IBVI Base Supply Centers Present Awards to Key Customers
October was National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), and Industries for the Blind and Visually Impaired (IBVI) is a proud employer of people who are blind or visually impaired. But that’s just half of the story. In order for IBVI to employ people with disabilities, they need to have customers and partners who believe in the mission and join them in supporting blind employment.
Last month, in addition to spreading awareness about the importance of blind employment, each of IBVI’s Base Supply Centers (BSC’s) took time to celebrate their key partners. BSC’s are brick-and-mortar stores on 13 military bases around the United States, staffed by IBVI to help serve military customers better.
And although all 13 BSC’s participated by hosting award ceremonies, none was more eventful or powerful than the one that took place at Camp Mabry in Austin, Texas. It was the first award ceremony that took place at this base since its grand opening in 2017, and it included appearances by distinguished military personnel.
IBVI presented awards to the Texas Army National Guard, the Texas Air National Guard, and the Texas State Guard for their support of IBVI and of blind employment. As is with many great relationships, though, these military organizations received equal support from IBVI on base and throughout Texas.
According to BSC Store Manager Amanda Pair, “Throughout this tumultuous year, the Camp Mabry BSC was an essential source for logistic support. Our capability to forecast and execute orders fast further reinforced the significant need for IBVI’s presence on this installation.”
The most distinguished guest of the event also contributed to the most powerful moment of the ceremony. Two-star Maj. Gen. Greg Chaney, Deputy Adjutant General of the Texas Army National Guard was in attendance, and he even gave one of his coveted Command Coins to an awardee. Higher-ranking military officials sometimes give special coins to service members as a symbol of camaraderie and allegiance. The IBVI team also presented MG Chaney with a special IBVI coin to show their appreciation.
In the mission to raise awareness for blind employment, IBVI makes certain to remember that customers and partners who support the mission are just as important as the employer.
To learn more about NDEAM and IBVI, please visit our website.