Membership Policies YMCA Membership Policies YMCA

WELCOME TO THE Y

On behalf of the volunteers and staff of the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, I welcome you to our Y
family. You will find that our facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, program
offerings that foster health and wellness, and a wide variety of activities and planned events that
promote positive engagement for youth and families. Our staff of well-trained and highly-skilled
professionals are committed to assuring that your member experience is exceptional! With respect
to your fitness level and personal needs, our dedicated staff will focus their diverse talents to assist
you in achieving your individual goals. At the YMCA, ‘WE ARE ALL IN IT TOGETHER!’

By joining the Y, you have not only made the decision to pursue a more active lifestyle, you have
become part of one of the largest charitable organizations in our area. For more than 168 years, the
YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh has extended its reach deeply into both urban and suburban neighborhoods to provide innovative programs and services to those who need our help the most.
At every level of our organization, we have embraced the challenge to truly become ‘ONE Y FOR ALL.’ I hope you will take the time to learn more about our Y and to explore some of the many volunteer roles that are available. Again, welcome to the YMCA Of Greater Pittsburgh!

Our Values

At the YMCA, we follow the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility to ensure that everyone enjoys a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment.

Safety & Conduct: Members, guests, and visitors are expected to uphold these values at all times. The YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh reserves the right to deny access or membership for any reason.

Membership & Dues: Memberships are ongoing and automatically billed monthly until placed on hold or canceled. Members are responsible for following YMCA policies and ensuring compliance by anyone included on their membership.

Age in the facility

  • Under 13 must be supervised by a parent or legal guardian.
  • Those 11-12 may use the Wellness Center following completion of a Teen Orientation, while being supervised by a parent or legal guardian.
  • Those 13-17 must have a parent or guardian sign a waiver prior to use. Following a Teen Orientation, individuals may use the Wellness Center independently.

Equipment & Facility Use

  • Limit cardio machines to 30 minutes during peak times.
  • Return and wipe down equipment after use.
  • Wear non-marking closed toe shoes with a back.
  • Food is not allowed in the Wellness Center; use spill-proof bottles for drinks.
  • Report broken equipment to staff.
  • At all times, members and guests are expected to act responsibly and uphold the YMCA’s core values.

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

CODE OF CONDUCT

CODE OF CONDUCT

Following our values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility as a guide, the Y’s Code of Conduct ensures that all who enter our facility enjoy a safe, welcoming and comfortable environment. We ask individuals to act in a manner that upholds these values at all times when they are in our facility or participating in Y programs. The safety and protection of Y members and guests is a paramount concern of the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh; therefore, we reserve the right to deny access or membership to any person registered for sex offenses against children.
 

  • Treat others with respect. Offensive language or behavior will not be tolerated.
  • Wear exercise attire that provides full coverage of the chest, back, rear, and midsection. Swimsuits may only be worn in the pool area and locker rooms.
  • Observe that YMCA facilities are weapons-free, alcohol-free, drug-free, and smoke-free.
  • Refrain from photographing or recording others. Use headphones for all personal device audio to avoid disturbing others.
  • Avoid conducting or participating in paid personal training or instructional sessions with instructors not employed by the Y.
  • Never mistreat or abuse youth in Y programs. YMCA staff are mandated reporters—if suspicions of abuse arise, contact a YMCA staff member immediately.
  • Have an incident to report, or just a question or concern to share? Connect with us anytime at pittsburghymca.org we are here to help! The Y investigates all reported incidents.

    Suspension or termination of YMCA membership privileges may result if a violation of this Code of Conduct has occurred.

WAIVER, RELEASE, INDEMNIFICATION & COVENANT NOT TO SUE

In consideration of my participation in the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, I agree to release and on behalf of myself, my heirs, representatives, executors, administrators, and assigns, HEREBY DO RELEASE the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, its officers, directors, employees, volunteers, agents, representatives and insurers (“Releasees”) from any causes of action, claims, or demands of any nature whatsoever including, but in no way limited to, claims of negligence, which I, my heirs, representatives, executors, administrators and assigns may have, now or in the future, against the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh on account of personal injury, property damage, death or accident of any kind, arising out of or in any way related to the use of the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh facilities/equipment or participation in the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh programs whether that participation is supervised or unsupervised, however the injury or damage occurs, including, but not limited to the negligence of Releasees. In consideration of my participation in the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, I, the undersigned participant, agree to INDEMNIFY AND HOLD HARMLESS Releasees from any and all causes of action, claims, demands, losses, or costs of any nature whatsoever arising out of or in any way related to my the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh participation.

