Membership Registration and Payment

• Joiner fees and membership dues are non-transferable and non-refundable.
• Membership fees are charged monthly regardless of facility usage. Membership cancellation requests must be received at least 5 days prior to the beginning of the next calendar month.
• Membership applications must be made in person at the YMCA or online at www.ymcade.org. Must provide a photo ID.
• A monthly bank draft is available – a bank draft can only be processed through a credit card or debit card.
• Major credit cards, checks, and cash are all accepted for payment of memberships in full. A fee of $25.00 will be assessed for returned checks for any reason.
• Payment disputes may be requested for a review up to 60 days following the charge to the account. After 60 days, no refund or credit will be issued. Approved refunds will be issued as a credit to the member’s account for future services.
• Upon signing a hold agreement, it is the responsibility of the member to terminate the membership at the end of the hold cycle to avoid being charged. Refunds will not be issued.
• No refunds will be issued or waived upon suspension or revocation of membership for violations of the YMCA Code of Conduct or any other violation of the YMCA rules and regulations.
• Gift Certificates are non-refundable and are valid for one year from the date of issue.

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Change in Membership Status

• The YMCA will gladly process up to two complimentary membership change requests per calendar year. Additional changes will be processed with a $5 fee per change.
• Your automatic payment date will be the 1st of the month after the membership change is processed regardless of your current payment date.
• Any change request involving a decrease (downgrade) in membership fee will be processed on the 1st day of the next month.  All other change requests will be processed within 7 days of the request.
• Change requests must be received 5 days prior to the last day of the month.
• Any fees associated with the change request will be collected upon processing the change.

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Membership Payment Options

The YMCA offers two membership fee payment options. Members can remit the entire annual fee once a year, or choose our popular EZ Pay monthly bank or credit/debit card draft. You confirm the payment withdrawal date, amount, and account when you sign up. It’s that easy!

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Membership Cancellation

• Members must contact the branch where they initiated their membership directly to terminate their membership at least 5 days prior to the beginning of the next calendar month. If you wish to cancel your YMCA membership, please contact your local YMCA to obtain termination documents.
  • Brandywine YMCA – [email protected]
  • Central YMCA – [email protected]
  • Western YMCA – [email protected]
  • Dover YMCA – [email protected]
  • Sussex Family YMCA – [email protected]
  • Bear-Glasgow Family YMCA – [email protected]
  • Middletown Family YMCA – [email protected]

• All membership termination forms will be emailed to the member from the branch and must be completed prior to the termination being processed.
• All Termination forms received outside of the 5-day end-of-month grace period will be billed for the next month.
• Terminations occurring before the 5-day termination period outlined, will not be charged a termination fee.
• Terminations will not be processed via general email, phone, or voicemail.
• Memberships must be valid through the end date of any programs that the member is registered for.
• Members are responsible for paying any outstanding balance at the time of termination.

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Check-In

Please present your membership card each time you visit the YMCA. Members without membership cards will be asked to show photo ID before entering the facility.

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Contact Us

We want to hear from you! Do you have a question, comment, suggestion or concern? Click here to contact us today.

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Privacy

In order to protect the privacy of program participants, we cannot provide information about course rosters. If you or your child would like to be in a class with another person, please check with them regarding the specifics of their registration prior to enrolling. Requests to be on a sports team with another person can be requested on the Sports Registration Card at the time of registration. Thank you for your understanding and for helping us to respect the privacy of everyone.

Click here for the full YMCA of Delaware Privacy Policy.

 

YMCA Member Photo Policy

To enhance the security, safety, and convenience of our members, the YMCA requires a photo of each member to be kept on file. This policy outlines the procedures and guidelines for collecting, storing, and using member photos. Policy Statement:

1. Photo Requirement:
   • All new and existing members are required to have their photo taken and stored in the YMCA’s secure database.
   • Photos will be taken at the time of membership registration or renewal.

