| OB Omaha |
|
Outward Bound is a non-profit educational organization that serves people of all ages and backgrounds through active learning expeditions that inspire character development, self-discovery and service both in and out of the classroom. Outward Bound delivers wilderness-based programs to participants across the country and focuses its outreach on underserved youth.1
In March 2009, Omaha area leaders in education, philanthropy, business, and government along with local area alumni had the opportunity to engage in 'conversations' with an Outward Bound leadership team at several Omaha meeting locations. The Association for Evaluation & Research at the University of Nebraska at Omaha joined with the NorthStar Foundation in listening to the feedback, questions, concerns and ideas of community leaders as to how Omaha and Outward Bound might work together. The product was the Outward Bound Omaha Needs & Opportunities Assessment (PDF) released in August 2009. In June of 2010, Outward Bound Omaha opened its doors and began running their first pilot programs. Through the summer and fall of 2010, the Omaha center supported more than 600 participants and is committed to delivering quality programming for all individuals in the Omaha metro area. In the future, Outward Bound Omaha plans to expand their programs with the continued support of the community. The Omaha center also has a heightened focus on creating programming for underserved youth within the city and surrounding areas. ProgramsAt the heart of the Midwest, Omaha lies in an oasis of outdoor activity. Within a few hours’ drive one could venture west to the sand hills and experience seemingly never ending rolling hills and meandering rivers. To the south one could trek on the many hiking trails at Indian Cave State Park and view the pictographs from early Native Americans. Grabbing a canoe paddle and heading north would lead you to Lewis and Clark’s journey down the Missouri River or skip into South Dakota and spend a few days rock climbing in one of many climbing areas. One can also experience the mighty eagles that soar overhead during a canoe trip down the nearby Elkhorn River, home to many campsites starting from Norfolk and leading into Omaha. Outward Bound Omaha’s participants can choose from a half-day or full-day Insight course, or breakout their camping attire for an overnight experience to touch upon the beauty Nebraska has to offer both in and out of the city. The newly built Hitchcock High Ropes Challenge Course, located on NorthStar leased land just east of the Omaha Home for Boys, allows clients to develop teamwork and problem solving skills while conquering personal fears. The Omaha center can accommodate both large and small groups and will work with clients to develop a program that specifically addresses a particular groups needs. Our TeamOur team is composed of qualified individuals who have a passion for the outdoors. Our staff is equipped with first aid certificates and most hold either a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Outdoor Recreation or a related field. If you are interested in joining the Outward Bound team, visit www.outwardbound.org and click on “Jobs” to discover current openings and to fill out an application. PartnershipsWe have had the opportunity to work with some outstanding partners and as the Omaha center continues to develop, we will maintain and expand our partnerships in the community. 2010-2011 Partners include:
Media LinksOutward Bound Omaha and the NorthStar Foundation have had the opportunity to recieve wonderful media coverage from a variety of sources. To view some of the most recent stories, follow the appropriate links below:
To view the Outward Bound Omaha and NorthStar Foundation article featured in the Omaha World-Herald, click here. Outward Bound Mission Statement"To inspire character development and self-discovery in people of all ages and walks of life through challenge and adventure, and to impel them to achieve more than they ever thought possible, to show compassion for others and to actively engage in creating a better world."
|