Outward Bound Canada (OBC) is a not-for-profit, charitable, educational organization that has been operating in Canada for over 50 years and has served over 175,000 youth. Its mission is to be a vocal champion and leading facilitator of outdoor learning experiences for youth that support physical, social, and emotional skill development, and environmental connection.
Funding from R. Howard Webster Foundation makes it possible to impact more youth through OBC’s schools and groups program, helping youth to develop resilience and self-confidence, as well as skills in communication, collaboration, and the key skills to thrive in school, employment, community and all aspects of life.
OBC partners with local schools and community organizations to create opportunities for kids to learn and adventure outside in urban greenspaces that exist in their own backyard, creating access to these experiences and their benefits. This begins with addressing the barriers youth from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds face in accessing outdoor experiences in order to ensure all youth can participate. OBC provides all the necessary gear and equipment and the guidance of its expert outdoor instructors. The learning goals of each class vary – from learning camp craft skills, to exploring local river systems, and conservation areas. Some of OBC’s programs also help youth earn a high school credit in Physical Education or Geography.
