Enrichment Staff Archives - Outlook | Nebraska and Enrichment

Isaac Grelk understands firsthand the challenges of adjusting to life with vision loss, but he also knows how to thrive despite it. Now, as an Adaptive Technology Trainer at Outlook Enrichment, he’s using his lived experience to support others on their journey toward independence, confidence, and connection. Read on to learn how his journey led him to empowering others.

Isaac’s Early Signs and Diagnosis of Stargardt Disease

Isaac’s vision loss first became apparent to his parents when he struggled to connect with the ball during little league baseball. After two years of tests, he was diagnosed with Stargardt disease, a genetic eye condition that leads to a fatty buildup in the macula, affecting central vision. He explained that both of his parents are gene carriers, and one of his siblings has also been affected. While his vision has remained stable over the years, he acknowledges that it could change with age. Isaac describes his vision as similar to looking around a fist held in front of his nose, explaining that he has a blind spot in the center of his field of vision.

After moving to Omaha in 2016, he was first connected with Outlook Enrichment when his mother discovered the organization online. It provided him with a great opportunity to make new friends who are also blind or visually impaired during high school and to stay active in recreational programs.

Isaac later attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology. When asked why he chose that path, he said, “I always liked helping people achieve their goals, whether fitness-related or something personal.”

Embracing Blindness and Finding Personal Success

One of Isaac’s greatest ongoing challenges has been transportation. For a long time, it was difficult for him to get around independently, as he had to rely on his wife or services like Uber or Lyft, which could be costly. This changed when he moved to La Vista and discovered the La Vista-Ralston Special Services Shuttle. He was grateful for a simple application process, having only to fill out a form and hand it to the driver on his first ride. This smaller, more localized service has provided greater flexibility, and the drivers have even learned his routine, so he no longer needs to call ahead to schedule each ride.

In terms of personal growth, Isaac has had several milestones worth celebrating:

In high school, he learned basic cane travel thanks to a specialist who visited his school.
Upon arriving at college, he faced a major learning curve. As a visual learner in high school, he had to adapt to a primarily digital learning environment.
He taught himself how to use Apple accessibility features like VoiceOver.
During his first week on UNO’s campus, he used his cane to memorize routes and navigate independently.
Most notably, he’s grown more confident in his identity.

“As I’ve gotten older, I feel more open about my vision loss. I don’t feel the need to hide it; it’s part of who I am.”

Empowering the Blind Community Through Community Programs

Towards the end of college, Isaac’s involvement with Outlook Enrichment deepened when he took on an internship with Outlook Enrichment as part of his practicum at UNO. He landed the internship after an associate overheard him on a tour saying, “This would be a neat place to work.” That small moment turned into a big opportunity.

During his internship, he taught CrossFit classes to clients through our health and wellness program. He also trained his peers to adapt workouts and to follow proper etiquette when interacting with individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

After completing his internship and graduating from college, Isaac transitioned to the manufacturing floor at Outlook Nebraska, gaining experience on the employment-focused side of our organization. When an Adaptive Technology Trainer position opened at Enrichment, he knew it would be a perfect fit.

Today, Isaac works directly with clients, teaching them to navigate technology using accessibility features such as screen readers, voice commands, typing tools, AI, and more. When asked what he enjoys most about the role, Isaac didn’t hesitate:

“The moment clients realize they can independently use their phone again, that ‘ah-ha’ moment is the best.” He always reminds them, “You can do a lot more than you think you can.”

Isaac’s story is a powerful reminder that vision loss doesn’t define a person; it simply reshapes how they experience the world. From learning to adapt at a young age to becoming a trusted tech trainer at Outlook Enrichment, he has embraced his identity and now helps others do the same on their journeys towards independence.

Interested in training with Isaac? Let’s get in touch!

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 Dennis Nelson, Outlook Enrichment’s Adaptive Technology Trainer.

Dennis’s Early Life and Influences

Dennis’s journey beyond vision began at birth when he was diagnosed with congenital blindness. Born with detached retinas in both eyes, he has experienced blindness his entire life. Shortly after birth, he was placed for adoption in Wisconsin, where, at age three, he found a loving home with parents who also experienced vision loss (glaucoma and hereditary partial vision). This upbringing created an environment of understanding and mutual support that significantly influenced his outlook on life.

From kindergarten through high school, Dennis attended the Wisconsin School for the Visually Handicapped. While there, he received skills training that improved his nonvisual techniques, particularly orientation and mobility. This training enabled him to navigate his school and community confidently, mastering cane travel to cross streets and follow traffic signals safely. As Dennis grew up, listening to the radio became influential, eventually leading him to pursue a career in the industry, which he feels is his true calling in life.

