Legacy in the Wilderness: A Father-Son Outward Bound Story

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 >

How Outward Bound Changed Me: Diego’s Reflection After 3 Courses

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 >

Alumni: Join the POBS Dragon Boat Team!

Attend the POBS Alumni Dragon Boat Team Builder On Saturday, April 12, 2025, come out and meet POBS alumni as we form a 2025 Dragon Boat team! This will be our fourth year racing and we are excited to have fellow Outward Bound alum Dave Kunz back as our coach. On Saturday, April 12, Dave… READ MORE >

Remembering Mike Stanley: A Life of Service, Leadership and Impact

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 >

“Breaking Trail” Film Screening and Panel Discussion

Join Philadelphia Outward Bound School for an in-person screening of the documentary Breaking Trail, the story of Emily Ford’s winter thru-hike of Wisconsin’s 1,200-mile Ice Age Trail with her sled dog, Diggins. She is just the second person – and first woman and first person of color to complete this hike. Afterwards, there will be a… READ MORE >

POBS alum Jonathan Sim Receives Infinite Potential Commendation

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award celebrates POBS alum Jonathan Sim with the Infinite Potential Commendation One of the world’s leading youth achievement programs, the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, has selected Jonathan Sim and four other US participants out of a pool of 1,000 students in recognition of their perseverance, creativity, and high level… READ MORE >

Learning the Magic of it All: From Student to Instructor

“I first heard about Outward Bound through a social worker,” said Nick Hazell, who hails from Trenton, New Jersey. “I think he realized I was interested in things most city kids weren’t into, like the outdoors. I didn’t have video games. I was 15 years old.” Nick was encouraged to apply for a spot on… READ MORE >