The IFB Beat 9-28 Edition

 

From the Editor

It’s hard to believe we’ve reached the final week of Reflections on 90! As we close out this special anniversary series, we’re taking one last look at the people, milestones and stories that have helped shape IFB over the past 90 years. We’re also looking ahead with important updates, upcoming events and opportunities to connect with our IFB family and community.

This Week at a Glance

– Reflections on 90: Hear from Kayla Cole about how Workforce Services has impacted her life and career.
– Welcome Back!: Shannon Myers and Marvin Pearson
– The Asheville Big Fair: Thursday, October 1
– Asheville Early Dismissal: Asheville employees will be dismissed at 1:30 p.m. on October 1. Be sure to review the requirements for receiving pay for the remainder of your scheduled workday.
– Asheville: Flu and Other Shots Available: Walgreens will be at the Asheville facility on October 15 offering flu, COVID-19 and Tetanus/Whooping Cough vaccines.
– Health & Wellness: Learn how to tell the difference between common cold, flu and COVID-19 symptoms and when it’s time to seek medical care.
– Employee Spotlight: Aaron Pieraldi, BSC Manager at the United States Naval Academy
– Community Corner: Support the NFB Forsyth Chapter fundraiser for a chance to win $200 while supporting education, awareness and community engagement.
– White Cane Awareness Walk: Asheville will recognize White Cane Awareness Day on October 17 at Pack Square Park.

As we close out Reflections on 90, thank you for taking this journey through IFB’s history with us. We hope you’ve enjoyed the stories, facts, memories and employee highlights that helped bring our 90-year story to life.

 

Have an HR, history or event-related question you’d like to ask me and have addressed in the 10-5 Beat? Send it to apowell@ifbsolutions.org and check back next week.

Thank you for strolling the Beat. See you next week!

Quote of the week: “Many hands. One goal.” — Unknown

Anastasia Powell, Communications Manager
336-245-5698

 

 

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Reflections on 90

As we celebrate 90 years of IFB, this edition of the Beat marks the final week of Reflections on 90. Over the past several months, we’ve shared fun facts, history, memories and employee highlights that helped tell the story of who we are and where we came from.

Most importantly, 90 years is a celebration of the people who have made it all possible. Thank you to every employee—past and present—for your hard work, dedication and service. Together, we’ve created jobs, changed lives and built a stronger future for people who are blind.

Final reflection: Through innovation, adaptability and a commitment to excellence, IFB Solutions continues to deliver meaningful work for our employees, trusted value for our customers and lasting impact in the communities we serve.

We hope you’ve enjoyed taking this journey through IFB’s history with us and discovering stories and facts you may not have known.

90 years. Countless stories. Powered by the people.

In 2010, IFB expanded its employment offerings beyond a localized level, creating remote opportunities through its Workforce Services division. Operating as a staffing agency, Workforce Services connects government entities and commercial businesses with a skilled, flexible workforce for customer service, data collection and sales. Hear from Kayla Cole how Workforce Services has impacted her life and career.

 

Welcome Back!

We’re excited to welcome familiar faces back to the IFB family! Please join us in giving our returning team members a warm welcome.

Winston-Salem: Shannon Myers
Workforce Services: Marvin Pearson

Shannon and Marvin, we’re glad to have you back at IFB!

 

The Asheville Big Fair

Asheville facility company picnic: Thursday, October 1, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

Asheville, get ready for your big fair! The Asheville Planning Committee is bringing the IFB Big Fair to you, and we’re ready to celebrate YOU! After 90 years of building a strong IFB family, we’re closing out our anniversary celebration with an afternoon filled with good food, games, prizes, creativity and fun with your co-workers. Here’s what’s in store:

• A delicious lunch from Boxcar Grill, featuring hamburgers, sides and dessert
• Games that will test your skills and luck
• Prizes for game winners
• Gifts for all employees
• Photo booth to capture the memories
• Gallery of employee crafts showcasing the creativity of our Asheville team
• And more!

 

Asheville Early Dismissal

Asheville employees should plan accordingly for an early dismissal at 1:30 p.m. on October 1. To be paid for the remainder of your scheduled workday, you must stay and participate in the picnic for the entire event. Employees should clock out at 1:30 p.m. Failure to follow this requirement will result in not receiving pay for the remainder of the scheduled workday. If this applies to you, please plan your transportation accordingly for an early dismissal.

 

Asheville: Flu and Other Shots Available

Walgreens will be on site on Thursday, October 15 from 9 a.m. to noon to give flu shots to interested employees. They will also have the COVID vaccine and Tetanus/Whooping Cough vaccines available. Please let your supervisor know if you are interested in receiving any or all of the offered vaccines.

 

Health & Wellness

Atrium Health Clinic Tip of the Month: Cold, Flu or COVID-19?

Cold, flu and COVID-19 are all contagious respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, and because many of their symptoms overlap, it can sometimes be difficult to tell them apart.

