The Program 

YMCA Trail Programs are a continuation for older children of the YMCA Indian Guide Programs, which are designed for young children and their parents. Y-Indian Guide Programs provide small groups of six- to eight-year-old children and their parents with opportunities to develop companionship and understanding through fun projects and activities based on Indian themes. The Trail Programs offer children nine and over more challenging and varied experiences. YMCA Trail Programs have been developed out of a concern for families. The family is the major support group for most of us: It is the place where values are developed, where we learn to care and express love, where we discover our strengths and weaknesses, and where we are accepted for what we are. Through Trail Programs, the YMCA provides opportunities for families to enjoy themselves, to spend quality time together, and to experience an environment in which parent-child communication and growth can freely take place. Because strong individuals build strong families, Y-Trail Programs are designed to concentrate on the relationship between an individual youth and his or her parents. For many parents and children, participation in Y-Trailblazers will follow participation in Y-Indian Guide programs, although this is not necessary.

Y-Indian Guide Programs are a cornerstone of core programs offered by most Y's for the family with elementary-schoolaged children. Trail Programs focus on strengthening the parent/child teams. The focus is on children from third-sixth grade with emphasis shifting to the child's skill development, leadership, and accomplishments with the support of the parent. In YMCA programs, our first commitment is to the personal development of each participant. We seek in all programs to help participants develop values, improve personal relationships, appreciate diversity, become better leaders and supporters, develop specific skills, and have fun.

-courtesy of YMCA National