OPEN DOORS PROGRAM (Financial Assistance)

The YMCA is a not-for-profit health and human services organization committed to helping people grow in spirit, mind, and body. Founded and supported by its community, the YMCA wants all of its programs and services to be accessible to everyone in the community regardless of age, background, ability, or income. It is with this spirit that the YMCA is proud to introduce the OPEN DOORS Program.

The OPEN DOORS Program allows individuals and families to obtain a membership at a reduced rate based on your household’s total income. You could qualify for anywhere from 10% to 90% off the membership rate depending on your financial situation.

The process is easy, all you need to do complete an application form and provide required documentation. This application considers your overall situation, including the number of dependents and monthly income and is kept completely confidential. This program is our way of ensuring that our programs and services are accessible to everyone. Once you complete the application, you’ll be on your way to becoming our newest YMCA member.

As an OPEN DOORS member of the YMCA, you receive the same benefits as other members. You can feel great knowing that you are involved in an organization that cares greatly for the health and well-being of the community and is committed to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

What if your financial situation changes over time? The YMCA wants to make sure that your rate reflects that change. So every year on your membership anniversary date, your status will be re-evaluated. We will contact you ahead of time to give you ample opportunity to gather your tax return for the past year along with any other pertinent information.

All memberships made possible through the OPEN DOORS Program are subsidized by the YMCA’s Annual Giving Campaign. Many generous donors, and even recipients of the program, contribute annually so that we can keep our doors open for all. Because the Y is for everyone!

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

• Please submit your completed application along with copies (do not send originals - items will not be returned) of all applicable documentation. The YMCA reserves the right to hold processing of applications until all required information is submitted. Please provide copies of the following:
• Most recent Federal Income Tax 1040 or proof of non-filing status.
• Two current consecutive pay check stubs or unemployment checks
• Two most recent Bank Statements
• Proof of any other assistance or income you receive (Food Stamps, SSI benefits, Child or Spousal Support, etc.)
• If you are a full time student, please provide an Academic Verification Letter from your school.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER

• Due to funding restraints, the YMCA may need to limit the number of consecutive assistance requests that a person may receive.
• Special Programs, including personal training, nutrition counseling, tutoring and private swim lessons are not eligible for assistance.
• Each member of the family may register for two (2) programs per session at the reduced rate. If additional programs are desired, the full member rate applies.
• A minimum of $10/month applies for membership
• A $10 minimum fee applies for all programs, therefore, even if your percentage falls below $10, you will be asked to pay $10.
• Assistance for child care and summer camps are determined by the Child Care Director at each branch. To inquire for assistance with child care, please contact the appropriate director at your home branch.
• Financial Assistance is reviewed annually and new applications and documentation is required.
• Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Please allow 10 business days for processing.

CONTACTS