Membership Handbook

Our Membership Handbook was designed to ensure all members, program participants, staff and guests feel safe and welcome at the Y. All parties agree to follow the rules, code of conduct and age requirements outlined below while visiting any YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles branch facility or program site. By adhering to these guidelines, together, we are able to maintain an environment reflective of the Y’s core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

LET’S GET STARTED

Welcome to the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles (the “Y”). You are now part of a community of individuals joined together by a shared commitment to nurture the potential of youth, promote healthy living and foster a sense of social responsibility.

This Handbook is a great tool to help you get acquainted with our facilities and understand our policies and guidelines. Amenities will vary depending on which facility you are visiting. We encourage you to take some time on your first visit to speak with any one of our helpful staff members to better understand your branch’s amenities and any other policies outside of this Handbook.

Commitment to All

The Y is made up of people from all backgrounds working together to strengthen their communities.

Together we work to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, age, cultural background, disability, ethnicity, faith, gender, gender identity, ideology, immigrant status, income, race, sex or sexual orientation has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

We share the Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility – they guide everything we do.

The Y is committed to providing programs and services that are inclusive and welcoming to all. We value an environment that fosters dignity, respect, fairness and appreciation for all aspects and dimensions of diversity.

To reinforce this commitment, among other things, we support members/participants in having the opportunity to use the locker room and/or restroom they select based on their gender identity.

DISABILITY ACCOMMODATIONS

At the Y, we believe our strength is in the diversity of our staff, volunteers, members and participants. We work proactively and collaboratively every day to build organizational and individual capacity towards providing the most inclusive and welcoming experience for every individual we employ, serve and engage. In that regard, the Y complies with all federal, state and local equal employment opportunity/non-discrimination laws.

Ensuring ADA compliance is the law and inclusion is critical to our strategy and impact. If you, or any of your family members who are participating in a program or an activity, have any type of special medical need (such as, a disability or a medical condition, including life threatening/severe allergies or other medical and/or dietary restrictions) that requires an accommodation, may impact the program experience, or requires additional staff training and/or staff supervision, please inform the Program Director or the Branch Executive prior to your participation in such activity.

In order for some reasonable accommodations to be provided, current documentation from a qualified individual knowledgeable about the disability or medical condition may need to be submitted. After receiving the request for the accommodation, a YMCA staff member will engage in an interactive dialogue with you or the relevant family member to explore potential reasonable accommodations.

MEMBER CODE OF CONDUCT

The Y is committed to providing a positive environment that is safe and inclusive to all. We have adopted a Code of Conduct to govern the actions and behaviors of all members, program participants, and guests while in our facilities and while participating in Y programs.

All individuals using any of our facilities are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the Y’s Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility. Failure to do so may result in suspension or termination of membership privileges.

As a member, program participant or guest, you agree to follow our Code of Conduct, which is rooted in our Core Values. By adhering to this Code of Conduct, we will be able to maintain an environment that is reflective of the Y’s Core Values.

The actions listed below are not an all-inclusive list of behaviors considered inappropriate in our facilities and programs. Other behaviors not listed below may, nevertheless, be considered unacceptable and may result in suspension or termination of membership privileges or of program participation.

If a member, program participant or guest feels uncomfortable due to behavior displayed by an individual that is in violation of the Code of Conduct, please report the behavior to a Y staff member.

The Y is committed to creating and maintaining a space that embodies our Core Values. Suspension or termination of membership may result from a violation of this Code of Conduct by you or your family members and/or invited guest(s). While an incident is being investigated, the membership of the person(s) accused of violating the Member Code of Conduct may be temporarily suspended pending a final decision. The Y reserves the right to make situational decisions based on the nature and severity of the incident and/or consistent with its mission and values.

MEMBERSHIP

Membership Categories and Definitions

** The Judicial Branch of California defines legal guardianship as a court order that states that someone who is not a child’s parent is responsible for taking care of the child.

Membership Promotions

Offers are valid for a limited time only. Each offer may vary. New member promotions are for new and former members in good standing. Offers are not applicable to previous purchases and are not valid on any previously held memberships within the last 90 days. In order to qualify for discounts and promotions, an active membership must be maintained. If an active membership is not maintained, a fee of up to the full Non-Member fee will be charged automatically. Amenities, programs, and monthly membership dues vary by location.

