The IFB Beat 6-1 Edition

A Message from the Editor

Welcome to this week’s edition of the IFB Beat! This issue is packed with celebration, recognition and exciting milestones as we officially begin honoring 90 years of creating jobs and changing lives for people who are blind.

This week, we kick off our 90-year celebration journey with a look back at where it all began, recognize employees reaching incredible years of service milestones and celebrate the accomplishments of team members across IFB. You’ll also meet new team members, hear reflections from a departing leader, learn more about workplace updates and get to know one of our amazing employees through this week’s spotlight.

As we celebrate our past and look toward our future, one thing remains clear — the people of IFB are what make this mission possible. Thank you for your dedication, hard work and commitment to creating meaningful opportunities every day.

Here’s to celebrating our history, honoring our people and building the future together. Happy 90th anniversary, IFB Solutions! Happy reading…

Quote of the week:

“For 90 years, our strength has never been in one person alone, but in the power of people working together to create opportunities, change lives, and build a stronger future.” — IFB Solutions

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

– Cheers to 90 Years!
– Welcome New Team Member
– Thank You for the Journey: A Farewell Message from Edward Syke, Senior Manager of Engineering and R&D
– Asheville and Winston-Salem: General Assembly, June 2
– Winston-Salem Team Completes Professional Development Workshop
– Human Resources — Social Services & Wellness Department Update
– Safety and Security Reminders
– Eating and Drinking on the Manufacturing Floor
– Employee Spotlight Featuring Deborah Deloatch, Winston-Salem Facility
– Winston-Salem Facility Support Groups

From Our Community

– Join the Fun at Gatsby’s Pub
– Shop Rainbow Tarts!

HR & Opportunities

– Invest Today. Enjoy Tomorrow.
– Job Opportunities

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

 

Cheers to 90 Years!

🎉 This year, IFB Solutions proudly celebrates 90 years of creating jobs and changing lives for people who are blind. That’s nine decades of perseverance, growth and most importantly, YOU.

This special section of the IFB Beat will take you on a journey through our history. Over the next several months, you’ll discover fun facts, inspiring milestones, employee spotlights and throwback moments. So don’t miss a week!

Did you know: Winston-Salem Industries for the Blind, now IFB Solutions (IFB), was founded in 1936 by the Winston-Salem Lions Club as Winston-Salem Industries for the Blind, Inc. At that time, headquartered in a local church, the organization employed a total of six workers, who produced mattresses and caned chairs.

 

Welcome New Team Member

We’re excited to welcome Guadalupe Padilla to the Asheville team! Please join us in giving Guadalupe a warm welcome to IFB Solutions as they begin this new journey with us. We’re happy to have you on the team and look forward to all you will accomplish!

 

Thank You for the Journey: A Farewell Message from Edward Syke, Senior Manager of Engineering and R&D

After nearly 12 years with IFB Solutions, I want to take a moment to sincerely thank everyone who has been part of my journey along the way.

As I prepare for my next chapter, I’ve spent a great deal of time reflecting on the relationships, experiences, challenges and opportunities that helped shape me both professionally and personally. While I was fortunate enough to say goodbye to many individuals directly, I know there are countless others I may not have had the opportunity to personally thank before my departure.

To every teammate, mentor, leader, operator, trainer, mechanic, associate and friend I worked alongside over the years, THANK YOU! Every interaction, conversation, lesson, challenge and success contributed to the engineer, leader and man I have become today.

One of the greatest gifts IFB gave me was a changed perspective on human potential. Working alongside individuals with different backgrounds, experiences, and abilities opened my eyes to the incredible capabilities people possess when they are empowered, supported and given opportunities to succeed. It reinforced a mindset I will carry with me forever: to remove unnecessary barriers, challenge limiting assumptions, and focus on what people can achieve rather than what others may believe they cannot.

I will always be grateful for the memories, friendships and lessons that came from my time here. The impact this organization and its people have had on my life extends far beyond manufacturing, engineering or business — it shaped my character and my outlook on leadership, teamwork, and purpose.

