Vision Loss Archives - Page 3 of 5 - Outlook

This year, we’re honored to celebrate a very special milestone, Ben Micek’s 20th anniversary at Outlook Nebraska. Ben has been an essential part of our team for two decades, and his journey exemplifies both personal and professional growth, as well as the importance of creating equal opportunity for individuals from all backgrounds. Having been with Outlook since nearly the beginning, Ben has a unique perspective on how far the organization has come from moving locations and expanding shifts to launching new products and programs. He’s been here through it all.

How Early Support Systems Empowered Ben’s Journey

Ben’s journey with vision loss began at birth. He was born blind in his right eye and with no peripheral vision in his left. While the exact cause is unknown, he believes it may be genetic. Later, at age 18, he was also diagnosed with glaucoma, an eye disease that causes damage to the optic nerve, leading to vision loss over time. His family believes his diagnosis may have been triggered by the stress of undergoing multiple surgeries during childhood. Fortunately, there are treatments today that help slow or prevent vision loss from the disease.

His Individualized Education Program (IEP) ensured he had the accommodations and tools needed to succeed academically. Support from the Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (NCBVI) provided orientation and braille training in his early high school years, helping him build essential skills for independence. Throughout it all, his family offered constant encouragement, reinforcing his confidence and determination to thrive.

It was NCBVI who first connected Ben with Outlook Nebraska through its Work and Gain Experience in the Summer (WAGES) program in 2005. At the time, he was looking to gain real-world work experience and connect with others in the blind and visually impaired (BVI) community. The six-week program, designed for BVI youth ages 16–21, offers job training along with skill-building and social opportunities.

Creating a Long-Term Career at Outlook Nebraska

Ben joined Outlook Nebraska when the organization was just five years old, working out of its former I Street location before the move. He recalls a highly collaborative environment where everyone wore multiple hats, shared workspaces, and came together to support one another as the organization’s mission took shape.

Today, Ben serves as an Accounting Associate, a role he’s held throughout his time at Outlook. He plays a key role in Outlook’s financial operations, managing accounts payable and handling bill payments for Outlook Nebraska and its related entities. “I knew nothing about accounting or Excel when I started,” Ben says. “Everything I’ve learned, I’ve learned here.” This year, he led the rollout of a new electronic filing system, a significant initiative that replaced outdated processes and helped streamline operations across departments. To support his daily work, adaptive technologies such as ZoomText, CCTVs, and VoiceOver are his go-tos.

Among Ben’s favorite memories at Outlook is being named Associate of the Year and traveling to Washington, D.C. to attend a National Industries for the Blind (NIB) conference. Reflecting on what has meant the most to him during his career, Ben shares, “Just having Outlook see me as me. They don’t define me by my visual impairment; they see my potential.”

Ben’s Path to Self-Advocacy and Higher Education

Ben’s journey at Outlook has shaped him in many ways. “I’ve become more confident and outgoing,” he shares. “The people here definitely played a part in that, beyond just teaching me new skills.” Following the loss of his father, Ben experienced a major turning point in his life that led to even greater personal growth. “I had to reinvent myself,” he says. “I became my own advocate, something I wasn’t able to do when I was younger.”

In 2024, Ben earned his associate’s degree in Business and General Studies, fulfilling a goal he had been considering for some time. He credits a conversation with a fellow Outlook associate for giving him the push he needed to enroll at Metropolitan Community College. “If you have the drive and the right support system, whether that’s family or an organization, chase your dream if it’s what you want,” he says.

Having lived these experiences, Ben hopes more individuals in the BVI community are given the same opportunities. “Give people a second chance, or give more people who are BVI a first chance, by finding jobs or opportunities for them,” he says.

Over the years, Ben has become a reliable figure for our associates, not only due to his dedication to his role but also because of his sense of humor, positivity, and perspective. Ben has consistently demonstrated what is achievable when individuals are empowered to grow, learn, and feel a sense of belonging. His voice and experiences are vital parts of our history, and we are grateful for the insights he has shared with us. Ben, thank you for 20 years of loyalty, impact, and heart. We’re lucky to have you on our team.

Want to help create more stories like Ben’s? Learn how you can support Outlook’s mission of positively impacting everyone who is blind or visually impaired through employment and community programs. Get involved today!

In this episode, we meet two Outlook associates who aren’t afraid to step outside their comfort zones. Marisa Ethofer, Outlook Nebraska’s HR Generalist, and Megan Mackie, Outlook Enrichment’s Community Events Coordinator, both took a swing at something new by participating in Outlook Enrichment’s Blind Golfers Clinic on our golf simulator and later hitting the greens at our annual Tee It Up Fore Sight tournament. They share their stories of practicing, playing, and embracing the unexpected.

