IFB Employee of the year Diana-Marie Soto covers QuePasa Magazine

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IFB Solutions 2021 employee of the year, Diana-Marie Soto is featured on the front cover of QuePasa Magazine.

Leer en español aquí.

English translation of the QuePasa article below.

Winston-Salem .- Diana Soto never thought that machine sewing was possible, much less did she imagine that she could dedicate herself to it professionally. Soto was born visually impaired, and since joining a Winston-Salem organization that serves blind people, her life has taken a 180-degree turn.

IFB Solutions is a city-based non-profit organization that employs and trains more than 1,000 blind people nationwide, including Soto, who was recently named Employee of the Year.

“(This recognition) means a lot, not only for being the employee of the year but because I am a Hispanic employee of the year,” Diana-Marie said in conversation with Qué Pasa.

IFB employs 300 Spanish-speaking people, of which 150 work at the Winston-Salem headquarters.

“I am proud to represent my community and that they see that they can do it too.”

Soto started working at IFB in 2018, where she learned how to sew military shirts at the organization’s factory. She also helps translate company information into Spanish and teaches English to her fellow Hispanics.

Working for the first time
In addition to sewing jobs, IFB trains and employs people for other jobs such as machine operators or customer service.

“We have people who come without experience, but we are willing to train, hire and give an opportunity,” Laura True, director of human resources, told Qué Pasa. “Just because they’ve never operated sewing machines before doesn’t mean they can’t.”

True explained that a third of his employees had never had a job before because, she said, blind people, tend to overcome many barriers, whether it be discrimination, transportation barriers, or, “employers just don’t have the confidence to hire someone who is blind. ”.

“Without organizations like ours, what are these people going to do? Many companies do not know how to receive them in their organizations ”, said True.

Barriers such as discrimination, transportation, or a lack of trust mean that many of IFB’s employees have never had a job before.

This is the case of Soto. The Puerto Rican was born with a retina pigmentosa, an eye disease that prevents her from seeing, especially when she enters places after being in the sun. Before coming to IFB, she had not had a job, and joining the organization has meant “a great change” in her life because, she said, it has given him the opportunity to have a job, a salary, and provide her children with things that before could not. Even, “now I have an iPhone and before I did not have!”

Although today, having a smartphone has become normalized, “for a blind person it means a lot because this type of phone has programs for the blind that make us completely independent,” she explained.

For example, she said, there are apps that help people guide them while they walk, others that tell them the colors of clothing or read letters or text messages.

Resources for adults and children
IFB also has a Community Center for Low Vision, through which it provides technology and other resources “to help those who want to live an independent life, both for adults and children,” explained Nicole Ducouer, director of communications.

“There is a lot of help for families with children who are struggling with their work, who are concerned that their children will one day be independent adults,” Ducouer said.

In addition, the organization offers after-school programs and summer camps for visually impaired children in Winston-Salem and other areas of North Carolina.

To learn more about the organization’s programs visit: https://ifbsolutions.org
To learn about the employment program, call Laura True at 336.245.5653.

 

 

Diana Soto Named IFB Solutions 2021 Overall Employee of the Year

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Diana Soto named IFB Solutions 2021 Overall Employee of the Year

Contact: Melissa Stanz, Two B Public Relations, melissa@twobpr.com, 828.768.1202

WINSTON-SALEM, NC (April 23, 2021) – Diana Soto, who moved to Winston-Salem from Puerto Rico with her husband Kelvin, is the 2021 IFB Solutions Overall Employee of the Year. This award goes to a blind or visually impaired person who goes above and beyond their job description to demonstrate initiative and a positive attitude. IFB Solutions is the largest employer of people who are blind in the U.S., with facilities in Winston-Salem and Asheville, NC, and Little Rock, AR. The nonprofit employs more than 1,000 people.

Soto is now nominated for the National Industries for the Blind Peter J. Salmon Employee of the Year Award, to be announced this May. The national award recipient is chosen from more than 100 National Industry for the Blind organizations nationwide representing some 5,500 employees.

“Diana is an enthusiastic team player, produces quality work, and is dedicated to her job and our organization’s mission,” said David Horton, IFB Solutions CEO. “Her managers admire her willingness to do any job, her positive attitude and her initiative. She is a cherished employee and friend to so many here at IFB.”

Born with a condition called RP (retina pigmentosa), Soto is visually impaired, especially when she comes inside after being in the sun. Her eyes must readjust to see what’s in front of her such as shadows and movements. Her peripheral vision is good, so she turns to the side to make eye contact with people.

“After joining IFB Solutions I knew I had been blessed with an amazing opportunity for my career. I hope that my contributions will serve as a reference to continue planting new seeds in my professional life. Even though I have lost some of my sight, I will never lose my vision for a fulfilling future,” said Soto.

Soto began working at IFB in 2018. In addition to her manufacturing job as a sewing machine operator in Advanced Combat Shirts, she volunteers at the organization by translating company information into Spanish and teaching English to her Spanish-speaking colleagues. She is also a writer for IFB’s Insider employee newsletter.

