|
Our Vision To eliminate all barriers for people who are blind or visually impaired.
To provide opportunities for employment and personal development for people who are blind or visually impaired to achieve greater independence. Achieve Excellence by continually providing opportunities for the organization, encouraging empowerment and teamwork of associates. Demonstrate Respect for all. Encouraging Open Communications to promote and develop ideas, opinions, and provide information. Act wtih Integrity. We will, at all times behave in an ethical and trusthworthy manner guided by our values, beliefs and mission. Be Responsible and Accountable: We will take ownership for our actions and be fiscally accountable to ensure long-term viability. IOB Greensboro was one of the first agencies employing blind people to become associated with the National Industries for the Blind (NIB) in 1938, and we then took our current name, Industries of the Blind, Incorporated. As an NIB agency, the number of product items produced by our employees increased and the number of employees grew to 35 blind people during World War II. During that period of time the first portion of our current building was constructed on West Lee Street, and a group medical plan and other fringe benefits were made available to employees. IOB, Inc. entered into its first one million dollar contract in 1962. Additional important contracts followed including those for clipboards and pens in 1968. Along with the growth of work opportunities came additions, improvements and renovations to our building. Today IOB, Inc. employs over 100 employees in various manufacturing and service direct labor, supervisory and management positions. From our very beginning, our directors have believed in reinvesting excess earnings in the purchase of new equipment, the development of new products and the improvement of quality to create and sustain jobs for blind people. Our Executive Director attributes our success to " the hard work of IOB employees and the leadership of its Board of Directors that is extraordinary in its dedication to IOB's mission." Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act (JWOD) The Committee For Purchase From People Who Are Blind Or Severely Disabled is a small Federal agency, which administers the JWOD program. Their members include senior officials from major Federal procurement agencies and private citizens representing people who are blind and otherwise severely disabled who are appointed by the President of the United States. For further information on Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act, The National Industries for the Blind, or Skilcraft products, please visit these websites: An NIB Associated Agency
Lenwood Dennis William J. Craft Sandra Shelton Harold Messick Ashley S. James, Jr. Chi Anyansi-Archibong Paul Marth Dave Thompson Christopher Peters
Richard Craig Jeffery Claypool
David LoPresti - President | Senator Kay Hagan Visits IOB!
On February 18, 2009, US Senator Kay Hagan toured our facility and had the opportunity to visit with people and get a first hand look at the quality blind-made products being produced in Greensboro. During her in-state work period, Senator Hagan took the time to hear our concerns and issues that are on most American's minds these days. Betsy Thorne, IOB's Executive Director, led the tour and introduced Senator Hagan to several key people throughout the organization. Being on the Armed Services Committee, our military textile products were of great interest. These products go to directly support our nation's war-fighters. Senator Hagan got a first hand look at the making of our MOLLE hydration carrier, JS List bag, and moisture wicking t-shirt. Senator Hagan was able to see that people who are blind can accomplish anything given the right opportunities. Industries of the Blind would like to thank Senator Hagan for her efforts and for seeing the great need for the AbilityOne Program. Greensboro's local Fox News channel interviewed the Senator and then included video footage of her tour of our facility. To view the video segment, please follow the link Newsmakers - Senator Kay Hagan. |