The YMCA strives to provide a safe, welcoming place for all. To make that possible, all Y members, program participants, volunteers, and guests agree to follow this code of conduct when using our facilities or grounds.
- Exhibit and share the Y’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility at all times.
- Follow all policies and procedures and conduct yourself appropriately. Physical or verbal abuse, sexual innuendo or display, or offensive behavior of any kind is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
- The Y will not tolerate harassment or intimidation by words, gestures, body language, or any menacing behavior that demeans another person or their culture or beliefs.
- We reserve the right to deny access or membership to any person who has been accused or convicted of any crime involving sexual abuse, who is a registered sex offender, or who is under the influence of drugs or intoxicating beverages while on our premises or in our programs.
- It is illegal to carry a firearm or any deadly or dangerous weapon anywhere on our property.
- We do not allow smoking, vaping, and drug and alcohol use at Y facilities or grounds. The possession or sale of any drugs or drug paraphernalia will lead to prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.
- Persons responsible for any loss of or damage to Y property, or property belonging to Y members, program participants, guests, volunteers or staff, will be held personally and financially liable.
- Cellphone, camera, and video camera use is strictly forbidden in Y locker rooms and restrooms. Staff will use their discretion to determine appropriate use of such technology in all other areas of the Y.
- Please wear proper gym, swim, and workout attire. In common areas, wear a shirt, pants/shorts, and shoes at all times. Y staff will use their discretion to determine the appropriateness of all attire.
- Present your YMCA membership card or photo ID at the membership desk each time you enter the Y.
- Follow area-specific policies, as posted throughout the Y, at all times.
- If you or your guests violate this code of conduct, consequences may include termination of your membership or program privileges.
The Y’s primary concern is the safety and comfort of our members, participants, guests, and staff. We reserve the right to make situational decisions based on our mission and values. If you witness behavior or other issues that violate our code of conduct, please report it to a Y staff member.
I hereby, for myself, my household, my family, heirs, executors and administrators, waive and release any and all claims and damages I may have against the YMCA of Western North Carolina (YMCA) and their respective agents, representatives, successors, and assigns, for any and all injuries that may be suffered by me, my household, or my family in connection with participation in YMCA activities and programs. I understand that the YMCA assumes no responsibility for injuries or illnesses that I, my household or family may sustain as a result of our physical condition or resulting from our observation or participation in any activity or use of facilities or equipment used for YMCA activities.
I expressly acknowledge on behalf of myself and my heirs that I assume the risk for any and all injuries and illnesses for myself, my household or family, that may result from participation in these activities.
If my/our membership is eligible to participate in the YMCA Nationwide Membership Program, I understand that by participating in the YMCA Nationwide Membership Program, I agree to release the National Council of Young Men's Christian Associations of the United States of America, and its independent and autonomous member associations in the United States and Puerto Rico, from claims of negligence for bodily injury or death in connection with the use of YMCA facilities, and from any liability for other claims, including loss of property, to the fullest extent of the law.
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. The YMCA has the right to suspend and/or terminate any membership for violation of any posted or written rules of conduct, for any behavior that interferes with the enjoyment of the YMCA, and for any inappropriate behavior at the YMCA, including but not limited to sexual conduct, abusive or threatening language, fighting, or assault.
YMCA memberships are nontransferable. Members must present their membership card or verify their identity for entry into any facility. The management of the YMCA has the right to suspend and/or terminate any membership for nonpayment of fees.
I grant full permission to the YMCA and its authorized representatives to use any and all photographs, audio recordings, or video recordings taken of me, my household, or my family at events, classes, camps, and other activities or programs offered by the YMCA, as part of any future printed or digital materials and communications to promote the YMCA, and further that such use shall be without payment of fees, royalties, special credit, or other compensation.
I agree for the YMCA to send communication to me via text message and/or email if I am age 13 or older. I agree on behalf of myself, my household, and/or my family with the YMCA policies and procedures and understand that my/our membership can be revoked without refund for any reason, including exhibiting inappropriate behavior toward or abuse of YMCA staff and/or facilities.
