The IFB Beat 12-16 Edition

A Message from the Editor

Greetings, everyone!

This week, we’re excited to introduce the final two members of the Professional Services Team! Additionally, we have reminders on the upcoming Christmas celebrations, the new Winston-Salem Transit Authority scheduling system, and important benefits information.

We’re also thrilled to announce IFB Winston-Salem Facilities’ partnership with Guilford College for the 2025 Leadership Essentials Training. Be sure to sign up by Friday, January 10, 2025!

Thank you for reading the IFB Beat, and have a wonderful week!

Anastasia Powell

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

Quick Links:

New this Week

– Meet the IFB Solutions Professional Services Team
– Reminder: Christmas Plans for Asheville, Clemmons and Winston-Salem Facilities
– Programs Update
– Winston-Salem Facility Support Group Updates
– Community Low Vision Center Updates

From Our Community

– Pop-Up Gift Shop in TAD’s Room, Dec. 16
– Important Notice: Updates to Winston-Salem Transit Authority Scheduling System
– It’s Better to Give Safely

HR and Opportunities

– Self-Identify for EO/AA Employer Reporting
– W-S 2025 Leadership Essentials Training Class – Sign Up Today!
– New Job Announcements

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

 

Meet the IFB Solutions Professional Services Team

In this weeks edition of The IFB Beat, we introduce you to the last two members of the IFB Solutions Professional Services department which includes Workforce Services, Community Low Vision Center, and Programs departments. This week we highlight Grant Weathers, Low Vision Services Manager and Edward Smith, Low Vision Associate.

Grant Weathers

Low Vision Services Manager

Grant Weathers has been with IFB for 10 and a half years, a journey that began when he and a group of friends were hired and commuted from Greenville, South Carolina, to Asheville. Now serving as the Low Vision Services Manager, Grant oversees the Community Low Vision Centers in Asheville and Winston-Salem while managing daily operations in Asheville.

In his role, Grant and his team empower individuals with low vision to achieve greater independence. They connect clients with specialized doctors, visual aids, adaptive tools, and valuable resources. One of the most rewarding aspects of his work is the Focus on Literacy Program, which provides school-aged students with specialty low vision exams and adaptive equipment at no cost.

Grant’s team includes Toni Fraser, Ed Smith, and Charity Hampton, though Ed and Charity also report to others as part-time Low Vision staff. He takes great pride in his team’s ability to make a difference, stating that IFB has changed his life and given him the honor of serving the low-vision community.

Outside of work, Grant enjoys spending time with his wife, whom he married earlier this year, playing golf, and cheering for the Clemson Tigers on the football field. Go Tigers!

Edward Smith

Low Vision Associate

Edward Smith joined IFB Solutions 3 and a half years ago after hearing about the organization from a friend who was familiar with the Low Vision Center. In his role, Edward meets with individuals in the community who have low vision or blindness, helping them explore tools and resources to improve magnification, contrast, and lighting. He also provides local and IT resources, answers questions about services, and assists in preparing and conducting low vision clinics with Dr. Susan Wise. Behind the scenes, Edward manages store operations, handles reception duties, and supports IT, HR, and AR filing tasks using company software and Microsoft Office tools.

Reflecting on his time at IFB, Edward says, “Working at IFB Solutions is a game-changer, both personally and professionally. I have the unique opportunity to meet with people who are just starting on their low vision journey and take them to a place with less anxiety and fear, giving purpose to life.”

Edward holds degrees from Niagara University and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He has been married to Teri Smith for 22 years and is the proud father of three children and grandfather to seven. In his free time, he enjoys playing golf and working outdoors in the yard.

 

Reminder: Christmas Plans for the Asheville, Clemmons and Winston-Salem Facility Employees!

Get ready to have a ton of fun celebrating this holiday season! We will be distributing Christmas hams in Winston-Salem and Clemmons on Thursday, December 12, supervisors will distribute hams to their departments and admin staff will pick up hams on the plant floor. Location will be announced. Asheville will be distributing hams on Thursday, December 19 at the end of the day. Distribution details will be announced.

