Thinking about rappelling down a skyscraper? We’ve got you covered. Here are answers to the questions first-timers (and their friends, family, and sponsors) ask most often.
The Basics
What is Building Adventure?
Building Adventure is Philadelphia Outward Bound School’s signature fundraiser where you rappel 30 stories (315 feet) down a skyscraper (Two Commerce Square) in Center City Philadelphia. This year marks our tenth Building Adventure, making it a true Philly tradition.
Why rappel down a building?
Because it’s unforgettable! You’ll challenge yourself just like Outward Bound students do, while raising money for a cause that changes young lives.
What does it support?
All funds raised go directly to Philadelphia Outward Bound School programs, which provide outdoor and experiential learning to thousands of Philadelphia students each year. These courses help young people build confidence, develop leadership skills, and discover they are capable of more than they imagined. Learn more about the Philadelphia Outward Bound School at pobs.org.
Do I need experience?
No. No climbing or rappelling skills are needed. Our trained staff will guide you every step of the way.
Is it safe?
Of course. All equipment is provided and the event is run in partnership with Over the Edge, a professional rappelling company with an impeccable safety record. Their trained experts, together with POBS staff, guide you through every step and keep you secure from start to finish.
How old do I have to be?
There’s no strict age limit, but participants must weigh between 100 and 300 pounds.
Can I just watch instead of rappel?
Absolutely. Spectators are welcome, and it’s a thrill to cheer on friends, family, or coworkers.
Participating and Fundraising
How do I sign up?
You can register online as an individual or join or form a team. After paying a small registration fee, you’ll receive a personal fundraising page. Once you customize it, be sure to click “Launch” to make your campaign live and ready to share.
How much do I need to raise?
Individuals raise a minimum of $1,750 to rappel.
What if I want to rappel with friends?
Form a team of 3 or more people. Each member fundraises, but teams get a discount on the minimum and the fun of doing it together.
How does fundraising work for teams?
Teams have 3 or more members. Each person registers and fundraises, and the minimum goes down by $100 per person (up to 7 members – see below). What matters most is the team’s collective fundraising total. If one member raises less than their goal but another raises more, everyone can rappel as long as the overall team minimum is met.
Can I join an existing team?
Yes. You can join a friend’s team, or if you’d like to take advantage of the team fundraising discount, you can join one of our community teams. Alumni are welcome to rappel with the POBS Alumni All Stars team, and educators can join the Philly Educators Team.
Any tips for fundraising?
Start early, share your page often, and thank your donors. We’ll also provide tools and ideas to help.
Donations
Can people donate to me or my team?
Yes. Donors can support you individually, your team, or the event in general.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes. All donors receive a tax receipt.
What does my donation support?
Every gift helps provide outdoor leadership experiences for Philadelphia students.
Can people donate by check?
Yes. Make checks payable to Philadelphia Outward Bound School with “Building Adventure” and your name in the memo line.
How quickly do online donations show up?
Immediately. Donors also get an emailed receipt right away.
Event Day
When is Building Adventure 2025?
Friday, October 17, 2025.
Where is it?
Two Commerce Square, 2001 Market Street, Philadelphia.
How long does the rappel take?
The rappel itself takes about 10 to 20 minutes, depending on your pace. Plan to arrive at least one hour before your scheduled rappel time for check-in, training, and gearing up. Stick around afterward to watch the action on the Jumbotron in Commerce Square, connect with POBS staff, and browse Outward Bound merchandise.
Do participants get anything for taking part?
Every rappeler receives a free commemorative Building Adventure t-shirt to mark the experience, and free professional photos of their rappel will be provided in the days after the event.
Are there prizes for fundraising?
Yes! Special prizes are awarded to the top individual fundraiser and the top fundraising team.
What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes. Costumes are welcome, just make sure they work with a harness and helmet.
Can friends and family watch?
Yes. The plaza is open to spectators, and the event will be livestreamed so loved ones near and far can cheer you on.
Will photos or video be taken?
Yes. Professional photos and video will be available after the event.
How can I get a sense of what it’s like?
The best way is to watch our event video, which captures the excitement, the view, and the spirit of the day.
What if it rains?
The event goes on rain or shine. Rappelling may pause briefly if there is heavy rain or high winds.
Is parking available?
Yes. There are several garages nearby, and public transit is also convenient.
Sponsors
How can my company get involved?
Businesses can sponsor the event, form rappel teams, or donate in-kind prizes for top fundraisers.
What do sponsors receive?
Sponsors gain visibility before, during, and after the event, with recognition on the Building Adventure website, event signage, email blasts, and in the POBS Annual Report. On rappel day, logos appear on the livestream and banners in Commerce Square, and many sponsorship levels include complimentary rappel slots with GoPro footage. Higher-level sponsors may also receive perks like an event booth, a newsletter feature, or an Outward Bound Professional team-building program. Most importantly, sponsors align their brand with a cause that impacts thousands of Philadelphia students each year. See the Sponsorship Packet for more details, or email us at [email protected].
TLDR
- No experience needed
- Gear & training provided
- Raise $1,750 (less with team)
- Prizes for top fundraisers!
- Event will be livestreamed
- It’s a blast!!!
- [email protected] with questions
Still have questions?
We’re here to help. Reach us anytime at [email protected].