Clark Center adventure coordinator leads ice breaker activities with students

Adventure awaits this summer for ODY students who want to step outside their comfort zones to discover they are capable of more than they might have ever imagined!

Challenging Outward Bound program unleashes lessons in leadership, teamwork through outdoor adventures

ODY high school students recently learned about a scholarship opportunity that could unlock a once-in-a-lifetime chance for adventure and personal development. Jackson Diliberto and Brad Smith, adventure coordinators from the Clark Sports Center, and center volunteer Barry Gould, shared information about the Outward Bound Scholarship, which is open to students in grades 9-11. The scholarship provides a two-week canoeing and backpacking excursion at the Hurricane Island Outward Bound School in the heart of the Maine Northwoods.

The Hurricane Island Outward Bound School is a non-profit educational organization that offers challenging outdoor expeditions for high school students that inspire self-discovery, compassion and leadership skills, while raising awareness of social and environmental responsibility.

ODY students can apply for this extraordinary opportunity at no cost to families. Eligible students should submit their applications to school counselor Ms. Soper by January 24.

Learn more about the program, the application process and download an application form

Odyssey program charts path for eighth graders to discover their full potential

Meanwhile, an Adirondack Odyssey — a weeklong canoe adventure in the Adirondack Park — is open to eighth grade students. Scholarships are available for the 8th Grade Odyssey program through the Clark Sports Center.

Mr. Diliberto led eighth graders in fun team building activities and icebreakers to encourage students to apply for the Odyssey opportunity and follow in the footsteps of ODY 9th grader Jocelyn Bosc who participated last summer in the renowned Odyssey program.

“We are thankful for the Clark Foundation, and the Clark Sports Center for offering these experiences and scholarships to our students,” said Ms. Soper, adding that ODY teachers who have taken part in Outward Bound educational experiences, have sung its praises. “Our music teacher, Mrs. Pollak-Rios, participated in the Outward Bound for Educators program last year, and said it was wonderful.”

Both programs — Odyssey and Outward Bound — are valuable additions for students to include on their resumes, advised Ms. Soper.

Reminder: Eligible students should have their applications to Ms. Soper by January 24!

Clark Center adventure coordinator leads ice breaker activities with studentsClark Center adventure coordinator high fives students while other coordinator hands out forms to students