We’re also joined by attorney Steve Schmidt, who breaks down the basics of estate planning, why it matters, especially if you or a loved one has a disability and receives government assistance, and how to protect your assets for the future.

Vision loss is different for everyone. Some are born blind, while others lose their sight later in life. Some have partial vision that remains stable, while others experience gradual or total loss. Each journey is personal and shaped by many factors, such as lifestyle, support systems, and timing.

For Rondae Hill, vision loss has been an ongoing journey marked by strength, setbacks, and self-discovery. What makes her story powerful isn’t just the challenges she’s faced; it’s how she continues to rise, rebuild, and inspire others along the way. This is her story.

Every Vision Loss Journey Is Unique

Vision loss comes in many shapes and sizes. Some people are born blind, while others lose their sight later in life. Some eye conditions leave people with some usable vision, and some continue to progress, leading to total blindness. All of these factors impact one’s vision loss journey and their path to reaching their goals.

At Outlook Enrichment, our philosophy is a little different than other organizations. It’s important to meet people where they are, and if circumstances change, our doors are always open to tackle the next challenge.

It is through these doors that Rondae recently entered, seeking the support and skills to move forward in her vision loss journey. Rondae is not new to vision loss. She was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa about 20 years ago. Then, a macular hole took her eyesight from her right eye two years later. Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) often leads to gradual deterioration of the retina, usually leading to total blindness. The news was hard to digest, and Rondae admits that mentally, she was not where she needed to be to move forward. At the time, she was a single parent, running a daycare and doing independent contracting on the side. When she reached out for help, she couldn’t find an option that would allow her to get the training she needed while simultaneously fulfilling her responsibilities at home.

Finding Strength & Support Amidst Setbacks

As her eyesight started slipping, so did her mental health, job, and housing. She no longer felt safe doing daycare, as she perceived herself to be a liability. With kids to support, she found herself going from self-employed to unemployed and from having a home to living in someone else’s basement.

She was reminded of her uphill battle every time her eyesight declined, but these worries had to be pushed to the side. She was, first and foremost, a mother now trying to make it on a fixed income. She would eventually become a grandma in the same situation when she adopted her three grandkids and committed to being their sole caretaker and provider.

As they say, before you help others, you must first help yourself. She began to take advantage of all the resources Outlook has to offer, from recreational activities to adaptive technology training and peer support groups.

“I absolutely enjoy the support group meetings. I wish it had been available 20 years ago. It may have been the thing to help me after my diagnosis. Meeting and sharing with people like you is so important. Sometimes, blindness or disabilities in general can be isolating,” said Rondae.

Embracing a New Chapter With Confidence

It was technology training at Outlook that truly motivated Rondae. She is focusing on learning to use JAWS, a screen reader that allows users to navigate their computer screen with little or no eyesight. Rondae admits JAWS has been a challenge, but is putting her new tech skills to the test by writing a book about her life.

“I’m trying for the third time to learn technology. The first two times, I was both a parent and mentally not ready to learn. With RP, you are kind of in a constant state of grieving every time your vision changes, and sometimes that can be overwhelming and stop the learning process,” said Rondae.

Before being diagnosed with vision loss, Rondae did not know anyone else who was blind or had low vision. Recently, she’s found herself surrounded by the blind community. She attended Outlook Enrichment’s White Cane Day Happy Hour last October and was delighted to engage in positive activities with people who share similar experiences.

In the winter, Rondae brought her grandkids to our family ice skating event with the Lancers. Being a single grandma on a fixed income with vision and hearing loss and no transportation can be limiting. Usually, she improvises by walking with her grandkids to places nearby. Not only did her grandkids get to ice skate, meet the Lancers players, and get tickets to a Lancers game, but Rondae loved being able to expose them to other blind people who are living life to the fullest.

With the future of her eyesight unknown, Rondae is constantly questioning what will happen if she becomes totally blind. How will she care for her grandkids? How will she support herself and her family? She is finding the answers to those questions thanks to peer support and acquiring the skills and tools she needs to continue her vision loss journey. She’s envisioning herself going big, traveling, and inspiring others through mentoring and public speaking.

Go Rondae! We’ll be here cheering you on.

Vision loss doesn’t mean the end of your story; it’s the start of a new chapter. At Outlook Enrichment, we’re here to support community members like Rondae every step of the way, providing tools, training, and connections to help you move forward with confidence.

No matter where you are in your journey, you don’t have to walk it alone. Connect with Outlook Enrichment today.

In this special episode, the mic is turned around! Jill Thomas, former co-host of Pat and JT in the Morning on Sweet 98.5 (KQKQ) and current host of the Pat & JT podcast, takes the lead to interview our usual host, Dennis Nelson.

