At Outlook Enrichment, we’ve witnessed how even a single interaction can turn into a ripple effect that touches countless lives. A tour, a conversation, or even a story that resonates can grow into something bigger than anyone expects. When Annie Distefano first came through our doors with her homeschool group, she had no idea that moment would stay with her, or that it would blossom into new friendships and cherished memories.
Today, we’re proud to celebrate Annie as our 2025 Volunteer of the Year and recognize the passion and kindness she brings to everything she does.
Reconnecting with Outlook Enrichment
In 2023, Annie and her daughter, Abby, who was then Queen of the Santa Lucia Festival, reconnected with Outlook in a special way. Inspired by the festival’s mission to honor St. Lucy, the patron saint of the blind, they recalled their past tour and felt drawn to learn more about Outlook Enrichment and how they could give back to the blind and low vision community.
Since then, Annie has become a familiar and uplifting presence within our community. In her role as Director of Housing, Community Service & Academics for the Omaha Lancers, she has helped strengthen community partnerships and expand awareness, creating experiences such as Skating with the Lancers. During the event, players offered guidance and encouragement as many blind or visually impaired participants stepped onto the ice for the first time.
Reflecting on their experience with Outlook, Annie shared,
“Abby and I have met so many wonderful people along our Outlook journey that will always hold a special place in our hearts. The way we have been accepted into the Outlook community has been remarkable! Not one person that we have met has ever shown that they cannot do something because of their visual impairment. I love to see how everyone comes together for the common good of helping one another.”
Creating a Ripple Effect of Support
As Annie’s connection to Outlook grew, so did her involvement. From serving on the Outlook Enrichment Board of Directors to volunteering at community events like bowling nights and braille bingo to supporting our annual gala, Vision Beyond Sight, Annie brings the same level of enthusiasm and care to everything she does.
What makes Annie’s story even more meaningful is the way her passion for giving back has inspired others to join her. Family members, friends, and fellow Santa Lucia volunteers have joined her in supporting Outlook, creating a growing circle of connection, awareness, and support for the blind and low vision community.
Before getting involved with Outlook, Annie and her family had little firsthand experience with blindness or visual impairment. While they were inspired by the programs, services, and adaptive tools available, what stayed with them most was the spirit of the people they met. They saw determination, resilience, positivity, and a community that continually uplifts and encourages one another.
A Passion for Giving Back
At the center of everything Annie does is a deep desire to uplift others. In addition to her work with Outlook, she volunteers with Hillcrest Hospice’s No One Dies Alone (NODA) program and serves as Secretary for the Santa Lucia Festival. No matter where she is, Annie leads with empathy and kindness, and it never goes unnoticed. Her presence has a way of brightening a room, and our associates truly light up when she’s around.
Some of Annie’s most meaningful moments have come from witnessing others discover strength within themselves. As Annie shared, “I have loved watching clients step outside their comfort zones and celebrate accomplishments both big and small.”
What began as a simple tour has grown into much more, something that truly feels like family. Annie, Abby, and the Santa Lucia community have left their mark on Outlook, helping create moments filled with joy, connection, and a sense of belonging that lasts long after the moment ends. One memory stands out to Annie: “Honestly, the joy and pride that I saw on my daughter Abby’s face when people from Outlook came to the festival when she was queen is a memory I will treasure for the rest of my life.”
As our 2025 Volunteer of the Year, Annie embodies the true spirit of giving back. If Annie’s story inspires you, we invite you to get involved. There’s a place for you in the Outlook community.
