“This course definitely made me feel more at home with my LGBT+ identity. I have people around me just like me, and I feel part of the Pride movement as a whole.”
— High School Student LGBTQ+ Backpacking to Urban Service Course
"I have definitely become a better leader throughout this course. I came in really, really nervous. I wasn’t really talking to anyone throughout the first day. But I’ve been more authentically myself throughout this course than I have been in years.”
— Lucy, Age16, Wisconsin LGBTQ+ Backpacking to Urban Service Course
“Putting on a heavy pack and going up a mountain, quite literally, is one of the hardest things, but to persevere through that and get to the top of the mountain is so relieving. I did this course, and I think I can do anything else that comes at me in life, both mentally and physically.”
—High School Student LGBTQ+ Backpacking to Urban Service Course
Connect and explore with young members of the LGBTQ+ community in a positive and affirming environment.
Northwest Outward Bound School LGBTQ+ courses are designed specifically for members of the LGBTQ+ young adult population and are led by LGBTQ+ Outward Bound instructors, allies and program partners.
Students will share their experiences in an open and affirming space, build friendships, challenge their limitations, and engage in opportunities to develop self-confidence during a time in life when supportive or safe spaces may not be available.
Northwest Outward Bound School's LGBTQ+ programs
Offer a supportive community among other queer young people
Facilitate open and affirming space for sharing experiences
Build self-esteem while invigorating spirits through adventures and challenges in a beautiful and natural environment
Increase connection and reduce the feeling of isolation
Provide the opportunity to build new friendships outside the typical day-to-day structure
Transfer on-course values and experiences to everyday life so that students are more prepared and confident to serve themselves and their communities
Pride Portland Festival & Course Service
Service to others and the environment is a core value of our programs and is integrated into each course. Some of our programs correspond with the Portland Pride Festival, and those students will have the opportunity to experience or volunteer at the event. Other course service projects will focus on serving organizations within the Portland LGBTQ+ community.
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