In their conversation, Dennis opens up about his upbringing, including being adopted and living with congenital blindness caused by detached retinas. He reflects on his path through various jobs before discovering his true passion: radio. Dennis shares how that passion grew into a fulfilling career and marked a new chapter when he connected with Outlook.

Vision Rehabilitation Week falls in June, a time to spotlight the millions of Americans navigating vision loss and the powerful services that help them live fuller, more independent lives. At Outlook, we witness every day how the right tools, training, and opportunities can transform lives. Vision loss may alter how someone experiences the world, but it doesn’t have to limit their independence, confidence, or sense of purpose.

Together, Outlook Nebraska and Outlook Enrichment offer a full spectrum of programs designed to employ, educate, and empower individuals who are blind or visually impaired. We’re on a mission to redefine what’s possible.

Understanding the Need for Vision Rehabilitation

More than 12 million Americans age 40 and older live with some form of vision impairment, a number expected to double by 2050 (JAMA Ophthalmol, 2016). Despite these growing numbers, awareness of vision rehabilitation remains low, with less than 5% of those who could benefit from these services receiving them (VisionServe Alliance, 2025).

Vision loss can significantly impact daily life, affecting everything from emotional health and mobility to employment, independence, and social connections. Without proper support, individuals often face higher risks of depression, isolation, and unemployment. 28.9% of working-age people with vision impairment report being unable to work compared to just 6.3% of those without vision impairment (VisionServe Alliance, 2023). These numbers highlight a significant gap in services and a compelling opportunity to make a meaningful difference. With the right support systems, individuals can regain their independence and improve their quality of life.

Vision rehabilitation refers to a comprehensive range of services that help individuals with vision loss adapt to daily life, maintain their independence, and continue to participate in the activities they love. These services are essential for reducing dependence on others, improving overall well-being, and increasing employability and financial independence.

Building Confidence Through Community & Skills Learning

At Outlook Enrichment, we’re committed to helping individuals who are blind or visually impaired realize they can do more than they ever imagined. Our six core programs — adaptive technology, independent living, recreation, arts and culture, work readiness, and health and wellness — are designed to support individuals at every stage of their vision loss journey. They are essential components of vision rehabilitation.

One of the things that makes Outlook Enrichment special is that our trainers are blind or visually impaired themselves. They bring empathy and experience to their work, showing participants what’s possible and creating a welcoming, judgment-free space. Whether someone is learning to navigate a new smartphone, preparing a meal safely at home, staying active with adaptive fitness, or finding joy through art and music, our services help restore confidence and create connections. Every program is designed to empower individuals with practical tools and a strong community, ensuring they not only adapt but also thrive.

Most of our programs are offered free of charge, made possible by the generous support of donations and grants. The only exceptions are recreation and arts and cultural activities, which may include a small fee to help cover materials or admission costs. We rely on the support of our community to sustain these life-changing services and to help raise awareness so that more people know these resources are here when they need them.

“Outlook has become family for me. The support has given me the confidence to accept what’s going on and to be able to be like this out in the world,” says client Samantha Randall.

Creating Fulfilling Career Paths for People With Vision Loss

While Outlook Enrichment equips individuals with essential life and career skills, Outlook Nebraska provides rewarding employment opportunities for those who are blind or visually impaired. Employment is a crucial, often overlooked aspect of the rehabilitation journey, providing individuals with structure, income, and purpose after experiencing vision loss. There’s pride in earning a paycheck, contributing, and being a part of a supportive community of peers who share similar experiences.

That’s why Outlook Nebraska is proud to be a part of the AbilityOne Program. This federal initiative creates job opportunities for people who are legally blind or have other significant disabilities through the sale of products and services. Outlook Nebraska produces SKILCRAFT and Spartan products, including toilet paper, paper towels, and cleaners and disinfectants, which are purchased by the U.S. Government, including the military, federal prisons, national parks, and other agencies.

What makes Outlook Nebraska truly unique is its fully accessible facility, purposefully designed to support its associates. On the manufacturing floor, tools such as audio-equipped machines, 70-inch Human-Machine Interface (HMI) touchscreens, color-coded and textured flooring, and nonvisual box labeling systems help employees navigate and operate machinery with confidence. These features empower more than 75% of our direct labor force, who are blind or visually impaired, to perform their roles effectively and safely. In administrative roles, associates utilize adaptive technology, such as screen readers and closed-circuit televisions (CCTVs), which are popular tools selected based on personal preference.

“Outlook is the reason I get up in the morning,” says associate Josh Scarborough, a U.S. military veteran who has been with the organization since 2011. “This organization provides you with all the opportunities to succeed if you take them.”

Vision Rehabilitation Week is about more than raising awareness. It’s about taking action. It’s a reminder that vision loss doesn’t have to mean losing independence, opportunity, or connection. Through the life-changing programs at Outlook Enrichment and the meaningful employment opportunities at Outlook Nebraska, we’re empowering individuals to live fuller, more confident lives.

