Information & Policies

For security and privacy purposes, phone cameras, cell phones and other electronic devices are prohibited in restrooms, showers and locker rooms. 

Videotaping and photography on YMCA premises that includes other members, staff and guests is prohibited without their consent.

Our Commitment to Child Safety

Ensuring children are safe from abuse and able to learn, grow, and thrive is the highest priority of the Y. We are committed to creating programs that protect children from abuse, but we are also committed to providing our families and community with information to keep kids safe. It is the power of our community knowing, seeing, and responding which make it more difficult for offenders to abuse.

The Y will be engaging these critical steps of prevention, KNOW – SEE - RESPOND that will help adults better protect children. When adults know how abuse happens, see the warning signs, and respond quickly to prevent abuse, they foster a culture of child abuse prevention. Together, we can bring awareness to the issue of child sexual abuse in our communities and have important conversations about how we can all work together to prevent it from happening.

KNOW and understand common practices of those who harm you and best practices to stop them.

SEE and recognize the warning signs or behaviors that signal abuse or risk for abuse.

RESPOND and take action in response to behaviors recognized as being inappropriate or questionable.

Child Sexual Abuse Statistics

• One in ten children will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday.
• 90% of child sexual abuse victims know their abuser.
• Approximately 30% of children who are sexually abused are abused by family members.
• 60% of child sexual abuse victims never tell anyone.
• False reports are rare. Research shows that only 4 to 8% of child sexual abuse reports are fabricated.

What to do if You Believe a Child is Being Abused

You do not need to have proof that abuse is occurring to make a report, only reasonable suspicion. Reasonable suspicion means that you have witnessed maltreatment or boundary violations, either in the child or adult, or both. Or, you have received a disclosure from a child about abuse, neglect, or boundary violations towards them.

• Child sexual abuse reports should be made to the police and/or state child protective services.

What is Abuse?

Abuse is defined as:

• Physical abuse – strike, spank, shake, slap
• Verbal abuse – humiliate, degrade, threaten
• Sexual abuse – inappropriate touch or verbal exchange
• Mental abuse – shaming, withholding love, cruelty
• Neglect – withholding food, water, basic care, etc.

Any type of abuse will not be tolerated and may be cause for immediate dismissal/removal from duties.

How to Report Abuse

Staff/volunteers are mandated by law to report child abuse and neglect to children’s protective services. Such reports can be made verbally at 1-855-444-3911.

Staff/volunteers should also report suspected abuse or neglect to their supervisor, senior management, or Human Resources.

Reports can also be submitted by emailing abuse@kzooymca.org

• I understand the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo shares my information with other YMCAs participating in Nationwide Membership.
• I understand NO refunds are given on membership dues.
• I understand there will be a non-refundable joining fee charged to all new and reactivated memberships that have been inactive for more than 60 days unless waived by the YMCA by promotion or discount.
• I understand that membership dues may be adjusted, depending on operational needs. Members will be given appropriate notice.
• I understand that bank drafts occurs on the 1st or 15th of the month. It is my responsibility to check my monthly statement and report any corrections immediately to the YMCA. If my automatic payment cannot be processed for any reason, the transaction will be attempted again until payment is successfully processed. Returned payment fees may apply.
• I understand that membership cancellation must be submitted and received by the 25th of the month prior, in order to be effective for the next billing date.
• I agree to abide by the YMCA Code of Conduct and all rules and regulations of the YMCA and its operating units. I understand that failure to act in accordance with these rules may result in expulsion from the YMCA and termination of Membership. (https://www.kzooymca.org/membership-policies)
• I understand that participating in physical activity, such as group exercise classes; strength training classes; use of fitness equipment; participation in recreational sports; aquatic activity; use of hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, and other YMCA activities carry a risk of injury or illness. I understand the YMCA recommends that I seek medical advice prior to engaging in any physical activity. I understand the YMCA does not provide accident or medical insurance. To my knowledge I am in good health and understand that I am using the YMCA at my own risk.
• I am aware of the recommendations by federal and state health officials regarding safe and healthy practices. I understand the health risks associated with COVID-19, influenza and other infectious disease. I am aware that participation in YMCA activities is done at my own risk.
• I give my permission for the YMCA to use, without limitation or obligation, photographs, film footage or tape recordings, which may include my image or voice, for purposes of promoting or interpreting the YMCA.
• I understand that the YMCA is not responsible for personal property lost, damaged or stolen while using YMCA facilities or participating in YMCA programs.
• I understand the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo conducts regular screenings for matches in the Federal Sex Offender Registry. We reserve the right to deny access to anyone listed on the Federal Sex Offender Registry.
• I acknowledge the conditions of membership stated above and on behalf of minor participants listed, if any. I hereby release the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo, its agents, servants, and employees from any and all claims for injury, illness, death, loss, or damage which may result from participation in activities at or by the YMCA.

