NIB AbilityOne Program: Every Purchase Creates Jobs

2010-12-28T11:51:00.000-05:00

View a Washington Post video documentary story on Kenny Fountain, Winston-Salem Industries for the Blind.

Kenny Fountain is the manager of Paper Clips, an AblityOne Base Supply Center (BSC) store located at the U.S. Department of Treasury in Washington, D.C.

Watch the video here: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/video/2010/12/23/VI2010122304320.html

The story was posted Decembeer 24, 2010.

Kevin Lynch, President and CEO, National Industries for the Blind, is also featured in the story talking about the AbilityOne Base Supply Center program, as well as Kenny Fountain's recognition as the Milton J. Samuelson Career Achievement Award recipient for 2010.

Americans with disabilities provide vital support to DLA Aviation

2010-12-27T10:23:00.005-05:00

Excerpted from a story by Stephen J. Baker, DLA Aviation Public Affairs
Oct. 26, 2010 Read the full story online at DLA Aviation

Retired Army Brig. Gen. J.A. "Yogi" Mangual, a former commander of DLA Troop Support who is now executive vice president and president of Puerto Rico Operations for Winston-Salem Industries for the Blind, talks with DLA Aviation Chief of Staff Marine Col. Robin Gentry about the aerial delivery products they produce for the military. (Photo by Jackie Girard)

Retired Army Brig. Gen. J.A. "Yogi" Mangual, a former commander of DLA Troop Support who is now executive vice president and president of Puerto Rico Operations for Winston-Salem Industries for the Blind, talks with DLA Aviation Chief of Staff Marine Col. Robin Gentry about the aerial delivery products they produce for the military. (Photo by Jackie Girard)

Defense Logistics Agency Aviation hosted its third annual AbilityOne Fair at Defense Supply Center Richmond's Lotts Conference Center Oct. 19, allowing employees to learn more about support the agency and warfighters receive from Americans with disabilities.

"Americans with disabilities currently support DLA Aviation by providing vital support services such as the Base Supply Store, grounds maintenance, custodial services and emergency services dispatch," wrote DLA Aviation Commander Navy Rear Adm. Vince Griffith in a September memo to employees about the event. "AbilityOne sources also provide military unique items to DLA Aviation such as spill cleanup kits, aircraft safety belts, tie-down straps, insulation tape, F-15 explosion suppressant foam segments, and distress marker lights."

An aerial delivery section was the highlight of this year's event, featuring many items that DLA Aviation only recently acquired the responsibility for purchasing.

"About two-and-a-half years ago, we in the Marine Corps were talking about getting rid of our aerial delivery platoons, because the demand wasn't there. I will tell you that since that time, we've quadrupled the amount of aerial delivery in Afghanistan," DLA Aviation Chief of Staff Col. Robin Gentry told attendees during his opening remarks at the event.

He said America's military is using aerial delivery now more than it did in World War II, and that it's significant to DLA Aviation employees and AbilityOne because the program provides many of the related supplies.

"All those cargo straps, skid boards and high-velocity parachutes bring food, water and ammunition to Marines, soldiers, sailors and airmen on the battlefield," he said. "That is your link to what we do every day to sustain the military."

Retired Army Brig. Gen. J.A. "Yogi" Mangual, who commanded DLA Troop Support in Philadelphia from 2000-2002, represented Winston-Salem Industries for the Blind at AbilityOne Day. He serves the North Carolina-based organization as both its executive vice president and president of Puerto Rico Operations.

About National Industries for the Blind
At National Industries for the Blind (NIB), it is our mission to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program, established by the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act. www.nib.org

Increased Internet Accessibility Improves Job Opportunities for Blind

2010-12-16T12:00:00.003-05:00

National Industries for the Blind Calls for Increased Internet Accessibility at Department of Justice Public Hearing

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, National Industries for the Blind (NIB) called for websites and information services to become more accessible to people who are blind, noting this will broaden employment opportunities for a community that experiences 70 percent unemployment nationwide.

(pictured: Thomas Panek, Vice President of Relationship Management at NIB testifies at DOJ Internet Accessibility Hearing Dec 16, 2010)

Thomas Panek, Vice President of Relationship Management at NIBand a person who is blind, offered expert testimony at a public hearing convened by the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., on Proposed Revisions to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

“As the largest employer of people who are blind, NIB and its associated agencies have demonstrated that with the necessary levels of accessibility and training, people who are blind are more than capable of succeeding in high-skill careers,” said Panek. “Anything that employers and business owners can do to increase access to websites and information services will not only create more jobs, but also help people who are blind to live more independent lives.”

“As technology rapidly develops, so must our solutions to improving access for people who are blind,” said Kevin A. Lynch, President and CEO of NIB. “NIB looks forward to working with the federal government and private sector businesses to identify ways to not only increase access, but to also leverage technology and the Internet to create career opportunities for people who are blind.”

(Pictured: DOJ hearing panel, left; Thomas Panek, NIB VP, testifying, right)

During his testimony, Panek noted NIB would like to act as a partner and a resource to the federal government for developing a workable framework for website access for people who are blind.

In particular, Panek detailed NIB’s support for enhancing website accessibility for people who are blind, while recognizing that regulation should only be enacted where self-regulation is insufficient.

