When Jessica Wilson’s coworkers nominated her for Associate of the Year, it reflected the journey she’d been on since joining Outlook Nebraska.

“It tells me that my work matters,” Jessica says. “That people notice I’m willing to help, collaborate, and get the job done every day.”

Jessica has spent three years at Outlook Nebraska, where she currently works on the Spartan Chemical line, helping bottle janitorial cleaning and disinfectant products for purchase by the Federal Government. What Jessica found at Outlook was more than just a job—it was a chance to grow, challenge herself, and prove what she could achieve.

Jessica’s Path to Outlook Nebraska

Jessica and her family moved to Nebraska during the COVID-19 pandemic to be closer to relatives in Bellevue and to seek new opportunities. After researching Outlook Nebraska, her husband Chris applied and joined the team. A few years later, when their youngest daughter started kindergarten, Jessica decided it was time to rejoin the workforce after being a stay-at-home mom.

With no prior manufacturing experience, Jessica wasn’t sure what to expect. Jessica started on the converting floor as a Finisher I before being offered a role on the Spartan Chemical production line. Rather than shy away from an unfamiliar role, she embraced the opportunity.

That willingness to learn has defined Jessica’s time at Outlook. Along the way, she’s gained confidence, developed new skills, and takes pride in continuously improving her work.

Looking ahead, Jessica is enthusiastic about the future of our janitorial cleaners and disinfectants. With a new filling machine on the way and more products being added to the line, she’s optimistic about the department’s ongoing growth.

“I’m excited and hopeful that the Spartan side can grow as big as the paper side,” she says.

Living with Vision Loss: Congenital Nystagmus and Strabismus

Jessica was born premature with congenital nystagmus, a condition that weakens the eye muscles and causes involuntary shaking of the eyes. She also has strabismus, which causes her eyes to shift outward (exotropia) and misalign, affecting both her depth perception and visual acuity. With 20/200 vision, Jessica has peripheral vision but cannot see clearly at a distance and must get close to read print or see objects. She uses magnification tools, including ZoomText, to help with daily tasks.

Jessica attended public school until seventh grade before attending the Arkansas School for the Blind, where she stayed through her senior year. It was the first time she met other people with vision loss and learned how to apply the skills she had been taught to everyday life. It was also where she met her husband, Chris.

After graduating, Jessica studied social work at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock but ultimately decided to focus on raising a family. Aside from a seasonal retail position at Target, Outlook Nebraska has been her first long-term career.

Raising a Family as a Blind Parent

Jessica is raising two daughters, both thriving in school, and says day-to-day parenting hasn’t looked much different for her family. Her parents never treated her differently than her sighted sibling growing up, and she’s carried that same approach into raising her own kids, who are both fully sighted.

The biggest obstacle, she says, is transportation. She doesn’t drive, so she relies on rideshare services like Uber to get to the store or to doctor’s appointments, which means planning everything well in advance.

“I feel like I am always on someone else’s time,” Jessica says.

If there’s one thing Jessica wants people to understand, it’s that vision loss doesn’t define what someone is capable of.

“I wish there wasn’t so much stigma around vision loss,” she says. “I wish people were more educated and less quick to write off what we can do. We can do what a sighted person can—you just have to give us the opportunity and let us show you, especially in the workplace.”

Between work and raising her daughters, Jessica admits she doesn’t have much free time, though she’d love to get more involved in Outlook Enrichment’s community events when she can. For now, she’s focused on what’s in front of her: doing good work, continuing to grow into her role, and supporting her fellow associates.

Congratulations to Jessica Wilson, Outlook Nebraska’s 2026 Associate of the Year.

Curious about opportunities at Outlook Nebraska? Submit a General Employment Interest Application, or share this with someone who’d be a great fit.

In this episode, we welcome Janis Compton, a well-known figure in the history of Outlook Nebraska. As the organization’s first receptionist, Janis wore many hats, stepping in wherever she was needed and helping lay the foundation for what Outlook has become today.

She shares a glimpse of her role, reflects on Outlook’s early days, and discusses what makes it such a special place to work. Janis also gives us an update on what she’s up to now and a few of her favorite hobbies that keep her busy.

