customers. No one is a better salesperson for Bunny Bakes than the employees of Bunny Bakes,” says Ann Grandinetti, development and community engagement coordinator for The Friendship Circle of Pittsburgh, the community organization running the shop at 1926 Murray Ave. 

Herskowitz joined the group — which is headquartered next door in the former Gullifty’s space — when she was a teenager to connect with people of all abilities. There are currently more than 500 active members. 

Rabbi Mordy Rudolph and Rivkee Rudolph started the local chapter of The Friendship Circle from their home in 2006 with the goal of making Pittsburgh more inclusive, especially for people with special needs. Members attend myriad programs and social events, from Kennywood outings and rock climbing excursions to cooking classes and dances that are made possible through donations, corporate sponsorships and two yearly fundraisers.

With Bunny Bakes, they’re taking the leap into the business world to champion inclusivity in the workplace while satisfying people’s craving for sweets. 

The fully kosher bakery, which, for now, is open 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, also is a training facility for adult members of The Friendship Circle. Classes are held twice a week to boost confidence and beef up resumes. Graduates can apply their newfound skills at Bunny Bakes or on another job. No matter what career path they end up on, the Rudolphs hope they will influence others to embrace diversity.

“We started The Friendship Circle with playdates, but as the kids grew older, inclusion meant different things at different stages,” says Rivkee Rudolph, a former kindergarten teacher. “A big part of meaningful integration into the community is employment opportunities.”

The late Bernita “Bunny” Buncher, a Friendship Circle donor and advocate for inclusivity in the city, suggested opening a companion business to reach more people. 

Bunny Bakes operated as a roving pop-up for two years before moving into the brick-and-mortar space, which also houses The Beacon, a teen wellness center on the second floor. The interior of the old Subway restaurant has been thoughtfully re-designed to be ADA-accessible and welcoming to all patrons There’s an adult changing table in the restroom and the lighting and audio systems can be adjusted by request.  

Since opening Nov. 7, the place has been hoppin’. 

Customers are coming in to support the mission, but they’re staying for the delicious pastries and De Fer Coffee & Tea.

Kitchen Manager Julie Mazer-Remaley, a veteran pastry chef, is sharing her talents with employees who crank out cookies, brownies, cinnamon buns, fudge and, yes, even carrot cake. (Personally, I’m a fan of the Cookie Monster Parfait). Bunny Bakes plans to add savory menu items and salads, as well as more gluten-free and vegan options, soon.

Will Bunny Bakes multiply like rabbits? 

Perhaps.

The Rudolphs aren’t ruling out multiple locations — or entirely new concepts —  as long as the focus is on making the world a better place. 

“As humans, we all have the same needs and desires and most of that revolves around connection,” Rivkee Rudolph says. “And people love to gather around food. We hope we can be a model of what an inclusive business can be.”