Know the signs: fever, cough, sore throat, congestion, sneezing, body aches, headaches and fatigue can occur with one or more of these illnesses. COVID-19 may also cause shortness of breath or loss of taste or smell.

When should you seek medical care? Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms are getting worse or not improving. Seek immediate medical attention for:

• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent chest pain or pressure
• Confusion or difficulty waking or staying awake
• Symptoms that become severe or suddenly worsen

Protect yourself and others:

• Stay up to date on recommended vaccines.
• Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer.
• Cover coughs and sneezes.
• Stay home when you’re sick.
• Consider wearing a mask around others when you’re sick.

Remember, symptoms can look different from person to person. If you have questions or are at higher risk for severe illness, talk with your healthcare provider.

Want to learn more? Check out our helpful guide to compare common symptoms of a cold, the flu and COVID-19 and learn when it’s time to seek medical care. Access here.

 

Employee Spotlight: Aaron Pieraldi

This week, we’re getting to know Aaron Pieraldi, BSC Manager at the United States Naval Academy. Aaron has been part of the IFB family for more than a decade and enjoys helping customers, connecting with others and making sure people get what they need. Get to know Aaron a little better!

Q: Where did you grow up?
A: Baltimore, Maryland

Q: How long have you been with IFB, and what brought you to the organization?
A: I was offered an opportunity in 2010 to come back to the Washington, D.C. area when my name was given to a hiring manager. I took about a year and a half away from IFB during COVID and returned in 2023 when the Naval Academy received the go-ahead for the BSC store.

Q: Do you have any fun facts or hidden talents you’d like to share?
A: I’m Italian and Spanish, with family in Puerto Rico. I also love to sing!

Q: What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of work?
A: I enjoy music, watching football, writing, walking and going to new places—even if it’s just somewhere new around the area.

 

Q: What’s your all-time favorite food or meal?
A: Tacos and the buffalo chicken salad from Ledo Pizza.

Q: What do you enjoy most about working at IFB?
A: Helping others and working with customers to get them what they need.

Q: What’s a quote or word of advice you’d give to a friend?
A: “You’ve got this!”

Special thanks to Manager of BSC Stores, James Caliendo, for supporting these highlights. Who knows? You might be next in the spotlight! Stay tuned, and thanks for reading.

 

Tap In

Did you know that IFB is active on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn? Check out last week’s post, and give us a follow!

September 23: 📰 Get to know employees whose journeys reflect the impact of opportunity—from long-time team members to those who found a new beginning later in life.

Check out the fall 2026 newsletter and sign up to receive future editions here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Winston-Salem 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

 

Welcome to On the Spectrum

On the Spectrum is a monthly support group thoughtfully hosted by Winter Robinson. Each month, we explore a variety of topics, including special interests, sensory needs, autism history and autism representation in the media.

Join us every third Thursday of the month to learn, connect, promote understanding and help reduce the stigma surrounding autism.

Our gatherings provide a safe and welcoming space for everyone. Whether you are autistic, know someone with autism, or have an autistic family member, you are welcome to join us.

Come as you are, bring an open mind and a kind heart, and connect with others in a supportive environment. We look forward to seeing you! We look forward to seeing you at our next meeting on October 15 at 12 p.m. in TADS room!

 

 

Community Corner

NFB Forsyth Chapter Fundraiser

Submitted by NFB President Angela Haynes

Want a chance to win $200 while supporting a great cause? The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) Forsyth Chapter is hosting a fundraiser!

Tickets: $5 each
Grand Prize: $200

Fundraiser runs until the drawing on Wednesday, September 30.

Funds raised will support the NFB Forsyth Chapter’s efforts in education, awareness events and community engagement. Want a ticket? Contact any of the following to purchase your ticket:

• Angela Haynes – EFSS (Enhanced Frame Shoulder Straps) Department
• Easter McCall – Vinyl Department
• Winter Robinson – Markers Department
• Tracy Gould – EFSS (Enhanced Frame Shoulder Straps) Department

Buy a ticket, support the cause and you could be the $200 winner!

 

White Cane Awareness Walk

Join us in celebrating White Cane Awareness Day! Come together with community members to recognize the white cane as a symbol of independence for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

When: Saturday, October 17, 2026, 1– 3 p.m.
Where: Pack Square Park (the terraces), 80 Court Plaza, Asheville, N.C. 28801

• Brief presentation on White Cane Awareness Day
• Connect with local organizations supporting vision loss
• Light refreshments provided
• Most importantly – build community with others!

 

 

 

HR & Opportunities

Jobs

Chief Financial Officer

Education and Work Experience

• A BA, BS or MS degree in accounting is required. An MBA degree is preferred.
• A minimum of 10 years’ experience in financial management leadership is required.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/248873

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/248874?jpt=ce8685cef740a6280b5fcb492b556fa5

 

Sewing Machine Operator II (Asheville)

Education and Work Experience

• Prior experience operating automatic machines.
• Successful completion of Machine Operator I training.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/248666

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/248667?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

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Support Group Zoom Links

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