For the purpose of Household and One Adult memberships, dependents are classified as persons 21 and younger and all household membership categories refer to individuals living at the same address.
Payment Terms and Conditions and Draft Agreement
A YMCA bank or credit card draft is a continuous, perpetual membership plan. I understand that my month-to-month or well-being agreement membership does not expire and that YMCA membership rates are subject to change.
I understand that if I have chosen a Month-to-Month Membership that my monthly dues will be electronically drafted on the 1st or 15th of every month. My draft is continuous unless I give the YMCA a 30-day written notice of termination before my draft date.
I understand that if I have chosen a Well-Being Membership Agreement that my membership is an annual membership commitment paid on a month-to-month basis.
Monthly dues will be electronically drafted on the 1st or 15th of every month. My annual membership will automatically renew at the well-being rate. I understand that my membership is not eligible for cancellation until 30 days before my annual agreement renewal. My draft is continuous unless I give the YMCA a 30-day written notice of termination before my draft date, after the annual agreement ends. A fee will apply to agreements cancelled outside of the annual fee structure.
I understand that if I have chosen an Annual Membership that the total payment for one year is due today and that no full or partial refunds are given.
It is my complete understanding that if I wish to cancel or change the status of my membership in any way (including draft information), I MUST GIVE THE YMCA A 30-DAY WRITTEN NOTICE BEFORE MY NEXT DRAFT DATE (forms are located at the front desk). I understand there are no refunds given. It is my responsibility to check my monthly account statement and report any corrections to the YMCA within 30 days. I understand that I will not receive a statement, invoice, or billing for my YMCA membership.
I understand that I may upgrade my membership by giving a 30-day written notice and paying a one-time membership upgrade fee. Additionally, should the YMCA allow me to put my membership on hold at any time, I will be responsible for one final payment of my full membership dues if I decide to cancel my membership while it is on hold.
Should my membership draft not be honored for ANY REASON, I understand that I, or the account holder, is still responsible for that payment, plus a service fee. This is in addition to any service fee I may be charged by my financial institution. If payment is not received within 30 days, my membership will be terminated immediately. If my membership is terminated, I may reactivate my membership and monthly draft after paying any and all fees and completing new membership and draft agreements.
For questions about billing and payments, please contact the YMCA Business Center at [email protected] or 828-251-5910.
As a Nationwide Member, you have the added value of visiting Ys across the United States and Puerto Rico. There are a few guidelines to know and follow when you travel:
- Visit ymca.org before you travel to make sure the Y you intend to visit participates in Nationwide Membership. More than 2,500 Y locations participate.
- You must have an active membership to be eligible for Nationwide Membership.
- On average, at least 50% of your visits must be to your home YMCA (the local association that enrolled you and collects your membership dues).
- If you have known periods of seasonal travel (when you will not be using your home Y at least 50% of the time or will be a resident of another area for more than 28 days), you will need to place your home Y membership on hold or cancel it, and join the Y where you will be living for that time period. Please plan ahead, as it may take several weeks to place your account on hold.
- If you are a college student, you will need to join the YMCA where your usage is 50% or greater. Nationwide Membership is based on individual usage not the family unit. Most Ys have a young adult or college membership option or you can ask about the financial assistance program.
- Most YMCAs require a photo ID for all visitors. Please bring a photo ID with you for a seamless customer experience.
- You will be asked to sign a waiver when visiting other YMCA locations.
We offer Nationwide Membership 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 cause of strengthening communities.
We look forward to your visit and hope you enjoy being part of more YMCA communities.
- Members ages 18 and older have an unlimited number of guest passes. Each member may bring one individual per visit.
- Guests may only visit the YMCA of Western North Carolina with an existing member for free three times per calendar year (Jan. 1-Dec. 31).
- Once a guest has used all three free visits, the guest (whether an individual or family), must either join the YMCA or buy a day pass.
- Day passes are $15 for an adult, $30 for a family or household. The member must remain in the facility for the duration of the guests' visit.
