Discovery Pathways
Discovery Pathways is a South Philadelphia nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth and families through free, hands-on environmental education, outdoor adventure, and health-focused programs. We break down barriers to access so underserved communities can experience nature, build confidence, and grow as leaders.
Who We Serve
We work primarily with immigrant, and refugee youth and families across South Philadelphia and beyond. However, public programs are open to all! Many participants are trying outdoor activities for the very first time. All programs are free, beginner-friendly, and supported with multilingual access so everyone feels welcome, safe, and included.
How We Started
Discovery Pathways grew out of clear community needs and desires.
We work with community leaders and interpreters every step of the way and promote culturally relevant programs. Language support is provided in up to 7 languages.
Director Adam Forbes began DP with a team of local leaders. He has worked in diverse schools in South Philadelphia for more than 10 years. In addition to being an Environmental Educator, Adam is a licensed ESL, Math, and Science teacher.
Our primary components are youth empowerment, free environmental education programs, advocacy, and community support.
What We Do
Discovery Pathways connects young people to nature as a pathway to health, learning, and leadership. Our programs combine outdoor recreation, environmental education, and youth empowerment to support physical well-being, mental health, and academic growth. Youth are not just participants they become leaders, instructors, and role models in their communities. We break down all barriers to access- including free food transportation, school support, and more.
Why It Matters
Access to nature, health, and opportunity is not equal. Discovery Pathways exists to change that. For years, diverse families asked for free outdoor and leadership programs. When young people are supported, challenged, and believed in, they discover their voice, their strength, and their ability to lead. The impact lasts far beyond a single program. DP students go on to use their leadership skills in college and beyond.
Discovery Pathways 2025 by the Numbers
- Over 19,000 people participated in free environmental, recreation, and health programs
- 13,548 people attended free public boating and fishing programs
- 5,618 people attended community health fairs and partnership events
- 1,469 children participated in free school field trips
- 1,806 children and adults attended educational programs with community groups
- 35 teens empowered as Environmental and Community Health Leaders
- 92 youth regularly attended programs throughout the year
- 153 teens served across all leadership programs
- 27 Free Community Boating Days reaching 7,836 people
- 26 Free Family Fishing Days reaching 2,437 people
- Over 96% of boating and fishing participants were new to water recreation
- Over 72% of boating participants were immigrant or refugee families
- 5,400+ pounds of trash removed from local parks and waterways
- 350 storm drains marked with multilingual environmental education
- 11,500+ pounds of healthy produce distributed to youth and families
- 1,370+ free meals provided
- $68,000+ in youth stipends paid to support leadership, job readiness, and participation
- $315,000 secured in external college scholarships for graduating seniors
- 7 seniors received full college scholarships
- Youth programs delivered in 7+ languages, reaching families from 11+ cultural and language groups
Mission
Our mission is to uplift the well-being of the community and environment through experiential, nature-based programs. By providing hands-on environmental education to urban youth and adults, we empower leaders and cultivate a connection to the natural world and the local watershed. We work tirelessly to ensure underserved communities can pursue meaningful outdoor experiences.
Vision
Our vision for Discovery Pathways is to break down barriers of access to nature for urban families. We don’t aim to offer one-time help; rather we support and inspire the next generation of stewards by providing consistent experiences in nature. Our collaborative work sparks a lifelong love of the outdoors in the families we serve and work alongside.
Youth are empowered to become community leaders as they teach and lead all our free programming. Training is provided in public speaking, scientific water testing, kayak instruction, and more
To break down fear and build up leadership skills, programs focus on small groups. Youth are paid to work at FDR Park and in the community. They become certified in key scientific and leadership skills.