Win a 30-day Outward Bound Expedition in Big Bend National Park sponsored by Voyageur Outward Bound School



Joining the celebration of the 100th anniversary of our National Parks, Voyageur Outward Bound School (VOBS) is now offering a series of courses for 14 to 30-year olds in Big Bend National Park this fall, winter and spring.

Two Texas residents, age 18 to 30, can win a place on the 30-day Pathfinder Expedition by submitting a 1- to 2-minute video that communicates why they are ready for a life-changing wilderness expedition in Big Bend. Entries must be received by midnight Sept. 30, 2016.

“As with the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, the Big Bend region is a very special place,” Jack Lee, VOBS Executive Director, said. “We are very excited to return to the region where we have served over 1,500 students in past years and to offer two free spots to Texans, valued at $5,800 per trip.”

Comprised of nearly one million acres of varied landscape, Big Bend National Park boasts the largest protected area of Chihuahuan desert where the altitude ranges from 1,800 to nearly 8,000 feet. The variations in temperature and moisture contribute to exceptional diversity in plant and animal habitats, while its remote location won it the distinction of an international dark-sky park – one of only 10 in the world.

Outward Bound’s Big Bend course offerings include a 72-day Semester Course for 18 to 30 year olds starting September 2016 and March 2017, a 30-day Pathfinders Course for 18 to 30 year olds looking for direction and leadership skills starting October 2016 and January 2017 and a 28-day Intercept Course for struggling teens (14 to 17) beginning November 2016, January and March, 2017. On each course, two highly trained instructors will accompany 10 students.

“A young person’s success in both school and in life is dependent not only on their test scores and knowledge but also on non-cognitive skills like determination, confidence, compassion, collaboration and leadership,” Lee said. “We believe the most effective and inspiring classroom for these crucial skills is nature. Through our outdoor education expedition programs, we help youth and adults from all walks of life discover the strength of their character to overcome obstacles, an ability to lead with integrity and compassion and a determination to serve their communities when they return.”

PATHFINDER COURSE: This 30-day course includes stimulating lessons in teamwork, perseverance and personal development through goal setting in a challenging environment. Designed for 18 to 30 year olds in transition in the workforce or coping with the demands of an established career, this expedition invites participants to push their comfort zones, hone their leadership style and examine their personal goals while learning technical skills in a unique and beautiful desert setting. For course details visit: http://bit.ly/PathfinderBigBend

For additional contest details, visit our Facebook contest page:
http://bit.ly/FacebookBigBendVideoContest

Source: Press Release