If you or someone you know is facing vision loss, know that support is available, and it works. Request more information about our programs or submit a General Employment Interest Application.

References

Varma, R., Vajaranant, T.S., Burkemper, B., Wu, S., Torres, M., Hsu, C., Choudhury, F. and McKean-Cowdin, R. (2016). Visual impairment and blindness in adults in the United States: demographic and geographic variations from 2015 to 2050. JAMA Ophthalmology, 134(7), pp.802-809.

VisionServe Alliance. (2025). Vision Rehabilitation Week 2025.https://visionservealliance.org/visionrehabilitationweek2025/

VisionServe Alliance (2023). The Prevalence and Characteristics of People Aged 18 to 64 Years with Blindness and Low Vision, United States, 2019, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, St. Louis.

Did you know that 12.5 million Americans over age 40 experience vision loss? By 2050, the number of Americans who are blind or have vision loss is expected to increase by 118% (VisionService Alliance, 2022). But behind every statistic is a person on their own unique path, facing new challenges and celebrating small wins as they adjust to living with vision loss. At Outlook Enrichment, we’re here to make that journey feel less intimidating.

Personalized Support for Every Stage of Vision Loss

At Outlook Enrichment, we aspire to assist our neighbors who are blind or dealing with vision loss in living independently, engaging confidently in their communities, and continuing to pursue their passions. “When people lose their vision, they think ‘I can’t,’” Program Facilitator Ross Pollpeter says. “You can, soon. Maybe you feel this way now, but let us show you how you can do things differently.”

We support people at every stage of their journey, whether newly diagnosed or have lived with vision loss for years. We understand that no two journeys with vision loss are the same. Every client we serve has unique goals and needs, which is why our training is always personalized. We meet clients where they are and stand by them every step of the way.

Community Connections Through Events and Experiences

In addition to training and support, we offer meaningful opportunities for social connection. “We are all about getting people connected,” says Isaac Grelk, Adaptive Technology Trainer. “We meet people where they are. Blind people are capable of all things. Our goal is to guide them through it.” We help people build the skills they need while connecting them to a supportive community. Our inclusive community events encourage clients to step out and try new things. Some of our most popular events are our tandem bike club, bowling bash, and holiday lights tour.

We also provide health-focused education, including adaptive CrossFit classes and accessible meal preparation, focusing on simple, nutritious meals. “We bring in high protein food that does not require clients to dice a lot of ingredients,” shared Grelk, who recently graduated with an exercise science degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. “We encourage them to eat healthy, and it tastes good.”

How Adaptive Technology Can Transform Daily Life

For many, adaptive technology is the bridge to independence. Whether it’s staying connected with loved ones, maintaining a career, or managing daily tasks, the right tools can make a world of difference. Our tech trainers, who are also blind or visually impaired, bring lived experience to every session, helping clients build confidence in using assistive tools and devices. It also goes a long way in building trust from the start. “We try to set people up to have a positive experience in training,” Pollpeter said. “It helps to have that connection and develop that network.”

Some of the tools we introduce to clients are:

Seeing AI: A free app that narrates surroundings and reads text aloud
Be My Eyes: Connects users with volunteers for visual assistance
CCTV Magnifiers: Devices that enlarge printed text on a screen
Meta AI Glasses: AI-powered wearable tech for everyday use

Fostering a Welcoming, Inclusive Environment

Vision loss can be isolating, especially for seniors or individuals managing additional health conditions. We do everything possible to foster an environment where people feel seen, supported, and included. Our peer support groups, offered virtually and in person, give clients a safe space to share experiences, learn from each other, and build relationships.

We also understand that many of our clients live with secondary disabilities such as diabetes, stroke, hypertension, heart disease, or hearing impairment. “We have a lot of clients with secondary disabilities,” says Pollpeter. “If a client needs adjustments, we’ll work to accommodate them. Our goal is to make them feel inclusive and empowered to live their best life.”

Enrichment Adaptive Tech Trainer, Dennis, working with Outlook Nebraska associate on utilizing adaptive tech skills on a laptop. "Enhance your independence by mastering accessibility tools like screen readers. Contact Us."

At Outlook Enrichment, we believe that vision loss doesn’t mean giving up on the life you want. It just means adapting and finding a new path forward. Everyday, we witness people rediscover their independence, passions, and confidence. Whether learning to use a new piece of tech, making a healthy meal, or joining a recreational outing, our clients and associates show what’s possible when you have the proper support.

Ready to take the next step or want to learn more? Complete our contact form or call 531-365-5051.

References

VisionServe Alliance (2022). Nebraska’s Older Population and Vision Loss: A Briefing, St. Louis.

Celebrating Two Decades of Dedication With Ben Micek