MEMBERSHIP DUES AGREEMENT

I understand that my YMCA membership is ongoing, and there is no annual or otherwise periodic renewal of my membership. My membership will continue unless and until I request that it be cancelled or place a temporary hold on it. Membership dues will be automatically withdrawn from my bank account or charged to my credit card on a monthly basis until I cancel or place a temporary hold on my membership. I understand the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh’s rules and regulations may change at any time with or without notice. I consent to respect and comply with such regulations and to be held responsible for the compliance of all individuals on my membership as well as my guests.


NATIONWIDE MEMBERSHIP

The Nationwide Membership Program enables you to visit any participating YMCA in the United States through membership at your home YMCA. We offer this because we want to help you reach your health and wellness goals wherever you live, work or travel. This is an essential part of our mission to strengthen communities


Cancellation of Membership

Cancel your membership at any time with no additional charges by visiting your member portal, or visiting us in person.

Status Change Policy

Change the status of your membership by visiting us in person.

Rate Change Policy

I acknowledge that YMCA membership rates may change in the future. If a rate increase occurs, members receive at least 30 days’ advance notice using the contact information provided. This notice includes the new rate and the date it will go into effect. Billing errors or incorrect charges must be reported within 90 days of the original payment. After 90 days, we are unable to issue refunds.

Complimentary Visit Policy

All local visitors are entitled to three complimentary visits to the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh to try out the facility. For any visitors under the age of 18, a parent/guardian must be present during the first visit to sign a liability waiver. Visitors under the age of 13 must also be accompanied by a parent/guardian, or by a custodian over the age of 18 who is a member of the YMCA. Out of town guests may purchase a day pass, see branch for details.

Credit Card/Bank Authorization

I authorize the bank to honor pre-authorized draft(s) drawn by the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh for membership payments and/or contributions on or about the 1st or 15th day of each calendar month. I understand that I may choose either the 1st or the 15th of each month for my withdrawal or charge date. When my financial institution honors the draft by charging my account, such drafts constitute my receipt for the payment. Should any draft or charges not be honored by said bank when received by them, it is understood that the payment is to be made by me in the amount of said payment plus a service charge of at least $30. I understand that in the event any payment is not honored by my financial institution, my membership will be temporarily suspended until my dues are current.

Payment for Classes/Programs

Some classes have additional fees that require payment at the time of registration. Participants are eligible for a full refund if cancellation is requested 7 days before the first scheduled class or program date.

Third Party Payment

The YMCA may partner with independent third-party providers to offer certain programs or services. While partners are selected carefully, the YMCA is not responsible for their actions, services, agreements, or benefit determinations. Participation may require meeting specific eligibility or qualification requirements, including verification with YMCA Member Services, photo ID, and completion of required forms. Benefits and participation may change based on enrollment periods, contracts, pricing, or third-party determinations. We conduct regular eligibility checks and may discontinue access based on third-party feedback. Members are responsible for notifying the YMCA of any insurance or eligibility changes. If third-party memberships are terminated, standard YMCA Membership agreements apply.

SAFETY

Child Protection

The YMCA conducts regular sex offender screenings on all members, participants, and guests. If a sex offender match occurs, the YMCA cancels membership and removes facility access. All new members and guests over the age of 18 must present a valid photo ID to use a YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh facility or participate in a program.

  • A parent/guardian must sign the liability waiver for any child under the age of 18 on their first visit.
  • Children under the age of 13 may not be in a YMCA facility alone, unless they are participating in YMCA childcare services programs such as YMCA Summer Day Camp.
  • All children under 13 who are not participating in a Y childcare services program must be accompanied by a parent/ guardian or custodian.
  • Members ages 11–12 may be on the Wellness Floor with parent supervision after completing a Teen Orientation.
  • Members ages 13–17 must complete a Teen Orientation before entering the Wellness Floor.

Accident, Injury, or Incident

Report all accidents, injuries, or unusual incidents to YMCA staff immediately. The Y recommends that all members and participants consult a physician before starting an exercise program. The Y assumes no responsibility for injuries incurred while participating in Y activities. All members who use YMCA facilities must carry their own medical insurance.

