The Monroe Family YMCA Membership Policy

We Believe Our Mission and Our Cause Have Great Relevancy

 OUR MISSION
To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

OUR CAUSE
The YMCA is a powerful association of men, women and children joined together by a shared commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living and foster a sense of social responsibility. We believe that lasting personal and social change can only come about when we all work together to invest in our kids, our health and our neighbors. That’s why at the YMCA our cause is strengthening our Monroe community by thinking, acting and communicating in ways that help us do this.

 Through our focus areas of Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility; we nurture the potential of our youth, improve Monroe’s health and well-being, and give support to our neighbors in need. 

WHAT WE DO
All are welcome at the YMCA. Members are our most valuable asset and at the heart of our organization.  Our goal is for everyone to be a member of the YMCA and to be so satisfied with the member experience that they would never think of going anywhere else.

 
HOW WE BRING OUR BELIEFS ALIVE
There is no other nonprofit quite like the YMCA. We have the presence and partnerships to not just promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change.

• The YMCA is community centered. Since 1955, we’ve been listening and responding to the needs of our community.
• The YMCA brings people together. We connect people of all ages and backgrounds to bridge the gaps in community needs.
• The YMCA nurtures potential. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.
• The YMCA has local presence and national reach. We mobilize local communities to instill lasting, meaningful change.

OUR CORE VALUES 

Caring
To demonstrate a sincere concern for others, for their needs, and well-being. Related values: compassion, forgiveness, generosity, and kindness.

Honesty
To tell the truth, to demonstrate reliability and trustworthiness through actions that are in keeping with stated positions and beliefs. Related values: integrity and fairness.

 Respect
To treat others as I would want them to treat me, to value the worth of every person, including myself and respecting property.  Related values: acceptance, empathy, self-respect, and tolerance.

 Responsibility
To do what is right and avoid what is wrong. To be accountable for behavior, actions, and promises. Related values: commitment, courage, good health, service, and citizenship

Faith
To demonstrate faith through everything that we do. “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1

MEMBERSHIP POLICIES 
Internet Policy
We are a Wi-Fi hotspot.  YMCA members and guests have access to utilize our free internet.  Restrictions apply and the terms agreed to prior to logging on to the internet must be followed at all times. 

No Weapons Policy
In the interest of maintaining an environment that is safe and free of violence for members, employees, and visitors, The Monroe Family YMCA prohibits the wearing, transporting, storage, presence or use of dangerous weapons on YMCA property, regardless of whether or not the person is licensed to carry the weapon.  Members that violate this policy may have their membership revoked immediately.  The policy does not apply to any law enforcement personnel or security personnel engaging in official duties.  YMCA property includes all YMCA owned buildings or leased buildings and surrounding areas, such as sidewalks, walkways, parking lots and driveways under the YMCA’s control.  Weapons include, but are not limited to, handguns, firearms, explosives, knives and other weapons further defined by Michigan statute and/or local ordinance.

Registered Sex Offender Policy
In the interest of maintaining an environment that is safe for members, employees, and visitors, The Monroe Family YMCA prohibits access to its facilities and/or grounds to Registered Sex Offenders.  Any individual listed on any State or National Sexual Offender Registry will be denied access to The Monroe Family YMCA. 

 All Memberships are reviewed annually against the National Sexual Offender Registry.  In the event that an individual secures a membership or pass to The Monroe Family YMCA and it is discovered that they are listed on a Sexual Offender Registry, the individual will have their Membership or pass immediately revoked and they will be refunded a prorated share of any dues paid.

Cell Phone/Video Taping Policy
For the safety and security of our members and guests, any and all electronics capable of taking photos or videos may not be used in locker rooms, dressing areas, shower areas, restrooms, or other areas generally deemed to be “private” within the YMCA facilities. Photographs or videos are not allowed on YMCA property or in YMCA programs without permission from the YMCA. Written consent is granted when signing up for a membership or program.