Specific recommendations supported by NIB and offered by Panek include:

* Business owners must work with members of the blind community to identify what access areas could be improved upon, and the potential solutions that exist.
• To the extent that it is possible, and reasonable, the public and private sector should use the latest accessibility standards.
• The Department should adopt requirements that revise the ADA Title II regulation to establish accessibility requirements for making the services, programs, or activities offered by state and local governments to the public via the Internet accessible.
• The Department should adopt the technical standard of WCAG 2.0 double A standard for website accessibility for public accommodations, namely entities covered by Titles II and III of the ADA.
• The Department should maintain and provide a list of resources for technical assistance to assist public entities in complying with proposed rules.

NIB believes these recommendations will help increase website accessibility and career opportunities for people who are blind.

“Seven out of 10 persons who are blind are unemployed. Every step we take to improve accessibility is a step toward lowering that unemployment rate,” Panek concluded. “As NIB has clearly demonstrated, with the necessary technology and training resources in place, people who are blind are capable of completing the job.”

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About National Industries for the Blind
At National Industries for the Blind (NIB), it is our mission to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program, established by the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act. www.nib.org

Congressional Record Statement HONORING ARMY MASTER SERGEANT MITTMAN

2010-11-30T16:34:00.004-05:00

[Congressional Record: November 29, 2010 (Extensions)]
[Page E1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:cr29no10-23]

HONORING ARMY MASTER SERGEANT MITTMAN

______

HON. DAN BURTON

of indiana

in the house of representatives

Monday, November 29, 2010

Mr. BURTON of Indiana. Madam Speaker, today I rise to celebrate and
honor the service of Army Master Sergeant Jeffrey Mittman for receiving
the Osborne A. ``Oz'' Day AbilityOne Awareness Award. The prestigious
``Oz'' Award is presented by the Committee for Purchase from People Who
Are Blind or Severely Disabled to an employee at a federal agency who
demonstrates exceptional service promoting the AbilityOne Program
throughout the federal, state and local communities.

Now, the National Account Manager for the National Industries for the
Blind's Midwest Region, Master Sergeant Mittman supports a mission of
employment for others with disabilities by promoting the AbilityOne
Program through the federal procurement process in Indiana's 5th
Congressional District. This patriot's story is a remarkable one, for
his story does not start nor finish here with this award.

Master Sergeant Mittman's indefatigable commitment to serve his
fellow Americans began as a soldier in the United States Army in 1989.
Having fought in Operation Desert Storm, Operation Desert Shield,
Operation Enduring Freedom, and in 2003, Operation Iraqi Freedom,
Master Sergeant Mittman was the All-American hero who never turned down
defending his country. It wasn't till his return to Iraq in 2005 as a
special advisor to the Iraqi Department of the Interior that he came
face to face with death changing his life forever.

Tragically, an improvised explosive device exploded near his vehicle
in Iraq, leaving Master Sergeant Mittman without a nose, lips, most of
his teeth, and the majority of his vision. Since that time, he has
endured more than 40 operations and spent over four years recovering
physically and emotionally. To his great credit, he has traveled the
country sharing the lessons he learned from these experiences with the
world.

He is noted for saying it is the veteran who has to take that very
first step to recovering and that he realized this after attending the
Blinded Veterans Association Conference in 2006, where he met people
who were blinded years ago who are now attorneys, teachers and business
executives. After realizing life can be good in spite of having a
disability, he decided to help others who also have disabilities find
jobs and lead meaningful lives.

Master Sergeant Mittman, a 40-year-old decorated warrior, husband of
17 years, father of two and outspoken military veteran was and forever
will be an All-American hero whose determination and selflessness
continue to serve our country and inspire our hearts. Today, we salute
you.

Triangle Business Journal Story on RLCB Call Center, 5 Jobs for Blind Employees

2010-11-30T09:32:00.003-05:00

Excerpted from the Triangle Business Journal. Pictures and the full story are available online at the Triangle Business Journal site.

The Raleigh Lions Clinic for the Blind, which these days goes by the name RLCB, is doing its part to create jobs for the blind, thanks in part to a new contract with a 72-year-old national nonprofit.

RLCB has hired five sight-impaired workers in an expansion of its Raleigh call center operation to service the new contact with the National Industries for the Blind.

“With the jobless rate among the blind now running at about 70 percent, any job created is substantial,” says agency spokeswoman Sharon Giovinazzo.

The call center, which employs around 15 and contracts with a number of business clients for short-term jobs,was tapped by the Alexandria, Va.-based NIB to handle national calls for SKILCRAFT products sold to federal agencies and the U.S. Department of Defense [through the AbilityOne Program/JWOD]. The center will also handle customer fulfillment, including
catalog requests and distribution of brochures and sales collateral, under the deal.

Raleigh Call Center Provides Jobs for People Who are Blind, Helps Small Businesses

2010-11-30T09:23:00.002-05:00

Raleigh, NC: RLCB (formerly Raleigh Lions Clinic for the Blind) is celebrating the opening of a new call center facility that is providing employment for people who are blind. The call center is a state-of-the-art facility staffed by well qualified and trained employees who are blind.