2. Photo Usage:
   • Member photos will be used solely for identification purposes within the YMCA facilities.
   • Photos will be displayed in the YMCA’s membership management system to verify identity during check-in and access to facilities and programs.

3. Photo Storage and Security:
   • All member photos will be stored securely in the YMCA’s membership management system.
   • Access to member photos is restricted to authorized YMCA staff only.
   • Member photos will not be shared with external parties unless required by law or with the explicit consent of the member.

4. Member Privacy:
   • The YMCA respects the privacy of its members. Photos will be used strictly for operational purposes and will not be used for marketing or promotional materials without prior consent.
   • Members have the right to request access to their stored photo and request updates or corrections if necessary.

5. Policy Review and Updates:
   • This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains current and effective.
   • Members will be notified of any changes to the policy through email and posted notices within YMCA facilities.
6. Compliance: All members and staff are expected to comply with this policy. Non-compliance may result in restricted access to YMCA facilities and services.

Participation within the YMCA of Delaware facilities and programs is considered a privilege. All members, guests, and staff should conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with the mission and values of the YMCA of Delaware and are expected to:

1. Treat all persons (staff, visitors, members) and YMCA property with respect.
2. Act with character and courtesy while respecting the rights, welfare, and dignity of others.
3. Abide by all membership and program policies of the YMCA of Delaware posted on the website and available at the membership welcome center.
4. Adhere to all state and federal laws.
5. Act in a safe, responsible manner regarding themselves and others in all YMCA facilities.

The YMCA reserves the right to temporarily or permanently suspend or revoke membership privileges for failure to abide by the above or for participation in misconduct, including but not limited to the following:

1. Threatening behavior, physical, or verbal abuse including foul language, intimidation, hazing, harassment, coercion, and/or other conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person
2. Hateful speech or disrespectful behavior on the YMCA premises or during off-site YMCA programs
3. Unauthorized sharing or misuse of membership ID cards (digital or printed)
4. Deceit of any type regarding membership account(s) and policies associated with membership
5. Disorderly, lewd, or sexual conduct
6. Inappropriate dress or attire
7. Possession, use of, or intent to sell drugs or alcohol on the YMCA of Delaware property including controlled substances
8. Recording images either by photograph, video, or digitally without the knowledge of the individual being recorded and without prior authorization from a YMCA Director or Branch Executive
9. Unauthorized commercial activity or use of the YMCA for personal or monetary gain
10. Failure to abide by a reasonable request from YMCA staff members
11. Vandalism or theft of YMCA property, facility, or others’ property while on YMCA premises
12. Assault
13. Possession of firearms, explosive devices, or other deadly weapons on YMCA premises

No refunds will be issued or waived upon suspension or revocation of membership for violations to the YMCA Code of Conduct or any other violation of the YMCA rules and regulations.

The Sussex Family YMCA does not participate in the Nationwide Membership program from May – September.

Sussex YMCA vacation passes are available for Nationwide YMCA members at 50% off and can be purchased in-person at the branch. YMCA membership cards and a valid ID are required at each visit to determine eligibility.

• Vacation Day Pass (Nationwide Members Only):
  $12.50 (regularly $25 per person)
• Vacation Week Pass (Nationwide Members Only):
  $25/youth (regularly $50);
  $50/individual (regularly $100);
  $100/family (regularly $200)

*Vacation week passes provide unlimited access to the Y for 7 days. Family is defined as parent/guardian(s) and dependent children under the age of 26.

If you are a member of any YMCA of Delaware location, use of the Sussex Family YMCA is included in your membership. 

Guests

• All guests entering the YMCA will be required to pay a daily guest fee ($25 Adult, $15 Child) unless they are a program spectator, they are visiting the Y for the first time or attending a community event hosted by the YMCA of Delaware.
• Guests will be allowed to visit the YMCA for free one time per 12-month period (this does not include access to outdoor pools).
• All guests, including program spectators, 18 years and older must present a valid ID. Only physical ID’s will be accepted for entry.
• All guests are required to follow all rules and regulations as outlined in the Membership Agreement and follow all requirements as outlined in state health and safety guidelines.
• All guest fees & pre-paid guest passes are non-refundable.

