Whether on the climbing wall at The Discovery Center or on a natural rock face in the wilderness, rock climbing at Philadelphia Outward Bound School is more than a workout. It is a powerful tool for transformation. The health benefits of rock climbing include increased strength in the arms, legs, and core, improved balance and… READ MORE >
by Katie Newsom, Former Executive Director of the Philadelphia Outward Bound School I will never forget my first Advisory Board meeting with the Philadelphia Friends of Outward Bound (PFOB). It was September of 1997, and we met in the meeting room of the Fairmount Park Horticultural Center. Ludlow Miller was the Board Chair of this… READ MORE >
In 2024, students and instructors used course cameras to capture their experience both on expedition and day programs. The results were outstanding — hundreds of photos rolled in from the field and we posted them on our website so students could share, download and preserve their Outward Bound memories. We thought it would be fun… READ MORE >
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 >
Our students head out on expedition without their phones, but we do provide each crew with a camera to document their time in nature. There are usually a few wildlife photos that come back, and we thought it would be fun to share them to give you an idea of what kinds of critters students… READ MORE >
Service has always been a cornerstone of the Outward Bound experience. Striving to make a difference in the lives of others and our communities helps cultivate compassion and foster a sense of selflessness. As Kurt Hahn once said, “We learn what it means to be human when we act to help others.” Recently POBS teamed… READ MORE >
On May 6, POBS convened its first-ever Expedition Launch Partner Breakfast, celebrating the beginning of program season with funders, trustees, and school partners. Attendees heard from two students from Northeast High School about their experiences on course; from POBS board members Claire Robertson-Kraft (founder of ImpactED) and Crystal Edwards (principal at W.D. Kelley Elementary School),… READ MORE >
This year the Philadelphia Outward Bound School is proud to honor two legendary women of Outward Bound: Jennifer Raymond and Katie Newsom. Both will be celebrated at the 2024 Trailblazer Gala on June 5th for their 25 years of service, inspiration, and compassion. Jennifer Raymond has been an Outward Bound instructor, mentor, and leader since… READ MORE >