Our Team
We bring different perspectives to the table, but we’re united by a love for purposeful work, real connection, and helping others.
Meet Our Staff!
Roberta Inscho
Executive Director
roberta@vipsmodesto.org
I have had the privilege of building my career in nonprofit theatre, where I developed a deep passion for community, creative leadership, and the power of the arts to bring people together. I am excited to bring that experience and perspective to my role as Executive Director of Visually Impaired Persons Support (VIPS).
I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Sustainability Management at the University of Southern California, where I continue to expand my understanding of thoughtful, innovative leadership and what it means to build a strong and sustainable nonprofit organization.
Romelia Wiley
Independent Living Skills Instructor
romelia@vipsmodesto.org
With over 20 years of nonprofit experience, I provide Independent Living Skills instruction and help connect clients to valuable community resources. I take great pride in supporting individuals as they grow in independence and confidence, and I enjoy seeing clients thrive and excel through the training and support they receive.
Janet Gearhart
Support Group Facilitator – Sonora
I facilitate the Sonora Support Group and enjoy creating an environment where individuals can build community, connect with peers, and learn about blindness resources and local support services.
Jacob Gaddam
Braille Instructor
jacob@vipsmodesto.org
Jacob started working with VIPS at age 15, working with Mauricio in technology, learning JAWS and other technology required for school and work. Jacob is proficient in Braille and can provide instruction in Grade 1, Grade 2, and Unified English Braille (UEB).
Marty Lanser
Support Group Facilitator – Modesto
I facilitate the Modesto Support Group and am passionate about helping individuals feel connected, supported, and understood. I enjoy bringing people together, helping them find common ground, and reminding them that they are not alone in their journey.
Mauricio Molina
Assistive Technology Instructor
mauricio@vipsmodesto.org
I specialize in computer-related Assistive Technology and have been providing instruction since 2003. Teaching Assistive Technology (AT) is one of my greatest passions. I also enjoy continuously improving my own computer skills and learning new technologies. It is exciting to discover new tools that help better meet the challenges of blindness and empower individuals to live more independently.
Justine Pitts
Independent Living Skills Instructor
justine@vipsmodesto.org
With a background in caregiving for older adults, I provide compassionate and supportive Independent Living Skills training to our Older Individuals with Blindness clients. I thoroughly enjoy the work I do and the opportunity to help individuals build confidence and independence. I also facilitate the Hughson Support Group, where I create a nurturing environment that fosters community connection and peer support.
Cathy Dollarhide
Office Coordinator
catherine@vipsmodesto.org
As the Office Coordinator, I manage client intakes and enjoy welcoming individuals to our organization. I strive to create an environment where every person feels seen, heard, and supported from their first interaction with us. My previous nonprofit experience helps me connect clients with both organizational services and community resources that empower them to live independent and fulfilling lives.
Meet the Board!
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Jim Syvertson
FOUNDING MEMBER & BOARD MEMBER EMERITUS
Born in 1946 and raised in Chicago, Jim enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1965 during the Vietnam War and served aboard the USS Lexington (CVT-16), stationed in Pensacola, Florida. While there, he met and married his wife, Pat, in 1967. Together, they raised a son, Jeffrey, and daughter, Laura, and today enjoy three grandsons and two great-grandsons.
After leaving the Navy in 1969, Jim worked in a variety of sales and management positions before moving with Pat to San Diego, California, in 1976. He spent 18 years in the retail automotive industry before transitioning to the mortgage industry in 1994, where he held a variety of management positions for 20 years. Following his retirement, Jim partnered with his brother in a manufacturing business.
Jim and Pat founded Visually Impaired Persons Support (VIPS) in May 2002, establishing the nonprofit organization to support individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Jim continues to serve on the VIPS Board of Directors and remains committed to the organization's mission.
Jim has also dedicated many years to community service. He served as a Board Trustee for the Children’s Crisis Center for 15 years and has been actively involved with Lions Clubs International, serving in leadership roles at the club, district, and state levels.
Jim is also a motivational speaker, coach, and writer. He has published two motivational books and continues to write. Jim and Pat now reside in Phoenix, Arizona, where they retired in 2017. He remains active in the Phoenix Metro Lions Club and continues to support VIPS and its mission.
