Springtime is When Adventure Begins at Outward Bound!

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Now that spring has arrived, our amazing school and community partners -- as well as new groups looking to join the adventure -- are heading outdoors to embrace the challenge, growth, and self-discovery that await with Outward Bound!

In just the next two months, POBS will serve more than 2,000 students through its single-day programs and multi-day expeditions in our “outdoor classrooms” at urban and wilderness areas throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

POBS has 20 Expedition Crews currently scheduled for Spring 2025 (so far):

  • 16 are from School District of Philadelphia (SDP) schools
  • 2 from public charter schools
  • 2 from independent schools

We have 54 Insight Days (one-day programs) scheduled for Spring 2025. (See below for breakdown).

We’re excited to continue deepening our reach within public schools while also growing our presence among independent and charter schools.

For every group we work with, their Outward Bound experience is tailored to their unique goals and priorities. Take our partners at Hand2Paw, an organization that provides paid internships working with rescue animals as a way to strengthen connection, compassion, and community for young adults from underrepresented communities. Hand2Paw has been coming to POBS for the last 2 years to help its interns prepare for the challenges of their assignments.

“Outward Bound experiences help our interns build teamwork and leadership skills, stronger peer relationships, and push interns to take risks beyond what they ever thought was possible!”

– Sara Schwartz, Director of Development, Hand2Paw.

Our partners return not just because of what we offer, but because of how we grow together. Retention is at an all-time high: this spring, 95% of our programs are with returning groups, proof that our mission resonates and the experience leaves a lasting mark.

And it’s not just about coming back - it’s about moving forward. This spring, we’re helping returning partners work toward goals like these:

  • Build toward an inclusive community and sense of belonging among peers
  • Foster collaboration and opportunities to identify and work toward shared goals.
  • Support student personal growth and their self-awareness as leaders
  • Have fun!

We’re grateful for every partner who returns and inspired to keep delivering life-changing experiences. As we grow, we’re excited to welcome new partners into the POBS community and expand our impact.

As the season blooms, so do the opportunities for growth, connection, and adventure. With every returning group and new challenge, POBS continues to be a trusted partner in helping young people discover their strength, resilience, and potential.