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Young woman in the mountains

Outward Bound:
Challenge & Discovery

Register Immediately!

  • As a Simple Gifts Scholar, your journey begins with a transformative experience in the great outdoors. We partner with the North Carolina Outward Bound School (NCOBS) to provide you with a world-class wilderness course designed to build resilience, leadership, and confidence before you head off to college.

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The Outward Bound Experience

Participation in an Outward Bound course is mandatory for all Simple Gifts Scholars. This experience is more than just a trip—it is a core component of your scholarship commitment.

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Important: Your scholarship covers the full cost of this experience. However, please note that failure to complete your assigned Outward Bound program may result in the loss of your Simple Gifts Scholarship.

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Summer 2026 Only

Please note that all Outward Bound experiences are for Summer 2026 only. We will NOT offer a winter alternative this year. It is vital that you plan your summer schedule accordingly to ensure you can complete this requirement.

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Course Options

This year, we are excited to offer several different course types, including:

  • Backpacking & Rock Climbing or Whitewater Canoe: Traditional courses in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.

  • Sea Kayaking: A newly restored program in the Outer Banks (OBX). These courses are challenging and require a high level of self-care given the sun and saltwater environment, but they offer a unique alternative to mountain backpacking.

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Registration & Deadlines

It is imperative that you sign up immediately! Sessions fill up quickly on a first-come, first-served basis.

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  • For Scholars 18 and Under: Use the standard Simple Gifts registration portal to select your top three course preferences: Register Here

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  • For Scholars 19 and Older: You have specific course options tailored for your age group (Ages 18–25), such as the Blue Ridge Backpack & Rock Climb (June 27 – July 2). Please contact Vevlyn Lowe or Margaret Turlington for your specific enrollment link.

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Click here to learn more about the Outward Bound Experience!

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