On IMPACT |
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James (Doc) Otto pictured above.
Brothers, not of blood, but of Outward Bound. That’s the story of the Otto Bound Scholarship. It really starts with 15-year-old Ken Gilbertson, a scholarship and an age waiver. Eventually Ken becomes an instructor. He’ll meet a veteran, James (Doc) Otto and the two will become lifelong friends, brothers. And, together, they will pay it forward, for always.
While Ken was delivering outdoor education at UMD, Doc was an outdoor therapist for a prominent youth program called Camp St. Croix. “Doc was a passionate man who believed deeply in helping people who are struggling in life,” said Ken. Doc was diagnosed with significant PTSD [following his combat service] and returned to Outward Bound for a second expedition as an adult and to support his mental health. On that expedition he participated in wilderness therapy designed specifically for Vets, and there he met amazing co-instructor, Ken Gilbertson.
Voyageur Outward Bound connected Doc and Ken for life. Their friendship would grow and eventually Doc asked Ken to manage his estate and carry out his wishes to create a legacy for helping military veterans and others to go Outward Bound. |
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Make Expedition Possible |
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VOBS scholarships, funded entirely by donors, provide close to $200,000 annually for open enrollment, and, in fact, impact every student. Today’s students qualify for increasing levels of scholarship awards. At VOBS, every student is impacted by scholarship support. Unrestricted gifts fill the gap between charged tuition and the full cost of delivery. VOBS aims to eliminate affordability barriers that prevent students from going on course. Want to help make it possible for students in need to make an expedition? We invite you to consider a scholarship gift. Together, we can change lives through challenge and discovery!
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2025 Spring Appeal |
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Check your mailbox this week for the Spring Appeal. Today's Voyageur Outward Bound students receive unmatched tools, support, and experiences that inspire them to become engaged community members whose character positions them to be the leaders we need now and in the future. Now more than ever, our communities need VOBS, and VOBS needs you. The appeal highlights VOBS impact and priorities for investing in building thriving futures for all students. Please consider a gift to VOBS this spring. Every gift matters. Together, we change lives through challenge and discovery!
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On COURSE |
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Voyageur Outward Bound School is excited to welcome a new partner, the Center for Well-Being at the University of St. Thomas (UST). Thanks to the Haggerty Family Foundation, Voyageur Outward Bound and UST launched Preparing to Thrive, a comprehensive pilot program designed to equip St. Thomas students with resilience, leadership, and the interpersonal skills necessary for creating a healthier, more inclusive campus environment.
Preparing to Thrive is a two-year pilot program that engages students from Spring 2025 through Summer 2027. The program includes several phases designed to foster leadership, resilience, and more. Preparing to Thrive provides immersive experiences that combine the wisdom of VOBS’ adventure-based learning with the vital work of emotional and social growth supported by the Center of Well-Being. Students will engage in experiential learning opportunities that challenge societal norms and equip students to thrive in their personal, academic, and leadership roles. |
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Summer Courses Now Enrolling! |
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Spark curiosity! Spark confidence! Spark courage! Experience breathtaking wilderness. Tackle challenge. And at the end of it all, emerge a brave, trail-tested leader with genuine confidence and a passion to do more.
Summer 2025 course registration still has a few spots! Explore upcoming expedition options and share VOBS challenge and discovery opportunities with members of your community. (Oh, and if winter is more your thing, FYI -- dogsledding courses fill fast. :-)
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| PROGRAM INFORMATION |
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Zoom Series Kick-off |
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Voyageur Outward Bound School was pleased to kick-off this year's ZOOM SERIES on Wednesday, April 23. A BIG THANK YOU to Richard Leider for sharing his expertise. Attendees were able to unlock The Power of Purpose with VOBS former trustee and course creator, friend, bestselling author, and legendary coach Richard Leider.
All VOBS community members are encouraged to watch the recording to explore how to live, work, and lead in these extraordinary times. |
| APRIL 2025 ZOOM RECORDING |
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Mark Your Calendar |
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Click below to learn more about NEW opportunities to engage! |
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Introducing High Five Fridays |
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Voyageur Outward Bound School is launching High Five Fridays. Join the celebration! We'll recognize VOBS programs, staff, and benefits with our greater community and invite your submission of appreciation or gratitude. Each Friday we will celebrate a select submission on social media together and praise our efforts.
Check out and follow the VOBS Facebook and Instagram channels so you don't miss it! |
| SUBMIT YOUR VOBS HIGH FIVE TODAY! |
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The VOBS Readings Book is a collection of quotes and excerpts given to students on course. Need inspiration? The printed, bound book is available for purchase.
Email development@vobs.org for a copy.
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