In this episode, we’re joined by Adaptive Technology Trainer, Isaac Grelk, and Technology Specialist, Mickie Saltzman. They share their personal stories with vision loss and reflect on their experiences supporting the blind and visually impaired community.

Together, they explore recent advancements in accessibility and adaptive technology, highlighting tools that are empowering individuals to live more independently.

With Veterans Day taking place this month, we’re spotlighting one of our own, Josh Scarborough, a veteran whose journey has taken him across the globe and ultimately led him to embrace a new chapter at Outlook Nebraska.

From active deployment to navigating the challenges of vision loss, Josh’s story is a powerful reminder that with the proper resources, it’s possible to rediscover purpose, rebuild confidence, and let your inner light shine.

Josh’s Path to Service in the U.S. Army

Josh was born in Upper Michigan and raised in Florida, growing up in a military family that was often on the move. He decided to enlist in the Army at 17, motivated by a desire to improve his life by changing his environment and building a more positive future. One of the benefits of serving was the opportunity to take college courses, which he noted is strongly encouraged within the military. During his service, he earned a degree in Military History and a minor in Military Science.

After choosing to enlist in the Army, he completed academic tests and physical exams to determine his Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), aiming for a role he described as “cool”. Initially, he was set to be a gunner/crewman for the BMG-71 TOW, but when that position was phased out, he shifted to Direct Fire Infantry, where he spent most of his military career. Josh served in multiple units, including mechanized, air assault, light infantry, and combined arms.

The Highs and Hardships of Infantry Life

Josh is not one to sit still. “I didn’t like garrison life,” he admitted, referring to his time spent on base. Instead, he preferred deployment and was often in the U.S. for only 2 to 3 months at a time. He shared that while you can have a wish list of preferred deployment locations, it ultimately depends on what your branch manager can arrange. His favorite deployments were to South Korea, where he spent four to five years stationed around the country from the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) to the city’s capital, Seoul. Over the years, his service took him to other places as well, including Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, and the Philippines, and even across the ocean by ship while guarding equipment.

However, life in the military comes with risks and tribulations. During his first enlistment, Josh began experiencing vision issues, especially at night, even while using night-vision equipment. He realized that a series of multiple injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), sustained from improvised explosive devices (IEDs), were damaging his vision. One incident he recalled occurred during the surge in Iraq. He was riding in a Humvee when it flipped from impact, pinning him in a canal. This incident resulted in a concussion and a neck injury, requiring him to be medically evacuated to Germany. After 11 years of service, Josh separated from the Army. Having to start a new chapter in life, Josh chose to move near his sister, his closest relative, who was stationed at Offutt Air Force Base.

Finding a New Home at Outlook Nebraska

Within just a few months of moving, Josh learned about Outlook Nebraska and was quickly hired on the manufacturing floor. Today, Josh works as an Operator at Outlook Nebraska and continues to enjoy the hands-on nature of his job. One of his favorite activities during his shift is listening to audiobooks. “I loved reading as a kid; it keeps my mind and creativity going,” he shared.

Transitioning to life with vision loss wasn’t easy. He described the most challenging part as figuring out where to seek help and learning how to adapt to new technology. Through Outlook Enrichment, he learned to use a cane and accessibility features such as Magnifier on his phone.

He described his current vision as limited to shadows with his left eye, fuzzy tunnel vision in his right eye, and difficulty seeing in low-light conditions. Despite these challenges, Josh is grateful for Outlook Nebraska and the support he’s received. “I’ve met some really good, patient people. I had some adapting and growing up to do, and I don’t know where I’d be without Outlook. I love working; it keeps me busy.”

This Veterans Day, we honor Josh and all who have served. When asked what advice he would give to fellow veterans facing similar challenges, Josh said, “There are organizations that can help you. Your biggest obstacle is yourself.” Regarding his experience working at Outlook Nebraska, he added: “Outlook Nebraska lets you succeed and grow as much as you want to and are capable of.”

If you or a loved one is a blind or visually impaired veteran seeking support, whether through our community programs or employment, we’re here to help. Please complete our Employment Interest Form or contact Outlook Enrichment to get in touch.