Attire
Proper attire and shoes are to be worn in the building at all times.  Non-marking shoes must be worn in the gyms, tennis and racquetball courts, fitness studio and Knabusch Health and Wellness center.

Proper swim attire must be worn in the pool.  The lifeguard has final determination.

Smoke-Free Policy
In order to provide and maintain a safe and healthy environment for all, the YMCA prohibits smoking on all company premises.  The law defines smoking as the “act of burning a lighted cigar, cigarette, pipe, or any other matter or substance that contains a tobacco product.  E-cigarettes are considered a tobacco product.  This applies to all areas of the building and in all vehicles owned or leased by the Y.  Smoking is permitted if the employee, volunteer, member or guest stays in his/her vehicle at least 150 feet away from the facility entrances.

Emergency Procedures
Your safety and good health are our first priority. Should an accident, injury or unusual incident occur while you are at the YMCA, contact a staff member immediately. The YMCA policy requires an incident report be completed.

PERSONAL PROPERTY
Valuables
Valuables like keys, jewelry, membership card, etc. may be secured in pouches at the front and back desk by the Member Service Representatives.   

 Lost, Stolen or Damaged Items
The Y is not responsible for any lost, stolen or damaged items.  Items should be secured in a locked locker.  A personal lock may be used daily.  The lock must be removed when leaving the facility daily.  Lockers are available to rent on an annual basis. 

 Lost & Found Policy
The Monroe Family YMCA is not responsible for lost or stolen items. All items turned into the Member Service Desk will be held for two weeks. If not claimed, the items will be donated. Please check at the Member Service Desk for lost items.

AGE REQUIREMENTS
 Age Requirements in the Y Facility
Youth members ages 13 years and under must be supervised by a parent or guardian while in the building.  Youth members ages 14 years and up may in the building unsupervised. 

 Age Requirements to Obtain a 24-Hour Key Fob Card
Must be 18 years and over, unless permission is granted by CEO.  One card per individual.

Age Requirements to use the Pool
To use the POOL, children 10 years and under must be supervised by a parent or guardian.  Youth members ages 11 and over may be in the pool unsupervised.  Youth not able to touch the bottom of the pool with head safely above water must have a parent in the water within arm’s reach at all times. All youth, regardless of age must meet the height requirement of 4’4” to enter the pool alone (clearly marked on the wall).  All youth unable to meet this height requirement must have a parent or guardian in the water within arm’s reach at all times.  The lifeguard has the final determination on approving or denying access to the pool.

 Age Requirements in the Knabusch Health and Wellness Center

To Use the Cardiovascular Equipment: 

• Youth ages 7-11 must attend an orientation and must be supervised by a parent or adult guardian to use the machines.
• Youth ages 12-14 may use the cardiovascular equipment unsupervised, but must attend an orientation. 
• Youth ages 15-18 may use cardiovascular machines unsupervised.  An orientation is recommended.
  
  
• To Use the Free Weights and Pin-Cable Machines:
  
  
• Youth ages 13-14 must attend an orientation and must be supervised by a parent or adult guardian to use free weights and pin-cable machines.
• Youth ages 15-18 may use the equipment unsupervised.  Attending an orientation is recommended. 

Locker Rooms
There are five locker rooms available:

• The Adult Locker Rooms are for individuals 18 years and over only. 

• The Youth Locker Rooms are available for individuals 17 years and under. 
  
  
• The Universal Locker Rooms are for adults 18 years and over and their children who need assistance, and for those with special needs. No one under 18 years is allowed in the universal locker room area unless accompanied by an adult.

Note:    Electronic devices with picture taking technology, including but not limited to, cell phones, MP3 players, cameras, etc. are prohibited in all locker room areas.

WELLNESS ORIENTATIONS
Members may choose from the following free options.  Sign up at the front Member Service Desk.