On December 19, at all locations, Christmas festivities will begin at 11:30am, during normal break-times. Employees will be treated to a traditional Christmas lunch.

• Asheville lunch provided by Boxcar Grille
• Winston-Salem and Clemmons lunch provided by Canteen Catering

We also look forward to a week of festivities starting on Monday, December 23!

• Monday, 12/23 – Pajama Day (please stay within the company dress code)
• Tuesday 12/24 – Christmas Fantasia Day – wear your Christmas colors, sweaters, hats, etc.

Note, there will be a workday early dismissal on December 24 (Christmas Eve). Dismissal will be at 1 pm all employees report to work at 7:00 am. and all employees who clock out no earlier than 1 pm will be paid for the remainder of the scheduled workday. For all those to which this applies, please schedule your transportation accordingly.

 

IFB Programs Update

The Programs Team provides entertainment for the Winston-Salem Twin City Host Lions Club Christmas party

Charity Hampton, S.E.E. instructor provided beautiful Christmas music as she sang for the Lions Club Christmas party at Knollwood Baptist Church.  Her 5 songs warmed the hearts of her audience as the blind and visually impaired guests enjoyed their delicious meal.  The Lions gave each VIP a gift bag of fruit and candy to wish everyone a very merry Christmas.

Winston-Salem Facility Support Group Updates

IFB’s mission is to provide opportunities for people who are blind or visually impaired in need of training, employment and services, and we believe all people who are blind or visually impaired have the right to succeed in every area of life.

While our commitment to the second half of our mission remains unchanged, our business and employee needs have evolved significantly in the past five years. Support groups at the Winston-Salem headquarters campus remain an important program of IFB, but changes are needed to align their management with production priorities.

IFB Programs operates three support groups, each meeting monthly. They are open to all IFB employees (who are W2s) with relevant experience or interests in the specific focuses:

• Veterans Support Group (President: Rick Gaffe) – next meeting Tuesday, Dec. 17, 12:00–12:45 in TAD’s Room
• On the Spectrum Support Group (President: Winter Robinson) – next meeting Thursday, Dec. 19, 12:00–12:45 in TAD’s Room
• Guide Dog Support Group (President: Jennifer Finley) – next meeting Monday, Dec. 23, 12:00–12:45 in TAD’s Room

Employees who wish to attend should let the president of the support group know at least 1 week prior to the meeting. Rosters of employees who are excused for a 45 minute lunch break are maintained by the presidents and shared with supervisors to ensure proper accounting for timecards, and to ensure if production priorities require employees to stay working instead of attending a group meeting. Employees attending whose lunch breaks are not from 12:00 to 12:30 should work through their regularly scheduled lunch break and only take their lunch from 12:00 to 12:45.

While many of these guidelines have been in place for some time, IFB Programs management is working to ensure adherence to support needs on the production floor. If you have any questions or comments, please connect with Kim Shoffner, Programs Manager, at kshoffner@ifbsolutions.org or 336-245-5669.

On the Spectrum Support Group Update

Join us for an engaging discussion: Autism in the Media, Thursday, December 19 from 12:00-12:45pm in TAD’s Room

The On the Spectrum support group invites you to an enlightening session on Autism in the Media. Discover how autism is portrayed in TV shows and movies, and learn why these representations matter. This updated guide will share fascinating insights and deepen your understanding of autism’s presence in media. Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and explore why accurate representation is so important.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Thank you,

Winter Robison, On the Spectrum Support Group President

 

Community Low Vision Center Updates

Asheville and Winston-Salem CLVC December Sale!

The Community Low Vision Center team wants to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays by offering 20% off everything in stock for the month of December! Bring your shopping list and stop in!

CLVC Item of the Week:

Guiding your way! Prices: $2.95 and up. Ever need bump dots or a signature guide? We’ve got you covered! Choose from any of the following items currently in stock:

• Writing guides
• Signature guides
• Bump dots-various colors and sizes
• And much more!

If you have questions or are interested in any of the weekly items, please contact your local CLVC for assistance.