Let’s continue to uplift and empower those who have sacrificed so much in service to our country.

Interviews With:

Dr. Kyle Niemann, OD – Optometrist, Visual Eyes Optical
Megan Mackie – Community Events Coordinator, Outlook Enrichment

In the rush of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the small things, like visions. This sense is something many of us take for granted, until it begins to change.

In this blog, we share two unique perspectives on eye care: one from a patient and one from an optometrist. Their experiences together highlight the importance of routine eye exams and provide a deeper understanding of the diagnostic process from both sides of the exam room.

An Optometrist Shares What to Expect at an Eye Exam

When was the last time you had a comprehensive eye exam? Optometrists (OD) see hundreds of patients each year and recommend that everyone, whether blind, visually impaired, or without current vision concerns, receive a comprehensive exam annually. Why? Many eye diseases can progress silently, with little to no early symptoms, making regular checkups essential for protecting long-term eye health.

“Many of the traditional tests we perform during a regular comprehensive exam may need to be adapted to accommodate the level of visual impairment. One key difference between a low vision exam and a regular exam is how a refraction is performed. Visually impaired individuals may not notice subtle changes, so during the refraction, the doctor will need to determine the level at which the patient can detect a difference. The doctor will then arrive at glasses or contacts that may give you the most visual benefit,” explains Dr. Kyle

Vision loss exists on a spectrum. Some individuals are completely blind with no light perception, while others may be legally blind, have low vision, or simply need corrective lenses. In some cases, changes in vision may signal an underlying medical condition, such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, cataracts, or glaucoma, which are among the leading causes of vision impairment and blindness. Regardless of where someone falls on that spectrum, maintaining eye health is crucial for overall well-being.

Another critical component within the low vision exam is monitoring disease progression through several scans of the back part of the eye and optic nerve. These scans ensure that the disease is stable and not showing signs of rapid or dangerous changes. Patients may be referred to an ophthalmologist (OMD) for specialized treatment if their eye condition requires advanced care. In other instances, lifestyle adjustments may help slow the progression of vision loss, although a clear solution is not always present.

“Typically, a diagnosis is fairly straightforward with a simple update to the patient’s prescription. However, for patients with a visual impairment, the start of the conversation may be a bit different. One of the most important aspects of my approach is maintaining empathy for the patient. When dealing with sight-threatening diseases, it’s crucial to understand the patient’s situation and clearly explain the symptoms they may experience. I especially emphasize the importance of follow-up care to ensure stability of the disease and to prevent rapid progression. Many patients receive handouts, pamphlets, or are directed to a website for additional education. Outlook Enrichment has been a vital resource for patients struggling with daily activities, and it’s empowering to know there’s a place that can truly support and guide them,” shares Dr. Kyle.

A Patient’s Ongoing Journey with Diabetic Retinopathy

Growing up with diabetes, Megan Mackie was always aware that vision loss could be a potential complication. However, it wasn’t until she turned 28 that she noticed significant changes in her eyesight, which made it challenging to see at school and work. After failing an eye exam at the DMV, she realized it was time to visit an eye doctor.

“Initially, I could drive myself to the appointments. It all became routine: paperwork, then the waiting room. After being called back, I’d stop at a few machines for pictures of my eyes, receive dilation eye drops, wait in a dark room, and then proceed to the exam room. Repeating my eyesight status at every appointment became frustrating, and I was nervous about reading the eye chart because I could not accept that my eyesight was declining,” Megan explains.

At this point, she had been diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy and had already experienced a retinal detachment in the center of one eye. She noticed “floaters,” blobs of blood from the blood vessels in her eyes. Blood vessels continued to grow, blood flow worsened to her optic nerve, and she developed a severe case of band keratopathy.

“If this all sounds like a foreign language to you, it did to me, too. The details went in one ear and out the other,” Megan admits.

Initially, she felt hopeful. With various medical recommendations presented, the outcome seemed optimistic. But the following year, the retina in her “good” eye also detached. Her doctor scheduled surgery to attempt a reattachment, but there was little guidance beyond the medical side of things. No one explained how she would manage her daily life without vision, how to pay bills, access transportation, navigate Social Security and Medicaid, or continue working. In the beginning, Megan had to rely heavily on her family, who were facing the same uncertainties.

