Community

Step 2: Your Local Community

Communities are supportive of people going on an Outward Bound course, particularly if they see you contributing something yourself. When a community group has agreed to fund part of your course, ensure you get them to contact Outward Bound directly when it comes to making payment.

Service Clubs

Over 200 different clubs have supported course participants and Outward Bound in the past. In fact Rotary helped start Outward Bound New Zealand in 1962! Check some of these websites for contact details of organisations in your area:

• Rotary 
• Kiwanis
• RSA (New Zealand Returned and Services' Association)
• Lions NZ
• Zonta
• Freemasons New Zealand

You can start by writing a letter (click here for some tips) asking them to assist you with your course fees. It will also help if you can show you are prepared to give something back to the community after your course eg. help at a Service Club working bee or do some voluntary work. Follow up with a phone call three weeks after sending your letter if you haven’t heard from them.

Local Businesses

Many participants approach local businesses and experience fantastic success. Either write to the manager of the organisation and follow up with a phone call or simply go door knocking.

Community Groups

If you belong to a community group like a sports club or choir, ask those involved if they have any fundraising ideas such as holding an event for you.

Community Partnerships 2009

Every year Outward Bound NZ raises money to be able to offer scholarships to various community organisations to offer their staff, or volunteers the opportunity to attend Outward Bound and then bring their enthusiasm, motivation and new found skills back to their organisations and communities.  This also furthers our vision of 'Better People, Better Communities, Better World'.  Click here to see what organisations we are offering scholarships to in 2009 and how to apply.