Thank you all for being part of my story. I truly wish continued success and blessings to the IFB family moving forward.

With gratitude, Edward Syke

 

Asheville and Winston-Salem: General Assembly, June 2

Join us on Tuesday, June 2, as we come together to recognize and celebrate our Years of Service recipients for their dedication and commitment to IFB Solutions. The celebration will take place on the manufacturing floor beginning at 11 a.m., where we will honor employees celebrating 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 years of service.

Special remarks will be shared by leadership, followed by recognition of our honorees. We will also kick off IFB Solutions’ 90-year celebration with a special toast led by leadership and share exciting updates on how we will celebrate 90 years of creating meaningful employment opportunities.

This is a celebration you won’t want to miss as we honor our employees, our mission and 90 years of impact together!

 

Winston-Salem Team Completes Professional Development Workshop

Congratulations to the Winston-Salem team members who recently completed the “Lead 4 Success” workshop. These sessions were led by Michael Dutch of Guilford College and were made possible through the generosity of the Googe Family Scholarship Endowment.

We proudly recognize the following graduates: Noah Davis, Mona Dodd, Marcia Harton, Tonya Johnson, Teresa Norway, Anastasia Powell, Luis Quiles, Keila Rickett, Kim Shoffner and Diana Soto

The Googe Family Scholarship was established by John Googe, former IFB Solutions board chair and long time friend of the organization, in partnership with his alma mater, Guilford College. His commitment ensures that IFB employees have access to educational opportunities that strengthen their skills and support their career growth and advancement.

 

Human Resources — Social Services & Wellness Department Update

Please join us in welcoming our new Social Services and Benefits Coordinator, Amber Frederick!

Having been with IFB Solutions for the past two years, Amber has enjoyed being part of the organization’s culture and mission. Her previous experience with the Forsyth County Department of Social Services helped build the knowledge and skills she now brings to this role, allowing her to make a meaningful and positive impact on employees.

She recently earned her Associate Degree in Business Administration and her SHRM-CP certification. She is excited to continue growing and learning in her new position.

A Winston-Salem native, she was born and raised in North Carolina and enjoys cooking, dancing and spending time with family outside of work.

One of her favorite quotes is: “Expect the unexpected, and whenever possible, be the unexpected.”

 

Safety and Security Reminders

As part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe, secure and compliant workplace, we would like to remind everyone of the following policies and expectations.

Safety Glasses

For several years, we have not consistently complied with our PPE policy regarding sewing machine operators and the use of safety glasses or side shields while machines are in operation. All employees should be aware that safety glasses or side shields are required whenever operating sewing equipment or using an air hose. This requirement applies to all departments and positions without exception.

Operations leadership, along with members of the HR team, will be supporting efforts to improve compliance with this policy. Thank you to those who consistently follow these requirements. For anyone not currently in compliance, immediate improvement is expected moving forward.

Security Reminder

To ensure the safety and security of our building and employees, please ensure that all badge-restricted doors remain closed and are not left open. If you notice a door propped open or not securing properly, please report it immediately to your supervisor, facilities team member, or Angela Jordan. In addition, please refrain from opening the door or holding the door for anyone. Everyone coming into the building should use their own badge to enter. If they don’t own a badge, visitors should be directed to the main lobby to be let in by the receptionist. Your cooperation is essential in maintaining a secure workplace for everyone.

 

Eating and Drinking on the Manufacturing Floor

Per our general safety guidelines, beverages in production areas must be in a closed bottle or cup with a screw-on lid. Food is not permitted in production areas.

Moving forward, these guidelines will be actively enforced. Drinks must be in approved containers, and eating will no longer be permitted on the manufacturing floor. This applies to all departments and positions working in open production areas.

An exception may be made during a medical emergency for employees being actively assisted by their supervisor or the Code Yellow/Medical Team.

These reminders are intended to help us continually improve and remain compliant with our manufacturing and safety policies and procedures. We will be actively enforcing these policies moving forward and will use progressive disciplinary action, if necessary

If you have any questions or concerns, please speak with your supervisor or Travis Guerra. If additional discussion is needed, supervisors may submit a ticket to HR for follow-up support.

