“When I first came to The Discovery Center, I immediately had that home-away-from-home moment,” said Erica Wiggins, a lead instructor at Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS). Wiggins’ Strawberry Mansion roots run deep – both she and her Mom grew up a few blocks away from what is now The Discovery Center. “The Strawberry Mansion Reservoir… READ MORE >
“When I bring Police Athletic League campers to the Philadelphia Outward Bound School, my goal is simply to open their eyes to something new,” says Officer Glenn Haskins, Center Director of North Penn Police Athletic League (PAL). “I want them to step out of the box, challenge themselves, and be ready to absorb what’s coming…. READ MORE >
“Since my first trip in 7th grade, Outward Bound has made a huge impact on my life,” said Grace, a senior from Springside Chestnut Hill (SCH). “Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS) has provided me with so many amazing opportunities to meet new people and learn new things about myself. By doing my senior project here,… READ MORE >
“When I was in Middle School, I did two expeditions with Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS), where I learned that I really loved being outside, and it’s a huge reason I’m pursuing an environmental career today,” said Teora, a senior from The Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts. “I’ve known about The Discovery… READ MORE >
POBS’ Partnership with Neighborhood Schools Will Help Track Student Outcomes “I learned a lot about leadership,” said 12 year-old Ben, reflecting on his Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS) experience. “I’ve learned to be more open with people. And overall, I’ve learned to help my group more and just to be more selfless.” “When I go… READ MORE >
Imagine you are leading a group of students on a multi-day backpacking trip deep in the heart of the Appalachian Trail. You’ve spent weeks preparing for this expedition, ensuring an enriching experience for your group. But despite your best efforts, an unexpected medical emergency arises! A member of your group twists an ankle, or worse,… READ MORE >
“Never quit on a bad day,” says Madeline Troyer, a Field Instructor for the Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS). That’s the mantra which anchored Troyer as she trekked all 2,190 miles of the Appalachian Trail (AT). It took Troyer 128 days of continuous hiking and camping underneath the stars to walk from Springer Mountain in… READ MORE >
If you’ve ever been to The Discovery Center, you’ve likely noticed the large wooden structure with ropes and wires and wondered what it is and how it’s used. That is the James McLane Family Challenge Course, our high-element aerial teams course (ATC). The ATC is our “classroom” designed to foster lessons in team building and… READ MORE >