Group Exercise Classes and Coaching Connection
Some classes require a reservation to hold a spot. Please refer to the group exercise calendar to see which classes require a reservation. Coaching Connection is a free program to help you set personal wellness goals. You’ll meet one-on-one with a Y Wellness Coach and create a customized workout plan.
To sign up for group exercise classes or to schedule a Coaching Connection appointment:
- Go to ymcawnc.org/schedules
- Find the center you are interested in and click on the blue Group Exercise or Coaching Connection button.
- Click “Sign Up” on the class or program you would like to reserve.
- New users: Click “Create a Login.” Please include your phone number after your name. For example, “Jane Doe 828-555-1212.”
- Enter your email address and choose a password.
- Click “Register.” You will see “Your Account has been created. Please log in below.”
- Log in to your account and you will see “Reserve A Spot.” Click this and your reservation is made.
- Each time you log into this system you will use your email address and password to book an appointment or spot in class.
For group exercise classes:
- Find the day and class you're looking for by either scrolling through the schedule or by using the drop-down menu filters at the top left of the GroupEx Pro schedule.
- Classes that require a reservation will have an icon and are highlighted in light yellow.
Our social media profiles (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc.) are part of a conversation between real people.
We have guidelines in place that govern online interactions with the YMCA of WNC.
Our staff members work diligently to post accurate, timely, and relevant content. We respond to feedback with respect and courtesy, and request that our friends and fans do the same. We welcome constructive feedback, but reserve the right to remove any content deemed inappropriate.
We encourage our community to share content such as photos and stories of their YMCA experiences and must assume that anyone sharing this user-generated content has the right to do so and has permission of the photographed individuals. Please do not take or post photos/videos you do not have permission to post, including photos of children without the permission of a parent or guardian. YMCA members and guests are prohibited from taking photos or videos at the YMCA or in YMCA programs/functions for personal financial gain or benefit, or for purposes in direct conflict with YMCA interests.
By interacting with the YMCA of WNC online, you are agreeing to our Social Media Policy for Members and Guests and the restrictions as outlined within this document. The YMCA of WNC reserves the right to delete posts containing any of the following elements, including, but not limited to:
- Profanity
- Misinformation
- Spam
- Off-topic/irrelevant remarks
- Personal or group attacks of any kind
- Violence of any kind
- Pornography
- Business products or services
- Illegal or questionable activities
- Any communication deemed in conflict with YMCA values and/or principles
If an individual or group repeatedly violates this policy, we will remove their access to our social media accounts.
We reserve the right to terminate the membership privileges of anyone who violates this policy.
We do our best to respond to comments as quickly as possible, but sometimes there are delays. Please be patient with us as we do what we can to improve the experience of all our members and friends.
Thank you for your understanding and support in making our online community productive and enjoyable for all.
If you have any questions about this policy, please contact [email protected].
The following policies will be followed in order to maintain a safe climbing wall:
- The climbing wall will only be used for belaying during scheduled openings with climbing wall staff. Bouldering can be done at any time.
- When bouldering, climbers’ feet must stay below the yellow line at all times. (Youth age restrictions still apply.)
- Closed-toed shoes must be worn to climb the wall. Flip-flops and barefoot climbing are not be allowed.
- Personal climbing equipment must be inspected and approved by climbing wall staff.
- All climbers must fill out a liability waiver once a year.
- Although supportive shouts are encouraged when directed at a climber, it is necessary to maintain an atmosphere conducive to communication. Inappropriate and distracting behavior is prohibited.
- Belayers need to concentrate on their climbers. Be thoughtful about engaging them in conversation while they are belaying.
- Only YMCA certified belayers may belay climbers on the wall.
- Only climbers and belayers should be in the climbing area.
- Helmets will always be worn while climbing.
- NEVER walk between a climber and a belayer or a boulderer and a spotter.
- No lead climbing is allowed.
- Safety must be practiced at all times.
Children must be age 5 to climb. Youth age guidelines for supervision still apply.
These policies are only intended to provide the basics of safe climbing wall use. Climbers must comply with any decision made by climbing wall staff regarding use of the climbing wall. Contact the climbing wall supervisor if there are any questions or concerns.
