When 13-year-old Gibran Freeman joined Philadelphia Outward Bound School’s GOAL course this summer, he was continuing a family tradition. Years earlier, his father, Meko, had instructed the very same program, guiding young people through the challenges of backpacking, canoeing, and leadership development. This time, Meko was not the instructor but the proud parent, watching his… READ MORE >
At the Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS), we believe in the power of challenge and community to transform lives. Diego Rosario, a student from Northeast High School and a Casey Meyer Brecker Memorial Fund Scholarship Student, has completed three Outward Bound experiences with us: an Insight Day in May 2023, a Backpacking Expedition in October… READ MORE >
9th Grader Chidera O. Reflects on Her (Rainy) Outward Bound Expedition Each year, thousands of students embark on Outward Bound expeditions without fully knowing what they’ll face or how much they’ll grow. Behind every program are instructors, school partners, and staff who believe in the power of new experiences, compassionate guidance, and time for reflection…. READ MORE >
From wilderness expeditions to a meeting with Prince Edward, Madelyn’s story shows what young people can achieve through Outward Bound and the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. Last month, sixteen Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS) alumni participating in the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: a visit and celebration with His Royal… READ MORE >
by Katie Newsom, Former Executive Director of the Philadelphia Outward Bound School I will never forget my first Advisory Board meeting with the Philadelphia Friends of Outward Bound (PFOB). It was September of 1997, and we met in the meeting room of the Fairmount Park Horticultural Center. Ludlow Miller was the Board Chair of this… READ MORE >
With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of Michael C. Stanley, known affectionately as “Mike” to so many in the Outward Bound community. Mike passed away peacefully on August 1, leaving behind a legacy of service, passion, and inspiration that will forever be cherished. Mike’s journey with Outward Bound began later in life, after spending… READ MORE >
On Friday, March 22, all of us at POBS were THRILLED to honor our own Jennifer Raymond for 25 years of service to Outward Bound by throwing a surprise party for her at our Wigard Avenue location in the Wissahickon, AND renaming Goal Pole #1 after her! Not only that, she will be honored at our Gala… READ MORE >
Founded in 1956 by HRH Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is the world’s leading youth development award with over a million-youth participating in over 130 countries. The Philadelphia Outward Bound School is proud to be one of 34 partners across the country licensed by the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award USA to… READ MORE >