• Adult Getting Started Orientation:
• Learn how to properly use the cardio and strength machines in the Wellness Center.
• 
  Youth Cardio Orientation: (Ages 7-11)
• Mandatory for young members who want to work out on the cardio machines in the Wellness Center with their parents.  This orientation will teach them how to use all of the cardio equipment safely and properly.  Adult supervision is required at all times for this group while in the Wellness Center.
• 
  Teen Strength Orientation: (Ages 12-14)
• Mandatory for teens who want to work out in the Wellness Center without supervision.  This orientation will teach teens how to safely perform a variety of cardio and resistance training exercises so they can achieve their goals.  If the teen is using weights, they must be supervised by an adult.

Upon completion of the Youth Cardio or Teen Strength Orientation, youth will receive a reusable wristband, indicating that they have completed the orientation.

 While youth ages 15 and older are permitted to use the Knabusch Health & Wellness Center unsupervised, it is recommended they participate in the Teen Strength Orientation for education on safety and an effective workout.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR MEMBERSHIP
Identification
Everyone is welcome at the YMCA. A completed and signed Membership Agreement with proof of residency (State Identification Card or Driver License) is required to join.

Background Checks
To maintain a culture of safety for our children, all members and guests 15 years and older are checked against the National Sexual Offender Database. Should a positive match occur, entrance to the facility will be prohibited.

In addition, all adult membership applicants over the age of 18 give signed permission that The Monroe Family YMCA may perform a criminal background check at any time. Should a positive criminal background check occur, membership may be denied or terminated. 

Code of Conduct
The YMCA is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all.  To promote safety and comfort, the YMCA asks that all persons model our Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility and Faith at all times when in our facilities, on our property, and participating in our programs.  In addition, the YMCA facilities and grounds are smoke-free, drug-free and alcohol-free.

The following are not permitted on YMCA premises, in YMCA vehicles or at YMCA sponsored functions:

• Any inappropriate sexual, physical or verbal behavior
• Posturing, bullying or intimidation
• Using or possessing alcohol or illegal chemicals
• Smoking, including vaping
• Carrying a concealed weapon or any device or object that may be used as a weapon
• Harassment or intimidation by words, gestures, body language, or any type of menacing behavior
• Physical contact with another person in an angry, aggressive, inappropriate or threatening way
• Verbally abusive behavior, including angry or vulgar language, swearing, name-calling or shouting
• Harming children in any way
• Discriminatory speech or actions
• Sexually explicit conversation or behavior; any sexual contact with another person
• Theft or behavior that results in the destruction or loss of property
• Loitering within or on the grounds of the YMCA
• Disrespecting YMCA staff, volunteers and fellow members/guests
• Taking unauthorized photos and viewing or downloading inappropriate videos, movies and websites.
• Sneaking into the facility and/or using somebody else’s membership to gain access to the facility.
• Sneaking into the 24-hour access area and/or sneaking others in through the 24-hour access door.
• Giving or loaning your YMCA or 24-hour access card to another individual so they can gain entrance to the facility.
• Any other behavior deemed in conflict with the YMCA Mission by the CEO.

If members and guests are in violation of the YMCA’s policies and procedures, or for any other improper and/or inappropriate conduct, they may be disciplined.  Disciplinary action taken is at the sole discretion of the YMCA and it reserves the right to take whatever action is appropriate based on the nature of the violations.  Discipline may result in a verbal, written or final warning, suspension, or immediate termination of membership and access to the property if deemed appropriate.

In addition, the YMCA reserves the right to deny access or membership to any person who has been accused or convicted of any crime involving sexual abuse, is or has been a registered sex offender, has a history of violent offenses, larceny, fraud, arson, possession or sale of firearms, has even been convicted of any offense relating the use, sale, possession, or transportation of narcotics or habit forming and/or dangerous drugs, or is presently or habitually under the influence of dangerous drugs or chemicals, narcotics or intoxicating beverages.  (NOTE:  The YMCA conducts periodic sexual offender scans on the National Sex Offender Registry and periodic Background Checks).

