The IFB Beat 1-19 Edition

A Message from the Editor

Welcome to this week’s edition of the IFB Beat! As we honor the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, we take time to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy of service, inclusion and equality — values that closely align with IFB Solutions’ mission and the way we show up for one another every day.

We’re proud to kick things off by celebrating Nazario Cortes, the Puerto Rico facility employee of the year. Nazario’s dedication, teamwork and positive spirit truly reflect our core values and the heart of our mission. Please join us in congratulating him on this well-earned recognition.

This edition is also packed with important updates and reminders about on-site annual mammogram screenings, low vision clinic appointments, W-2 distribution details and helpful human resources and benefits information. We’re excited to welcome Melody Paxton to the Asheville team and applaud our Asheville employees for achieving an incredible milestone: 10 years without a lost-time accident.

You’ll also find this week’s Employee Spotlight, featuring Jorge O. Cosme, whose long-standing service and dedication continue to make a difference.

Thank you for taking a few moments to stay informed, connected and inspired by the amazing people who make IFB such a special place to work.

Quote of the week:

“Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” — George Bernard Shaw

Thank you for strolling the Beat. See you next week!

Anastasia Powell

IFB Solutions Communications Manager
apowell@ifbsolutions.org | 336-245-5698

 

Quick Links:

New this Week

– 2026 Award Winner: Nazario Cortes
– Annual Mammogram Screenings
– Welcome New Team Member
– Safety Recognition: Congratulations Asheville Team
– Appointments Available, Schedule a Low Vision Exam
– Social Services & Employee Resources Center Update
– W-2 Distribution & Online Access Update
– Pinnacle Mercantile Woobie Featured in Hunting Life
– Employee Spotlight Featuring Jorge O. Cosme, Fort Buchanan Base Supply Center
– Winston-Salem Facility Support Groups

From Our Community

– Inspiration Station

HR & Opportunities

– Health Benefit Update
– Retirement Plan, 401(k)
– Job Opportunities

IFB Beat Phone Lines
Support Group Zoom Meeting Links
Archived Editions of The IFB Beat

 

2026 Award Winner: Nazario Cortes

Headshot of Nazario Cortes

We will be introducing 2026 award winners in the next few editions of the Beat. This edition features Nazario Cortes, Puerto Rico Employee of the Year.

Each year, we nominate employees who demonstrate excellence in their jobs and live out IFB’s core values of Commitment to Excellence, Creative Solutions, Business with a Heart, Mission Possible and Ethical to the Core. These employees represent the great work being done to grow IFB’s mission of creating employment, training and services for people who are blind.

Nazario Cortes has been named the 2026 Puerto Rico Employee of the Year, a recognition that reflects his outstanding dedication, exceptional teamwork and consistently positive attitude. A proud native of Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, Nazario has been a valued member of the IFB team across two chapters of service — first from 2006 to 2013, and again from 2021 to 2025. He was originally introduced to IFB by his daughter, a connection that led him to a workplace he deeply appreciates.

Nazario is an integral part of the IWOL team, known for his reliability, quality work and willingness to help whenever needed. His skill and precision show in the various operations he performs.

Outside of work, Nazario enjoys agriculture, has a great appreciation for all types of food and possesses a special talent in carpentry — a craft he takes pride in.

When asked what he enjoys most about IFB, Nazario highlights the culture of respect that makes the workplace feel supportive and collaborative. His favorite piece of advice reflects his optimistic spirit: “In life we should be positive and undertake chances every day.”

 

Annual Mammogram Screenings

Early detection is the best defense against breast cancer. On Wednesday, Feb. 4, Novant Health Breast Center is offering on-site annual mammogram screenings for employees at the Winston-Salem and Clemmons locations. Appointments are required and will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Manufacturing employees: Inform your supervisor that you would like to be scheduled for an appointment. Your supervisor will notify Monica Lattany.

Administrative and salaried employees: Complete the Novant Health mobile mammogram appointment sign-up form here and either email it to mlattany@ifbsolutions.org or drop it off at Monica Lattany’s office. You will be notified of your appointment date and time on Tuesday, Feb. 3.

 

Welcome New Team Member

Please join us in welcoming Melody Paxton to the Asheville team as part of the utility maintenance department! Melody will be working under the supervision of Richard Bogan, and we’re excited to have her join the IFB Solutions family. Be sure to say hello and help make her feel welcome as she begins her journey with us.

 

Safety Recognition: Congratulations Asheville Team

As of Jan. 4, we are proud recognize the Asheville facility for achieving 10 years without a lost-time accident. This milestone represents 3,653 days and well over one million work hours of working safely and looking out for one another. Outstanding job, Asheville team. This is an incredible accomplishment!