 

Employee Spotlight Featuring Deborah Deloatch, Winston-Salem Facility

Welcome to Employee Spotlight. Each week, we celebrate the incredible individuals who make IFB thrive. This week, we are excited to feature Deborah Deloatch.

Q: Where did you grow up?
A: I was born in Anderson, South Carolina, but I was raised in Boston, Massachusetts.

Q: How long have you been with IFB, and what brought you to the organization?
A: I learned about the job through friends and have been working at IFB on and off since 2015.

Q: What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of work?
A: I enjoy reading and baking pound cakes!

Q: What’s your all-time favorite food or meal?
A: I love the meals my mother used to cook for me — pinto beans, fried chicken, buttermilk biscuits, macaroni and cheese and chocolate cake with seven-minute frosting!

Q: What do you enjoy most about working at IFB?
A: I appreciate that IFB gives blind people opportunities to improve themselves. IFB encourages and uplifts us to be better every day.

Q: What’s a quote or piece of advice you would give to a friend?
A: “Always look forward and straight ahead. Don’t focus on the negativity!”

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

Join the Fun at Gatsby’s Pub

Submitted by: Oryan Battis

Silent Disco at Gatsby’s Pub, featuring Oryan Battis

📍 1157 Burke St, Winston-Salem, NC
🗓 Saturday, June 6
⏰ 8–10 p.m.

Event highlights:

• Headphone rentals available for $5
• Multiple dance channels
• Live R&B & karaoke channel

Website: https://www.gatsbyspubws.com/

 

Shop Rainbow Tarts!

Interested in supporting a blind-owned business? Looking for an easy and affordable way to bring your favorite smells to your home or give as a gift?

Look no further. We have wax melts, warmers, soaps, shampoos, conditioners and much more. See Carl Williams (Tina Jolly’s department), call: 336-970-0650, email info@rainbowtarts.com or visit https://www.rainbowtarts.com.

Check back often for sales!

We Braille products upon request at no charge and ship within the US via priority flat rate mail. Rainbow Tarts – where everything makes scents!

 

HR & Opportunities

Invest Today. Enjoy Tomorrow.

Your future is worth it.

Retirement may feel far away, but your future starts today. Make every paycheck count with the IFB Solutions 401(k) Plan. IFB boosts your savings with a 100% match on the first 5% you contribute for each pay period. Why participate in the 401(k) plan?

Build Your Future
Even small contributions today can grow into meaningful retirement savings over time.

Receive Company Match
If you are not contributing enough to receive the full company match, you could be leaving money on the table.

Grow Your Savings
Take advantage of tax benefits and the power of long-term investing.

Example 1:
$50/month total contribution
($25 employee + $25 employer match)

Assumptions:

• 7% average annual return
• 20 years of saving
• Compounding monthly

Results After 20 Years:

• Total contribution: $12,000
• Estimated account value: ~$26,000

Key takeaway: Your money more than doubles over time thanks to employer match + compound growth.

Example 2: Increased Savings Scenario
$150/month total contribution
($75 employee + $75 employer match)

Assumptions:

• 7% average annual return
• 20 years of saving
• Compounding monthly

Results After 20 Years:

• Total contribution: $36,000
• Estimated account value: ~$78,000

Key takeaway: Increasing contributions today can significantly increase retirement readiness later.

Remember, small steps today can create big rewards tomorrow. Consider taking one of these actions today:

✔ Enroll in the 401(k) plan
✔ Increase your contribution percentage
✔ Review your current savings goals
✔ Make sure you are receiving the full company match

If you have questions about enrollment or making changes, please call the Ascensus call center for personalized assistance at 855-593-7279, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. You may also contact Tammy Whitmire-Powers at twhitmire-powers@ifbsolutions.org .

 

Job Opportunities

Retail Accounting Manager

Education and Work Experience

• A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is required.
• CPA or CMA certification is required.
• Proficiency in accounting software (D365, Medius or similar) and advanced Excel skills are required.
• Proven experience in general ledger management and staff supervision is required.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/224545

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/224546?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