After several surgeries, Megan realized her vision had become even more limited than before. The treatments had taken a toll on her eyes, and there wasn’t anything more her doctor could do. The only option left was to manage her blood sugar and blood pressure, her best and only chance at preserving the little sight remaining.

At the time, Megan didn’t know anyone else who was blind, and everyday tasks quickly became overwhelming. She struggled to distinguish one eye drop bottle from another, draw up her insulin injections, and read or pay bills. She was scared to leave the house; the offers of help with transportation had ceased, and the idea of returning to work felt impossible.

“It wasn’t until I discovered the resources available for people with vision loss that I was able to rebuild my life physically, mentally, and financially slowly. At some point, I had to accept my vision loss journey. I realized I would be responsible for taking the necessary steps to move forward. The Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (NCBVI) helped me learn cane travel, introduced me to public transportation, and supported me with job searching. Becoming employed at Outlook was a huge relief. I was able to get off state assistance, and they even had a resource advisor who could answer my Social Security questions with my best interests in mind. Looking back, had I been informed about resources available at the same time as my diagnosis, I could have started the recovery process sooner with more support,” she reflects.

Connecting Patients to Vision Loss Resources and Services

For someone who is blind or visually impaired, visiting the eye doctor requires extra planning. Patients must schedule transportation, navigate unfamiliar spaces, and fill out paperwork, all of which can take much longer than for the average patient. Many rely on adaptive technology, such as screen readers, closed-circuit televisions (CCTVs), or smartphone apps, to help complete these basic tasks.

Despite these challenges, the support patients receive often ends at the diagnosis. Patients like Megan are rarely given clear guidance on what comes next, and while that may not fall entirely on the doctor’s shoulders, even a small gesture of direction can make a meaningful difference. That’s where organizations like Outlook Enrichment come in.

Something as simple as a brochure or business card can provide valuable guidance for someone navigating a sudden loss of vision. These resources offer patients a tangible takeaway during a challenging time, serving as a starting point for their journey.

We act as a bridge between diagnosis and the next step of their journey, whether that means discovering adaptive technology, learning new life skills, regaining independence, or finding a community of individuals who truly understand their experiences.

As advocates for individuals with vision loss, we’re also working to educate eye care providers about this often-overlooked aspect of care. By collaborating with optometrists, ophthalmologists, and clinic staff, we aim to build stronger referral pathways and ensure patients are connected to the resources and support they need as early as possible.

Together, we can create a more informed, compassionate, and empowering continuum of care, one that doesn’t stop at diagnosis but supports every step that follows.

Vision loss is life-changing, but it doesn’t have to define your life. As we’ve seen through Megan’s story and Dr. Kyle’s insights, a diagnosis is only one step of the journey. What follows, access to resources, emotional support, and the ability to adapt, makes all the difference.

If you or someone you know is facing vision loss, remember that you’re not alone. Outlook Enrichment is here for you when you need us. Ready to take the next step? Get in touch with our team today.

In this episode, we sit down with Outlook Nebraska’s 2025 Associate of the Year, Morie Dinovo, First Shift Team Facilitator, and the Outlook Nebraska 2025 Peter J. Salmon Associate of the Year, Mortel Crawford, Second Shift Finisher. They share insights into their roles and time at Outlook, and what this recognition means to them.

We’re also joined by Ross Pollpeter, Program Facilitator at Outlook Enrichment, who offers a behind-the-scenes look at our peer support groups. He’s joined by Tim Green, an Outlook Enrichment client, who opens up about his personal journey with vision loss and how he got connected with Outlook. Together, Ross and Tim discuss the importance of keeping support groups peer-led and how these spaces foster meaningful community and connection.

Jessica Wilson Named Outlook Nebraska’s 2026 Associate of the Year

Jessica’s Path to Outlook Nebraska

Living with Vision Loss: Congenital Nystagmus and Strabismus

Raising a Family as a Blind Parent

The Early Days of Outlook Nebraska with Janis Compton

What’s New in Adaptive Technology

A Veteran’s New Chapter: Josh Scarborough’s Story