- Please refrain from using cellphones (this includes texting and emailing) in the group exercise spaces. Turn your ringer to silent.
- Members are expected to wear appropriate attire and footwear. Shirts must be worn at all times.
- Keep personal items free from movement spaces. Please use a locked locker or cubby.
- You may bring resealable plastic or aluminum beverage containers. Food is not allowed in the group exercise spaces.
- Children ages 7-12 may attend designated Family Friendly classes with direct adult supervision if they are actively participating. Check the schedule for classes with the Family Friendly symbol.
- Youth ages 13-15 may participate in group exercise classes if they have had Teen Orientation and are wearing their Teen Orientation wristband, or if they are under direct adult supervision.
- Please be respectful of others and refrain from being disruptive or having loud conversations during class or around classroom in session.
- Members are expected to wipe down equipment and return it to the proper location after use.
- Report any injury to a Heathy Living Instructor or leadership staff.
- For everyone’s safety and well-being, all members will follow group exercise policies. Members in violation of any policy may be subject to removal and/or suspension of equipment use in group exercise classes.
- For a safe, effective workout, we recommend that you arrive early to meet your instructor and prepare your body and mind to maximize your class experience.
- Safe and proper use of equipment is expected. Exercise within your limits. You are responsible for your personal health and safety while exercising. If you need assistance or have questions, please speak with a Healthy Living instructor.
All rules and requests made by lifesaving personnel must be
followed.
- Persons under the influence of alcohol or narcotics will be asked to leave the premises.
- Three short whistle blasts is an emergency signal meaning the pool must be cleared immediately.
- Rough play, dunking, pushing, and inappropriate use of the pool is prohibited.
- Animals are not allowed in the pool area, except guide/service animals. Guide/service animals are allowed on deck, but not in the water.
- All patrons must shower before entering the pool.
- Persons with infections, open cuts, sores, bandages, colds, or coughs are not permitted in the pool.
- Candy, food, and beverages are not allowed in the pool area.
- No glass items, chewing gum, or tobacco products are permitted in the facility.
- Youth ages 12 and under are required to take a YMCA swim test.
- Diving is not allowed from the pool deck.
- Foul or abusive language will not be tolerated.
- Please safeguard your belongings. The YMCA is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
- Please walk at all times.
Severe Weather Closure Guidelines
The pool will be cleared when any of these conditions occur:
- Weather tracking device shows lightning within a 6-mile radius
- Lightning is seen
- Thunder is heard
The pool can be considered safe to reoccupy 30 minutes after the all-clear has been given.
- Enter and exit the hot tub slowly.
- Proper swim attire is required.
- No jumping or diving.
- Recommended time for the hot tub is 10-15 minutes. Cool down before returning for another brief stay. Long exposure may result in nausea, dizziness, or fainting.
- People in poor health should consult their physician before using the hot tub.
- Pregnant women, elderly people, and those suffering from heart disease, diabetes, or high or low blood pressure should not enter the hot tub without prior medical consultation and permission from their doctor.
- Please shower before entering hot tub.
- Do not use the hot tub while under the influence of alcohol, tranquilizers, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or that raise or lower blood pressure.
- Please refrain from using scented oils/soaps or from doing any personal grooming while in the hot tub.
- Do not bring glass in or near the hot tub.
- No one under the age of 16 is allowed to use the hot tub.
- Inappropriate behavior is strictly prohibited. If you witness such behavior, please report it to Y staff immediately.
- The YMCA recommends that you keep all personal items locked in a locker. Please supply your own lock.
- Please leave important valuables at home. The YMCA is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
- To keep lockers available for all, items cannot be stored in lockers overnight.
- Your privacy is important to us. Please refrain from bringing electronic devices with cameras or recording equipment into the locker room.
- Please refrain from using cellphones (this includes texting and emailing) in the locker room.
- Parents with children of the opposite gender over age 5 are asked to use the family changing area instead of the adult locker room.
- Do not place children on the counter area unattended.
- For the safety of all, please dry off before leaving the shower area.
- Help us keep the locker room neat. Anyone who defaces or damages the locker room is subject to disciplinary action and will be held financially responsible.