Forging New Career Paths

Dennis spent much of his early adulthood working in various radio positions, where he discovered a strong passion for on-air broadcasting and audio editing. He eventually became the Production Director at WMTM Radio (Cruisin’ 94) in Moultrie, GA, a role he held for 12 years, allowing him to pursue his love for radio further.

Alongside his radio career, Dennis took on various roles throughout his life. He returned to Wisconsin to participate in Wisconsin’s Business Enterprise Program. Here, he co-owned the state office coffee shop in Milwaukee. He later moved to Minneapolis, where he worked at a cable company, starting in sales before transitioning into other roles. Eventually, Dennis relocated to Petersburg, FL, where he became a technical support specialist at Freedom Scientific, a company providing accessible software for individuals who are blind or have low vision. It was here that he crossed paths with Mitchell (Mitch) Green.

Transforming Lives Through Adaptive Technology

Mitch, his colleague from Freedom Scientific, learned about Outlook Nebraska and moved to Omaha after accepting a job in the IT department here. He later encouraged Dennis to apply for an IT position that opened under him. In February 2017, Dennis joined the Outlook Nebraska team before retiring in 2019 due to health issues. However, he rejoined us in 2023, and we are delighted to have him back on the Outlook Enrichment team as a Part-time Adaptive Tech Trainer.

Today, Dennis enjoys supporting individuals on their journey beyond vision through adaptive technology training tailored to each client’s needs and goals. He assists individuals at our facility and works with clients virtually across the U.S. Witnessing the success and graduation of clients from Enrichment’s program brings him immense pride. Tracking their progress is uplifting and a constant reminder of his purpose here. Dennis remains passionate about audio editing outside of work and enjoys playing with simulators such as airline, railroad, and race car driving in his free time.

While vision loss often brings feelings of isolation and uncertainty, Dennis’s confidence and commitment to exploring new opportunities have opened doors for him. Though stepping out of one’s comfort zone can be challenging, Dennis encourages others to pursue their dreams and embrace new experiences. We must let go of that fear to reclaim our independence. This is Dennis’s journey beyond vision. Complete our contact form or call us at 531-365-5051 for more information about our services and programs.

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 Megan Mackie, Outlook Enrichment’s Community Events Coordinator.

Growing Up with Diabetic Retinopathy

Born in Omaha, NE, Megan’s childhood was much like any other until her juvenile diabetes diagnosis at age three. Despite the diagnosis, she remained determined not to let it dampen her spirits or slow her down. Throughout her childhood, her parents stressed the importance of managing her condition to stay healthy, though, as a child, it wasn’t always her top priority. It wasn’t until after graduating from college that she became aware of a decline in her vision. Suddenly, everyday activities such as reading and driving became increasingly difficult.

In 2010, she was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy after one of her retinas detached, and the same thing happened to her other eye in 2011. Prioritizing her independence over her safety, she made the difficult choice to stop driving. Hoping surgery to reattach her retinas would restore her vision and allow her to drive again, she remembers this period as a source of optimism.

Navigating New Challenges Associated with Low Vision

While this was happening, Megan had been serving at the same restaurant for years. She slowly realized that she could no longer navigate the restaurant as easily as she once could. It felt like another aspect of her independence was being taken away, and she knew there would be new challenges to overcome. She needed to learn how to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and about cane travel. Unsure of where to seek help, Megan contacted the Nebraska Commission for the Blind (NCBVI).

Little by little, she became more comfortable with using a cane to get around. She began by walking her dog and traveling solo around her neighborhood. As she grew more confident, she attempted walking to the grocery store and maneuvering through the aisles. While it wasn’t the same level of independence she was accustomed to, NCBVI helped rebuild some of her confidence, and she found comfort in knowing that others were dealing with similar obstacles.

Breaking Stereotypes and Embracing Leadership

Despite facing challenges with her declining vision, Megan has reached a point of acceptance and continues to adapt to life’s obstacles. In 2018, she learned about Outlook through a former associate and decided to apply for the Front Desk Receptionist position. The following year, Megan became the Community Events Coordinator for the Enrichment team and has loved it since. She appreciates the critical life skills her position and diagnosis have taught her, such as flexibility, adaptability, and problem-solving.

Every day, she aims to challenge the stereotype of what’s achievable. Whether that involves pushing the boundaries of what event participants can accomplish, surprising community members who have not witnessed a group of blind individuals cycling together on a Group Therapy ride, or participating in shooting activities. When she’s not leading enrichment events, Megan enjoys being with her five dogs and foster pup, walking, and planting flowers.

