Non-Profit Spotlight: Outlook

Since 2000, Outlook Nebraska has provided employment opportunities for individuals who are blind or visually (BVI) impaired under the AbilityOne Program through manufacturing, administrative, and leadership positions. Outlook Nebraska produces essential janitorial products such as paper towels, toilet paper, and cleaners/disinfectants to be purchased by government facilities such as prisons, national parks, and military bases.

Since 2010, Outlook Nebraska has provided enriching programs that serve BVI persons beyond employment. Inspired by this success and the public’s interest in more, Outlook Enrichment was established as a 501c3 organization in 2019 and part of the Outlook family to further serve the community by addressing a broader spectrum of needs to promote independence, enhance employability, and foster community engagement.

Who is the primary group that you serve with your organization?

We primarily serve the BVI community. We also collaborate with employers to help implement job accommodations such as adaptive technology to ensure ADA compliance and the success of their employees.

What makes your organization different from others with a similar focus?

Across the organization, BVI associates hold positions in all departments and at all levels, including management and senior leadership. Associates gain professional and social skills in the workplace that enable them to advance in internal positions and transition to gainful employment in other workplaces.

At Outlook Enrichment, we recognize the vital role that community plays in our clients’ and associates’ lives. We host a wide range of activities and outings year-round for youth and adults, allowing them to pursue hobbies, build connections, and participate in community experiences.

What are some of your main fundraising events and when are they held?

Tee It Up Fore Sight – Held every June at Tiburon Golf Course

Join us for our annual Tee It Up Fore Sight Golf Tournament—an unforgettable event that combines friendly competition with a meaningful cause. Paired with our Stanley M. Truhlsen, Jr. Blind Golfer Clinic, this unique experience will offer your guests a new perspective on visual impairment.

Enjoy course challenges, exciting raffle prizes, and much more throughout the day!

We are seeking golfers, sponsors, and raffle item donations to help make this event a success. Save the date for June 4, 2025!

Vision Beyond Sight Gala – Held every November at the Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District

Experience powerful stories from members of our community as they share their journeys toward independence. A highlight of our gala—and one of the most memorable parts of the evening—is Dessert in the Dark. Guests will be provided with sleep shades to enjoy dessert without the use of sight, encouraging them to rely on other senses. This unique experience offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by individuals living with vision loss.

In addition, we’ll be honoring our Associate of the Year and Volunteer of the Year for their dedication and contributions to our mission.

To make this event a success, we’re seeking event registrations, sponsors, silent auction baskets or monetary donations, wine donations for our wine pull, and volunteers. We invite you to help make our 2025 Gala a success, be sure to save the date for November 6, 2025!

Who are the main members/leaders of your organization?

• Eric Stueckrath – President and CEO of Outlook Nebraska and Outlook Collaborative
• Nancy Kurtenbach – Director of Finance of Outlook Collaborative
• Blake Lohnes- Director of Business Development of Outlook Nebraska
• Brad Sheets – Director of Operations of Outlook Nebraska
• Outlook Nebraska’s Board of Directors
• Outlook Collaborative’s Board of Directors
• Nina Rongisch – Executive Director of Outlook Enrichment
• Outlook Enrichment’s Board of Directors

Are there any local businesses that have been especially helpful in sponsoring or supporting your organization?

• Lutz
• Physicians Mutual
• Wealth Plan Group
• Vistage
• Industrial Packaging Corporation
• Hadley Homes
• Goodwill
• OPPD
• Lukas Partners
• UMB Bank
• Hadley Homes

How do you get the word out about your organization?

We use a variety of strategies to increase brand awareness and expand our reach within our local community and beyond. Our approach includes targeted marketing efforts as well as community engagement—attending conferences, networking, and connecting with individuals on a one-on-one basis that are interested in supporting our mission.

Where do you see your organization in 5 years? 10?

Outlook’s shared vision is to be the first-place people in our community and beyond turn to when seeking resources and employment that empowers the blind and those losing their sight. Our organizational goals reflect a long-term commitment to expanding opportunities and services for the visually impaired, positioning ourselves as a nationwide leader in both employment and support services for the blind and visually impaired.

If someone asked how they could help your organization, what would you tell them?

If you or someone you know is experiencing vision loss, we’re here to help. Connect with us, we want to serve as many people as possible.

For those interested in getting involved with Outlook, we offer a variety of opportunities for community members to connect and give back. Join our Executive Board of Directors, volunteer with us, attend or sponsor our fundraising events, or support our mission through donations. We also accept a variety of donations such as planned gifts, monetary donations, or items. More information can be found on our website, otherwise we encourage individuals to reach out to us!

What are the biggest needs of your organization right now?

• Members on Outlook Enrichment’s and Nebraska’s Board of Directors
• Donations: tandem bikes, Apple gift cards, grocery gift cards, or monetary donations
• Event sponsors and auction/raffle donations
• Volunteers

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

If you would like to learn more about Outlook, we invite you to schedule a tour (our tours are an excellent way to learn about our history and services, and the immersive activities provide a unique team-building experience).

Stay tuned for information on how you can support Outlook Enrichment’s upcoming capital campaign, which will launch in 2025.

Contact information:
• Outlook Enrichment:
– outlooken.org
– 531-365-5051
• Outlook Nebraska
– outlookne.org
– 402-614-3331