The IFB Beat 2-2 Edition

A Message from the Editor

Welcome to this week’s edition of the IFB Beat! In recent issues, we’ve been proud to spotlight our 2026 award winners, and this week, we’re honored to feature David Minton, IFB Solutions’ Career Achiever of the Year. David’s 20-year journey with IFB is a powerful reflection of resilience, adaptability and dedication to service. From manufacturing and retail operations to his current role in e-commerce customer service, David consistently lives out IFB’s core values and reminds us what’s possible when opportunity meets determination.

This issue is also full of ways to stay engaged and supported—from spreading kindness with our Valentine’s Day rose surprise to prioritizing your health through upcoming on-site mammogram screenings. You’ll also find important updates on W-2 access, a 50% off sale on low vision products, retirement benefits and more.

Finally, don’t miss our Employee Spotlight on Jose Surita from the Puerto Rico facility, a fun Valentine’s Day raffle supporting the National Federation for the Blind (NFB) and the introduction of a new team member, Brett Wehling, as director of government business development. Thank you for all you do to make IFB thrive and support its mission. Enjoy this week’s Beat!

Quote of the week:

“Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.” — Henry Ford

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: David Minton
– Welcome New Hire
– Valentine’s Day Rose Surprise
– Annual Mammogram Screening
– W-2 Distribution & Online Access Update
– Low Vision 50% Off Sale
– Appointments Available, Schedule a Low Vision Exam
– iPhone Training
– Employee Spotlight Featuring Jose Surita, Puerto Rico Facility
– Winston-Salem Facility Support Groups

From Our Community

– National Federation for the Blind Valentine’s Day Raffle
– American Foundation for the Blind Scholars Program

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: David Minton

We will be introducing 2026 award winners in the next few editions of the Beat. This edition features David Minton, IFB Solutions Career Achiever 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.

In 1998, at just 22 years old, David Minton lost his sight in an accident. Determined to stay active and engaged in meaningful work, David connected with the visually impaired community and soon learned about IFB. In 2005, he applied for a manufacturing position at the Winston-Salem facility and quickly proved to be a resolute and adaptable employee.

Over the past 20 years, David has excelled across multiple departments—from sewing military uniforms at the Winston-Salem facility to supporting retail operations at the base supply center at West Point, and now as a customer service representative in IFB’s e-commerce department. In every role, he has consistently earned praise from supervisors, coworkers and customers alike. With excellent problem-solving skills and determination to help others, he goes above and beyond to ensure that every customer feels valued and heard.

David finds joy and balance outside of work by spending much of his time outdoors. He and his partner, who is also employed at IFB, often walk up to 13 miles a day. After a long walk, David enjoys connecting with people around the world as an amateur ham radio operator. Resilient, adaptable and deeply committed to making a positive difference in the lives of others, David continues to make a lasting impact at IFB Solutions through his exceptional service.

 

Welcome New Hire

We are pleased to welcome Brett Wehling as Director of Government Business Development. Brett starts Feb. 2, and reports to Wendy Weiss, Chief Development Officer. He brings over 15 years of experience in federal and state government sales, AbilityOne program execution and base supply operations, with a proven track record of growing revenue through federal contract vehicles, base store sales and strategic customer relationships. In his role, Brett will lead business development strategy across IFB’s government and commercial channels, driving growth through our 13 AbilityOne Base Supply Centers, expanding TLS and MORD sales and identifying new federal, defense and SLED opportunities. His background includes senior government sales roles at Concordance Healthcare Solutions and Travis Association for the Blind, where he consistently exceeded sales targets, expanded AbilityOne product adoption and built strong relationships with DoD, DLA, DHS and agency decision-makers. Brett holds a Bachelor of Science from Kansas State University and brings deep knowledge of federal acquisition, FAR compliance and mission-driven business growth to IFB.

 

Valentine’s Day Rose Surprise

Valentine’s Day is almost here, and we’re spreading love around IFB! Employees at the Winston-Salem facility are invited to purchase a long-stem red rose for $4 to be delivered as a surprise to a secret admirer, friend, coworker or valentine.