 

From Our Community

Pop-Up Gift Shop in TAD’s Room, Dec. 16

Hosted by the AAA Committee and the Winston-Salem CLVC

Looking to support a blind-owned business this holiday season? Visit the Joy’s Unique Boutique Pop-Up Christmas Shop!

• When: Monday, December 16 from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
• Where: stop by the TADs room during your lunch break and explore unique treasures and amazing deals!

Featured items will include:

• Jewelry, Purses, Totes
• Candles & Bath Salts
• Goodies & Hoodies
• One-of-a-kind treasures

Custom gift baskets available for order! Don’t miss the chance to find the perfect gift and support a great cause.

For more details or to place a custom order, contact: Joyce Spencer-Mintz at joysuniqueboutiquenc.com or call (336) 896-9392.

 

Important Notice: Updates to Winston-Salem Transit Authority Scheduling System

Submitted by WS Trans-Aid

As Winston-Salem Transit Authority transitions to a new scheduling system, we want to ensure you have the information needed to navigate these changes smoothly. Please review the tips below to help during this adjustment period. For questions, contact Trans-Aid at 336-727-2000.

Helpful Tips:

1. Update Your Contact Information
   • Ensure your phone number on file with Trans-Aid is accurate so they can reach you if needed.
2. Plan for a 1-Hour Pick-Up Window
   • With the new system, please be ready for pick-up within the designated one-hour window.
3. Schedule in Advance for Best Availability
   • Booking trips 7 days in advance increases your chances of securing your preferred time.
   • Trips scheduled 3 days or less in advance may have limited availability.
4. Be Patient When Calling
   • Call volumes may be high. Please remain on hold and leave a voicemail when prompted to receive a callback.
5. Respectful Communication is Required
   • Abusive behavior will not be tolerated and may result in service suspension.
6. Stay Informed
   • Use the Winston-Salem Transit Authority website for the latest program updates and resources.
7. Use the Automated System
   • The automated system will call your registered number with trip details. You can also use this system to make changes to your trip by following the prompts.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work to improve your transit experience!

 

It’s Better to Give Safely

Submitted by Angela Jordan, IFB Solutions Director of Compliance, Environmental Health and Safety 

Gifts and toys should inspire joy, not cause injuries. Thousands of children are seriously injured in toy-related incidents every year. Avoid safety hazards while gifting with these tips from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission:
● Toys are age-rated for safety, not for children’s intellect and physical ability, so be sure to choose toys in the correct age range
● Choose toys for children under 3 that do not have small parts which could be choking hazards
● For children under 10, avoid toys that must be plugged into an electrical outlet
● Be cautious about toys that have button batteries or magnets, which can be harmful or fatal if swallowed
● When giving scooters and other riding toys, give the gift of appropriate safety gear, too; helmets should be worn at all times and they should be sized to fit
To find out about holiday toy safety and recalls, check the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website.

Thank you and stay safe!

 

HR & Opportunities

Self-Identify for EO/AA Employer Reporting

For more information, reach out to Angela Jordan, IFB Solutions Director Compliance, EH&S, at 336-759-0551 x5771 or ajordan@ifbsolutions.org.

IFB Solutions is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, and as a federal contractor, we are required to take affirmative action to employ and advance females, minorities, individuals with a disability, and protected veterans. To comply with the applicable law, we invite you to voluntarily self-identify your race/ethnicity, gender, protected veteran status, and disability status. Submission of this information is voluntary, and your response (or declining to respond) will not, in any way, subject you to any adverse treatment. Responses to these voluntary surveys will be kept confidential and will not be used in a manner that is inconsistent with any law. However, we encourage you to respond to the survey because the information supports our inclusion efforts towards our affirmative action goals and our employee diversity.