“RLCB offers a turn-key call center operation for small or large businesses throughout the United States,” said RLCB CEO Janet Griffey. “The employees at this location handle short-term and long-term projects with great results. One client seeking to increase its membership base experienced a 400% return on investment using our call center.”

National Industries for the Blind (NIB) recently selected the RLCB call center to handle national calls for its SKILCRAFT® products sold through the AbilityOne Program to federal agencies and the U.S. Department of Defense. The call center also handles customer fulfillment including catalog requests and distribution of brochures and sales collateral.

“This call center is a great asset that is helping nearly 500 distributors, most of which are small businesses selling SKILCRAFT products throughout the federal government,” said Kevin A. Lynch, president and CEO, National Industries for the Blind. “We expect to see the call center create more new jobs locally, and as SKILCRAFT sales increase through the call center’s telemarketing services, these sales will help sustain and create jobs for nearly 6,000 blind employees nationwide who produce SKILCRAFT products and services.”

As this program grows, it will also have a positive impact on the local economy in Raleigh.

“The call center at RLCB represents the type of sustainable jobs Raleigh wants to attract to our community. As the call center grows it will add good paying jobs for people who are blind and help preserve a high quality of life for our residents,” said Charles Meeker, Mayor, Raleigh, North Carolina.

###

About National Industries for the BlindAt National Industries for the Blind (NIB), it is our mission to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program, established by the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act. www.nib.org

About RLCB (Raleigh Lions Clinic for the Blind)RLCB’s mission is to empower people who are blind and visually impaired through employment opportunities and services to achieve social and economic equality. Jobs are provided through
RLCB, Inc., a North Carolina based diverse textile manufacturer, distributor and business services provider. Its business units provide textile manufacturing services; pick, pack and ship distribution services; and comprehensive, multi-media contact center business services. www.rlcb.net

IPad Opens World to a Disabled Boy

2010-11-02T09:35:00.003-04:00

Excerpted from the New York Times: read the entire story and view pictures.

OWEN CAIN depends on a respirator and struggles to make even the slightest movements — he has had a debilitating motor-neuron disease since infancy.
Owen, 7, does not have the strength to maneuver a computer mouse, but when a nurse propped her boyfriend’s iPad within reach in June, he did something his mother had never seen before.

He aimed his left pointer finger at an icon on the screen, touched it — just barely — and opened the application Gravitarium, which plays music as users create landscapes of stars on the screen. Over the years, Owen’s parents had tried several computerized communications contraptions to give him an escape from his disability, but the iPad was the first that worked on the first try.

A speech pathologist at Walter Reed Army Medical Center uses text-to-speech applications to give patients a voice. Christopher Bulger, a 16-year-old in Chicago who injured his spine in a car accident, used an iPad to surf the Internet during the early stages of his rehabilitation, when his hands were clenched into fists. “It was nice because you progressed from the knuckle to the finger to using more than one knuckle on the screen,” he said.

Representative Edward J. Markey, a Massachusetts Democrat, who wrote recently enacted legislation that will require mobile devices to be more accessible to users with disabilities, said approximately three-fourths of communications and video devices need to be adapted for blind and deaf people. “Apple,” he said in a statement, “is an outlier when it comes to devices that are accessible out of the box.”
The iPad is also, generally speaking, less expensive than computers and other gadgets specifically designed to help disabled people speak, read or write. While insurers usually do not cover the cost of mobile devices like the iPad because they are not medical equipment, in some cases they will pay for the applications that run on them.

Congressional Candidate Patrick Murray Knows SKILCRAFT Products From His Army Career

2010-10-29T15:38:00.003-04:00

Colonel Patrick Murray (U.S. Army – Retired), Republican candidate for Virginia’s 8th Congressional district and opponent of Rep. Jim Moran, visited NIB headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia, on Friday, October 29. Murray was briefed by NIB President and CEO Kevin A. Lynch about the AbilityOne Program and NIB’s mission of creating jobs for people who are blind, working through its network of 90 associated nonprofit agencies nationwide. Murray also met with NIB employees at a breakfast meeting.

As a retired U.S. Army Colonel with 24 years of active service, including tours in Iraq, Kosovo, Bosnia, Serbia and Russia, Murray was deployed to Baghdad in 2007 with the Joint Forces Command where he served as part of the Multi National Forces Iraq. His final tour of duty was at the United Nations in New York as a member of the U.S. Military Staff Committee.

Murray said through his years of military service, he had written with “gallons of ink from SKILCRAFT pens” that are produced by people who are blind through the AbilityOne Program. Murray expressed a keen interest NIB’s business, marketplace and competitive environment, as well as in meeting the people at NIB who worked to create jobs and lower the 70% unemployment rate for people who are blind.

Decorated Veteran Helping People Who Are Blind Find Employment

2010-10-29T12:14:00.004-04:00

2010 “Oz” Day AbilityOne Award Presented to Master Sgt. Jeffrey Mittman

Alexandria, VA – Army Master Sergeant Jeffrey Mittman, a native of Indianapolis, received national recognition for his commitment to creating employment opportunities for people who are blind. The Committee for Purchase from People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled presented Sgt. Mittman with the 2010 Osborne A. “Oz” Day AbilityOne Awareness Award October 27, 2010.