During the Covid pandemic, she demonstrated extraordinary flexibility when she was transferred from her manufacturing job to care for employees’ children when schools and daycares closed. By doing this job, many IFB employees were able to continue working and earning a paycheck during the pandemic.

Read Diana’s blog post at https://ifbsolutions.org/losing-my-sight-but-not-my-vision/

Headshot photo of Diana-Marie
Diana Soto, IFB Solutions 2021 Overall Employee of the Year

 

 

ABOUT IFB SOLUTIONS

IFB Solutions is a nonprofit corporation founded in 1936 that provides employment, training and services for people who are blind or visually impaired. As the largest employer of people who are blind in the United States, IFB operates manufacturing facilities in Winston-Salem, N.C., Asheville, N.C., and Little Rock, Ark., in addition to operating nearly 20 office supply stores across the country and producing mattresses. IFB produces eyewear under its Twenty200 brand at its Winston-Salem lab and operates a retail location in Winston-Salem. IFB Solutions funds employee training and services as well as community programs through grants and private donations, making possible summer camps, afterschool programs and activities for children who are blind, and Community Low Vision services through its low-vision Centers across North Carolina and in Little Rock, Ark. ifbsolutions.org

Workplace Accessibility: Welcoming People who are Blind.

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By: Mike Mote, Manager of Accessibility and Workforce Development

Are you an employer on the fence about hiring workers who are visually impaired or blind? *It is easier than you think! Let us explain how to set up your business to be inclusive and welcoming to people with disabilities.

Let’s Talk Accessibility at Work with Mike Mote

Photo of Mike Mote sitting at his desk in front of his laptop

I was born blind and spent my entire life defying the odds. As a member of the National Honor Society, I graduated from Jacksonville State University with a bachelor’s degree in communications. I worked in commercial radio for 15 years. I quickly learned that I could hold any job I wanted to as long as I understood technology. There is so much available for people who are blind.  In fact, without technology, I wouldn’t have been able to do my current work with Learfield IMG college as a broadcaster with Southern Mississippi football, basketball, and this past season, the Houston Cougars basketball team that reached the final four. Yes, I announced sports highlights in real-time without being able to actually see the game, thanks to technology.  I started my journey with IFB Solutions, the largest employer of people who are blind or visually impaired in the country, in 2012. I am now the Manager of Accessibility and Workforce Development.

There is no way that I could perform any of my work without my assistive technology. It allows me to perform my job at the level that is expected by my employer. Without accessible technology, my life would be much less fulfilling.

Do not let this scare you as an employer! Here is some helpful information:

Hesitant About Hiring?

-Technology has leveled the playing field for all, employees, and employers.

-Don’t be afraid of assistive technology and the use of it in your environment. In many cases, the software and hardware needed to perform the job are purchased by a company like ours, or by a state agency. We even train the employee before they start working for you.

-Understand that someone who is blind or visually impaired knows how to utilize their technology and they will bring that experience with them to your workplace.

-Our data shows the retention rate of people who are blind surpasses those with no disability.

Besides Technology, What Can I Do?

-If you are sighted, please announce yourself when entering a room or even passing in the workplace.  For example, “Hey Mike, it’s Ryan”.  It helps those who are blind or have low vision feel comfortable.

-When in a group setting make sure to be clear to whom you are speaking to by using names.  Example “Mike, what do you think of this idea?”

-Do your best to keep all walk paths clear of obstructions.

-If you’re not sure how to help just ask.

Want to learn more? Join us!

Facebook Live Chat with Accessibility and Workforce Development Manager Mike Mote

#GAAD Global Workplace Accessibility Day, May 20th

Thursday, May 20, 2021, at Noon

Ask Mike Questions and learn how you can build an accessible workplace!

 

 

Winston-Salem IFB Solutions program supports students with low vision

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Lee Anne Denyer, WXII Investigative Reporter, shares the story of Rory Bartels, a Thomasville eighth-grade student. Rory has low vision and has been coming to the Community Low Vision Center for more than a decade.

IFB’s Focus on Literacy program has provided Rory with free eye exams and assistive technology to help him with his school work.

Donations and community support allow for IFB to create life-changing opportunities for children just like Rory.

You can view the full story at WXII12  here.

Understanding Macular Degeneration

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By Dr. Dexter Street, Low Vision Specialist

Dr. StreetFor 36 years I have practiced optometry with an emphasis on low vision. Most of my patients who I work with at IFB Solutions’ Community Low Vision Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, have macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is one of the leading causes of adult sight loss. In fact, more than 10 million Americans have AMD. Here is what you need to know about AMD that can help you or a loved one.

How does macular degeneration impact vision?
Macular degeneration may reduce a person’s ability to see detail, text, and faces. Vision may appear dimmed and include spots, distortion, blurriness, and waviness.

There are TWO types of AMD:
– Dry AMD is caused by compromised blood vessels beneath the macula. These blood vessels can no longer deliver the needed nutrients to the macula nor carry away the waste products.
– Wet AMD occurs when the macula suffers from the lack of nutrition. Therefore, it grows its own blood vessels. These vessels are weak causing them to leak and break very easily allowing blood and other fluids to leak into the macula.