Guests 12 – 17 years of age

• Guests 12-17 years of age must be accompanied by an adult (18 years of age or older) on their first visit. Adult must present a valid physical ID and sign a consent waiver for the minor at Member Services.  Signing adult will be responsible for all liability of the minor guest.
• Consent waivers will not be sent over the phone or via email.
• Once the consent waiver is signed, guests Ages 12 – 17 can visit the branch unaccompanied by an adult granted they pay the guest fee and follow all rules and regulations of the YMCA of Delaware.
• Minor guest must check in at Member Services on each visit and provide their contact details.
• Minor guests attempting to gain access to the YMCA without following the policy will not be allowed access on future visits.

Guests under 12 years of Age

• Guests under 12 years of age must always be accompanied by an adult (18 years or older) throughout their branch visit.

Spectators of programs do not have to pay a daily guest fee but will be required to check-in at our Welcome Center where they must present a valid ID.  All visitors, including children, must follow mask requirements as outlined in state guidelines. Spectators’ access to the building is limited to the program area only.

Outdoor Pool Guests

• Guests are welcome to visit YMCA outdoor pools with an active member as a paid guest. Maximum 5 guests per visit, per household membership.
• All outdoor pool guest passes should be purchased in advance at the branch Member Service Desk during normal operating hours. Only adult members can purchase a guest pass. Member must have an active and up-to-date account.
• All guests, 18 years and older, must present a valid ID at the pool, and sign in before being granted entry into the pool area.
• Guests are required to follow all rules and regulations outlined in the Membership Policies as well as state health and safety guidelines.
• Discounted temporary memberships purchased without pool access, members from non-Delaware Y’s participating in the reciprocity program and free guest passes do not have access to the outdoor pool.
• All guest fees & pre-paid guest passes are non-refundable. Rainchecks will not be issued for guest passes.

Billing and Cancelations

• Payment is due in full at time of registration unless otherwise noted.
• Credit Card & Bank Authorization Agreement for programs with billing plans:
  1. The YMCA processes payments for programs to the bank on the 1st Fridays of each month. If we are unable to draft your account for any reason, we will automatically redraft your account on the 3rd or 4th Friday of the month.
  2. You will be withdrawn from the program if we are unable to successfully collect payment(s).

Program Credits & Refunds

• The YMCA will issue a full credit/refund for programs if cancellation is requested 14 days prior to the start of the program.
• Credit/refunds for cancellations requested after the start date of the program will be prorated.
• No credit/refunds will be issued after the end date of the program.
• No credit/refunds will be issued for missed classes or weather related cancellations.
• An account credit or make up session will be issued if a class session is cancelled by the YMCA.
• All group lessons have a minimum enrollment number. Programs with fewer participants may be combined or cancelled. You will have the option of receiving a full refund/credit or switching to another similarly priced program or class.

Safety

• Appropriate workout attire and closed toe athletic shoes must be worn at all times.
• Horseplay or other disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.
• Personal belongings should be stored in lockers or designated areas, not on equipment or in walkways.
• Food and gum are not permitted in workout areas. Sports drinks and water should be in a closed top container – glass is not permitted.
• Outside trainers may not train clients in any YMCA facility – even if both trainer and client are members of the YMCA. Only YMCA of Delaware instructors can lead classes or training sessions at the YMCA.

Respect

• Please limit your use of any weight machine or equipment to 1 set. Once
  that set is complete, allow another member to use the equipment before beginning another set.
• Re-rack your weights and return equipment after use.
• Avoid dropping or slamming weights or equipment.
• Use of cell phones for taking videos or pictures of other members/staff is not permitted to ensure privacy.
• Disruptive or loud conversations including phone calls are prohibited in all fitness areas.
• Use of inappropriate language is not permitted.
• All members should wipe down equipment prior to and after each use.