The prestigious “Oz Day” award is presented to federal employee or member of the military, who demonstrates exceptional service in promoting employment opportunities for people who are blind or severely disabled through the AbilityOne Program.

MSG Mittman, who was blinded and suffered other devastating injuries in Iraq from an improvised explosive device (IED) in 2005, is involved in a training program with the National Industries for the Blind (NIB) through the Warrior in Transition Program; in this role he supports a critical mission of employment for people with disabilities. This program allows him to prepare to transition into a civilian career upon retirement from the Army.

“I decided long ago – I can either own [my experiences] and learn from these experiences or I can let them own me. I chose the former,” said MSG Mittman. “I am humbled and proud to receive this honor, and I am eager to continue to be an example to our wounded warriors and other individuals with disabilities, showing them what is possible.”

“Master Sergeant Mittman is a remarkable individual who has faithfully served our country for more than 20 years, overcome tremendous adversity and now serves as an ambassador to other individuals with disabilities,” said Kevin Lynch, President and CEO of NIB. “NIB is committed to making a difference in the lives of our wounded warriors, so when we had the opportunity to have him on the NIB staff, we jumped at the chance. It should come as no surprise to anyone who knows Jeff that he deserves this recognition.”

The award is named in honor of Osborne A. “Oz” Day, who served as a private citizen member of the Committee from 2005 to 2008. Day provided critical leadership in communicating the AbilityOne message to federal customers and the general public. His service was the culmination of a lifelong career of advocacy on behalf of people with disabilities.

About National Industries for the Blind
At National Industries for the Blind (NIB), it is our mission to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program, established by the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act. For more information regarding how NIB and NIB associated agencies continue to provide opportunities to Americans who are blind, please visit: www.NIB.org

Rep. Jim Moran Says NIB and AbilityOne Mission Needs More Support

2010-10-28T20:47:00.006-04:00

Rep. Jim Moran (D-VA), whose congressional district includes National Industries for the Blind's headquarters in Alexandria,VA visited NIB's offices Thursday, October 28 as to meet with members of the leadership team and staff. Moran said he was impressed with the mission to provide employment opportunities for people who are blind. He added that the program, which is self supported by the sale of SKILCRAFT products and services through the AbilityOne program needs more Congressional support to ensure the intent of the Javits Wagner O'Day Act (JWOD) is being followed.

Attending Moran's visit were Jim Omvig, Vice Chairman, The Committee For Purchase From People Who are Blind or Severely Disabled and Jim Kesteloot, a new member of the Committee for Purchase who was sworn in October 27, 2010. Kesteloot is the former CEO of the Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind.

NIB invited Moran's Republican opponent for a visit, which will take place on Friday morning, October 29, 2010.

ABVI-Goodwill Call Center is Certified Gold in Green Building

2010-10-22T14:27:00.001-04:00

The Call Center facility for the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ABVI)-Goodwill Industries of Greater Rochester Inc. in New York has been awarded LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification through the U.S. Green Building Council for the design, construction, and operation of a high-performance green building as verified by the Green Building Certification Institute.

Opened in 2009, ABVI-Goodwill’s Call Center facility is in the former Rochester Housing Authority (“RHA”) Building and now accommodates an expanded call center operation, as well as warehouse/distribution, e-commerce and maintenance operations.

A two-story addition of 1,540 square feet including an entrance lobby, elevator and stairs was added to the existing 21,220-square-foot building. The expansion of the facility allowed ABVI-Goodwill to consolidate their call center operations and create 40 full-time jobs, including a number of positions for people who are blind or visually impaired.

LEED Gold certification of ABVI-Goodwill’s Call Center was based on a number of green design and construction features, including:

· Use of solar power as an alternative source of electrical energy

· Fundamental commissioning for energy efficiency

· 35 percent of the building’s annual electric coming from wind power

· Landscape design with no need for an irrigation system

· Indoor environmental air quality controlled with CO2 sensors

· Use of VOC-free paint and glue

· Water-saver plumbing fixtures

· Reduced heat island effect with white roof design

· Materials recycled during tear-out

· Use of clean construction site practices as required for LEED credit

· Recycled cubicles and office furniture

For more information, read the attached press release or contact Todd Pipitone at 585-327-5595 or tpipitone@abvi-goodwill.com.

Mike Gilliam Elected President of Consortium of Texas Agencies

2010-10-22T14:26:00.000-04:00

Lighthouse Industries for the Blind of Texas (LIBT), the consortium comprised of the 10 NIB associated nonprofit agencies in Texas, unanimously elected Mike Gilliam, CEO of San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind, as its incoming president. Mike replaces Harry Tyler, CEO of El Paso Lighthouse for the Blind.

Dave Wells of West Texas Lighthouse for the Blind in San Angelo was elected as vice president and Jerry Mayfield of Travis Association of the Blind in Austin was re-elected as treasurer.

For more information, contact Dave Wells at 325-653-4231 or d.wells@lighthousefortheblind.org.

Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind Hosts Employment Connection Fair October 26, 2010 MLK Library, DC

2010-10-22T14:04:00.002-04:00

CONNECTING THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED COMMUNITY TO CLB

Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind is having an Employment Connection Fair on Tuesday, October 26, 2010 from 12:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. This event is for qualified blind and visually impaired individuals who are seeking employment in the following areas: Switchboard Operator, Mailroom Clerk, Help Desk, Document Prep Specialist. Please come dressed to interview and bring your most current resume.
Location: Martin Luther King Library 901 G Street NW, Washington, DC
Contact: Gail Snider gsnider@clb.org or 240 737 5170
The library is located near Gallery Place Metro Station on 9th Street NW, and Metro Center on 11th Street NW.

1 Store Solutions 15th Anniversary Event for Travis Air Force Base AbilityOne Store

2010-10-21T17:06:00.002-04:00

1 Store Solutions blind employees proud to serve their community and America’s military.

Fairfield, CA – For the past 12 years, the employees at 1 Store Solutions Base Supply Center (BSC) at Travis Air Force Base have been providing on-base mission critical support and outfitting the servicemen and women stationed there. Today, these employees, and South Texas Lighthouse for the Blind, reached out to thank the community at Travis for their support and to celebrate the 15th Anniversary of the AbilityOne Base Supply Center Program.

U.S. Representatives George Miller (D-CA-07) and John Garamendi (D-CA-10) praised the work of the AbilityOne Program and the 1 Store Solutions BSC.

“The services provided by the employees at the 1 Store Solutions Base Supply Center at Travis Air Force Base play an important role at Travis and for our service men and women,” said Rep. Miller in a statement released to National Industries for the Blind. “Their work is win-win – individuals who are blind are given employment opportunities and 140 government installations receive quality, full service and flexible operations. I look forward to their continued success.”

“On this 15th Anniversary of the AbilityOne Base Supply Center program, we are pleased to congratulate 1 Store Solutions at Travis Air Force Base for their hard work, both on the base, as well as in our communities – and we wish you many years of continued success,” wrote Reps. Miller and Garamendi in a letter presented during a program at the event.

There are 140 AbilityOne BSC facilities located at federal and military installations throughout the United States that provide employment to 300 Americans who are blind or severely disabled. More than 40,000 blind or disabled people are employed through the sale of products and services through the AbilityOne Program.

“1 Store Solutions supports the mission and the service men and women of Travis. It also supports the livelihood of the men and women who, through civilian service support our military,” said Steve Heinecke, National Industries for the Blind (NIB) Vice President of Marketing. “1 Store Solutions and NIB personnel are proud to be included in supporting America’s Armed Forces.”

Also attending today’s event were Col. Robert Eatman, Commander, 60th Mission Support Group, Travis AFB, and Regis Barber, President, South Texas Lighthouse for the Blind.

“We opened our first AbilityOne Base Supply Center in 1997, and have expanded to six different locations since that time,” said Barber. “Working with Travis has been an incredible partnership, and we are extremely proud and honored to be able to serve our servicemen and women in this way.”

About National Industries for the Blind
NIB’s (www.NIB.org) mission is to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program, established by the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act.

Rep. George Miller Supports 1Store Solutions, AbilityOne Base Supply Center at Travis Air Force Base

2010-10-21T16:36:00.005-04:00

In celebration of the 15th Anniversary of the AbilityOne Base Supply Center Program, 1Store Solutions is presented with a congratulatory plaque for quaility, mission support on Travis Air Force Base. (pictured left to right) Congressman George Miller (D-CA-07) representative Janel Lea; Regis Barber, President and CEO, South Texas Lighthouse for the Blind (STLB); Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA-10) representative Elise Amaya; Dave Marshall, Vice President of Retail and Government Services, STLB; Brad Husted, Manager of Retail Operations, STLB; Samantha Mueller, Manager, 1Store Solutions, STLB; Steve Heinecke, Vice President of Products and Online Marketing, National Industries for the Blind; and Mission Support Group Commander, Colonel Robert Eatman.

Defense Supply Center Richmond VA Hosts 3rd Annual Aviation AbilityOne Day

2010-10-19T06:56:00.005-04:00

The Defense Supply Center Richmond (DSCR) is hosting the 3rd Annual AbilityOne Day on Tuesday, October 19, 2010 in support of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). The event will be held at the DSCR Conference Center in Richmond, Virginia, from 8:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

DSCR has invited all nonprofit agencies (NPAs) that have the capability to manufacture or supply the following commodities:

• Aviation Engine Accessories
• Airframe Structural Components
• Aviation Hardware
• Metalwork Machinery
• Chain and Wire Rope
• Airborne Radar and Radio Equipment
• Electrical Insulators and Hardware
• Communication Cable, Cord and Wire Assemblies
• Electrical Wire and Power Distribution Equipment
• Instrumentation
• Chemicals and Packaged Petroleum Products

DSCR anticipates approximately 500 Acquisition Specialists, Technical Specialists, and Quality (Product) Specialists to attend the event. All DSCR employees and Heads of Tenant Activities will be notified about the event and encouraged to visit the NPA exhibits to identify opportunities to add items to the Procurement List.

About National Industries for the Blind
At National Industries for the Blind (NIB), it is our mission to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program, established by the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act. For more information regarding how NIB and NIB associated agencies continue to provide opportunities to Americans who are blind, please visit: www.NIB.org

New Contract Management Services Web Page on NIB.org

2010-10-18T09:12:00.003-04:00

The federal government needs contract administration and closeout services. For example, the U.S. Army has 300,000+ contracts that require closing. To meet this need, NIB provides services such as:

Research and analysis to ensure all requirements for closing contracts are complete.

