Embracing the unknown can often be daunting when thinking about one’s future, dealing with the unexpected, or simply leaving behind our comfort zones. For this interview series, we sat down with each of our Outlook Enrichment associates to spotlight their expertise within their roles and share their personal stories regarding their journey beyond vision. Meet Ross Pollpeter, Outlook Enrichment’s Program Manager.
Turning a Diagnosis into Determination
Reflecting on his childhood, Ross recalls the first signs of his vision loss, having difficulty seeing at night and losing sight of pitches mid-air during youth baseball. Despite these challenges as a child, he didn’t think much of it then. However, when his older brother John was almost in a car accident and later diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa at the age of 16, his parents decided to have the rest of the siblings examined. This eye exam is how Ross, at 11 years old, discovered that he had the same genetic eye condition.
Although he initially feared and struggled internally with his diagnosis, sharing the same experience with his sibling provided comfort during a difficult time. His perspective on his diagnosis changed when he connected with the Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB). This was his introduction to a community of blind individuals. After touring the IDB and receiving training such as cane travel, braille, and adaptive technology, his future opened to a world of possibilities.
How Ross Found Purpose in Skills Training
After college, Ross returned to IDB and graduated from their training program, where he met his wife, Bridgit. Ross continued to be inspired by the impact of skills training and saw nonvisual techniques as an investment for his future. Ross soon accepted a position at the League of Human Dignity, where he worked for eight years as a Barrier Removal Program & Independent Living Advisor.
Wanting to pursue a career where he could be his own boss, Ross transitioned to a new role at the Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (NCVBI), where he joined their Nebraska Business Enterprise Program. Here, he contracted out four facilities and over 60 vending machines, learned how to manage money and inventory, and tracked sales independently and successfully, thanks to his previous skills training.
Eventually, Ross’s passion for skills training led him back to IDB, where he became a Vocational Rehabilitation Teacher. Here, he taught cane travel, braille, and more. This role reinforced his desire to help others gain confidence and master crucial skills, making him a strong candidate for his next role.
Transforming a Teaching Career into a Leadership Role
While Ross enjoyed his current teaching role, he was seeking a role that would allow him to showcase his leadership skills. Fortunately, Ross recently connected with Outlook through his network and became involved in our community events, including the annual gala, Vision Beyond Sight. After discovering an opening, Ross joined the Enrichment team as the Program Manager in the fall of 2023.
As a leader, Ross’s expertise enables him to help clients reach their goals, whether it involves skills training at our facility, independent living training in clients’ households, or facilitating our peer support group. He believes the most rewarding aspect of his role is witnessing individuals gain self-confidence as they master new skills. He says, “Skills training is like muscle building. You have to keep doing it to get stronger. If you stop, it weakens.”
While every journey has its highs and lows, our ability to overcome and challenge mental and physical barriers will determine our future. This message and Enrichment’s unwavering support are what our clients will remember when they walk out our doors. This is Ross Pollpeter’s journey beyond vision. Discover how we can help you or a loved one on their journey. Let’s get in touch.