 

Appointments Available, Schedule a Low Vision Exam

Appointments are now available for the March low vision clinic. The discounted employee cost is $40.

Clinic dates & locations:
Dr. Quilla — Asheville: March 4
Dr. Street — Winston-Salem: March 12

Book your exam:
Asheville: Grant Weathers — 828-761-2468
Winston-Salem: Charity Hampton — 336-245-5672
Email: lowvision@ifbsolutions.org

 

Social Services & Employee Resources Center Update

Need assistance? We’re here to help. If you need assistance with food, clothing or housing, please submit a ticket to meet with IFB’s social worker, Monica Lattany. Important: Do not wait until the last minute, as some resources require documentation and an application process. If you have questions, please call 336-245-5623 or email mlattany@ifbsolutions.org. Thank you for reaching out — we’re here to support you.

 

W-2 Distribution & Online Access Update

W-2 forms will be distributed by your supervisor on or before Jan. 31. While we do not have a confirmed date for when the forms will arrive from Paycom, they will be available earlier through your employee self-service account. We will notify you as soon as they are accessible online.

 

Pinnacle Mercantile Woobie Featured in Hunting Life

Pinnacle Mercantile Woobie

We’re excited to share a recent product review featuring IFB’s Pinnacle Mercantile Black Edition Woobie, written by The Hunting Life. Titled “A Blanket That Feels Like Home,” the review highlights the Woobie as more than just gear, describing it as a trusted companion in the field. The article also includes direct links to the Pinnacle Mercantile online store, making it easy for readers to learn more and shop. 👉 Read the full review here: https://huntinglife.com/a-blanket-that-feels-like-home-the-pinnacle-mercantile-black-edition-woobie/

 

Employee Spotlight Featuring Jorge O. Cosme, Fort Buchanan Base Supply Center

Welcome to the Employee Spotlight. Each week, we celebrate the incredible individuals who make IFB thrive. This week, we’re excited to feature Jorge O. Cosme, a cashier at the Fort Buchanan Base Supply Center.

Headshot of Jorge O. Cosme

Q: Where did you grow up?
A: On the east coast of Puerto Rico, in a town called Las Piedras.

Q: How long have you been at IFB, and what brought you to the organization?
A: I’ve been with IFB for 23 years. I heard about the job opportunity through my cousin Ana, after someone else who declined the offer mentioned it to her.

Q: What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of work?
A: I enjoy reading (mostly fantasy and sci-fi), watching movies, TV series, playing video games, taking care of my dogs, brewing kombucha (and recently beer) and cooking — though I’ll admit I’m not very good at it!

Q: What’s your all-time favorite food or meal?
A: A Philly cheesesteak sandwich with provolone cheese — the real one.

Q: What do you enjoy most about working at IFB?
A: It keeps me busy, allows me to meet great people, and gives me the opportunity to do my part in supporting the armed forces and the federal government.

Q: What’s a quote or piece of advice you’d give to a friend?
A: Be honest and keep your word.

Special thanks to Base Supply Store Manager Jorge Contreras Reyes for supporting these highlights. Who knows? You might be next in the spotlight! Stay tuned, and thanks for reading.

 

Winston-Salem Facility Support Groups

If you’re interested in attending a support group, please review the update here: https://ifbsolutions.org/the-ifb-beat-12-16-edition/#two-d.

Support group meeting this week: Veterans group, Tuesday, Jan. 20 from 12–1 p.m. in TADS Room

 

From Our Community

Inspiration Station

Source: ReviveYourWork.com

This is a space designed to help you pause, reflect and recharge. You won’t see it every week, but when it shows up, it’s here to motivate, challenge and encourage you to bring your best — whether you’re on the clock or off. Think of it as a gentle nudge, a fresh perspective and a reminder that your voice matters, your impact is real and your mindset shapes everything.

When life gets busy, it’s easy to move through the day on autopilot. Inspiration Station is your moment to reset and refocus — because how we show up matters, and someone out there needs exactly what you bring.

______________________________________________________

One… two… I gripped the bar tight as if it would make the weight lighter.
Three… four… my muscles were already burning.
Five… six… I wanted this set to be over.
Seven… eight… another deep breath — so close.
Nine… only one more to go…
Then, right before I finished my tenth repetition, my trainer surprised me: “Two more!”
Wait… what?! My mind and muscles were done and ready to rack the weight. Yet, I followed his suggestion and did two more.

Driving home, I reflected. A simple suggestion helped me push myself and accomplish a better result: 12 repetitions instead of 10. In business terms, that’s a 20% increase in productivity. That’s significant.

I didn’t push myself further, work harder and endure more pain simply because of a suggestion. I pushed myself further, worked harder and endured more pain because of who the suggester was. My friendship with and respect for my trainer is the reason I continued. The power of the suggester fuels the suggestion. So, what makes a powerful suggester?