At Outlook Enrichment, we are grateful to have an associate who shares positivity and strength with everyone who walks through our doors or attends our events. She believes there’s strength in numbers, recognizing that one person’s weakness may be another’s strength. This is Megan Mackie’s journey beyond vision. To learn more about Outlook Enrichment’s services and programs, contact us at 531-365-5051.

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.

Mickie never thought he would be a teacher. But he has spent the last four years showing others with vision loss how to make the most of their technology. He has fun every day as an Outlook Enrichment adaptive technology trainer. It took some time to get here, but he feels he’s where he should be.

Mickie’s Background

In 2006, Mickie lived in Lincoln, NE. His associate’s degree from Southeast Community College in Lincoln started him down the computer programmer career path. But, not for the first time in his life, things weren’t quite going as planned.

Mickie was born blind and with hearing loss. The blindness never bothered him as much as the hearing loss did. Mickie’s high school dream job was in audio engineering. He wanted to be behind the scenes at a radio station. However, this dream sat just out of reach for him because of his hearing loss. He needed a new plan.

Mickie received his first computer in 1997. After wondering what to do with it, he decided to see what the computer could do. Mickie always enjoyed figuring out how things worked, so he applied the same mindset to mastering the computer.

Mickie found working with computers exciting, which led to him starting his programming classes. He thought this career path would work for him.

A random comment during one of Mickie’s math tutoring sessions in college stuck with him. While he attempted to fix his notetaker, the tutor mentioned teaching to Mickie. This made Mickie think. Maybe there’s something to this.

Mickie’s Introduction to Outlook

After some job searching, Mickie moved to Omaha to join Outlook Nebraska’s production team at the end of 2006. Making toilet paper was not his career goal, but earning a paycheck and making some friends satisfied him. Outlook was still growing, and the future seemed bright here.

In 2017, Mickie’s familiarity with using a MacBook computer was needed to help a program participant. At that moment, Mickie realized he could combine his love for technology and his ability to help others accomplish their goals. His tutor’s comment about teaching came back to him.

Mickie now shows Enrichment participants how to become self-sufficient on computers, smartphones, and other devices. Seeing a person learn something new makes Mickie smile every day.

Mickie always feels proud to get up and go to work every day. But he now says he has the perfect career.

Mickie purchased his first home in 2017. He loves spending time outside during nice weather with his dog, Skippy.

Mickie goes cross-country skiing in the winter whenever he can. Every January, he attends Ski For Light in South Dakota. This nonprofit hosts cross-country skiing events to show visually impaired people how to ski and to have fun in the snow.

If you meet Mickie, ask him about his 2018 skydiving trip. He loved it and plans to do it again.

Nina’s love for marketing and communications began in 2004 when she was asked to help create a newsletter. She realized she wanted to make a career in this field and started her education journey to get her marketing degree.

For Nina, promoting causes she cares about is extremely rewarding. She held previous marketing positions at Emspace + Lovgren, Physicians Mutual, and InfoGroup. She brings over 10 years of marketing experience to Outlook Enrichment.

Nina learned about Enrichment through a co-worker. She wanted to become a board member at a nonprofit, making a difference in the community. She liked what she learned about Enrichment and was one of the founding board members in 2019. Having firsthand knowledge of the impact of Enrichment’s mission, Nina is excited to continue helping people through their vision loss journey in her new role as director of fund development.

In this role, Nina will foster relationships with corporations, foundations, individuals, and key personnel. She will also cultivate support for Enrichment’s programs, which address the need for technology training and cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities for the people in our region who are blind or have vision loss.

Nina received a bachelor’s degree in marketing management from Bellevue University, where she later earned her master’s degree in management. Her communication, project management, content development, and strategic thinking will garner support for the programs that help people with vision loss live independently in an inclusive community.

She’s motivated every day by her husband and son, who keep her busy watching their son play baseball, basketball, and golf.

She loves to read or attend sporting events when she’s not working. Her personal goal is to read one book each month in 2022. Nina also enjoys baking but gives away the goodies to keep them out of the house.

Nina has always loved country music. She met country singer Keith Urban while out with friends the same night she met her husband. She keeps the photo on her desk to remember meeting her husband and, of course, that she got to talk to Keith Urban in her hometown of Omaha.

Nina loves going to the dentist. And, if you are ever at a breakfast meeting with Nina, don’t offer her a doughnut. She is not a fan.

Meet the Enrichment Team: Isaac Grelk