Youth

• Youth 12 and older may use the fitness center or attend group exercise classes without a parent or guardian provided they abide by all guidelines.
• Youth aged 10 and 11 may use the fitness center or attend group exercise classes under the direct supervision of their parent or guardian.
• Youth aged 9 and under are not permitted in the fitness center.

• Children 11 years of age and younger must be supervised at all times. Non-Swimmers 11 years and younger must be supervised at all times.
• All children 14 years of age and younger must participate in a swimming skills assessment and will be provided with a colored wristband based on their swimming ability.
• Non-Swimmers must wear lifejackets.
• Alcohol and smoking are prohibited.
• Lifeguards have ultimate authority in the aquatics area at all times.
• When taking photos, please be respectful of the privacy of others.
• Swim lessons taught by YMCA staff only, outside instructors NOT permitted without prior approval
• Shower with soap and water before entering the pool.
• Protective covering required for infant diapers and adult under-garments.
• Change infant diapers in locker room only – not on pool deck.
• No diving in pool head first unless water is at least 9 feet deep.
• No prolonged breath holding under water or wearing full-face snorkles.
• Consult physician before use if you have seizure, heart disease, diabetes, or circulatory problems and do not use alone.
• Do not use pool if you are ill, or have had symptoms of illness in the past week.
• No inflatable toys except US Coast Guard approved flotation devices.
• No horseplay or running on pool deck.
• No profanity.
• No pool use if under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• No food, drinks, or gum on pool deck – water bottles okay (non-glass) *Indoor Pool Only.
• Shoes worn on the pool deck or in shower areas should be water safe and have a gripping sole *Indoor Pool Only.
• Report any issues directly to a Y staff member.
• Call 911 in an emergency. Phones and first aid kit are located at aquatics office and front desk.

Breastfeeding In/Around the Pool Area

The YMCA of Delaware encourages positive interaction, at all levels, between a mother and her child. As such, mothers who choose to breastfeed their infant are welcome and supported by Y staff in our pool environments on the pool deck, at a respectable distance from the pool edge.

Swim Test Policy

To ensure the safety of our members and guests, all children 14 years of age and younger must participate in a swimming skills assessment and will be provided with a colored wristband based on their swimming ability.

GREEN BAND

Youth with a green wristband may swim in any designated open swim area and use any water slide or pool climbing wall where available.  Youth aged 11 and under must have a supervising adult present in the pool area but not required to be in the water.

YELLOW BAND

Youth with a yellow wristband may only swim in a yellow designated open swim area due to swimming only half the pool length without a parent/guardian in the water.  Youth aged 11 and under must have a supervising adult present in the pool area but not required to be in the water.

NON-SWIMMERS

Those 14-years of age or younger not wearing a swim band will be considered a non-swimmer. Non-Swimmers must always remain within arm’s reach of a parent/guardian and must wear a coast guard approved life jacket when in water above “arm-pit” height. Infants who are held by a parent/guardian are not required to be in a life jacket.

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Swimwear Policy

The Y is a place where all people of all walks of life can learn and love to swim, wearing a spectrum of colors, fabrics, and accessories. To ensure everyone throughout our community can enjoy swimming in a safe manner, the YMCA of Delaware recommends the following best practices in our pools:

Acceptable clothing for our facility includes:

• Clothing that is water repellent and lightweight, e.g. swimwear material
• Football type jerseys (with holes)
• Head coverings/headscarves no longer than shoulder length
• Specialized swimsuits designed with modesty in mind – Such as a “Burqini,” which traditionally includes three separate pieces: pants, a long t-shirt, and a head cover
• Latex or lycra running tights and shirts
• Nylon jerseys
• Rash-guards are commonly used under scuba wear but can also be used as swimwear
• Swim caps
• Swim Diapers (Required for individuals who are not toilet trained.