  • Trust is built over time. Be patient as it starts slowly and builds with each meaningful interaction.
  • Focus on what others care about by understanding their why. Stick by people and encourage them to do the work necessary to achieve the goals important to them.
  • Example leads the way. Credibility comes from walking your talk. Don’t ask someone to do what you’re not willing to do yourself.

We all have the opportunity to encourage people to achieve more than they thought possible. Have you earned the right to suggest “two more” of others?

______________________________________________________

 

 

HR & Opportunities

Health Benefit Update

______________________________________________________

Need to contact your medical carrier?
To find your carrier’s phone number and website, log in to zizzlhealth.com.

  1. Select “Your Benefits”
  2. Click the gear icon next to “Health”
  3. Choose “Contact Carrier” for the phone number and websites

Medical reimbursements if enrolled in Medicare, Medicare Supplement
You may submit monthly payment receipts to receive an employer medical credit if you:

  • Pay Medicare premiums
  • Pay Medicare Supplement (Medigap) premiums, or
  • Are enrolled in Medicare and have a qualified dependent enrolled in medical coverage outside of IFB’s ICHRA plan

______________________________________________________

Step 1: Reimbursements, enrolled in Medicare, Medicare Supplement

Complete the non-zizzl health (off-platform) enrollment notification form here. Once submitted, your off-platform account will be created in zizzl health.

Step 2: Reimbursements, enrolled in Medicare, Medicare Supplement — submit claims

Log in to zizzlhealth.com. Navigate to “Your Benefits”. Select “Submit Reimbursement” under “Your Account Balances”. Follow the prompts to upload documentation, review and submit.

Note:

  • The first time you submit a claim for reimbursement, you will connect your bank account for direct deposit through Plaid. Select “Link Account” found under the “Transfer to” field.
  • Claim approval: approximately 3–5 business days
  • Reimbursement method: direct deposit
  • This step must be completed monthly
  • Email support@zizzlhealth.com or call 414-800-2278 for assistance.

Step 3: Reimbursements, Set Up Direct Deposit — first time claim submitted

  • Log in to zizzlhealth.com
  • Select “Submit Reimbursement”
  • Upload an image of your receipt
  • Choose the applicable reimbursement account
  • Enter the reimbursement amount
  • Select the account for deposit
  • Enter the carrier name (e.g., BCBSNC, Ambetter)
  • Enter the date of expense and a brief description
  • Review and submit

Important reminder: Employer credits are issued once payment has been verified. Receipts must be submitted each month to receive employer credit.

Questions/need assistance: contact zizzl health at support@zizzlhealth.com or 414-800-2278

 

Retirement Plan, 401(k)

Enrollment Timeline

  • Jan. 19–30: Employee enrollment and investment elections available
  • Feb. 2 and beyond: Full 401(k) plan access and processing functionality begins

How to Prepare

Log in to “Anytime Access” here. Assistance: contact the Participant Service Center at 855-593-7279. Their hours are Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.– 8 p.m.

First-Time Login Instructions

  • User ID: Your Social Security number (format: 999009999, no dashes)
  • Password: Your date of birth (MMDDYYYY). Example: June 4, 1982 = 06041982.

Download the READYSAVE Mobile App (sunset icon) to:

  • View your account balance
  • Review and change investments
  • Update your contribution (deferral) amount beginning Jan. 19 (approximate date)

Need Assistance?

Winston-Salem, Clemmons, and all other locations (excluding Asheville): Contact Monica Lattany via the ticketing system or email mlattany@ifbsolutions.org. Asheville: Contact Mary Hunter at 828-667-9778 x5827 or mhunter@ifbsolutions.org

 

Job Opportunities

In-line Inspector

Education and Work Experience

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • 1–3 years previous inspection experience preferred.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/195700

 

Staff Accountant, Manufacturing and Cost

Education and Work Experience

  • A bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance is required.
  • 1–3 years of accounting experience, specifically in a manufacturing or distribution environment, is desired.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/196386

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/196387?jpt=ce8685cef740a6280b5fcb492b556fa5

 

For all current openings, visit https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs?clientkey=8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909. For more information, please contact a member of the recruitment team at careers@ifbsolutions.org.

 

IFB Beat Phone Lines

English line: 336-245-5691

Spanish line: 336-245-5663

 

Zoom Meeting Links

Support Group Zoom

https://ifbsolutions.zoom.us/j/86167111929?pwd=G9vSBWcnTFrMHixqb19TpU7q8sQW1N.1

Meeting ID: 861 6711 1929
Passcode: 992614

One tap mobile:
+13126266799,86167111929# US (Chicago)
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888 475 4499 US Toll-free
877 853 5257 US Toll-free