- Please report any inappropriate behavior to a YMCA staff member immediately.
- It is recommended not to use the steam room/sauna room alone.
- Remember to enter and exit slowly.
- Bathing suits or gym attire must be worn inside the room.
- Limit yourself to a maximum of 10 minutes per hour.
- No drying of clothes in the steam/sauna room.
- No personal grooming such as shaving or clipping nails in the steam/sauna room.
- Pregnant women, elderly persons, persons suffering from heart disease, epilepsy or seizure disorders, diabetes or high or low blood pressure should NOT enter the steam/sauna room without prior medical consultation and permission from their doctor.
- Do not use the steam/sauna room while under the influence of alcohol, tranquilizers, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or that raise or lower blood pressure.
- Food and drinks are not permitted in the steam/sauna room.
- Please refrain from using lotions or oils in the steam/sauna room.
- Glass items should not be brought into the steam/sauna room or shower areas.
- Electronic devices with camera/recording are strictly prohibited.
- Inappropriate behavior is strictly prohibited. If you witness such behavior, please report it to Y staff immediately.
- No one under the age of 16 is allowed to use the steam/sauna room.
- You are responsible for your personal health and safety while exercising. Use equipment safely and properly. Exercise within your limits. If you need assistance or have questions, please speak with a staff member.
- Report any injury to a staff member immediately.
- The YMCA is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items. Lock valuables in a locker. If you need a lock, ask at the front desk. Do not leave personal items on the floor or behind/beside equipment.
- Wear appropriate attire and footwear at all times, including a top and athletic, closed-toe shoes with a rubber sole. Shoes must be free of mud and debris.
- Do not talk on cellphones, participate in video calls, or take photos or videos in the Wellness Center or elsewhere in the YMCA.
- Use earbuds or headphones to listen to audio.
- Food is not allowed in the Wellness Center. Resealable plastic or aluminum beverage containers are OK, but not glass.
- Use the cardio signup board, if applicable, to reserve your workout time. There’s a 30-minute limit on the use of all cardio equipment when others are waiting. If no one is waiting after your 30 minutes are up, you may continue your workout until someone else needs the equipment.
- Sanitize, wipe down, and return all equipment – including weight plates, dumbbells and all other loose items – to the proper location after use.
- Be respectful of others when using strength equipment. Allow others to work out between sets or during rest periods.
- Handle weights carefully. Do not allow machine plates to slam together and do not drop weights.
- Use collars when using Olympic bars and lift safely when using free weight equipment.
- Only YMCA of WNC staff may conduct personal training services on Y property.
- Youth ages 10-12 may use the Wellness Center under direct adult supervision if they have had Youth & Family Orientation. Youth ages 13-15 may use the Wellness Center, including free weights, if they have had Teen Orientation or if they are under direct adult supervision.
- YMCA members and guests agree to abide by our Code of Conduct.
- Report any policy violations or inappropriate behavior to a staff member immediately.
- These policies are in place for everyone’s safety and well-being. Violation may result in your removal and/or the suspension of your Wellness Center access. Thank you for building a better us.
- Ages vary per center. Example: The Reuter Family YMCA's Youth Development Center (YDC) is available for children ages 6 weeks to 6 years who are on a membership. The Kids Zone is available for youth ages 6-12.
- The YDC can accommodate a limited number of children in a safe and manageable way. This includes limitations on infants as well as older children.
- Each child must be signed into the YDC by a parent or authorized adult. The two-hour time limit begins at the time of sign-in.
- Only authorized adults (age 18 older) may pick up children from the YDC. If someone other than a parent is picking up the child, photo ID is required.
- Only YMCA staff are allowed in the YDC room.
- No food may be brought into the YDC due to allergies.
- Please refrain from bringing personal toys or electronics into the YDC.
- YDC staff are prohibited from changing diapers of children older than age 3.
- Children who are not well enough to attend school or daycare are too sick to come to the YDC.
- YMCA membership cards are non-transferable and must be shown/scanned for admittance into the facility.
- Lost or damaged cards must be replaced. There is a $3 fee.
