Vision Beyond Sight 2026 Gala

A Night of Honor, Unity, and Independence

Join us as we celebrate the enduring American spirit, honoring both the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 and the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America. This special evening will recognize the bravery, resilience, and unity that define our nation while reaffirming our commitment to individuals navigating vision loss today.

Many of our clients describe feeling alone on their journey. Together, we can remind them that, much like America itself, they never stand alone. Through community, support, and opportunity, we continue to empower individuals of all ages living with vision loss to live with confidence, independence, and hope.

Event Details

Honoring 9/11 & Celebrating America’s 250th

As we reflect on the courage shown on and after September 11, 2001, and celebrate 250 years of American independence, we invite you to join us for an evening dedicated to service, perseverance, freedom, and unity. This year’s gala will feature stories from a veteran whose life was forever changed on and after 9/11, reminding us of the strength found in community and the enduring power of hope.

Together, we honor the past, celebrate the present, and help build a brighter future for individuals living with vision loss.

Featured Event

Dessert in the Dark is part of our gala experience. Guests wear sleep shades while sampling dessert without sight. The experience is designed to shift attention away from visuals and toward the full experience of the dessert itself. It also offers an opportunity to reflect on accessibility and inclusion, and to deepen understanding of vision impairment in a thoughtful, respectful way.

Please note: Guests are welcome and encouraged to dress in theme (coming soon). Registration will close on Thursday, October 22, 2026.

How You Can Make an Impact

Your participation makes a meaningful impact. Whether you sponsor a table, contribute a silent auction item, or attend the event, your support helps fund vital programs that empower individuals of all ages living with vision loss. Table sponsorships include seating for eight guests.

For sponsorship or silent auction donation opportunities, please contact Nina Rongisch, Executive Director of Outlook Enrichment, at 531-365-5342.

 

Registration Coming Soon

Illuminating Brilliance at Vision Beyond Sight

In this episode, we welcome Cassie Jetter, a dedicated member of Friends of Outlook, a board member for Outlook Enrichment, and co-chair of our annual gala, Vision Beyond Sight. Cassie shares her journey of becoming involved with Outlook and provides a sneak peek at this year’s gala theme: “Illuminating Brilliance.”

We discuss what guests can expect on this special evening and the goals we aim to achieve with the funds raised. Tune in to learn more about how we are celebrating the brilliance in every person, regardless of their sight.

Vision Beyond Sight 2025 Gala

About

Outlook Enrichment welcomes you on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at our annual gala, Vision Beyond Sight. This year’s theme, Illuminating Brilliance, honors the resilience and impact of the clients, associates, and volunteers whose voices and impact shape our community. Join us for an evening of inspiration, connection, and powerful storytelling, a reminder that no one faces vision loss alone.

Together, we’ll raise awareness, fund innovative resources, and support inclusive opportunities that foster independence, education, and creative expression. Through this event, we aim to shine a light on the brilliance within every person, regardless of sight.

Gala Chairs

Cassie Jetter (left) and Mary Fran Willard (right).

The gala is proudly hosted by Friends of Outlook, along with Event Chairs Cassie Jetter and Mary Fran Willard.

Event Details

One of the most impactful and memorable moments of our gala is Dessert in the Dark. During this unique experience, guests are invited to wear sleep shades while sampling dessert, challenging them to rely on their other senses. This immersive activity provides a powerful insight into the daily realities faced by individuals with vision loss, fostering awareness and a deeper appreciation for our mission.

Additionally, we will honor our Associate and Volunteer of the Year, as well as our Peter J. Salmon Award Nominee, and offer immersive activities for all guests to enjoy throughout the evening. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and business casual attire is encouraged.

Please note that registration will close on Friday, October 24, 2025.

How You Can Make an Impact

Your participation makes a meaningful impact. Whether you sponsor a table, contribute a silent auction item, or attend the event, your support helps fund vital programs that empower individuals of all ages living with vision loss. Table sponsorships include seating for eight guests.

For sponsorship or silent auction donation opportunities, please contact Nina Rongisch, Executive Director of Outlook Enrichment, at 531-365-5342.

 

 

2024 Gala – Vision Beyond Sight

The journey is just beginning. Join us on Friday, November 8, 2024, for our annual gala, Vision Beyond Sight. Listen as members of our community share their experiences and journeys to independence. Let’s come together to show our support and let them know they are not alone.

 

One of the highlights of our gala and the most thought-provoking experience of the night is Dessert in the Dark. Outlook will provide attendees with sleep shades to sample dessert without sight. This activity encourages reliance on other senses and offers many guests a new perspective, mirroring the challenges faced by individuals living with vision loss.

 

Additionally, we will recognize our Associate and Volunteer of the Year and offer immersive activities, such as beep baseball, Jenga, and putting, for everyone to participate in during the event. Doors open at 5:30 pm.

 

Register and browse sponsorship opportunities here.

 

If you are interested in volunteering at the Gala, please visit Share Omaha to register.

2023 Vision Beyond Sight Gala

2023 Gala Recap

On the evening of Friday, October 13, we held our annual Vision Beyond Sight Gala at the Marriott Downtown in the Capital District. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our associates, Alex Curtis and Rachel Carver, for graciously sharing their inspiring stories with all in attendance.

We want to express our sincere thanks to all the attendees, volunteers, sponsors, and generous donors. The success of this event, as well as Outlook’s vital work, would not have been possible without your unwavering support. It was a night brimming with moments of joy, tears, and anticipation. During the “Dessert in the Dark” segment, our attendees had the opportunity to empathize with the experience of those who are visually impaired by sampling desserts they couldn’t identify.

This year, our silent auction was a resounding success, thanks to the generous contributions of items and enthusiastic bidding from everyone. Rest assured, we are already working hard to prepare for next year’s event.

Awards

For those who were present and those who couldn’t make it, we invite you to view our Associate of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, and Lifetime Achievement videos below.