Membership policies are subject to change per the needs of the organization and our community.

We are an association made up of people from every walk of life, working side by side to strengthen communities. Together we strive to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, race, gender, gender identity, gender expression, income, faith, sexual orientation or cultural background has the opportunity to live life to its fullest and is celebrated as a valued part of our community.

For more information on the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion work, click here.

YMCA facilities and amenities, including locker rooms, close at the time posted. The pools close 15 minutes prior to the rest of the facility to ensure ample time for members to transition. All members and guests must be out of the building at closing time. 

Facility Usage Guidelines by Age

For a detailed guideline of what members can do by age, click the button below:

What You Can Do at the Y

Youth Members ages 0-8

• Must be accompanied by and participating with an adult in all areas unless taking a program (i.e. swim lessons or tennis class)
• Kids Zone is provided for youth members for a $10 monthly fee per family (available as an add-on to Household Membership types ONLY-others may pay the drop-in fee in order to utilize the Kids Zone)
• Children 5 and up may participate in Healthy Kids University, when available
• May not use any of the exercise equipment (Cardio, Weights or Free Weights)
• If youth can pass the swim test, the adult must be present in the pool area.
• If youth cannot pass the swim test, the adult must be present in the pool with the youth.

Youth Members ages 9-11

• May participate in scheduled youth activities in the Youth Center without an adult
• Must pass a swim test to swim without an adult (the adult must be present in the building)
• If youth cannot pass swim test the adult needs to be in the pool area
• May not use any of the exercise equipment (Cardio, Weights, or Free Weights)
• 11-year-olds who are in sixth grade or above may use Fitness Center equipment after completing an orientation or while accompanied by an adult

Youth Members ages 12-14

• May access the facility without an adult
• May use the pool without an adult, after passing the swim test
• May only use exercise equipment if accompanied by an adult or successful completion of equipment orientation

Youth Members ages 15 - 18

• May use the facility at any time without any restrictions
• Equipment orientation must be completed prior to using the exercise equipment

General Guidelines

• No bags are allowed in the weight room, track area or gym area (during open gym time only)
• Only water can be consumed (in a tightly sealed container) in all exercise areas; other beverages may only be consumed in the common areas
• Cardio equipment is limited to 30 minutes if others are waiting. Strength training equipment is limited to one set if others are waiting. Please allow others their opportunity to work out—don't monopolize a piece of equipment. Members are asked to be respectful of others by re-racking weight plates and wiping off all equipment after use.
• All Access locker room barrier-free spaces designed for all persons and are especially useful for those requiring extra physical space or privacy, and parents accompanying children of the opposite sex. 

The YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo values the feedback of our community, including staff, consumers, and parents/guardians. We provide several ways to report grievances, including comment cards, email, incident reports, and phone calls. All reports are taken seriously, and the YMCA will take prompt and appropriate action.

Encouraging Feedback

We believe that staff, consumers, and parents/guardians provide valuable insights into our operations. We encourage feedback on policies, personnel, and other organizational matters, including opinions, suggestions, concerns, questions, and grievances.

Initial Reporting

We recommend that feedback first be addressed with the head of the relevant department. If the issue concerns the department head or remains unresolved, grievances may be escalated to the next level of management or Human Resources.

Formal Grievance Process

For concerns that are unresolved or appear ignored, a formal grievance process is available. This process covers the following concerns:

• Inappropriate behavior by employees/volunteers
• Inappropriate behavior by consumers
• Retaliation
• Whistleblower complaints

Written Complaint Requirement

While verbal complaints, emails, phone calls and comment cards are welcome for prompt resolution, a formal written complaint is required to initiate the formal grievance process. This should be submitted via the YMCA Incident Form. Emails or other communications must also be documented using this form.