To provide and/or update the information we have regarding your gender, race/ethnicity, protected veteran status, and/or disability status, please login to your Paycom Employee Self-Serve (ESS) and follow these steps:

• Select Information (third option from the top)
• Select EEO Information (second option from the bottom)
• Confirm or select your Gender
• Confirm or select your Race/Ethnicity
  • If you choose Not Hispanic or Latino, you will be prompted to select your race/ethnicity via a drop-down menu
• View an Invitation to Self-Identify your Disability Status
• View an Invitation to Self-Identify your Protected Veteran Status
• Select Update when all sections have been completed

For those who do not have access to Paycom or need additional assistance, please notify your supervisor to submit a ticket requesting an appointment with HR to self-identify.

We ask that you complete this process no later than Friday, January 10, 2025. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Angela Jordan, Director Compliance, EH&S, at 336-759-0551 ext. 5771 or via email at ajordan@ifbsolutions.org. Thank you in advance for your participation in this self-identify campaign which assists IFB with maintaining an equitable and inclusive environment for all.

 

Winston-Salem 2025 Leadership Essentials Training Class – Sign Up Today – Deadline January 10

For more information, reach out to Brent Burkholder, bburkholder@ifbsolutions.org. 

IFB Solutions is pleased to be partnering once again in 2025 with Guildford College to offer a training opportunity for our associates. The training will be titled Leadership Essentials. The target audience for this training opportunity is open to the following associates:

• Past participants of the Business Essentials training offered with Guildford College
• Hourly IFB associates in Winston Salem who meet all criteria set forth on the Leadership Essentials Application
• Those associates that work in a supervisory role that meet all criteria set forth on the Leadership Essentials Application.

Some topics that will be covered in this participant focused training include:

• DAC Framework for Effective Leadership – Train your people in how to build and achieve direction, alignment, and commitment — a requirement for effective leadership.
• Conflict Resolution – Address conflict in a more productive way at your organization. Upskill your team’s conflict resolution skills so they’re willing to step up to conflict.
• Influence – Influence is about the business of getting things done. Develop your team’s influencing skills so they can drive priorities forward more effectively.
• Feedback That Works – Help your leaders give and receive effective, direct, and timely feedback with a leadership development workshop on feedback that works.

To be eligible to participate in this course, associates must meet the following course requirements:

• Submit A completed Leadership Essentials Application which can be found at the link below.
• Submit A copy of the applicants resume via email to Brent Burkholder at bburkholder@ifbsolutions.org.
• All associates must be employed with IFB for at least 6 months
• All participants must have satisfactory attendance and job performance
• All associates must have their computer skills assessed by the Workforce Development team (HR will scheduled and coordinate this assessment).
• All associates must be recommended by their supervisor to participate in this training (HR will obtain recommendation).

Applications are available at: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=SQbDxA4fmESiHhoGX06NHOYPKmJQb4VLrwA3jsZJq_NUN0RPUTk5U1YyTFM1WDdZSFlCRTk5SkxLUy4u

The deadline to have the application and all supporting materials submitted for consideration is Friday January 10, 2025. All supporting documents should be submitted to Brent Burkholder via email at bburkholder@ifbsolutions.org. For more information or questions please contact Brent at 336.245.5611.

 

New Job Announcements

For all current openings, visit https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs?clientkey=8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909

Customer Service Representative – NC Department of Vital Statistics – Remote

Education and work experience:

• Minimum of 1 year of call center experience preferred.
• Associates degree or higher in a related field preferred.
• Ability to speak Spanish preferred.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=111602&clientkey=8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=111603&clientkey=8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909&jpt=ce8685cef740a6280b5fcb492b556fa5

 

NC Department of Vital Statistics – Call Center Supervisor – Remote

Education and work experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field required.
• A minimum of 2 years in a call center environment required.
• A minimum of 2 years in a leadership role required.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=111618&clientkey=8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=111619&clientkey=8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909&jpt=ce8685cef740a6280b5fcb492b556fa5

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 Groups Zoom

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

Meeting ID: 861 6711 1929

Passcode: 992614

One tap mobile

+13126266799,86167111929# US (Chicago)

+16465588656,86167111929# US (New York)

888 475 4499 US Toll-free

877 853 5257 US Toll-free

Meeting ID: 861 6711 1929