Highlights from the 2nd Annual POBS Partner Breakfast
Earlier this month, more than 50 guests, including current and prospective school partners, funders, and community stakeholders, gathered for an engaging conversation on Advancing Access to the Outdoors.
The morning featured compelling insights from Brandon Hoover of Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), who shared highlights from the 2025–2029 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).
Our own Emily Della Fera followed with an inside look at how we evaluate program outcomes, using the Domains of Thriving framework that guides our curriculum. She also gave a sneak peek at new tools designed to help partner schools understand and act on student impact data.
“When students and educators step into challenging, relationship-centered experiences outside the classroom, they bring back a renewed sense of trust, belonging, and connection to their school communities.”
The event concluded with a powerful panel from Roxborough High School Assistant Principals Julian Saavedra and Kate Mullen, along with student Zaid McDonald, who shared firsthand stories about the transformative impact of our programs.
The energy in the room was a testament to the strength of our partnerships. Across the board, the data and stories affirmed what we’ve seen again and again: when students and educators step into challenging, relationship-centered experiences outside the classroom, they bring back a renewed sense of trust, belonging, and connection to their school communities.
With continued collaboration and support from our partners, we’re excited to grow this impact in the years ahead.