The CEO reserves the right to suspend or terminate any member found in violation of this Code of Conduct.  The length of incarceration and how long ago the crime(s) was committed may be taken in account.  The length of suspension or termination is determined by the CEO. 

MEMBERSHIP TYPES
PROOF OF RESIDENCY REQUIRED FOR ALL MEMBERSHIP TYPES

 Household - Two adults and all dependent children up to age 22

 Single Parent - One adult and all dependent children up to age 22.

 Couple - Two adults in the same household.

 Senior Couple - Two adults in the same household and one adult is over 62 years old.

 Additional Adult - Adult age 23 or over whom resides at the same address as a household, single parent, couple, or senior couple Membership

Senior Adult Membership-Adult 62 years old and older.

 Adult - 23-61 years old.

 Young Adult - 18-22 years old.

 Youth - 0-17 years old.

 Individual Day Pass- 14 years and older.  Day passes will not be sold to individuals under 14 years old, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian who will supervise them the entire time they are in the facility.  Each person present must purchase a day pass.

FEATURES AND BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP
 After taking picture for the Membership Software, all members will receive a free Membership card upon joining and are required to scan their card when entering the building. If a card is lost or damaged there is $10 fee to replace the card.  

• Members will have availability to communications via newsletters, priority notices of upcoming events, flyers, brochures, emails, texts, etc.
  
  
• Membership includes, but is not limited to, free health and fitness classes (some exceptions apply), use of the pool, Knabusch Health & Wellness Center, free Childwatch, Wellness Center orientation, scheduled tennis time, discounted program membership, free blood pressure self-monitoring, and first priority program registration.
  
  
•  Access to the 24-Hour Fitness Center with a key-fob.  The key-fob card is $15 and is valid as long as the YMCA membership remains valid.  One key-fob card per individual.

 MEMBERSHIP PAYMENT OPTIONS
Full Payment – 100% of membership is paid for a twelve-month period. Membership will automatically expire one year from the date of purchase.

• Monthly Bank Draft - Monthly membership rates are deducted from a checking or savings account.  A hard copy of bank account information (voided check, or written verification on bank letterhead) is required at the time of enrollment. Draft dates are offered on the 1^st or the 15^th of each month. A pro-rated amount will be collected on the date of joining that includes one month up front, and any additional days between the day of purchase and the draft date chosen.  The membership will automatically renew and will not expire until we receive a written request to cancel.
  
  
• Third-Party Payment – Arrangements are available through the Membership Coordinator and/or Finance Director for third-party billing (Insurance Companies, Employers, etc.). The YMCA will invoice the third-party directly and the Membership will be activated upon receipt of the payment. 

 

SPECIAL MEMBERSHIPS
 Scholarship Membership – We welcome everybody to our facility, and turn nobody away due to financial hardship.  This membership pertains to families with children and we will subsidize up to half of the membership fee.  To qualify, the potential member(s) must apply and submit necessary paperwork to the Scholarship Assistance Committee for approval.

• Adult Financial Assistance Membership – This membership pertains to adults experiencing financial hardship.  To qualify, the potential member(s) must apply and turn in necessary paperwork to the Scholarship Assistance Committee for approval. 

• Corporate Membership – In collaboration with Monroe businesses, eligible employees may join under a corporate account recognized by a contract with The Monroe Family YMCA. Information about participating companies is available at the Membership desk. 

• Military Membership - Active Duty Military personnel, their spouse and all dependent children shall be granted a Membership for a discount.  Proof of active duty must be provided.  Expiration of the Membership will be the expiration date on the Military ID.   

• Temporary (Month to Month) Membership – Circumstances surrounding the use of the facility will only be for a limited duration.  The membership begins the day of purchase and expires according to the months paid.   

