The Prairie Trail Federation (PTF), a volunteer-run organization made up of fathers and their children, has been living out its mission of "Friends Always & Pals Forever” for generations. Fathers and daughters participate as Prairie Trail Princesses, while fathers and sons make up the Prairie Trail Guides. Together, the tribes spend weekends camping, exploring the outdoors, and creating unforgettable memories. 

John Derus, president of the Prairie Trail Federation—better known as the Federation Chief—says part of what makes these experiences so meaningful for kids is that they are often a series of “firsts.”

“The first time my son rode a horse, my daughter went canoeing, or they roasted a marshmallow around the campfire was at one of our campouts,” he says. “There are so many firsts that happen on these weekends away with the tribe. The memories made are so positive—and lasting.”

Tribes are assigned to different camps within about two hours of Chicago, throughout Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan. On these trips, kids and dads unplug from their everyday routines and enjoy simple fun with one another. Activities such as ziplining, archery, and canoeing offer plenty of adventure, while campfires and time spent together create opportunities for kids to connect with their friends, fathers to connect with their children, and dads to connect with one another.

Like many dads in the Federation, Alex Gemkow of Western Springs first experienced the Prairie Trail Federation as a kid: “I was in [the] Guides when I was my kids’ age. I have countless great memories of spending time with my Dad at the campouts. These memories are indelible to me, and I want my son and daughter to have a similar experience.” Now, Gemkow is passing on the rich traditions of the Federation and creating new lifetime memories that his children, Wilhelmina and Wolfgang, will treasure.

John Derus muses on the significance of the campouts, “It’s so important to get out of your house, get off your phone, disconnect, touch grass, hang out around a campfire... To have some real human interaction in a raw context. And your kids are super happy to be with you doing it.”

The Federation's commitment to connection doesn't stop at the campfire. Giving back to the community is another important part of its mission. Last year, in partnership with the Wise Men (formerly the YMCA’s Men’s Club), the Federation’s annual Christmas tree sale at Gordon Park raised $85,000, with proceeds going towards academic scholarships and benefiting community organizations including Neighbors Helping Neighbors and Aging Care Connections.

The Federation also partners with the LaGrange Rotary Club on a Secret Santa program. Last year, members spent $57,000 purchasing gifts for more than 300 kids in need. The emphasis is on giving back together, not simply writing a check. Kids and their dads meet up with their Tribe members for an evening of shopping at places like Target, where the kids personally choose gifts for children in need.

Philanthropy is woven into the campouts, too. At each campout,  a simple hat is passed around to collect funds for the Special Olympics. Thousands of dollars have been raised around the campfire. In January, the Federation plans to host its inaugural food drive over Martin Luther King weekend, promoting spending the holiday as a day of service. Details will be shared once plans are finalized. 

For generations, the Prairie Trail Federation has given fathers and children opportunities to spend quality time together, try new things, and give back. While the times may change, the Federation’s mission remains the same: “Friends Always & Pals Forever.” To learn more about the Prairie Trail Federation, you can visit their website at ptfed.org