Our Impact
Impact That Lasts a Lifetime
The seeds planted during an Outward Bound Canada program continue to grow long after the experience ends.
Through outdoor challenges and shared adventures, youth gain practical skills, social-emotional growth, and a stronger connection to the natural world. These experiences build confidence and resilience, helping them succeed in school, work, and life. They also inspire a lasting sense of responsibility and a drive to give back to their communities and the environment.
Outdoor Education That Works
Our programs create lasting impact by encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones, embrace new experiences, and discover their potential.
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Youth Served since 1969
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Report increased Self-Confidence
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Report increased Leadership
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Report increased Resilience
Outdoor Education is for Everyone!
We serve youth from across the country, with a focus on those who face barriers to accessing nature and outdoor education. This includes Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+, and BIPOC youth, newcomers to Canada, and those experiencing socio-economic challenges. We believe every young person deserves the opportunity to build confidence, explore their potential, and connect with nature and their communities.
Too often, financial and systemic barriers limit access to these opportunities. As a youth-serving charity, we offer financial assistance and partner with schools and community organizations to reduce these obstacles. With the continued support of our donors and partners, we remain committed to making outdoor education more inclusive and accessible.
Building an Inclusive Outdoor Community
Supporting inclusion through accessible opportunities for outdoor education.
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First Nations, Inuit, or Métis
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People of Colour
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2SLGBTQIA+ Community Members
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Youth Facing Socio-economic Barriers
Your Dollars At Work
Donor funding makes it possible for OBC to break down barriers and open the outdoors to more youth. Here’s how your contributions create lasting opportunities:
Funding for Schools and Organizations
Through the Group Access Fund, we partner with schools and community organizations that serve underserved youth. Past partners include Indigenous community groups, environmental and service organizations, youth health and disability groups, and organizations supporting newcomers to Canada.
Youth Access Fund (YAF)
Our Youth Access Fund helps young people aged
12–19 overcome financial barriers to outdoor education. Using a “pay what you can” model, this fund provides grants that subsidize course fees for eligible youth who demonstrate both need and motivation to participate.
Connecting with Courage
Thanks to the generosity of The Maddie Project, youth aged 14–16 can join Connecting with Courage programs free of charge. With guidance from supportive instructors, participants rebuild confidence and self-esteem through nature-based experiences.
Access to Outdoor Gear
Proper gear is essential for a safe and successful outdoor learning experience. We provide essential equipment and clothing to youth facing financial barriers, so they can fully participate in our outdoor education programs.
Fueling Youth Adventure
Not all youth have access to the nutritious food they need before starting a course. Donor support allows us to provide healthy meals that keep them energized and focused during their outdoor adventures.
Diversifying the Outdoors
We support aspiring outdoor leaders with fully funded training, outdoor journeys, virtual learning, professional certifications, and mentorship opportunities to help build a more inclusive and diverse outdoor industry. Learn more through the Youth Career Catalyst Program and Forest Pathways Academy.
Outdoor Education in Action
Take an inside look at our programs and discover where your next adventure might lead!