Complaint Information

To ensure a timely and appropriate response, please provide the fill out all appropriate sections of the YMCA Incident Report.

Timeline

Staff, consumers, or parents/guardians should submit complaints ideally within 48 hours of the incident. The head of the relevant department will meet with the individual to address the issue. Depending on the complexity, this may take several weeks. A follow-up response will be provided by the department head or Human Resources, either in person or by phone, with at least two YMCA employees present.

If the complaint remains unresolved, it can be escalated to the CEO, who will review the matter and respond as promptly as possible. The CEO’s decision is final.

Investigation

The department head, Human Resources, or the CEO will investigate grievances thoroughly. While privacy will be respected as much as possible, confidentiality cannot be guaranteed. Cooperation with the investigation is expected. If a violation of policy or law is determined, appropriate action will be taken, which may include termination or reporting to authorities.

Retaliation Prohibited

The YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo strictly prohibits retaliation against staff, consumers, or parents/guardians for reporting, filing, or participating in an investigation. Any suspected retaliation should be reported immediately to the department head, Human Resources, or the CEO. Retaliation will be thoroughly investigated and, if valid, addressed with appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

Policy Communication

This Grievance Policy will be shared electronically with staff, consumers, and parents/guardians on the YMCA website. This policy will be shared annually via the member and staff newsletter.

The Y does not tolerate inappropriate, threatening or harassing behavior. Any behavior that is determined to be unacceptable by the YMCA or is in conflict with the YMCA's mission and values will be grounds for the immediate suspension or termination of membership. No refund will be issued.

In order to carry out these policies, we ask that members, guests, and program participants identify themselves to staff when asked. Y leadership staff will investigate all reported incidents. The Y reserves the right, among other things, to deny access, revoke membership, and/or remove any person from the facility on the spot who violates any of the above behaviors, or any other behavior that may be detrimental to others. This is at the sole discretion of Y management. The Y leadership staff will determine whether a violation of the Y Member/Participant Code of Conduct has occurred and determine any consequences.

Effective December 14, 2022

So that the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo can better meet the needs of our members during high, peak facility usage, daily guest passes will not be available until further notice. Persons who regularly use guest passes are encouraged to consider a Y membership.

Out of Town visitors: If you are not a local resident and wish to use the YMCA while you are in town visiting or on business, the Y offers the option of One Week Short term Access. Short term visitors do not need to be accompanied by a member. Approval mut be granted by the MOD or DOD on duty at initial visit. Visitors must agree to abide by our Code of Conduct, waive liability and pay a Visitor Fee to utilize our facilities. We regularly review the Federal Sex Offender Registry and deny access to any person registered.

Friends & Family: As a benefit to our members, we also offer a Short Term option for their friends & family visiting from out of town. The friend or family member must provide proof of residency outside of Kalamazoo county, present a valid photo ID, waive all liability, be accompanied by a member and pay a nominal fee to utilize our facilities. We regularly review the Federal Sex Offender Registry and deny access to any persons registered.

​In order for the Y to safely manage the gym space, we will be closely monitoring the gym to ensure that these rules are abided by. Please make every effort to know and practice these gym rules. 

• Food is not allowed in the gym except for water
• All players must be off the track and near the court if they are not playing
• Please keep the track clear at all times for our members who are walking, jogging, or running

Failure to follow the Gym Rules may result in suspension or termination of your YMCA Membership

Members who spend a portion of the year away from the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo may put their membership on hold for $15/month. The Hold Policy has  no minimum or maximum requirement but must be done in monthly increments.

If inclement weather occurs, please check with the facility for any closing/cancellation information. You may go to our homepage on our website, use our mobile phone app, or check out our Facebook page.

Locker Room Accommodation Policy

The YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo is an inclusive organization. We welcome employees and members of all ages, genders, races, faiths, economic backgrounds, and orientations without discrimination or judgment.

The YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo believes all persons have an equal right to safe and accessible locker rooms and restrooms and supports transgender persons in using the facilities that align with their gender identification. Our gendered locker rooms are equipped with enclosed shower and restroom facilities to accommodate privacy concerns. The YMCA also provides All-Access facilities for those who prefer fully enclosed private changing room space.

