HISTORYOFVOYAGEUROUTWARDBOUNDSCHOOL
1970s
1960s
VOBS began its journey in the 1960s, leading the way in outdoor education.
In the 1970s, MOBS concentrated on solidifying its foundation, exploring new methods, and facing early challenges. Through determination, we persevered.
1980s
In the 1980s, VOBS embraced a period of remarkable growth, expanding its programs and reaching even more individuals eager to experience the transformative power of adventure-based learning.
1990s
In the 1990s, VOBS embraced innovation. Our name gained prominence, highlighting our expanding influence.
2000s
In the 2000s, VOBS moved through a series of changes, as the VOBS administrative offices moved up to Ely, Minnesota.
2010s
In the 2010s, VOBS reawakened, reestablishing Twin Cities urban programs in 2010 and reforming a local presence in 2011 after the merger was unwound.
1963:BobPieh chartersMinnesota OutwardBoundSchool (MOBS)
1964:FirstMOBS course
1965:Firstallwomen’scoursein WesternHemisphere
2020s...ANDBEYOND!
1970:MOBS introduceswinter courses.
1974:MOBS implementscourses forstudentswith disabilities.
1977:Wildfire destroysHomeplace Staffrebuilds.
1982:MOBS introducesdog sleddingcourse.
1983:MOBSchanges itsnametoVoyageur OutwardBound School(VOBS).
1984:VOBSrunsits firstcourseforyouth atrisk
1991:VOBSreceives Governor’sYouth ServiceRecognition Award
1994:VOBSoffers firstseakayaking courseonLake Superior
2001:Montanaand Minnesotaoffer climbing-intensive courses
2005:VOBS,alongwith otherOBSchools, mergetoform centralizedOutward Bound
2010:Outward Bounddemerges, reformingVOBSas anentity
2014:VOBS celebrates50years andreceives“Best PlacetoWork”award fromOutside Magazineforthree years.
In the 2020s, VOBS demonstrated resilience and compassion while navigating the challenges of COVID-19. We remained dedicated to serving our students and adapted our programs to ensure their safety and growth. With the generous support of our donors, we built an $8 million endowment, securing our future and expanding our impact. As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we reflect on our rich heritage and embrace new opportunities and innovative approaches to ensure our mission continues to inspire and empower future generations.
MT 1984-2008
1984:Montanarunsfirstalpinebackpackingcourse
2008:MontanaBasecampcloses.
SaintPaul,MN 1985-TODAY
1985:FirstAmericanOBUrbanYouth CoursesrunintheTwinCities: VoyageursintheParks
1994:UrbanYouthLeadershipProgram replacesVoyageursintheParks
2010:VOBSformsTwinCitiesCenter
Gila,NM
1994-1999
1994:NewMexico runsfirstcourse
1999:NewMexico Basecampcloses
BendBend,TX
1983-2008,2016-2024
1983 Texasrunsfirstcourses
2001:VOBSlaunchesAscentcourses
2008:Basecampcloses
2016:VOBSreturnstoTexas
1965: First all-women’s outdoor expedition.
1970: First winter course runs.
1974: First youth course runs for aged 14/15 students.
1980: First course runs for chronically-ill adolescents.
ELy MN 1963-TODAY
1963:VOBSischartered
1964:CoursesruninBoundaryWaters
VOBSINCANADA
1965:CoursesrunQueticoProvincial Park.
1982:CoursesruninDryden,in Ontario
1989:QueticoandDrydencoursesare discountinued
Chicago,IL
1988-1991
1988:ChicagoOutward BoundCenterruns courses
1991:ChicagoCenter closes
1982: First dogsledding course runs.
1984: First course runs for youth at risk.
1990: First course runs for Vietnam veterans.
1997: First Life/Career Renewal course runs.