The IFB Beat 1-26 Edition

A Message from the Editor

Welcome to this week’s edition of the IFB Beat! We’re proud to kick things off by highlighting Amanda Kuhl, Winston-Salem Employee of the Year. Amanda’s nearly decade-long journey with IFB Solutions is a powerful example of perseverance, growth and leadership. From her dependable work in EWOL/IWOL to stepping confidently into her role as team lead in helmet pads, Amanda truly lives out IFB’s core values and inspires those around her. Please join us in congratulating her on this well-deserved honor.

This issue is also packed with important updates and opportunities. You’ll find details on W-2 distribution, annual mammogram screenings, upcoming low vision clinics and a 50% off sale on low vision products you won’t want to miss. We’re also excited to feature Dave Oberhart in this week’s Employee Spotlight and share updates from our community and HR teams.

Thank you for all you do to support IFB’s mission—and enjoy this week’s Beat!

Quote of the week:

“Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.” — Suzy Kassem

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: Amanda Kuhl
– W-2 Distribution & Online Access Update
– Annual Mammogram Screening
– Safety Recognition: Congratulations Asheville Team
– Low Vision 50% Off Sale
– Appointments Available, Schedule a Low Vision Exam
– iPhone Training
– Employee Spotlight Featuring Dave Oberheart, Workforce Services
– Winston-Salem Facility Support Groups

From Our Community

– National Federation for the Blind (NFB) Valentine’s Day Raffle
– Apple Tech Support Hour

HR & Opportunities

– IFB Retirement 401(k) Account
– Zizzl Health Medical Benefits
– Medicare Reimbursements
– Job Opportunities

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

 

2026 Award Winner: Amanda Kuhl

Headshot of Amanda Kuhl

We will be introducing 2026 award winners in the next few editions of the Beat. This edition features Amanda Kuhl, Winston-Salem 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.

Amanda has been part of the IFB family since July 2015, and in that time she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence, teamwork and growth. Amanda was a quiet but dependable team member in EWOL/IWOL, always ready to step in and assist—even outside her assigned product lines. She quickly became a reliable backup in the label room, filling in seamlessly whenever needed.

In early 2025, Amanda took a bold step forward and applied for the team lead position in helmet pads. With her intelligence, work ethic and strong organizational skills, she proved herself the best candidate for the role. Since then, Amanda has gone above and beyond—backing up the production assistant on multiple occasions and ensuring that production never misses a beat. Her only challenge at first was confidence, but day by day, she has grown into a strong, capable leader.

Amanda is more than just an excellent employee—she’s an inspiration. Born and raised in Lakehurst, New Jersey, she moved to North Carolina at the age of 12. Her journey with IFB began after her mom saw a television commercial about the organization. As someone who is visually impaired, Amanda embraced the opportunity and has now been with IFB for nearly a decade.

Outside of work, Amanda enjoys playing video games, visiting amusement parks and traveling whenever possible. What she values most about her career at IFB is the independence it provides and the chance to connect with others. Stepping into leadership has been especially rewarding for her, allowing her to put her education and skills into practice.

When asked what advice she would share with others, Amanda said: “Always go for your hopes and dreams. Don’t be afraid, and never let anything hold you back!” Amanda’s story is one of perseverance, growth and dedication.

 

W-2 Distribution & Online Access Update

W-2 forms are now available online through the Paycom employee self-service portal. Paper copies will be distributed by supervisors or mailed to employees, depending on work location, by Jan. 30. Please note that Puerto Rico Form 499R-2/W-2PRs have not yet been processed but will be made available soon.

 

Annual Mammogram Screening

On Wednesday, Feb. 4, Novant Health Breast Center is offering on-site annual mammogram screenings for employees at the Winston-Salem and Clemmons locations. As of Friday, Jan. 23, there are five appointments available. Appointment details will be shared prior to Feb. 4.

To add your name to the list:
Manufacturing employees: Please let your supervisor know you would like to be scheduled for an appointment. They will enter a ticket on your behalf.
Administrative & salaried employees: Complete the mobile mammogram sign-up form here and email it to twhitmire-powers@ifbsolutions.org.

 

Safety Recognition: Congratulations Asheville Team

As of Jan. 4, we are proud to 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!

 

Low Vision 50% Off Sale

Don’t miss this special sale on household items and daily living aids—all marked 50% off for a limited time. Stop by and take advantage of these great savings while supplies last!

📍 Asheville — Low Vision Center, Jan. 26–29
📍 Winston-Salem — TADS Room, Feb. 9–12

 

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

 

iPhone Training

Want to learn more about using your iPhone? Let your supervisor know that you are interested in attending the iPhone training class and they will put in a ticket to Morgan Dugan to get the process started. Bring your iPhone to each session to practice using this device with voice over and Siri. Change the iPhone from an expensive paper weight to an important independent living tool through training with Kim Shoffner and Mike Mote. Let the iPhone be a help and not a frustration.

 

Employee Spotlight Featuring Dave Oberheart, Workforce Services

Headshot of Dave Oberhart

Welcome to the Employee Spotlight. Each week, we celebrate the incredible individuals who make IFB thrive. This week, we’re excited to feature Dave Oberhart, a call center supervisor.

Q: Where did you grow up?
A: I grew up in Bettendorf, a town in eastern Iowa.

Q: How long have you been at IFB, and what brought you to the organization?
A: I’ve been with IFB for almost a year. I had heard about the work IFB does with other call centers and reached out to see if my skills could be useful to the organization.

Q: What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of work?
A: I love reading a wide variety of books, and I’m a big fan of college basketball.