Risk-Factors for developing AMD:
– Smoking or vaping (Current smokers are 2-3X more likely to develop AMD)
– Obesity (2X more likely to develop AMD)
– Age 55+
– Family history of AMD (2.5X higher risk)

Reducing your risk of developing AMD:
– Exercise and eat healthy: dark, leafy greens; fatty fish; avoid processed foods and artificial fats
– If you smoke or vape – stop!
– Get regular eye exams

Dr. Street performs an exam

On the bright side, for most people, having age-related macular degeneration does not mean they will experience complete sight loss. Medical interventions such as injections and AREDS 2 vitamins can help to slow the progression of the disease. It is vital for people to get their vision checked regularly and report any issues or changes to their optometrist.

If you have any questions or concerns about your vision, please visit communitylowvision.org to chat with one of our associates.

Losing My Sight, but Not My Vision.

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By Diana-Marie Soto, 2021 IFB Solutions Employee of the Year.

Leer en español.

Only one year into my young life I was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa and nystagmus. Finally, there was an explanation for my dancing eyes and an answer to why, no matter how much my mom moved me away from the TV, I always ended up in front of it again, blocking everyone’s view.  My family supported my adventures, but they worried about my vision and school. Not only did I have to deal with bullies, but I also had to focus on studies with no tools to help me see. I had to learn to be intuitive and to sharpen my reflexes.

Photo of Diana in office
Diana-Marie Soto

Thanks to God and my family, I graduated from the University of Puerto Rico with a bachelor’s degree in Hispanic studies. I got married and had two children. I moved my family to Florida from Puerto Rico and lived with my stepmother and my dad until we found jobs. I learned English by immersing myself in the language and eventually got a job as a Spanish instructor. However, I wanted more!

After joining IFB Solutions, the country’s largest employer of people who are blind, I knew I had been blessed with an amazing opportunity for my career. I work in IFB’s manufacturing division creating products for the U.S. Armed Forces. I volunteer with children who are blind in IFB’s S.E.E. program and I’m a writer for IFB’s Insider newsletter. I am pleased to contribute positively to my work community.  I hope that my contribution will serve as a reference to continue planting new seeds in my professional life. Even though I have lost some of my sight, I will never lose my vision for a fulfilling future.

 

Perdiendo mi vista, pero no mi visión.

Diana-Marie Soto, Empleada del Año de IFB Solutions, 2021

Solo a un año de vida me diagnosticaron retinitis pigmentosa y nistagmus. Finalmente, hubo una explicación para mis ojos danzantes y una respuesta al por qué, sin importar cuánto me alejara mi mamá del televisor, siempre terminaba nuevamente frente a él, bloqueando la vista de todos. Mi familia apoyó mis aventuras, pero les preocupaba mi poca vista y la escuela. No solo tuve que lidiar con los niños problemáticos, sino que también tuve que concentrarme en estudiar sin herramientas que me facilitaran el aprendisaje. Tuve que aprender a ser intuitiva y a agudizar mis reflejos.

Photo of Diana in office
Diana-Marie Soto

Gracias a Dios y a mi familia me gradué de la Universidad de Puerto Rico con una licenciatura en estudios hispanicos. Me casé y tuve dos hijos. Luego me mudé con mi familia a Florida desde Puerto Rico y viví con mi madrastra y mi papá hasta que encontramos trabajo. Aprendí inglés sumergiéndome en el idioma y finalmente conseguí empleo como profesora de español. Sin embargo, ¡quería más!

Después de unirme a IFB Solutions, el mayor empleador de personas ciegas del país, supe que había sido bendecida con una fabulosa oportunidad para mi carrera. Trabajo en la división de fabricación de IFB manufacturando productos para las Fuerzas Armadas de EE. UU. Soy voluntaria con niños ciegos en el programa de IFB, S.E.E. y soy redactora del boletín informativo de la compañía, The Insiders. Me complace contribuir positivamente a mi comunidad laboral. Espero que mi aporte sirva de referencia para seguir sembrando nuevas semillas en mi vida profesional. Aunque he perdido parte de la vista, Nunca perderé mi visión por un futuro brillante.

Buy a mattress, give a good night’s sleep!

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Image of an IFB employee inspecting a mattress

You can get a good night’s sleep and give a good night’s sleep at the same time! IFB Solutions has been making mattresses for 80 years. Through the end of December, if you buy any size mattress and box spring, we will donate one to Net Impact’s ‘Good night, Sleep tight’ campaign.”

Read the full story from WFMY News 2 here:

https://www.wfmynews2.com/article/news/community/buy-a-mattress-give-a-good-nights-sleep/83-783b82e1-7eb7-4302-ba6c-a2fdc45dbf2e?fbclid=IwAR1XJtIq1ad8hUXrsxT0hK1zt_mWJeVXrpbztlruvWui_OKMXfYEFy_HPbc