Meet Norman Fairley: Lions Services’ Blind Employee of the Year

At Lions Services, we take pride in recognizing outstanding employees who embody resilience, dedication, and leadership. This year, we are thrilled to honor Norman Fairley as our Blind Employee of the Year for 2025.

A Journey of Strength and Perseverance

Norman has been part of the Lions Services family for eight years, excelling in multiple roles as a machine operator and production assembler. Today, he is an essential member of our IRS Department, where he continues to demonstrate exceptional skill and commitment.

However, Norman’s journey has not been without challenges. In 2014, he woke up one morning to find his vision blurry. As his sight continued to deteriorate, he struggled with depression, uncertain of what the future held.

Then, he found Lions Services.

“Lions Services brought out the best in me when I was hired,” Norman shares. “I discovered an entire community of individuals with vision loss like me.”

Family, Football, and Faith

A proud graduate of Garinger High School (Class of 2002), Norman’s early career took him from the food industry to mobile home production before joining Lions Services. Beyond work, his greatest joy is his family—his wife and five children (three sons and two daughters) mean the world to him.

When he’s not at work, you can find Norman watching football—he is a huge Carolina Panthers fan. Their motto, “Keep Pounding,” has become his personal mantra, inspiring him to push forward through every challenge, including his journey with vision loss. He also enjoys spending time with family and playing soccer with his sons.

A Leader in the Blind Community

Norman’s experience has shaped him into a passionate advocate for individuals with vision loss.

“I love helping people with vision loss,” he says. “Everyone needs a shoulder to lean on. We may be blind, but we walk by faith, not sight.”

His role at Lions Services has given him a powerful perspective:

“Working at Lions Services has impacted me by seeing what other people are going through. It has given me my passion to be a leader for the blind community.”

Norman Fairley is a shining example of resilience, leadership, and the power of community. We are proud to celebrate his achievements and look forward to seeing the continued impact he makes at Lions Services and beyond.

Congratulations, Norman! 🎉 #BlindIndependence #KeepPounding #LionsServices #EmployeeSpotlight #NIB #NationalIndustriesForTheBlind #EmployeeofTheYear #LowVision #KeepPounding