Indian Guides and Indian Princesses give fathers and their children opportunities to spend meaningful time together through campouts, group activities, community service and local events. In Orange County, the program is administered by the volunteer-run Longhouse of the Orange Skies and serves families throughout the area, including Villa Park.
What Are Indian Guides & Indian Princesses?
Indian Guides is the father-son program and Indian Princesses is the father-daughter program offered through Longhouse of the Orange Skies. The programs are designed to strengthen communication and relationships between fathers and their children through enjoyable, constructive time together.
Families participate in activities throughout the school year, with both larger Longhouse events and smaller activities organized by individual tribes. Longhouse states that it conducts its programs in a way that is respectful to Native American culture.
Activities & Campouts
Camping is a major part of the program, with fall, winter and spring campouts typically scheduled during the year. Other Longhouse and tribal activities vary but may include:
- Indian 500 Pinewood Derby
- Turkey Shoot
- Pancake Breakfast
- Monthly tribal activities
- Outdoor recreation and family events
- Community service projects
Individual tribes may also organize their own outings and activities. The schedule changes from year to year, so families should check the current Longhouse calendar for upcoming events.
Longhouse of the Orange Skies
Longhouse of the Orange Skies is an Orange County nonprofit founded in 2013 and operated primarily by volunteers. The organization is divided into multiple Nations and tribes, allowing families to participate with smaller local groups while also joining larger Longhouse-wide events.
Although the historical Indian Guides program originated through the YMCA, Longhouse of the Orange Skies is an independent organization and is not affiliated with the YMCA.
Who Can Participate?
The core Indian Guides and Indian Princesses programs serve fathers and their school-age children. Kindergarten is a common time to begin, but families can join later as well. Longhouse also offers continuation programs for older children, including Trailmates and Trail Blazers, depending on age and participation.
Because program structure and eligibility can change, families should confirm current grade levels and available groups directly with Longhouse when joining.
Indian Guides & Princesses for Villa Park Families
Villa Park families participate in Longhouse of the Orange Skies, and the City of Villa Park lists the organization among its area youth programs. Families are placed with or introduced to a tribe that fits their location, child’s age and program.
For other local activities and organizations, see the Villa Park Event Calendar.
History of the Program
The original Indian Guides program dates to the 1920s and is associated with YMCA executive Harold Keltner and Joe Friday, an Ojibwe guide. The program evolved over the decades into various parent-child organizations across the country.
Today’s Orange County Indian Guides and Indian Princesses programs are independently administered by Longhouse of the Orange Skies rather than the YMCA.
How to Join
Families interested in joining should start with the official Longhouse of the Orange Skies website for current registration information, program availability, events and contact details. The organization can help connect Villa Park families with an appropriate local tribe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Indian Guides and Indian Princesses?
They are father-child programs focused on spending quality time together through campouts, activities, community service and group events. Indian Guides is the father-son program, while Indian Princesses is the father-daughter program.
Who runs the Orange County program?
The Orange County programs are administered by Longhouse of the Orange Skies, a volunteer-run nonprofit organization.
What ages can participate?
The core programs serve school-age children, with kindergarten a common starting point. Continuation programs may also be available for older children. Families should confirm current eligibility with Longhouse.
What activities do families do?
Activities vary by year and tribe but commonly include seasonal campouts, Pinewood Derby racing, outdoor recreation, community service and other father-child events.
Is the program affiliated with the YMCA?
No. Although the original Indian Guides program has historical YMCA roots, Longhouse of the Orange Skies states that it is not affiliated with the YMCA.
How do Villa Park families join?
Visit the official Longhouse of the Orange Skies website for current registration and contact information. Longhouse can help connect families with an appropriate tribe.