• Day Passes- Day Passes are available for Non-Members to purchase for daily admission into the YMCA.  Passes may not give free access to certain areas of the YMCA, and don’t include registration to specialized programs.  On various days, day passes will not be sold to anybody less than 18 years without a parent or guardian present. 

• Trial Membership- Any Leadership Team member may grant a Trial Membership from one day up to one year in length for prospective Members to sample programs and facilities.  All Trial Memberships shall be made known to the Membership Coordinator and CEO.

 

MEMBERSHIP RATES AND FEES
 The YMCA reserves the right to increase Membership fees at any time during the Membership, regardless of Membership tenure.  Members are responsible for increased fees within 30 days of receiving written notice.  

• NO Joining Fee – The YMCA never charges a fee to join. 

• NO Annual Maintenance Fee – The YMCA never charges an Annual Maintenance Fee. 

• NO Early Cancellation Fee – There is no early cancellation fee.  Members may cancel their memberships at any time. 

• Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) – A $25.00 fee will be assessed for items returned for NSF.  

• Holds on Membership – Holds on memberships may be granted, but must be approved by the CEO or Membership Assistant.  30 days is the minimum time period that will be considered for this service. 

• Membership Card Replacement - A $10.00 fee will be assessed for the reprinting of Membership cards due to loss or damage.  A $15.00 fee will be assessed for re-administering for the 24-Hour Access Key Fob cards.

NATIONWIDE MEMBERSHIP
 Once you become a full member at our YMCA, you are eligible to utilize other participating YMCA’s across the nation.  You must use our YMCA at least 50% of the time.

MEMBERSHIPS ON HOLD
Extenuating Circumstance / Leave of Absence - A hold may be granted due to extenuating circumstances. Written request is required. Approval from the Membership Assistant, Membership Coordinator or CEO is required. 

• Medical - A hold due to medical reasons requires documentation from a doctor stating the duration of time the membership cannot be used. 

DISCONTINUANCE/SUSPENSION OF MEMBERSHIP

• Voluntary
• Paid in Full:  A member who has paid their membership fee in full is considered a member for the duration of the paid membership.  If the member does not renew their membership, it will terminate automatically as of the renewal date.  
• Monthly Payment Plan:  A member who has paid their membership fee using the monthly payment plan remains a member until they notify the YMCA in writing or in person.   
  
  
•  Involuntary
• Inappropriate Behavior:   Any member disciplined, as outlined in the Code of Conduct, by restriction, suspension or expulsion for membership whenever such action shall be necessary or appropriate.  This action will occur at the discretion of the CEO.  

• Failure to Meet Financial Responsibility:    Any draft member who misses a payment and does not make payment within 30 days of notification shall have their membership terminated.  If you are having difficulty paying for your membership for any reason, please contact us.

TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP

•  It is the responsibility of the member to terminate their monthly membership agreement. A 30-day written notice is required to stop the monthly bank draft. Membership cards must be returned to the YMCA. 
  
  
•  No refunds will be provided to full-pay members who cancel their membership before the expiration date without prior approval from the CEO. Upon approval, a prorated amount along with any applicable fees will be calculated and an on-account credit or check will be issued. Cash refunds will not be issued.

GUESTS, VISITORS AND NON-MEMBERS

•  All qualified membership types receive one guest pass per month.  Unused passes will expire at the end of each month.  Additional guests are required to pay the day pass fee.  

• Adult guests shall complete the YMCA “Conditions of Participation”.  A parent or guardian shall sign for each minor child guest under the age 18. 

• Day Passes are available for non-members to purchase for daily admission into the YMCA.

 MEMBER FEEDBACK

We value your suggestions for improving our facility. If you have a comment or suggestion, please pass it along to any member of our staff, fill out a member comment card and drop it in the suggestion box located at the Member Service Desks or visit our website at www.monroefamilyymca.org.  We will respond to comments/suggestions that have a name, address, phone number and/or email address.

Membership Policy approved by Board of Directors on November 16, 2022.