Award Levels
Pathfinder Award Program
There are seven (7) awards to attain. They are presented in the order in which they are earned and received:
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1.) Bear Claws |
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5.) Owl |
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2.) Turtle |
6.) Wowitan |
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3.) Horse |
7.) Running Bear |
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4.) Deer |
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Each level requires that mandatory activities and optional activities be successfully completed. The second level cannot be received prior to the first, the third before the second, and so on. However, multiple levels can be awarded at the banquet so long as they are sequential (i.e. Bear Claws, Turtle and Horse, Horse and Deer, and so on).
AWARDS CEREMONY
Two elements make up the Awards Ceremony: 1) Necklace Pin and bear claws for Levels 1 through 5; Wowitan headdress and medallion for Level 6; Running Bear award for Level 7; and 2) The applicable multi-colored Participation Pin for the particular calendar year in the Pathfinder Program
Necklace Patch Awards
Upon successful completion of the four activities for the Bear Claws award, the Pathfinder will receive the Necklace and Bear Claws to be worn on the necklace. After completing the required number of activities for Levels 2 through 5, the Pathfinder is eligible for the respective pin award. The pin is of acrylic enamel over metal with the image of each level, and is to be worn on the necklace/lanyard, which is included with the Bear Claws Award.
Wowitan
The Wowitan, which is the Indian word for honor, is the highest activity award a Pathfinder can achieve. The Wowitan signifies that the Pathfinder has earned the right to wear the Wowitan headdress and medallion for completing forty activities. The Wowitan headdress is distinguishable by the white plumes attached to the top of the feathers. The amount of feathers in the headdress signifies the years the Pathfinder has been in the program. The Wowitan medallion, which is worn on a necklace, includes an inscription of the Pathfinder’s Indian name.
Running Bear
The Running Bear award is named in recognition of Mr. Rob Olford. Rob was a leading force in the evolution of this program. In particular, Rob’s commitment in guiding the Nation’s efforts in community service has been an inspiration to us all.
The Running Bear award requires that the Pathfinder perform an additional eight activities. Upon completion of these activities the Pathfinder will receive two gold bear claws to wear with the Wowitan medallion, a white feather with a red plume, and a certificate to display her accomplishment. Additional bear claws can be earned for additional activities completed.
Participation Awards
Each year at the Awards Ceremony the Pathfinder, whether or not she receives an award, will receive a multi-colored, enameled pin representing the calendar year for which she has participated in the program. Thirteen different pins will be used in a revolving cycle allowing the girls to participate from Kindergarten thru Grade 12 without ever receiving the same “year pin”.
Is this similar to the YMCA Indian Princesses Program
Yes. The Indian Pathfinders were started when the YMCA decided to discontinue the Indian Princesses program in New Hampshire. The program is run very similar to how the program was run under the YMCA.
What is the Cost
Dues start at 65.00 the first year for each dad/daughter team and 30.00 for each additional child. In subsequent years dues drop to 25.00 (plus 10.00 for each additional daughter). There are different costs associated with different nation events. We try to raise money through fundraisers to offset the costs, and since we are non-profit, costs are kept as low as possible. Each new member will receive a medallion, personalized T-shirt and program guide.
What type of time commitment do I have to make
Generally, there is one meetings per month at one of your tribe member's home or at times outside the house (skating, sledding, etc). Responsibilities are divided up and include a game, a story, a craft and a snack. There is also one nation event per month. With some of the nation events, the entire family may be included. It is not mandatory attendance for either tribe meetings or nation events, but each tribe has individual responsibilities divided up among the Dads and daughters.
How many members are currently active
The Southern New Hampshire Chapter of Indian Pathfinders currently has 90 active members.
At what age can my daughter join
Membership typically begins at age 5. If your daughter is younger, feel free to contact one of your Nation Officers to see if your daughter is eligible for the program.
What if I have more than one daughter and they're different ages
Both may join! We have many dads who have more than one daughter involved in the program. We will find age appropriate tribes and you the dad can set a schedule to attend one or more of the meetings.
If I can't attend a meeting can I send mom
This is primarily for father's and daughters although we do a number of family events where everyone is welcome. If you cannot attend a meeting and would still like your daughter to attend, remember your tribe dads are extremely helpful and would not mind lending a hand to accommodate your schedule.
Is the Pathfinder Program Handicap friendly
Yes! All of our activities can accommodate the physically challenged. Even one of our annual hikes up Pack Monadnock has an auto road so our physically challenged friends can join in the festivities at the top.
What types of activities do you do
Our Nation Events page will describe all the activities we participate in.
Do I have to be present at the tribe meetings
Yes, this is not an organization where you leave your kids with someone else. The main underlying principle of Indian Pathfinders is "Time Together" with your daughter(s).
Is this a religious organization or affiliated with any other group
No, this is not a religious organization. The Southern NH Indian Pathfinders is a local operated, nonprofit organization and not part of a national organization. Decisions are made by members and officers of the organization.
When a new tribe begins, what happens
You will be contacted and a first meeting will be set up at someone's house. At the first 1-2 meetings, experienced dads and daughters will be present to help organize and facilitate the meetings and get the tribe setup.
How are dads/daughters grouped into tribes
All tribes are age appropriate with all kids usually the same age or a year apart.
What area in Southern New Hampshire is the program located
Currently we have members from Merrimack, Windham, Derry, Nashua, Litchfield, Bedford, Manchester and other towns. If we do not have a ribe in your town we can work to get one stated. We also try to group people geographically to make travel convenient.
What are the other benefits
Many dads have formed close friendships and many of the tribes will socialize with the entire family on camping trips, barbecues, golf, etc. A great deal of camaraderie often takes place among members and their families.
How do I Join
Registration can be completed online. It is quick and easy. To register online go to the top of the website and select the membership package that is right for you. You can also contact a member of our recruitment committee by This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
