The Philadelphia Outward Bound School is dedicated to helping young people realize their potential through challenging outdoor experiences. Our programs are designed to build confidence, resilience, and leadership skills, enabling participants to overcome personal limitations and thrive in various aspects of life. Your investment in the students of the Philadelphia region is a crucial part of our mission to make these transformative learning experiences accessible to all, regardless of zip code, background, or ability to pay.
Over 80,000 and counting
More than 80,000 participants have experienced the power of our programs. None of this would be possible without the support from our donors.
Gifts made to POBS help create defining moments for our students, educators, veterans, and instructors. Whether a one-day program on our Aerial Teams Challenge Course at The Discovery Center in East Fairmount Park, five days of backpacking on the Appalachian Trail, or a two-week long scholarship expedition in the Delaware Water Gap, you make a difference.
Contributions directly support our Association for Experiential Education accredited programs, highly-trained instructors, top of the line gear, safety equipment, and maintenance of our two high-ropes courses.
Make a deep and lasting impact
As a donor, you also make it possible for everyone, regardless of income, to be able to experience an Outward Bound course. Over 75% of our students are from low-income families.
Your contribution helps to provide deserving students with opportunities for challenge and personal growth, building their self-confidence and equipping them with leadership skills to succeed in this ever-changing world.
More Ways To Give
donate by mail
You may mail a check payable to:
Philadelphia Outward Bound School
3401 Reservoir Drive
Philadelphia, PA 19121
RECURRING DONATION
When you donate online indicate the amount you would like to be automatically charged to your credit card every month. You may cancel your recurring donation at anytime by contacting us.
EITC PROGRAM
Through Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program, eligible businesses and donors can support POBS’s educational mission while earning a significant state tax credit on contributions. See this page for more details.
FUNDRAISING EVENTS
Join our community at fundraising events like Building Adventure and our Gala celebrations to support POBS.
PLANNED GIVING
Leave a lasting legacy by making a provision for the Philadelphia Outward Bound School in your estate plans. For sample language and information about planned giving options, contact us.
Donor Advised Fund
If you have a donor advised fund with a family foundation or a banking institution, you can instruct your fund manager to send a grant to Philadelphia Outward Bound School, 3401 Reservoir Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19121.
Employer Matching
Thousands of companies will match an employee's donation to POBS. This is a great way to double your impact. Check out our Employer Matching page to see if your employer participates.
DONATE GEAR
Have a canoe or kayak that isn't getting much use? What about those rock climbing shoes? At POBS we provide our students with all the gear they need to go out on expedition. We're happy to provide a tax receipt for all donations. Contact us to get started.
CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP
Sponsorships provide meaningful support for POBS programs while aligning your organization with our mission and impact. Contact us to learn more.
SCHOLARSHIPS
By establishing a scholarship or student sponsorship at POBS, you can ensure that a young person in Philadelphia has the opportunity to embark on an extraordinary journey of self-discovery. Contact us for more info.