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 >
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 >
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 >
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 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 >
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 >
As summer winds down and we prepare to welcome students and educators back this fall, we are reflecting on the incredible journeys, challenges, and growth that unfolded during the 2024-25 school year through the partnership between the School District of Philadelphia (SDP) and Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS). From one-day team-building programs to week-long wilderness… READ MORE >
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… READ MORE >