Bestwork Industries for the Blind empowers individuals who are blind or visually impaired by creating meaningful employment, providing training, and expanding access to blindness and low-vision services.
Guests:
Jon Katz, President & CEO
Tom Black, Vice President of Products & Business Services
Alphonso Harrell, Team Lead, Recruiter and Public Policy Advocate
Interview by: Mark Oppenheim
Key Points:
- Founded in 1981, the organization has grown from a small manufacturing facility into a full-service social enterprise with multiple business lines and satellite locations across New Jersey.
- Bestwork is the largest employer of people who are blind or visually impaired in New Jersey, with over 40 years of service.
- Operations include textile and apparel manufacturing, e-commerce, document scanning and digital imaging, and packaging and assembly.
- Products include official military apparel such as Navy fleece jackets, Coast Guard uniforms, and Army training gear.
- Employment is supported through rigorous training programs, adaptive tools, and quality assurance processes.
- The organization emphasizes dignity of work, with employees viewing their contributions as service to their country.
- A new Low Vision Service Center is in development to provide screenings, rehabilitation, and assistive technology access in underserved areas.
Other Points on Bestwork Industries for the Blind:
Bestwork’s culture centers on community and belonging. Many employees come through personal referrals, creating a family environment where people support one another and remain long-term.
The organization has earned recognition as an essential part of the defense industrial base, producing high-quality apparel that meets stringent military specifications. Employees take pride in knowing their work directly supports U.S. service members.
Beyond textiles, Bestwork is diversifying into service-oriented business lines such as e-commerce and digital imaging. This expansion creates new career pathways for employees who may not want to remain in manufacturing.
Looking ahead, leadership has outlined a strategic plan focused on growth, expansion, and transformation.