Sauna and Steam Room

  • Follow the posted regulations for use at each location.
  • No sauna suits or heat-trapping materials may be used in the sauna

Member Safety Around Equipment

  • Limit cardio machine use to 30 minutes during peak times.
  • Return all equipment to its appropriate place after use.
  • Report non-working equipment to the Welcome Center staff.
  • Wipe off equipment after each use. Do not spray equipment screens, or use lotions/powders that leave residue.
  • Do not dunk or hang from rims and nets.
  • Wear non-marking closed toe shoes with a back.
  • Stay hydrated.
  • Use shatterproof and spill-proof bottles.
  • Do not bring food into the Wellness Center.
  • Model the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility at all times.

Class Rules and Regulations

  • Wait to enter the classroom until the designated start time. Late arrivals may not be
    accomodated if attendance will disrupt the safety or enjoyment of others.
  • Respect everyone’s personal space. Be encouraging and positive to others in the room.
  • Keep conversation to a minimum while the instructor is leading a class.
  • Follow the instructor to the best of your ability.
  • Inform the instructor in advance of any injuries or special considerations.
  • Do not enter a class to retrieve equipment while it is in session.
  • Put away all weights and equipment neatly after class.

LOCKER ROOMS

Adult Locker Rooms

Adult locker rooms are intended for individuals ages 18 and older. For adults with infants or young children age 6 and under, we ask that you keep your child with you at all times. If a family locker room is available, we encourage you to use that space for greater comfort and privacy.

Youth Locker Rooms

Where available, youth locker rooms are reserved for ages 6–17.

Family Locker Rooms

Family locker rooms are designed with care to meet the needs of all members and guests. These spaces are ideal for parents helping their children change, adults who may need assistance from another adult, or anyone who prefers additional privacy or a non-gendered environment.

POOL RULES AND GUIDELINES

Swim Testing & Necklaces

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, we ask that all swimmers follow our pool rules & guidelines.

  • Parents must be on deck in the natatorium with swimmers who are 12 and under regardless of necklace color.
  • A parent may be on the deck but not in the water with swimmers who have passed a yellow or green necklace test and are 8 and older, but the parent must be within eyesight and actively watching the child.
  • Kids may only swim test 1 time each day.
  • Necklaces must be returned at the end of each day.

SWIM NECKLACE LEVELS

Green Necklace:

Must be able to swim a controlled front stroke w/face in the water for 25 yds. Start shallow, climb out deep.
-AND-
Must be able to jump into the deep & resurface, tread for 60 seconds.

Yellow Necklace:

Must be able to stand in chest high (armpit level) water and must stay in that pool depth or shallower, may not go deeper.
-AND-
Must be able to submerge, lift feet o of the ground, regain footing and exit the pool independently using the side of the pool.

Red Necklace:

Anyone who cannot stand in 3 1⁄2 ft of water
-OR-
Failed any portion of the yellow test or won’t test.
Red Necklaces must stay within arms reach of a parent at all times.

General Pool Rules

  • Do not dive in shallow water (diving permitted only where posted).
  • Obey lifeguards at all times.
  • Do not use full-face snorkels.
  • Use only Coast Guard–approved personal flotation devices.
  • Walk at all times — no running.
  • Take a swim test if age 12 or under.
  • Swimwear is required at all times, no street clothes or underwear.
  • Do not bring glass into the pool area.
  • Do not engage in extended breath holding.

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDELINES

Welcome to the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh (Facebook/Instagram/LinkedIn etc.) community! This is
a safe space to discuss YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh programs. We want everyone to be part of our
community and have their voice heard.

We encourage your feedback and aim to respond to your comments as soon as possible. While we
do moderate this community, we welcome open discussion.

To help everyone enjoy our community, we ask that when you post, you keep in mind the following:

  • We don’t allow defamatory, indecent, offensive, profane, discriminatory, misleading, unlawful or threatening comments.
  • Personal attacks, name-calling, trolling and abuse will not be tolerated.
  • Spamming, posting promotional material or posting links to third party websites is not permitted.
  • We reserve the right to delete comments at our discretion and block any repeat offenders.
  • We will remove content that is fraudulent, deceptive or misleading.
  • Coordinated group attacks will not be tolerated.
  • Respect that other people in the community have had different life experiences and may have a different perspective to yours. We welcome different viewpoints.
  • Our community is a public place. Don’t post personal information that you would not be comfortable sharing with a stranger. We recommend that you don’t post any information that may identify you or anyone else, such as your address, email address or phone number.