We present “ready-to-close” contracts to government contracting officers.

Contract close-out document preparation

Contract document imaging and indexing

Contract document destruction

In June 2010, NIB, as the prime contractor and CMS program manager for the AbilityOne Program, executed an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract with the Department of the Army for provision of CMS contract closeout support services for all of the Department of Defense (DoD). CMS closeout services were added to the mandatory AbilityOne Procurement List concurrently with the DoD-wide IDIQ contract. With these essential building blocks in place, individual task orders from across DoD will flow to the AbilityOne Program via NIB.

About National Industries for the Blind
At National Industries for the Blind (NIB), it is our mission to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program, established by the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act. For more information regarding how NIB and NIB associated agencies continue to provide opportunities to Americans who are blind, please visit: www.NIB.org

Rep. Bob Etheridge Praises First AbilityOne BSC Store at Ft. Bragg 15th Anniversary Event

2010-10-14T13:26:00.006-04:00

[Pictured right: 82nd Airborne Chorus at Ft. Bragg AbilityOne Base Suppply Center 15th Anniversary Celebration featuring Rep. Bob Etheridge and Kevin Lynch, Pres. & CEO, National Industries for the Blind]
First in the Nation Base Supply Center Holds 15th Anniversary Event
Fort Bragg, North Carolina

Fort Bragg, NC – Since 1995, the employees at the LC Industries’ (LCI) Base Supply Center (BSC) at Fort Bragg have been providing on-base mission critical support and outfitting the servicemen and women stationed there. Today, these employees, and officials including U.S. Representative Bob Etheridge (D-NC-02) and executives from National Industries for the Blind (NIB) and the Committee for Purchase from People who are Blind or Severely Disabled (the Committee), reached out to thank the community at Fort Bragg for their support and to celebrate the 15th Anniversary of the AbilityOne Base Supply Center program.

The highly successful and well regarded AbilityOne BSC program began 15 years ago, with the first location opening its doors at Fort Bragg on October 12, 1995. It has now grown to 140 facilities located at federal and military installations throughout the United States that provide employment to 300 Americans who are blind or severely disabled. More than 40,000 blind or disabled people are employed through the sale of products and services through the AbilityOne Program.

Rep. Etheridge, who introduced a Congressional Resolution commemorating the 15th Anniversary of the Ability BSC program, was at the celebration where he shared words of praise and admiration for the support the BSC store program provides the U.S. military at Ft. Bragg and throughout the nation.

“The men and women who work at the LC Industries AbilityOne Base Supply Center are supporting the 82nd Airborne by providing the products and services necessary to allow America’s military to complete its mission,” Rep. Etheridge said.

U.S. Senators Kay Hagan (D-NC) and Richard Burr (R-NC) also had words of praise for the employees of the LCI BSC at Fort Bragg and the AbilityOne program.

“The AbilityOne Base Supply Center program is working to provide employment opportunities to individuals who are blind or severely disabled in North Carolina and across the country,” Hagan noted in a statement released to NIB. “This program has roots in North Carolina -- the first center was located at Fort Bragg. AbilityOne employees are serving our country by working to support our men and women in the military.”

“I congratulate the AbilityOne Base Supply Centers on their 15th anniversary of operation. I am proud that the first AbilityOne Base Supply Center opened in my home state of North Carolina,” Burr said in a statement to NIB. “The AbilityOne program and the AbilityOne Base Supply Centers are to be commended for their dedication, commitment, and success in eliminating barriers to employment and independence for individuals who are blind or severely disabled.”

October is also National Disability Employment Awareness Month, a month-long observance of the significant contributions people who are blind or severely disabled make to our nation’s workforce. It is also an opportunity to raise awareness and advocate for more employment opportunities for this able and willing segment of the population.

Also attending today’s event were Mr. Robert Franks, Director of Logistics, Fort Bragg, Barry Lineback, from the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled, and Bill Hudson, President, LC Industries.

“Fifteen years ago, we saw an opportunity to create jobs for people who are blind, but I don’t think we imagined it would be as successful as it has been,” said Hudson. “I am honored and humbled by the support shown here today for our employees and for the AbilityOne Base Supply Center program. I know everyone at LC Industries is proud to serve over 31 BSC locations, offering quality, value and convenience to our servicemen and women.”

About National Industries for the Blind
At National Industries for the Blind (NIB), it is our mission to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program, established by the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act. For more information regarding how NIB and NIB associated agencies continue to provide opportunities to Americans who are blind, please visit: www.NIB.org

NIB at AbilityOne Day, Defense Supply Center Philadelphia Oct 13

2010-10-10T14:03:00.006-04:00

2010 AbilityOne Day at DSCP to Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month

The 2010 AbilityOne Day at Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP) to recognize National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) will be held Wednesday, October 13, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the DSCP Building 6 Auditorium.

Learn more about National Disability Employment Awareness Month on the NIB AbilityOne blog. Statement by President Barack Obama. Statement by Assistant Secretary of Labor Kathy Martinez.