Guests

Guests are always welcome at the Y! Guests accompanied by members may use the facility a maximum of one time per twelve (12) months at no cost and $25 per visit thereafter. An adult member may bring a maximum of two (2) guests per day.

To ensure the security of our members, program participants and guests, we require a (government-issued) photo ID. All guests ages eighteen (18) and older are required to provide a photo ID, sign the Assumption of Risk Release and Waiver of Liability and Indemnity Agreement, and must have their picture taken at the time of their first visit. Any guest under eighteen (18) years of age must have an Assumption of Risk Release and Waiver of Liability and Indemnity Agreement signed by his or her legal parent or guardian. Youth guests age twelve (12) and under must be accompanied by an adult (age eighteen (18) and older) at all times while the youth is in the facility. Any member who signs in a guest is fully responsible for the guest and his or her guest’s actions while on all Y premises.

Caregivers

We encourage individuals who require assistance while using our facility to bring their own caregiver. The caregiver will be required to sign the Assumption of Risk Release and Waiver of Liability and Indemnity Agreement at the time of each visit and may only enter with the member. Caregivers who wish to use the facility for their own personal use must have a valid membership.

Nannies

Nannies are able to bring children to land classes or swimming lessons, but are unable to participate in open swim, parent-child swimming lessons or the Child Activity Center without being added onto the family membership (must show proof of living in the household, extra fee may apply). The nanny will be required to sign the Assumption of Risk Release and Waiver of Liability and Indemnity Agreement at the time of each visit and may only enter with a member. Nannies who wish to use the facility for their own personal use must have a valid membership.

Nationwide Membership

At the Y, we believe that positive, lasting, personal and social change can come about only when we all work together to invest in our kids, our health, and our neighbors. This strengthening of community—and the realization of a Y’s full potential—has the most impact when all Ys are open to all Y members and provide safe and welcoming environments for everyone.

With Nationwide Membership, members can visit any participating Y in the United States and Puerto Rico through membership at their home Y, at no additional cost. Nationwide Membership is an essential part of our cause to strengthen communities. It enables members to:

The goal of Nationwide Membership is to ensure that all nationwide members have access to, and can use, all the areas and programs of any Y they visit.

By making it possible for members to use the Y as often as they like, Nationwide Membership increases the value of Y membership. By promoting access for all, the initiative gives Y members the opportunity to be part of a single Movement and deepens the impact of the Y cause.

Nationwide members may visit other participating Ys as often as they like, as long as they use their home Ys, on average, at least fifty-one percent (51%) of the time. If nationwide members have a family membership or some other inclusive membership arrangement and regularly use two Ys with the same frequency, they need to belong to the Y that is used the most frequently by the family. If use is higher at a branch other than your home Y, you will be notified by a letter prior to your membership being transferred. Membership fee may increase/decrease depending on the new home branch membership rates. Members wishing to end their membership must do so at their home Y.

Please bring a government-issued photo ID and your YMCA membership card when visiting another Y.

Cancellation

The Y requires written notice (including e-mail) before your next payment draft date to cancel a current Y membership. Members may also submit a request to cancel a current Y membership online here. Effective January 1, 2018, all cancellations require 30 days advance written notice before your next draft date to process. Memberships established prior to January of 2018, require 15 days advance written notice before your next draft date to process. Members have 30 days to rejoin without being assessed a standard joining fee.

Membership Hold

Your Y membership may be placed on hold for one (1) to three (3) months in a calendar year. All holds require fifteen (15) days advance written notice before your next draft date to process the months for which you wish the hold to be in effect. Upon expiration of the hold period, your membership and membership fees will be reinstated automatically.

Change of Information

Any changes to your current membership information, such as address, bank information, adding or deleting members, or changing your membership type, require 30 days advance written notice before your next draft date. If you draft from a debit or credit card, please remember to visit the Member Services Desk to update your card information as needed.