How it works:

• Roses are $4 each (no limit on how many you can purchase!)
• You may choose to include your name or send it anonymously
• Roses will be hand-delivered randomly throughout the day on Thursday, Feb. 12

To sign up, please submit a ticket to your supervisor to meet with Morgan to complete payment and the sign-up process. Important: The deadline to sign up is Monday, Feb. 9. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Let’s make this Valentine’s Day a little brighter for someone!

 

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. Act now while there are still 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.

 

W-2 Distribution & Online Access Update

W-2 forms are now available online through the Paycom Employee Self-Service portal. Paper copies were 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.

 

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!

📍 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 Jose Surita, Puerto Rico Facility

Welcome to the Employee Spotlight. Each week, we celebrate the incredible individuals who make IFB thrive. This week, we’re excited to feature Jose Surita in the EWOL department.

Q: Where did you grow up?
A: I grew up in New Jersey.

Q: How long have you been at IFB?
A: I’ve been with IFB for about five months.

Q: Do you have any fun facts or hidden talents you’d like to share?
A: I have a talent for carpentry.

Q: What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of work?
A: I really enjoy dancing.

Q: What’s your all-time favorite food or meal?
A: Rice and beans—simple and classic.

Q: What do you enjoy most about working at IFB?
A: I appreciate that everyone is treated well.

Q: What’s a quote or piece of advice you’d give to a friend?
A: No matter what, always keep up the good work.

Special thanks to Human Resources Representative/Recruiter Gladymar Aponte Quintana 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 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.

 

American Foundation for the Blind Scholars Program

Submitted by American Foundation for the Blind (AFB)

Investing in today’s scholars to transform tomorrow’s world. Apply for the 2026-2027 academic year.

AFB is excited to present our AFB Scholars Program, a bold investment in the next generation of blind leaders! Through the generosity of the Lulu J. Alonso Scholarship Fund, this program empowers blind students to pursue their education and serve as change agents in creating a more equal and inclusive world.

Scholarship Pathways

• Science & Technology Scholarship: Supporting inclusive technology innovations.
  • For undergraduate students who are pursuing studies in STEM fields, such as computer science, engineering, biology, mathematics, or information technology.
• Research Scholarship: Advancing knowledge through inquiry and evidence.
  • For graduate students (undergraduates considered) who are conducting research during the academic year under the supervision of a university advisor.
• Aging & Vision Loss Scholarship: Empowering professionals to serve older adults with vision loss.
  • For students pursuing a degree in Gerontology OR a degree in Public Health, Vision Rehabilitation, Social Work, or Psychology along with a certificate in Gerontology.

Scholar Expectations

AFB’s goal is to cultivate future blind leaders. During the academic year, AFB scholars will be required to:

• Be enrolled or accepted in a full-time post-secondary program
• Maintain a minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA
• Participating in mentorship activities with AFB leaders
• Participate in one approved annual conference with staff
• Submit an end-of-year narrative reflecting on academic and professional growth

Award Levels

The Lulu J. Alonso Scholarship Fund provides three financial tiers to support postsecondary education for blind students: renewable annually.

• Community College — $8,000
• Undergraduate — $20,000
• Graduate — $28,000

Mark Your Calendar

• Applications opened: Tuesday, Jan. 6
• Application deadline: Tuesday, Feb. 17
• Interviews scheduled and conducted: April
• Selected winners notified: late May

Questions about the application process? You can reach out to us at inclusivefuture@afb.org or send us a message online.

 

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

Social Services and Benefits Coordinator

Education and Work Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, Human Resources, Counseling or a related field.
• At least two years of experience in social work, case management or employee assistance, preferably in a nonprofit or human services setting.
• Experience in benefits administration.
• Knowledge of state and federal benefit programs (SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, FMLA, ADA) and community resources for housing, healthcare and financial support.
• Experience working with individuals who are blind, low vision or have disabilities preferred.
• Bilingual skills a plus.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/198988
Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/198989?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