About the National Industries for the Blind
NIB’s (www.NIB.org), mission is to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program. (Pictured left: SKILCRAFT logo and AbilityOne Program logo. SKILCRAFT slogan: Every Purchase Creates Jobs)

Samuelson Career Achievement Award Presented by National Industries for the Blind

2010-10-10T13:32:00.001-04:00

October 8, 2010; Cincinnati, Ohio – National Industries for the Blind (NIB) honored Kenneth Fountain, Winston-Salem Industries for the Blind, as the 2010 Milton J. Samuelson Career Achievement Award winner during an awards banquet at the “AbilityOne: People Make it Happen” Annual Training Conference hosted by NIB and the National Association for the Employment of People Who Are Blind (NAEPB) in Cincinnati.

The Samuelson Award is presented to an individual who demonstrates career advancement at an NIB associated agency or in the private sector. The award was named for the late Milton J. Samuelson, who championed upward mobility and placement programs for people who are blind.

Fountain was selected from a national pool of candidates nominated by NIB associated agencies for the Samuelson award. He is manages the Base Supply Center store at the U.S. Department of Treasury in Washington, D.C., operated by Winston-Salem Industries for the Blind (WSIFB) of North Carolina.

Fountain, who is blind, was instrumental in increasing sales by 83 percent to $420,600 the first year – higher than any other WSIFB location.

His career experience at two other NIB associated agencies includes employment in production and vending sales at Blind Industries and Services of Maryland and serving as base supply center associate at Virginia Industries for the Blind.

“We are pleased to honor Kenneth Fountain with the Samuelson Award,” said Kevin A. Lynch, NIB president and CEO. “He has demonstrated an ability to adapt and continually learn new skills to provide excellent service for his government customers, implement and achieve fiscal results, while also overcoming personal challenges.”

About National Industries for the Blind (NIB)
NIB’s (www.NIB.org) mission is to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program.

Winner of Salmon Employee of the Year Award Announced by National Industries for the Blind

2010-10-10T13:29:00.000-04:00

October 8, 2010; Cincinnati, Ohio – National Industries for the Blind (NIB) honored Joyce Talbert, Bosma Enterprises, as the 2010 Peter J. Salmon Employee of the Year Award Winner an awards banquet during the “AbilityOne: People Make it Happen” Annual Training Conference hosted by NIB and the National Association for the Employment of People Who Are Blind (NAEPB) in Cincinnati.

The Peter J. Salmon Employee of the Year Award honors employees who excel in their positions at NIB associated agencies. The award was named for the late Dr. Peter J. Salmon, who was instrumental in the passage of the Wagner O-Day Act and the formation of NIB.

Talbert, based in Indianapolis, Indiana, was selected from a pool of candidates nominated by NIB associated agencies. At an age when most people contemplate retirement, Talbert, who is blind, earned her GED and went to work. Besides being trained on a dozen jobs at Bosma, Talbert has represented Bosma at outreach events including the United Way, Habitat for Humanity and other community service organizations.

According to Bill Amrine, director of industries at Bosma, “Joyce takes any job assignment and runs with the opportunity ... She is a leader on the production line as well as in the community.”

“We are pleased to honor Joyce Talbert with the Salmon Award,” said Kevin A. Lynch, NIB president and CEO. “Her professional dedication and exemplary performance, leadership and “can-do” attitude in managing her responsibilities set an example from which others can learn.”

About the National Industries for the Blind
NIB’s (www.NIB.org), mission is to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program. (Pictured left: SKILCRAFT logo and AbilityOne Program logo. SKILCRAFT slogan: Every Purchase Creates Jobs)

National Industries for the Blind Honors Leading Human Resources Advocate

2010-10-10T13:25:00.005-04:00

October 8, 2010; Cincinnati, Ohio – National Industries for the Blind (NIB) honored Brenda D. Gumbs, vice president, human resources for Perfetti Van Melle, as the 2010 R. B. Irwin Award winner during an awards banquet at the “AbilityOne: People Make it Happen” Annual Training Conference hosted by NIB and the National Association for the Employment of People Who Are Blind (NAEPB) in Cincinnati.

The R.B. Irwin Award is NIB’s highest honor, presented annually to a professional who has devoted his or her career to creating and improving employment for people who are blind, or a volunteer who has demonstrated exceptional service and commitment to the mission of NIB. The award honors the memory of Dr. Robert B. Irwin, who was instrumental in the passage of the Wagner-O’Day Act and the creation of NIB in 1938.

Gumbs, based in Erlanger, Kentucky, was an active member of the NIB Board of Directors and assumed many critical leadership positions during her eight-year tenure, including vice chairperson, secretary, and chairperson of the Strategic Planning, Board Development, and Performance Management committees.

She has also served as a member of the Board of Directors of the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired-Goodwill in Rochester, New York.

“We are pleased to honor Brenda Gumbs with the Irwin Award,” said Kevin A. Lynch, NIB president and CEO. “She has worked tirelessly throughout her career utilizing and applying her expertise in human resources, her advocacy endeavors and her organizational involvement to help and mainstream people who are blind or visually impaired and assist them with career options.”

