Our Favorite Photos of 2025

In 2025, students and instructors used course cameras to capture their experience both on expedition and day programs. The results were outstanding — thousands 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 >

How Outdoor Learning Helps Students Thrive in School – and Beyond

At the Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS), we partner with schools, colleges, and community organizations to design transformative outdoor programs, from local day experiences to immersive wilderness expeditions. These hands-on, nature-based courses help students grow in confidence, leadership, and connection far beyond what’s possible inside a traditional classroom. At POBS, we see how time in… READ MORE >

2025 Impact Snapshot – The PhysicianTrack Program

During this week of giving thanks, we would like to thank YOU for the support that helps young people discover what they’re capable of through the Philadelphia Outward Bound School. Partnering with over 250 public, private and charter schools and youth-serving nonprofits, POBS has provided services to over 7,000 participants across the Philadelphia region in… READ MORE >

Chestnut Hill plays role in story of Philadelphia Outward Bound School

Founded over coffee more than 30 years ago at the Valley Green Inn, Philadelphia Outward Bound School continues to challenge students and inspire the city through programs like the recent “Building Adventure.” When more than 120 Philadelphians rappelled 300 feet down Commerce Square last month for Building Adventure, they weren’t just raising funds for a… READ MORE >

Students Need an Outdoor Digital Detox and a Real-World Reset

Unplugging builds focus, connection, and resilience in young people  Today’s teens (and many adults) live in a world of constant connection but limited presence. Between endless notifications, streaming, and scrolling, many spend more than eight hours a day on screens, and research links this level of use to higher anxiety, shorter attention spans, and disrupted… READ MORE >

Building Adventure 2025 Raises Over $270K for Philly Youth

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… READ MORE >

Building Adventure 2025 in the News

Building Adventure 2025 made big news across Philadelphia! Coverage of the event reached new heights, with all four major local TV networks — Fox, NBC, CBS, and 6abc — showing up to capture the courage, excitement, and community spirit on display. From mascot rappels to inspiring personal stories, the city was watching as more than… READ MORE >

Alumni Overnight 2025: A Late Summer Weekend in the Wissahickon

This past weekend, 24 Philadelphia Outward Bound School alumni coming from more than 20 POBS partner schools teamed up with OB staff for a fun overnight gathering in the Wissahickon. Saturday kicked off with games and a service project alongside Friends of the Wissahickon, where alumni removed invasive multiflora rose around the Wigard Avenue ropes… READ MORE >