- The YMCA is not responsible for lost, misplaced, or stolen items.
- No bicycles, mopeds, roller skates/blades, skateboards, hoverboards, or animals other than service animals are allowed in the facility.
- Alcohol, drugs, smoking, vaping, and weapons are not permitted at the Y.
- Proper attire is required in the common and lobby areas of the YMCA. Shirts, pants/shorts, and shoes must be worn at all times in the common areas of the YMCA.
- Specific program area policies are posted in each area. Members are responsible for learning the policies of their areas of use.
- Closed circuit television may be used to monitor all public areas.
- The YMCA reserves the right, at any time, to suspend and/or terminate any membership.
- Proper attire, including shirts, shorts, and non-marking gym shoes, must be worn at all times. No bare feet, flip-flops, sandals, dress shoes, etc., are allowed.
- Dunking and hanging on rims, nets, and backboards is prohibited.
- During open gym times, full-court games are prohibited unless approved by a Y staff person. Please see the gym schedule for availability, including designated times that full-court/half-court games are permitted. Members waiting to play should rotate in/play based on a first-come, first-served basis.
- When the gym is being used for scheduled programs, YMCA members are not allowed to use it for non-program activities.
- Basketballs should never be removed from the gymnasium.
- No kicking or throwing balls against the walls, doors, or windows.
- No food is allowed in the gym. Water is allowed in a sealable, non-glass container. Dispose of trash in the appropriate trash or recycling bins.
- Profanity or vulgar language is not allowed.
- The Y is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Please store all belongings in a locker secured with a lock.
- Report any injury to a Y staff member immediately.
- Closed circuit television is in use to monitor the gymnasium.
It is the policy of the YMCA of Western North Carolina to decline to provide physical assistance or service to members and guests while in YMCA facilities or participating in YMCA programs or activities if, in the sole judgment of the staff member(s) or volunteer(s) involved, providing such assistance would be outside their level of training, comfort level, and/or may result in injury to either the member, guest, employee, or volunteer.
Program Registration
- You can register in person at the YMCA, over the phone (if you are a current member), or online.
- All registration is first come, first served. Please register early to prevent program cancellation. If a program is full, you can be added to the waitlist if one is available. People on the waitlist will only be contacted if space becomes available.
Program Credits/Refunds
- Full refunds will be made for canceled programs. Programs may be canceled if minimum enrollment is not met. Every effort is made to address the program status three business days before the start. Please check your email for updates.
- Should a participant be unable to complete a session to due medical reasons, a prorated refund will be issued if a doctor’s note is provided before the end of the sessions. A participant can withdraw from a program by midsession and will be issued a prorated credit on the participant’s YMCA of WNC account to be applied to future programs and is valid for one calendar year.
- Participants who withdraw before the first day of the program may receive a full credit to their YMCA of WNC account to be applied to future programs and is valid for one calendar year.
- YMCA program credits may not be applied toward membership.
Program Closings
- For weather-related program closings, the YMCA will make every effort to make up lost time/missed classes. If the participant is unable to attend the makeup, no individual refunds will be offered. If a makeup is not offered, a prorated credit will be issued to the participant’s YMCA account and can be applied to future programs excluding membership and is valid for one calendar year.
- Please stay to the right when walking and pass on the left.
- Youth ages 10-12 may use the track under direct adult
- supervision. Youth age 13+ may use the track without
- supervision.
- Please refrain from using cell phones (this includes texting and emailing) while walking on the track.
- Members are expected to wear appropriate attire and footwear.
- Shirts must be worn at all times and shoes must have a closed toe.
- Leave all personal items, including backpacks and gym bags, in a locked locker.
- You may bring resealable plastic or aluminum beverage containers, but food is not allowed on the track. Report any injuries to a Healthy Living Coach or Member Engagement Representative.
- Exercise within your limits. You are responsible for your personal health and safety while exercising. If you need assistance or have questions, please speak with a Healthy Living Coach.
- For everyone’s safety and well-being, all members will follow track policies. Members in violation of any policy may be subject to removal and/or suspension of track usage.
Click below to see the guidelines for youth and parents.