Ages: Fathers and children ages 5 – 12 years

Tribes:  Each Tribe holds 8 to 10 pairs that meet each month at members homes on a rotating basis.  The individual tribe sets the tribal schedule, with a general rule of 4 hours a month.  The YMCA offers Nation Events each month for everyone to participate in!

Tribe Selection:  Participants are given the option of creating their own tribe or joining an existing group.  We try to place pairs in relation to where they live or the school they attend.  However, if you already know someone participating you are welcome to request a tribe on the back of this form.

Costs: 
First Year Costs: $55 for Members, $75 for Non Members
2nd Year and on: $45 for Members, $65 for Non Members
Additional Child: $35 each Members, $45 Non Members
Individual events may have additional fee at time of sign up.

What is Y-Guides?

Y-Guides is a father/child program that provides opportunities for fathers and children to spend quality time together.  It is a perfect way to foster a strong and lasting relationship. 

Who is it for?

Y-Guides and Princesses is a father/child program for ages five through twelve comprised of pairs from the Gaston County area. 

What happens when I join?

New members will be placed on a tribe of eight to ten pairs who live near each other.  Father/son pairs join Y-Guides Braves while father/daughter pairs will be known as Y-Guides Princesses.

Can I join a friend’s tribe?

Yes, as long as your children are a similar age and there is room for another pair!

How much time does it take?

Typically, the time commitment is two to four hours a month participating in meetings and events.  Tribes meet once or twice a month in members homes on a rotating basis and are invited to participate in any Nation Events (open to all Y-Guides).  You are also encouraged to plan special Tribal events amongst your Tribe!    

When do tribes meet?

Tribe meeting times and locations are decided by individual tribes as to fit the fathers’ schedules.

What types of activities are involved?

Tribe meetings include games, songs, crafts, and refreshments.  They are a great way to become connected with your child as well as new tribe members.  Tribes will also plan Tribal events such as hikes, cookouts, fundraisers, etc!

Nation Events are times when all of our tribes get together!  We will host activities pointed towards father/son – Pinewood Derby, or father/daughter – Tea Party as well as activities for all – Spring Longhouse (campout). 

What does that fee cover?

The annual registration covers all patches, beads, feathers, and annual awards.     Additional registration fee will be needed for specific activities.      

How do I join?

Stop by your nearest Gaston County Family YMCA to fill out a registration form or download a copy at www.gastonymca.org.  If you have any questions please contact Molly D’Avria or speak to a friend or neighbor that is involved! 

Once I join am I automatically registered for all events?

No, each event required a separate registration.

YMCA Indian Guides History

In 1926, Harold Keltner, a YMCA executive in St. Louis, Missouri, and Joe Friday, an Ojibway Indian hunting guide, founded a YMCA parent/child program which became knows as Indian Guides. The program was based on dignity, patience, endurance, spirituality, feeling for the earth, and concern for family.  In 1954 the first Y-Indian Princess Program was formed in Fresno, California, which allows fathers and daughters the opportunity to participate.

To register download the registration form!  Contact your local YMCA or Tammy Dickerson, tdickerson@gastonymca.org or 704.865.8551, with questions about the program!