FAQs

Yes. All Discovery Pathways programs are completely free for youth and families. This includes boating, fishing, field trips, health fairs, youth leadership programs, tutoring, and community events. We work hard to remove financial barriers so everyone can participate. Everything from gear to instruction to food is always free

Most of our programs are located in FDR Park in South Philadelphia- at the boathouse. You can put “Boathouse at FDR Park” into google maps or use this link. Please refer to our Events page for more information on boating, fishing, health fairs, and more. (Some events are held at other locations and this will be on the flyer). Follow us on instagram for updated information on events!

No! We provide all gear for boating, fishing, biking, or any activity. For any program-wear clothes that could get wet or dirty. In colder or wet weather, try to bring appropriate warm clothes. We dont cancel unless the weather is bad!

We only cancel for severe weather. Check our instagram or events page for more information. You can always shoot us a message

Our programs are open to all!  Some youth programs have a priority for immigrant, refugee, and underserved youth in South Philadelphia. Over 90% of participants are new to outdoor activities and environmental education.

No experience is needed. Most youth and families join our programs with no prior background in boating, fishing, or environmental science. Our programs are designed for beginners and led by trained youth leaders and staff who support everyone step by step.

We are a 501c3 charity and all donations are tax-deductible. We can accept donations through our website. We can also accepted checks, donor-advised fund, or any other method. Reach out with any questions

Yes, we do everything we can to make it safe. We test the water each week for pollution. We provide lessons and safety protocol to all.

We provide language support and translated materials in up to seven languages. Youth leaders and community partners help ensure our programs are welcoming, culturally relevant, and accessible.

Applications for the Youth Environmental Leadership Program are open from January through March each year. Students are referred through community partners, school counselors, and mental health agencies. Because the program is small and intensive, space is limited. Visit our Youth Environmental Leadership Page for more information

The program runs from spring through fall, with a nine-week summer core. Many students stay involved for multiple years and continue as mentors and leaders.

Yes. Youth in leadership programs receive stipends for their work leading programs, outreach, cleanups, and community events. All youth also receive job readiness and leadership training.

Visit our Field Trips page and fill out the form to sign up. Reach out with any questions

Yes. All Discovery Pathways youth receive tutoring, mentorship, and college access support. We help students with schoolwork, college applications, FAFSA, scholarships, and continue supporting them through college and beyond.

Families can attend free public events, follow us on social media, sign up for updates at programs, or connect through our community partners. We always welcome new families.

We do accept volunteers, but depending on the program they may need to do clearances to work with our youth. We do hoist community clean up days and other events. 

Visit our donate page. Anything helps! All donations go straight you youth and family programs.