Transferring your Membership to another Y

Please see the Member Services Desk at any Y location if you wish to transfer your membership from one branch to another within the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles Association. If you are transferring to a Y outside of the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles, we will be happy to provide you with a letter of transfer. This letter may allow your joining fee to be waived at many Ys across the nation. Please remember to cancel your membership with the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles before transferring to a Y outside of the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles.

Payment and Return

Members can draft their membership fees monthly from a checking account, savings account, debit or credit card. Should your draft be returned to us for any reason, you are responsible for that draft payment, plus a $10 service charge, in addition to any fees your bank may charge. If fees are not collected, your membership will automatically be cancelled. Once you return to reinstate your membership or purchase a new membership, your outstanding balance will need to be paid before reinstatement can occur.

FACILITY RULES AND AGE REQUIREMENTS

Before engaging in any physical activity program, members are advised to consult with their physician.

Healthy Living Center

Healthy Living Center Rules

Healthy Living Center Minimum Age Requirements

Exception: All youth must meet equipment manufacturer minimum age and height guidelines.

Free Weight Rules

Group Exercise Classes

Group Exercise Class Rules

Group Exercise Class Minimum Age Requirements

Personal Training

Aquatics

Pool Rules

Aquatics Age Requirements

Spa Rules

Sauna and Steam Room Rules

Gymnasium

Child Activity Centers

One of the most valuable services the Y provides is a FREE Child Activity Center for those who hold Family Memberships. Child Activity Centers are generally for children ages six (6) weeks to 11 years old. Ages may vary, please contact the branch you would like to visit for specific age requirements and other details. The Child Activity Center is limited to two (2) hours per day. Parents are required to remain in the facility at all times when they have a child in the Child Activity Center.

Child Activity Center Rules

Locker Rooms

Many of our facilities have locker rooms for changing, showering and storing your items while you are at the Y. Except at those facilities that offer locker rental, all of our locker rooms are for day use only. Please do not leave your belongings in the day use lockers overnight as they will be removed at the end of each day. Locks are not provided. It is recommended that a strong lock be used at all times to secure personal items.

Locker Room Rules

Locker room rules vary by branch. For the safety of all, members are expected to abide by the rules set in place at each LA Y location. Click here to view locker room rules by branch.

Personal Valuables

Unfortunately, not everyone lives up to the Y’s Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. Do not leave valuables visible in your car! Most branches provide security lockers. The Y provides free day use lockers and we recommend the use of a sturdy lock to secure your personal belongings. The Y is not responsible for lost, damaged or stolen property.

Service Animals

With the exception of service animals, animals are not permitted on Y property or in Y facilities or programs and may not be left unattended on Y property.

Financial Aid

Participants with a financial need are encouraged to apply for financial assistance for any portion of the membership/program fee. The Y uses a sliding scale to evaluate each applicant on an individual basis. Let us know your need, and we will work to help you. At the Y, we never turn anyone away because of an inability to pay.

Corporate Memberships

The Y partners with many businesses to offer a corporate membership rate, please see the Member Services Desk for more information.

Military Memberships

We thank you for your service and are happy to help meet the critical needs facing families of our military service members. Please speak to a Member Services staff member to find out what assistance we provide.

Member Referrals

Each new member you refer gets you 33% off your monthly membership dues for 90 days. To qualify, your referral must remain a member the full 90 days and you must register the referral at our Welcome Center within 30 days of their enrollment. There is no limit to the number of referrals. Please note: Corporate 3 rd party and specialty memberships do not qualify.

Volunteers

There are many ways to volunteer your time at the Y. No matter what your special talents or interests are, you can make a difference in someone else’s life and get involved with your community by volunteering at the Y. Please see the Member Services Desk for more information on how to volunteer.

Data Security/Privacy Statement

The Y is concerned about the privacy of its members and employees and maintains their personal information in confidence. The Y shares member and employee information with financial institutions, government agencies, and companies working on behalf of the Y only as needed to conduct Y business.

Other than as required by law or to conduct Y business, the Y will not share your personal information with other third parties without your explicit permission. The Y will not sell, rent or lease your personal information to others. You may inspect your records and update your personal information at any time.