General Locker Room Policy

Respect is part of our core value, Integrity, of the YMCA. We respectfully ask all users of our locker rooms and restrooms to exhibit modesty by covering themselves while in common spaces. Our All Access locker rooms provide the most privacy with individual changing spaces.

With the presentation of a doctor's note, a membership can be deactivated for medical reasons. When the Y receives a doctor's note stating that you can resume physical activity, the membership will be reactivated without the joining fee.

The YMCA strives to provide a safe and welcoming environment for all members, guests, and program participants. Every member or participant is required to check in using a photo ID (driver's license or passport). NO I.D. NO ENTRY. To promote safety and comfort , all individuals are asked to act appropriately at all times when in our facilities or participating in our programs. We expect those using the Y to act maturely, behave responsibly, and respect the rights and dignity of others.

Our Member/Participant Code of Conduct Policy lists examples of prohibited actions. Such actions include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Using, possessing, buying, selling, or delivering alcohol or illegal chemicals on Y property, in Y vehicles, or at Y sponsored programs
• Using tobacco or vaping products on Y property
• Carrying or concealing a weapon and/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, or threatening way
• Verbally abusive behavior, including angry or vulgar language, swearing, name-calling, or shouting
• Sexually explicit conversation or behavior; any sexual contact with another person on Y property, in Y vehicles, or at Y sponsored programs
• Shirts or athletic tops must be worn at all times except when in the locker room or pool areas
• Theft or behavior that results in the destruction or loss of property or injury to a person
• Loitering within or on the grounds of the Y
• Engaging in conduct that unreasonably interferes with another member or staff person's enjoyment of the Y
• Record or take photos of anyone with any type of device without explicit permission

In order to carry out these policies, we ask that members, guests and program participants identify themselves to staff when asked. Y leadership staff will investigate all reported incidents. The Y reserves the right, among other things, to deny access, revoke membership and/or remove any person from the facility that engages in any of the above behaviors or any other behavior that may be detrimental to others. This is at the sole of discretion of the Y. The Y will determine whether a violation of the Code of Conduct has occurred and determine any consequences. The Y does not tolerate inappropriate, threatening or harassing behavior. Any behavior that is determined to be unacceptable by the YMCA or is in conflict with the YMCA's mission and values will be grounds for the immediate suspension or termination of membership. The length of suspension shall be determined by staff. No refund will be issued.

Membership is continuous unless cancelled, and it is the responsibility of the member to inform the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo of a membership termination. Termination must be submitted by the 25th of the month. Requests submitted after the 25th of the month will result in an additional bank draft.

Membership dues are payable on the first or fifteenth of the month by automatic electronic payment. Automatic payment method options include checking account, savings account, Mastercard and Visa card. Dues may also be paid in person with cash or check. Dues that are not paid by the due date are subject to a $10 return payment fee.

When a member renews membership within two months of their termination date, they may be re-admitted as a continuing member and the membership dates back to the day when the dues were payable. However,if more than 60 days have elapsed a person may be subject to the joining fee.

Financial Aid: It is the policy of the Y to serve all people regardless of their financial situation. Financial support(membership for all) shall be provided to qualifying individuals. For more information, click here.

Add-ons:

Full service is a private upgraded locker room for adults. Full service contains a private workout area, lounge, TV, sauna, and steam room. The Full Service options available at the Maple Branch only, and can be added to any membership except youth and teen, for an additional fee. Members must be 18 or older to use the full service facilities.

Full Service Locker Room: $20/one adult

Full Service Towel Service: $15/adult monthly

Full Service locker rentals: Full size $15/monthly

                                        Half Size $10/monthly

                                        Kit size $5/monthly

24HR Access allow Adult members age 18 and up access to the Cardio Theatre and cable/strength area of our Maple facility outside of our regular business hour.

                                        24HR Access: $5/adult monthly

                                        24HR Access Key Fob: $25/refundable

Kids Zone: Need a nurturing place for your child while you workout? Our Kids Zone is childcare for members to utilize while they are at the Y. The parent/guardian must be onsite at the Y at all times and provide contact information.

Kids Zone is $10/month per Family (is only available as an add-on to Household memberships)

Membership dues may be paid quarterly or annually by check, cash, Master Card, or Visa or by automatic withdrawal from checking, savings, Master Card, or Visa.

The YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo participates in the Nationwide Membership. If you are traveling and would like to use another Y, check to see if they participate in Nationwide Membership. Each Y has different accommodations and restrictions. Call ahead.

As an active, valid member of another YMCA, you may utilize the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo. See our policy regarding Nationwide Memberships below:

• Nationwide member visitors must use their home Y at least 51% of the time.
• Program-only participants (including Silver Sneakers, Silver and Fit or other like programs) are not eligible for Nationwide Membership.
• Special memberships established by any Y for group homes, other agencies, etc., are not eligible.
• When visiting a Y, Nationwide Members will be required to show a valid YMCA membership card and photo ID, as well as, provide basic membership data such as name and email address.
• When visiting, Nationwide Members, will need to sign a universal liability waiver and privacy policy.
• Y amenities offered to Nationwide members are the same as our Adult or Household general memberships.
• When registering for programs, Nationwide members will follow the guidelines, including registration policies and fees, as our non-member/program participants.
• Nationwide members visiting other Ys for a period greater than 28 days may be required to transfer membership affiliation for continued use
• All Ys reserve the right to restrict or revoke these privileges.
• Registered sex offenders are prohibited from participating.

You can find a Y in the area you are visiting by clicking here to:Visit the National YMCA site for more information (fees may apply).

Non-members who register and participate in any of the various program classes the YMCA offers are considered participants. Participants must show their participant card for entrance to the facility and must provide picture ID upon request.

Membership to the Y is open/available to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, disability or financial circumstances without discrimination.

Programs have a minimum number of participants in order to be held. If registration falls short of this minimum, the program will be cancelled. A credit will be applied to your account for the cancelled program.

Cancellations for medical reasons with a doctor’s note will result in a refund for the unused portion of the program at any time during the session. Program cancellations after the second program day of the session will not be eligible for a refund of any amount. *See Program Change/Cancellation Form at our Member Services desk for more details. 

The YMCA reserves the right to apply credit/refund requests to satisfy financial obligations to the YMCA including, but not limited to, non-sufficient funds, membership, program and childcare balances due.

If a Y program is canceled due to inclement weather or causes beyond our control, every effort will be made to create a make-up. Partial refunds will not be given.

When using the Y, please bring a lock to secure your belongings, including car keys, and wallets at all times. Valuables are best left at home. The Y is not responsible for theft or damage to your property. For security and privacy purposes, use of cameras, cell phones, and other electronic devices are prohibited in restrooms, showers and locker rooms.

Videotaping and photography on YMCA premises that includes other members, staff and guests is prohibited without their consent.

The Y staff is trained to deal with blood-borne pathogens and open wounds. All necessary equipment is available. We reserve the right to limit or restrict the use of our facilities if there is a risk of spreading or transferring communicable or infectious diseases. NOTE: Due to Covid-19 precautions, please consult our most current safety measures to ensure the safety of all those who enter our facilities and properties.

Scan Card Required for building access.

Effective July 1st, 2023, the Ys at Maple and Portage will implement a new policy regarding member scan cards and access to the Y.

For the safety of all of our Members, each Member must check-in using a scan card or scan code from the Motionvibe app on the Member’s phone. Each individual person on an account will receive one unique scan card. If it is lost, a one-time replacement will be issued as a courtesy at no cost. If the second card (or subsequent card) is lost, a replacement fee of $5 will be charged per card to the member's account. All persons must have a scan card to enter into the Y facility.

Under the ADA, service animals must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered, unless these devices interfere with the service animal's work or the individual's disability prevents him or her from using these devices. Individuals who cannot use such devices must maintain control of the animal through voice, signal, or other effective controls. The YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo may exclude service animals only if 1) the animal is out of control and the handler cannot or does not regain control, or 2) the animal is not housebroken. If a service animal is excluded, the individual may be allowed to enter the Y without the service animal.

The protection of members, volunteers and participants and visitors in programs or using YMCA facilities is of paramount concern to the Board and Staff of the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo. The Y reserves the right to deny access and membership to any person who has been charged with or convicted of any crime involving sexual abuse or who is required by law to register as a sex offender.

The Y does not allow any solicitation on its property. Community flyers and posters must be approved to be posted on the Y's Community Board.

The YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo is a tobacco free and vapor free facility.