On the Job with Jayson

Kayla Burkholder
May 1
3 min read

Operations Manager at Bridge House Brownies

At Procure Impact, we partner with vendors that employ individuals overcoming significant barriers to work. By sharing their journeys, we aim to highlight how your purchases directly empower lives and build brighter futures.

Tell us your name and where you work?

My name is Jayson Blockburger and I am the Operations Manager for Bridge House Brownies.

How did you feel when you first landed this job?

Nervous and excited. Excited for the opportunities the position offered, the ability to grow professionally and to learn more about the world of business and operations. But also nervous because I was just leaving a structured sober living environment and in my 2nd year of sobriety. I understood the challenges and responsibilities of the positions, and with the stress that may come with it possibly leading to a relapse.

Tell us what your typical day at Bridge House Brownies looks like.

The consistent day to day, is printing all labels and cards for orders shipping out that day. The rest of the day depends on business needs, whether it be working on marketing emails, outreach to new customers, keeping track of inventory, handling maintenance of the cutting or wrapping machines, or working with trainees of the program in production/packaging to replenish inventory.

I am 4 years sober and I know that relapse, for myself, is not an option

no matter what stress is put in front of me... wherever life may lead me moving forward I can be successful.

How has your future changed because of this opportunity?

My future has changed because of the knowledge and growth I have gained in my time in the position. I am 4 years sober and I know that relapse, for myself, is not an option no matter what stress is put in front of me. Problems arose that affected production and storage and solutions were found. I have learned from any issues that have arisen, have become knowledgeable of the pneumatics of our cutting machine - have had to learn about and replace wiring/padding on our wrapping machine. It has put me in a position to know that wherever life may lead me moving forward I can be successful.

What's your favorite thing about working at Bridge House Brownies?

Being able to work with the trainees, as I used to be one. Being able to talk with them, let them know about my journey - hear their journey, and be proof that it is possible to change and go on to do good things. Give back and be able to help people who are in a position I used to be in.

What is your favorite item/flavor that you sell and why?

I'd say my favorite item is the 16pc Sweet Summit Collection because it has a good variety of flavors, and includes some of my favorite flavors like Raspberry, Salted Caramel and Cherry Blondies. I really like Raspberry because of the Bonne Maman raspberry jam we mix in the brownie batter; Salted Caramel because you honestly cannot go wrong with anything caramel - and topped with sea salt just makes it even more delicious; and Cherry Blondies because of what the base is for a blondie - brown sugar and butter - another combination you cannot go wrong with. They are very sweet and a good tart from the dried cherries.

What would you tell people considering buying your products?

When you purchase from Bridge House Brownies, you're getting more than just a delicious brownie that is rich, handcrafted, and full of flavor. You are supporting someone who is working hard to rebuild their life, and their journey towards a better future. It’s a product you can feel good about gifting, sharing, or enjoying yourself.

About Bridge House Brownies

Bridge House is on a mission to end homelessness - one person at a time. The goal of all Bridge House’s core programs is to meet adults experiencing homelessness where they are and offer them opportunities to transform their lives.

One of those opportunities is making our DELICIOUS truffle brownies! That means each bite of our brownies represent opportunities for people seeking a hand up to a better future. Learn More & Shop Bridge House Brownies