Greetings VOBSters,

Here in Minnesota, we've already experienced what we fondly call "false" spring and quickly dove back into winter with a series of winter storms over the past few weeks. The fresh snow is welcome up north as we begin to wrap up the winter dog sledding season and it has made for much more enjoyable Insight Days out cross country skiing with our partners in the Twin Cities. Our Texas basecamp, which has enjoyed a season of warmth and sun, is also in the last month of programming, with Pathfinder students rocking it in the field!

We'll surely welcome spring when it finally arrives, but until then, we look forward to the last group of our winter season students returning from the field to regale us with their adventures and lessons learned from time spent Outward Bound.

With gratitude,
Your VOBS Crew

Pathfinder students gather on the Rio Grande during expedition

"Throughout the expedition, I could not tell you how many times I fell down, but thanks to those around me, I was able to find incredible healing power in getting back up. I cannot wait to fall down some more!"

- Erica, Pathfinder Alum

Pathfinder students take a break while backpacking in Big Bend, Texas

Things We Love

In honor of International Women's day (today), we share with you the story of Marina Ewald, Co-Founder of the original Outward Bound Sea School in Aberdovey in 1941.
Once Upon a Meadow - gentle, uplifting stories for 4 to 9 year-olds (as well as for grownups with an inner or actual child). The podcast features fictional stories about a community of animals and plants who live in a meadow and work together to flourish, despite their differences.
The Daily Rally - short stories of resilience in the face of big challenges and unexpected adventures.
The 2023 Minnesota Outdoors Skills and Stewardship Spring Series, brought to you by The Minnesota DNR.
Working at VOBS! See current job postings here.
The Minnesota Best campaign - VOBS has been nominated in four categories: Best Nonprofit, Outdoor Education, Adult Learning and Summer Camp. Voting begins THIS SUNDAY! Help VOBS place in all categories this year by voting every day during the voting period.

BLAZING THE TRAIL

Jean Sanford Replinger, a familiar name in the VOBS community was recently featured on our blog.

At 94 years young, Jean continues to reflect on her experience at Outward Bound and recommend it to others. We are lucky to count such a visionary trailblazer as one of VOBS’ original leaders and champions.

In case you missed it, you can read the full story on the blog!

VOBS students are all smiles during the rock climbing portion of their expedition

COURSE SPOTLIGHT

SUMMER EXPEDITIONS!!

Make this year memorable! No matter your age, summer is the perfect time to "make the year count." Build strong friendships, create core memories, and push past your comfort zone on a VOBS course this summer.

Find the expedition that's right for you by visiting our course finder page below.

Explore all summer courses.

Instructors show their love for the Boundary Waters while on expedition.

Wilderness First Responder Course

ENROLL TODAY!

The Wilderness First Responder program is the ideal medical training for leaders in remote areas, including outdoor educators, guides, military, professional search and rescue teams, researchers and those involved in disaster relief. The curriculum is comprehensive and practical. Learn more and enroll below.

WFR Course: 4/28/23

WFR Recert Course: 4/25/23

Alumni Community

"To Serve, To Strive, and Not To Yield"
Stay connected and always part of our community.

VISIT OUR ALUMNI PAGE

SHARE OUR STORY

You Are Needed

VOBS strives to serve every student, regardless of income. By making a donation today, you help make it possible for everyone to experience Outward Bound. Your donation helps young teens working on rebuilding their family relationships, veterans looking to find success beyond the military, and adults on the precipice of their next life stage. A gift to VOBS is just one way to demonstrate the lasting value of this experience. Thank you!

DONATE TODAY!