Our Y is a family-friendly organization committed to everyone’s health, safety, and wellbeing. Thank you for practicing modesty throughout our facilities and in the pool.  To ensure our organization is welcoming for all, we DO NOT PERMIT: Clothing that is revealing, transparent, or has vulgar content (including underwear & thong swimsuits).

In order to maintain aquatic safety, we discourage:

• Pants, denim, cotton or other heavyweight materials as well as loose-fitting attire which could get caught on railings or drains.
• Head coverings/headscarves longer than shoulder length
• Swim attire which has metal buttons, buckles, rivets, zippers or sharp objects
• Aqua shoes when riding on our waterslides

 

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Slide Safety

• All riders must wait at the bottom of the stairs in a single file line.
• All riders must be a green banded swimmer.
• One rider down the slide at a time.
• All riders must remain on their back and go down feet-first.
• Flotation devices and/or toys are not permitted down the water slide.
• Exit the plunge area immediately

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Inclement Weather Makeup Policy

In the event of pool closure due to inclement weather, the below policy will go into effect regarding swim team and/or group swim lessons:

• Group Swim Lessons which miss more than 10-minutes will be provided a make-up lesson at a future date/time.
• Group Swim Lessons which miss less than 10-minutes should be provided a water safety lesson in an area off the pool deck.
• Credits or refunds will not be provided for  group swim lessons and/or Swim Team practices missed due to inclement weather.
• Credits or refunds will not be given for outdoor pool passes.

• Our Y is a family-friendly organization committed to everyone’s health, safety, and wellbeing. Thank you for practicing modesty throughout our building, including in the locker rooms.
• Children under six years of age may accompany their parents/guardians into the opposite sex locker room with adult supervision. Ages 6 and up can use the Family Changing Area. Please use your discretion.
• Members should keep all valuables locked in a locker. The YMCA is not responsible for items lost or stolen in the building.
• Locks are not to be left on lockers overnight. The YMCA reserves the right to remove any locks left on the lockers.
• For the privacy of our members, photography, video and video calls are prohibited in the locker room.
• In keeping with Delaware state law and the YMCA’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we want everyone to feel welcome and safe at the Y. We offer all individuals the use of facility spaces, including locker rooms, that align with that individual’s gender identity.

• Minimum Age: 18
• Please limit time to 15 minutes and refrain from bringing in cell phones.
• HEATING UNIT: Do not dry towels/clothing or pour water on the heating unit.
• Modest swimwear/fitness attire and a towel should be worn in the sauna.
• Rubberized or plastic suits, street cloths, and street shoes are not permitted.
• For your safety, exercising in the sauna is not permitted.
• Pregnant women and anyone with health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes,
  high/low blood pressure, or a history of stroke should consult a physician before using.
• Food, bags, and loose items should be left in a safe space or locker outside of the sauna.
• The use of oils, scents, lotions, and shaving is prohibited.

Child Protection

The safety and well-being of children in the care is, and always will be, our top priority. As an organization, we have taken the following actions to keep kids safe in our Y facilities, camps and programs and maintain the reputation of safety we have built during our 135-year history.

1. Sex Offender Screenings: The YMCA conducts regular sex offender screenings on all members, participants and guests. If a sex offender match occurs, the YMCA reserves the right to cancel membership, end program participation, and remove visitation access.
2. Our Y completes a child abuse prevention self-assessment, administered by a Y-USA–approved vendor, at least every two (2) years.
3. Criminal background checks for staff and volunteers.
4. Extensive Staff  and Volunteer Training: All Y staff members and volunteers are required to complete annual training in child abuse prevention and workplace safety. All child care, camp and aquatics are are trained in first aid and CPR.
5. Mandatory Reporting: Delaware law mandates any person, agency, organization or entity to make an immediate oral report to the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families, Division of Family Services, when they know of, or suspect, child abuse or neglect under Chapter 9 of Title 16 of the Delaware Code and to follow up with any requested written reports (16 Del. C. §903).