Q: What’s your all-time favorite food or meal?
A: I enjoy all kinds of Mexican food.

Q: What do you enjoy most about working at IFB?
A: The people I work with are what bring me to work every day. They are the best.

Q: What’s a quote or piece of advice you’d give to a friend?
A: “We are all star stuff.”

Special thanks to Director of Professional Services Shannon Satterfield 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

National Federation for the Blind (NFB) Valentine’s Day Raffle

Submitted by NFB President Angela Hanes

The NFB Winston-Salem chapter will be raffling a couples Valentine’s basket valued at $175. Tickets are $5. The drawing will be held on Saturday, Feb. 14. The winner will be contacted and the basket will be delivered.

If interested in purchasing a ticket, contact NFB president Angela Hanes in the ACS department, Winter Robinson in the markers department or Tracy Ghoul in the FHS department. All proceeds will support educational and social opportunities for people who are blind.

 

Apple Tech Support Hour

Submitted by Doug Curley

Join this community of users and get your questions answered!

Have you become frustrated as you learn voiceover? Don’t know whom to ask for step-by-step instructions or how your phone should sound as you try to follow along? The Apple tech support hour meetup can answer the questions you have. We have provided solutions to problems such as how to use the passwords app to what to do if Siri stops responding and everything in between. Any question is welcome or feel free to sit and listen. Meetings are held at 8 p.m. on the first Wed. of the month. Join at the link below.

If you have questions, would like to receive email notifications about future meetings, or receive a contact card so you can dial in using Siri, call Doug Curley at 980-253-1761 or email DPCurley69@gmail.com.

Meeting link: join Apple tech support hour Zoom meeting

 

HR & Opportunities

IFB Retirement 401(k) Account

We’re excited to share that 401(k) enrollment is now open! This is a great opportunity to take the next step toward your retirement goals—whether you’re enrolling for the first time or making updates to your existing elections.

Ways to access your account:
1. Contact the Ascensus call center for personalized assistance at 855-593-7279. Their hours are Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. They can help if you have never logged into your account, need assistance choosing a deferral percentage, forgot your username or password or have questions about or want to change your investments
2. Access your account online by visiting firstcitizens.com/retirement. First-time login instructions:

  • User ID: Your Social Security number (format: 999009999 — no dashes)
  • Password: Your date of birth (MonthDDYYYY), Example: June 4, 1982 = June041982

3. Manage your 401(k) on the go using the READYSAVE mobile app. Download the app to:

  • Log in securely using Face ID, Touch ID or a passcode
  • Use the same credentials as the website
  • Access financial insights and My Forecast, a tool that estimates your retirement income

Take advantage of these tools and resources to make the most of your 401(k). If you’ve been waiting for the right time to start—or to make changes—now is the time by phone or online!

For more information refer to the helpful documents below:

IFB Solutions 401(k) Plan Highlights

Anytime Access Online & READYSAVE App

Ascensus READYSAVE Flyer

Change Your Investments

If you have questions, please contact Tammy Whitmire-Powers at 336 245-5644 or twhitmire-powers@ifbsolutions.org.

403(b) Rollover Instructions
Call the institution that currently manages your 403(b) for rollover instructions: Invesco at 800-959-4246 or Voya at 800-584-6001

401(k) Rollover Instructions
Complete the First Citizens Wealth rollover acceptance form. Instructions are included with the form. Send the completed rollover form and check by regular mail or overnight mail. Mailing addresses are included on the form.

 

Zizzl Health Medical Benefits

Have questions? Contact Zizzl Health at support@zizzlhealth.com or (414) 800-2278. Visit this link for answers to common questions.

 

Medicare Reimbursements

  • Enroll in Medicare or Medicare Supplemental Plan(s) and pay your first premium payment.
  • Employee pays for service/premium.
  • Employee completes off-platform form at: Non-Zizzl health (Off-Platform) Enrollment Notification
  • Allow five business days for the form to be processed and your Non-Zizzl Health (Off-Platform) account to be created in Zizzl.
  • Log into Off-Platform account in Zizzl: Welcome – Winston Salem Industries for the Blind Inc.
  • Upload receipt. This step MUST be completed each month. Please note: Medicare claims will require receipt of your Medicare premium payment.
  • Add
  • Claim is reviewed for approval and employee is reimbursed via direct deposit.

How to Get Medicare Verification for Reimbursement

  1. Log in to your Social Security (SSA) online account.
  2. Select Benefit Verification Letter
  3. Download or print the letter
  4. The letter will automatically show the current date and your monthly Medicare deduction amount.
  5. Submit the letter for reimbursement

Note: As long as you are eligible for Medicare, the Benefit Verification Letter updates automatically each time it is accessed.

 

 

Job Opportunities

Customer Service Representative Maximus (Athens, Texas)

Education and Work Experience

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Two years’ customer service experience is preferred.
  • If applicable, must demonstrate proficiency in the use of assistive technology required (JAWS and/or Zoom Text).
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish is a plus.
  • Must reside within 70 miles of Athens, Texas.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/197299
Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/197300?jpt=ce8685cef740a6280b5fcb492b556fa5

 

Customer Care Professional, Soft Sales

Education and Work Experience

  • High school diploma, GED or equivalent is required.
  • Some business classes, vocational/technical training is preferred.
  • A minimum of one year of experience in a customer service call center position is required.
  • A minimum of one year of sales experience, preferably in soft sales, or upselling in a customer service environment is required.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/198290

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/198291?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)
+16465588656,86167111929# US (New York)
888 475 4499 US Toll-free
877 853 5257 US Toll-free