Building Adventure 2025 Raises Over $260K for Philly Youth

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Sunshine, cheers, and courage filled the air at Commerce Square on October 17 as more than 120 rappellers took the leap for Philadelphia Outward Bound School’s 10th Building Adventure. From the moment the first ropes went live, the energy was electric, a perfect day to celebrate challenge, discovery, and community support for Philadelphia students.

Rappellers from 19 teams, including students, alumni, educators, corporate partners, and local community members, descended 300 feet above Market Street to help raise over $260,000 for POBS programs.

Costumes were encouraged and participants did not disappoint.

Students from Russell Byers Charter School added a joyful noise to the day, cheering on participants and reminding everyone what this event is all about: giving young people the chance to explore their potential through outdoor learning.

The courtyard buzzed with sponsor booths, music, food, and smiling faces. Mascots Swoop (Eagles) and Franklin (Sixers) even tested the ropes during Media Day, drawing excitement from passersby and local news crews.

Media Buzz

Building Adventure captured the attention of all four major networks - FOX, NBC10, 6ABC, and CBS3 - along with radio coverage from KYW Newsradio. You can find links to all the TV and radio segments on our Building Adventure in the News page.

📊 By the Numbers

  • $267,218 raised (and still climbing)
  • 19 rappel teams
  • 120 rappellers
  • 1,442 individual donations
  • 300 feet above Market Street
  • 33 years of POBS impact

RAPPEL PHOTOS!

Browse the Building Adventure photo galleries to find your rappel, team, and cheering section. There are thousands of photos, so let the page load and check both galleries if your rappel was near a time break.

Fundraising Still Open (Prizes Too!)

Every gift helps! If someone you asked to donate still hasn’t, now’s the time to send that link.

🏆 All prizes are still in play until November 2, including top fundraiser honors and raffles for all registered rappellers.

Make your gift or share your team page at buildingadventure.org.

See the Action Again

Watch the full recorded livestream and scroll through to find coverage of your rappel.

Shout Out to Our Sponsors!

Building Adventure wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our sponsors! Their commitment helps thousands of Philly students step outside their comfort zones and discover what they are truly capable of.

Thank YOU for Making It Happen!

Building Adventure would not be possible without our sponsors, rappellers, volunteers, and everyone who showed up in person or tuned in from home. Your support fuels outdoor learning experiences that change lives, helping thousands of Philly students build confidence, leadership, and connection in the natural world.

We can’t wait to see you at the next adventure — see you in 2027!