Business of Interest: Willow Group ltd.

Willow Group ltd. was chosen as United Way’s business of interest because of their dedication to United Way and their community. The employees of Willow, led by Customer Service Representative, Bonnie Parker, have run an amazing campaign for many years, but that isn’t where they stop. They annually send a team of ten passionate employees to the United Way Day of Caring, and have recently taken on a dedication to the Backpack Program. This dedication has lent itself to many baskets of food for the children and they aren’t done yet! Ms. Parker and the employees at Willow have decided to collect food year-round and at every employee meeting employees are asked to bring a food item for the basket.

Willow Group ltd. is a great place to work. Their loyalty harvests the kindness and good nature of their employees. The dedication to people and quality started back in 1928 with Mr. Ludwig Skalny. Mr. Skalny moved to Rochester with his wife and used his craftsmanship to start a basket weaving business in his garage. His business flourished through WWII, the 60’s and the 70’s. In 1983, third generation basketeer Bernard Skalny, incorporated his family business into Willow Specialties (now Willow Group ltd.). These finely handcrafted baskets were sold to the same businesses that purchase them still today; florists, produce markets, food stores, and retail outlets. A great business starts from the top and Willow shows their amazing business ethics through their community support.

taken from the Live United Genesee Spring 2011 Newsletter