Our Mission
The Arapahoes is a father-daughter program designed to create lasting memories and build strong, meaningful bonds between dads and their daughters. Along the way, we help guide young girls into becoming confident, strong young women with the chance to reach their full potential. We believe that by being actively involved in our daughters' lives, and with the right support, resources, and opportunities, they can achieve incredible things and make a positive impact on the world.
About Us
History
The program began back in 1926 as a way to help hardworking fathers stay connected with their sons. It was created by Harold Keltner of the YMCA in St. Louis, Missouri, with the guidance of his friend Joe Friday, an Ojibway Indian. Joe shared his wisdom, explaining, "The Indian father raises his son. He teaches him to hunt, track, fish, walk quietly in the forest, and understand the meaning and purpose of life."
Inspired by these values, Keltner designed the program to reflect the strength of American Indian culture, emphasizing qualities like dignity, patience, endurance, spirituality, a deep connection to the earth, and strong family bonds.
In 1951, the Indian Maidens program was introduced in South Bend, Indiana, to bring mothers and daughters closer. Then, in 1954, the organization was born at the Fresno, California YMCA, allowing fathers and daughters to share in these experiences too.
Finally, recognizing the need for something similar for mothers and sons, the Indian Braves program was established in 1980.
The Program
The Daddy-Daughter program stands apart from scouting, sports teams, and other activities because it’s designed specifically for both parents and children. Fathers and daughters join the program because they want to spend more time together and create lasting memories.
This program offers unique experiences and opportunities that you won’t find anywhere else.
For fathers, it’s a chance to truly bond with your daughter in meaningful ways. The goal is to "build bonds that last a lifetime," so when the middle school and high school years roll around, you’ve already created a strong relationship and many positive memories. Daughters not only learn how to have fun with their peers but also develop confidence, a sense of accomplishment, and the courage to speak up for themselves.
For daughters, it’s an opportunity to make a wide circle of friends and gain a sense of belonging—something rare in today’s world of small families. It’s like having a dozen sisters and uncles to rely on. Older girls even take on leadership roles, helping and guiding the younger ones.
Beyond strengthening the parent-child relationship, the program offers so much more:
- Adventures you won’t find elsewhere: camping in the Everglades and Central Florida, overnight stays at SeaWorld, museums, Kennedy Space Center, and more; canoeing scenic rivers; horseback riding around Sunset Lake; or even sifting for ancient fossil teeth—maybe even finding one from a giant megalodon shark!
- Building friendships: You and your child will meet other parents and kids, forming lasting friendships with people who share your interests and values.
- Discovering the beauty of Florida: From Lake Wales to Fish Eating Creek, you’ll explore the special places that make Florida unique.
- Learning about Native American culture and the environment: No book or film can compare to firsthand experiences like joining the spiral dance at the State Pow-Wow or stargazing at the Swamp Safari as alligators glide silently beneath you.
The program offers a variety of father-daughter, Tribal, and Nation activities that are designed to create unforgettable experiences and deeper connections.