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 run $60 the first year for each dad/daughter team and $30 for each additional child. In subsequent years dues drop to $20 (plus $10 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 is this organization 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.
Is this organization for Londonderry residents only
No. We have members from Merrimack, Windham, Derry, Nashua, Litchfield, Bedford, Manchester and other towns. 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.