As 2016 comes to a close, we look back on a year full of adventure. From moments of triumph and elation to exhaustion and doubt; students from all over the world arrived for a wilderness expedition and left with the realization that there was more in them than they knew.
We are thankful for all of these moments and to everyone who made them possible:
Thanks to 42,402 students who participated in Outward Bound programs in 2016.
A group students from New York City Outward Bound school.
Thanks to roughly 90,000 parents, counselors, mentors and teachers for understanding the importance of sending young people on an Outward Bound expedition.
A student and parent work together during an Intercept Outward Bound course.
Thanks to over 1 million alumni for continually spreading the Outward Bound message.
Outward bound staff and alumni gather at Voyageur Outward Bound School.
Thanks to 122 public and private lands for access to crystal clear lakes, glacier fed streams and iconic trails that lead to spectacular views.
A deer sighting in the Appalachians. Photo by Michael DePrima
Thanks to 700 Instructors who lead expeditions through deserts and forests; mountains and lakes; in classrooms and base camps; through rain, snow and sunshine; while creating an environment for compassion, learning and inclusion.
Students receive an outdoor lesson while on course with Outward Bound. Photo by Kelly Crandall
Thanks to 275 employees who work behind the scenes ensuring courses run smoothly, questions get answered and lives are changed.
A few members of the Outward Bound admissions team.
Thanks to countless containers of peanut butter, trail mix, crackers, meat and cheese for keeping us fed and full of energy on long paddle days and 10 mile hikes.
Students enjoy a handful of gorp while discussing their route. Photo by Rikki Dunn
Thanks to over 500 donors for contributing over one million dollars for youth and veterans scholarships in 2016.
Thanks to all veterans who have served and the 537 who experienced an Outward Bound expedition in 2016.
A group of Outward Bound veterans at the summit.
Thanks to clear days for summits…
A group of students make it to the summit in the Colorado Rockies.
…and rainy days for grit.
A student braves the rain while on course. Photo by Zachary Shenal
Thanks to founder Kurt Hahn for creating a movement that is still going strong 75 years later.
Outward Bound founder and educator Kurt Hahn
What are you thankful for? Leave it in the comments below! To learn more about Outward Bound, visit outwardbound.org or call 866.467.7651 to speak with an admissions advisor.