About the National Industries for the Blind
NIB’s (www.NIB.org), mission is to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program. (Pictured left: SKILCRAFT logo and AbilityOne Program logo. SKILCRAFT slogan: Every Purchase Creates Jobs)

Blind Texas man fulfills skydiving dream

2010-10-10T13:18:00.003-04:00

WHITEWRIGHT – To his long list of feats – as a motivational speaker, disc jockey, author, motorcyclist, water skier – Blake Lindsay can add a new one: skydiver.

It's a lot for anyone to accomplish, let alone someone who's blind.

Lindsay, 45, jumped from an airplane 2 ½ miles high Saturday to fulfill a childhood wish and make a point: "I want people – when they face their challenges, their fears – to dive in, because there's victory on the other side," he said.

Read the full story from the Dallas Morning News - http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/101010dnmetblindjump.2466ce8.html

About the National Industries for the Blind
NIB’s (www.NIB.org), mission is to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program. (Pictured left: SKILCRAFT logo and AbilityOne Program logo. SKILCRAFT slogan: Every Purchase Creates Jobs)

Public officials have an obligation to do more for people with vision loss

2010-10-05T08:55:00.007-04:00

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month - celebrate by supporting the purchase of SKILCRAF products and services. Every purchase creates jobs for people who are blind or visually impaired.

Sheila Solomon Klass wites about her life with Macular Degeneration in a Special to The Washington Post Monday, October 4, 2010. A portion of the story is excerpted here. Read the entire story and view a video on what macular degeneration looks like from the perspective of someone who lives with it.

Video Link: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/video/2010/10/04/VI2010100404256.html?sid=ST2010100405965

Story Link: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/10/04/AR2010100405310.html?sub=AR

Each day on waking, as I pad barefoot to the door to get the morning newspaper, I wonder: Will I be able to read the headlines when I pick it up? Yes, the headlines.
Headlines, after all, are large and set in bold type. That's what it has come down to. Oh, sure, with my magnifier I can do it. But I never carry my magnifier to the door; that would be cheating on the daily test I set for myself.

I'm legally blind because of macular degeneration, and I have glaucoma.
What the normal eye can see from 200 feet, I can see from only 20 feet or less. I can read normal-size print in a good strong light, if I hold the book close to my face. One and a half million Americans share the disability of legal blindness with me. Additionally, I'm an 82-year-old widow in lace-up orthopedic shoes who spends a lot of time on the subway happily going about her business.

Until five years ago, I had no very serious laments about my body, which has served me well and serves me still.

But now . . . my eyes are going. Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in my age group, and my vision is practically gone. What worse punishment is there for an English teacher, for a writer of fiction whose major sport is reading, for a person who worships the printed word?

Story Link: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/10/04/AR2010100405310.html?sub=AR

About the National Industries for the Blind
NIB’s (www.NIB.org), mission is to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program. (Pictured left: SKILCRAFT logo and AbilityOne Program logo. SKILCRAFT slogan: Every Purchase Creates Jobs)

AbilityOne: People Make It Happen; National Disability Awareness Month

2010-10-02T12:27:00.008-04:00

National Industries for the Blind Celebrating NDEAM at Annual Conference in Cincinnati, Ohio Oct 6-9, 2010

National Industries for the Blind (NIB), the largest employer of people who are blind in the U.S., is celebrating October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month with a nationwide awareness campaign featuring local programs at many of its 89 associated agencies; 140 AbilityOne Base Supply Center stores and special events throughout October.

NIB is honoring 62 “Employees of the Year” who are featured guests at its Annual Training Conference in Cincinnati, OH October 6-9, 2010. Two employees will also be honored as national award winners: Joyce Talbert, Bosma Enterprises, Indianapolis, Indiana will be presented the Peter J. Salmon Employee of the Year Award. Kenneth Fountain, Winston-Salem Industries for the Blind will be presented the Milton J. Samuelson Career Achievement Award. All employees produce SKILCRAFT® products or provide services sold to the federal government or Department of Defense through the AbilityOne Program (see the Defense Procurement and Acquisition Policy online).

President Barack Obama (pictured left) issued a presidential proclamation recognizing October 2010 as National Disability Awareness Month. In his proclamation, Obama said: “We also know we are stronger when our country and economy can benefit from the skills and talents of all our citizens. No individual in our Nation should face unnecessary barriers to success, and no American with a disability should be limited in his or her desire to work. During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we renew our focus on improving employment opportunities and career pathways that lead to good jobs and sound economic futures for people with disabilities.”

In July, President Obama signed an Executive Order to increase jobs for people who are blind or disabled: “This directive requires Federal agencies to design model recruitment and hiring strategies for people with disabilities, and to implement programs to retain these public servants. To ensure transparency and accountability, agencies will report on their progress on hiring people with disabilities, and the Office of Personnel Management will post the results of agencies' efforts online for public evaluation.”

The full text of President Obama’s text is available at www.nib-abilityone.blogspot.com or www.nib.org

About the National Industries for the Blind
NIB’s (www.NIB.org), mission is to enhance the opportunities for economic and personal independence of persons who are blind, primarily through creating, sustaining and improving employment. NIB and 89 associated agencies serve as the largest employer for people who are blind by the sale of SKILCRAFT® products and services through the AbilityOne Program. (Pictured left: SKILCRAFT logo and AbilityOne Program logo. SKILCRAFT slogan: Every Purchase Creates Jobs)