Bestwork Industries for the Blind Celebrates Annual Holiday Party

Bestwork Industries for the Blind, an organization that provides training and employment to individuals who are blind or visually impaired, delivered some holiday cheer to employees during its annual holiday party.

The organization treated its team to an off-site celebration at the Collingswood Senior Community Center that included a catered lunch, festive music and dancing, games, and a fun gift exchange.

Jon Katz, Bestwork’s new President & CEO who assumed the role in July, expressed his gratitude to the 120 guests in attendance that included a mixture of staff – more than 60% of Bestwork’s workforce is visually impaired – and board members.

Katz also had the honor of announcing Bestwork’s Employee of the Year. This coveted award is special because winners are nominated and voted for by fellow employees.

The winner, Warren Walker, has worked at Bestwork for 19 years. The Collingwood resident works on one of the textile manufacturing lines, where he is responsible for tagging and packaging military garments.

“Warren is an exemplary employee who goes above and beyond for his work and his coworkers,” said Jon Katz. “It’s an honor to work with him, and we look forward to his continuing contributions.”

Celebrated for being a true team player, and respected by both staff and co-workers for his dedication and willingness to help others, Warren accepted his award surrounded by cheers and applause from attendees. “I want to thank everyone for this award - it means so much to me,” he said.

This was a win felt by everyone. Warren’s had a rough few months. In September he lost his only daughter to COVID-19 and is now raising his grandchildren, along with his wife. During these tough times, Warren continued coming to work, leaning on his Bestwork family for support.

As the winner, Warren receives an all-expense-paid trip to National Industries for the Blind’s National Conference, annually held in Virginia, along with a $250 gift card.

To learn more about Bestwork Industries for the Blind or to schedule a tour, please contact Lauren Scarpa at lscarpa@bestworkindustries.org or 856-424-2510.

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ABOUT BESTWORK INDUSTRIES FOR THE BLIND, INC.

Bestwork Industries for the Blind, Inc. is a nonprofit organization founded in 1981 by Jim Varsaci; a veteran who lost his sight in WWII. Bestwork addresses the staggering 70% unemployment rate for people who are blind by making their training, employment, and career development a priority. Since its founding, Bestwork’s primary business lines include clothing and apparel products for the military and GSA as well as packaging, assembly and distribution services for state and commercial businesses. Bestwork’s ISO Certification demonstrates its commitment and continued ability to deliver the highest quality products and services. http://bestworkindustries.org