The IFB Beat 1-12 Edition

A Message from the Editor

Welcome to The IFB Beat. This week’s edition features stories that reflect the heart of our mission and the people who make it possible. We are proud to kick off our 2026 award winner series by recognizing James “Stanley” Mills, IFB Solutions’ overall employee of the year. Stanley’s more than 30-year journey with IFB is a powerful example of perseverance, skill and a reminder of why our mission matters.

This issue also welcomes new team members who joined us on Dec. 29. We’re excited to see the talents and perspectives they bring to IFB. You’ll also find an employee spotlight featuring Cynthia Anderson, whose story highlights the sense of community that makes IFB special.

In addition, we’re sharing exciting news about a Pinnacle Mercantile Woobie review, important 2026 holiday schedules and updates about W-2 form distribution, health benefits and the 401(k) plan transition. Thank you for reading.

Quote of the week:

“Life is what happens to us while we are making other plans.” — Allen Saunders

Thank you for strolling The IFB 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: James “Stanley” Mills
– Welcome New Team Members
– W-2 Distribution & Online Access Update
– Pinnacle Mercantile Woobie Featured in Hunting Life
– Asheville and Winston-Salem 2026 Holiday Schedules
– IFB Training and Services: Celebrating Another JAWS Training Graduate
– Employee Spotlight Featuring Cynthia Anderson, Winston-Salem Facility
– Winston-Salem Facility Support Groups

From Our Community

– Inspiration Station

HR & Opportunities

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

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

 

2026 Award Winner: James “Stanley” Mills

James Stanley Mills
James “Stanley” Mills

We will be introducing 2026 award winners in the next few editions of The Beat. This edition features Asheville team member James “Stanley” Mills, IFB’s overall 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.

Before joining IFB, James “Stanley” Mills had never held a job. Stanley has been visually impaired and partially paralyzed his entire life. In 1993, he heard about employment opportunities at IFB through his regional services for the blind and jumped at the chance to learn new skills and join a supportive community.

Now, more than 30 years later, Stanley is a skilled sewing machine operator at IFB’s Asheville manufacturing facility, assembling fuel handler suit jackets for the U.S. military. Over the years, he has worked across several departments, from impulse merchandising, where he produced laundry bags, to other military product lines. He has always been eager to expand his skillset. Known for his reliability and consistently high-quality work, Stanley takes great pride in his role. He comes to work each day with a positive attitude, and, though he is close to retirement age, he says he hopes to remain at IFB as long as he can, finding fulfillment and purpose in the job that keeps him active and engaged.

Outside of work, Stanley enjoys bowling, fishing, boating with his brother, listening to music — especially country, gospel and rock — collecting movies and attending services at Center Pigeon Baptist Church.

 

Welcome New Team Members

We’re thrilled to welcome the following newest team members as of Dec. 29. These individuals bring their talents and energy to various teams, and we’re excited to have them as part of the IFB family.

Winston-Salem facility, manufacturing: Tracy Ratley-Massey
Workforce Services: Amber Meaux, Brianna Drifka, Todd Schoeller, Derrick Moreland, Kathryn Womack, Elantra Van Gorkom, Benjamin Hoff, Emili Clark and Sharena Gayten

Please join us in giving them a warm welcome as they begin their journey with us. We look forward to the skills, perspectives and positive impact each of them will bring to our organization. We’re so glad you’re here!

 

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/

 

Asheville and Winston-Salem 2026 Holiday Schedules

As you plan for time with family and loved ones in 2026, please take note of the important information below. Below are links to the 2026 holiday schedules for the Asheville and Winston-Salem facilities. Please review the appropriate schedule so you can plan accordingly. If you have any questions or need clarification, please feel free to reach out to Angela Jordan at ajordan@ifbsolutions.org.
Click here to access the 8-hour schedule
Click here to access the 10-hour schedule

 

IFB Training and Services: Celebrating Another JAWS Training Graduate

Congratulations to James Pelfrey for successfully completing Basic JAWS training on Dec. 31 and starting a new job on Jan. 2 with our CSC contract through Workforce Services. Persistence and hard work have paid off. We wish him all the best as he utilizes his JAWS skills in his work and beyond.

 

Employee Spotlight Featuring Cynthia Anderson, Winston-Salem Facility

Welcome to the Employee Spotlight. Each week, we celebrate the incredible individuals who make IFB thrive. This week, we’re excited to feature Cynthia Anderson from the fuel handlers suit department.

Headshot of Cynthia Anderson

Q: Where did you grow up?
A: I was born and raised in Winston-Salem.

Q: How long have you been at IFB, and what brought you to the organization?
A: I’ve been with IFB for almost eight years. I was referred by a family member, and it turned out to be a great fit.

Q: Do you have any fun facts or hidden talents you’d like to share?
A: I love to dance and sing!

Q: What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of work?
A: I really enjoy playing Bingo in my free time.

Q: What’s your all-time favorite food or meal?
A: Chicken — hands down!

Q: What do you enjoy most about working at IFB?
A: I enjoy working around others who have similar experiences with low vision. I truly feel like I’ve built a community here.

Q: What’s a quote or word of advice you’d give to a friend?
A: “Keep God first!”

Special thanks to Employee Relations Specialist Morgan Dugan 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

 

 

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:

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

Reimbursements for off-platform health coverage:
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: Off-Platform Enrollment

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

Step 2: Submit a Reimbursement Claim

  1. Log in to zizzlhealth.com
  2. Navigate to “Your Benefits”
  3. Select “Submit Reimbursement” under “Your Account Balances”
  4. 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: Set Up Direct Deposit — first time a claim is submitted for reimbursement

  • 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

 

401(k) Retirement Plan Transition Overview

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” (blackout period Jan. 12–16: firstcitizens.com/retirement
  • 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?

 

Job Opportunities

Maintenance Mechanic, Asheville

Education and Work Experience

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Experience in industrial sewing machine maintenance is required
  • Previous experience in physical plant maintenance is required.
  • Training/experience in mechanical, electrical and general plumbing is preferred.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain forklift certification.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license and be insurable through the company.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/193434

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/193435?jpt=ce8685cef740a6280b5fcb492b556fa5

 

BSC Store Operations Level III MacDill AFB

Education and Work Experience

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Training while on the job will be provided.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/193610

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/193611?jpt=ce8685cef740a6280b5fcb492b556fa5

 

BSC Store Operations Level III Driver (West Point)

Education and Work Experience

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Training while on the job will be provided.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/194232

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/194233?jpt=ce8685cef740a6280b5fcb492b556fa5

 

Director of Government Business Development

Education and Work Experience

  • A bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, or a related field is required; an advanced degree is preferred.  An equivalent combination of education and significant professional experience will be considered.
  • A minimum of eight years of progressive experience in business development, sales, or strategic partnerships, with a strong focus on the federal sector is required.
  • A proven track record of success leading federal capture efforts and expanding sales through logistics and AbilityOne programs is required.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/194664

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/194665?jpt=ce8685cef740a6280b5fcb492b556fa5

 

Vice President, Government and Base Supply Operations

Education and Work Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree preferred; advanced degree preferred
  • Equivalent combination of education and significant professional experience will be considered.
  • 8–10 years of progressive leadership experience in government, base supply, or contract management.
  • AbilityOne or NIB experience strongly preferred.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/194751

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/194752?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