Member Guidelines

As a member of the Y, you are part of much more than a place to exercise. You’re supporting the values and programs that strengthen your community. At the Y, children learn what they can achieve, families spend quality time together, and we all build relationships that deepen our sense of belonging.

With a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities WE

Our Mission

To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

Our Values

Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility

Diversity & Inclusion Statement

The YMCA of Topeka strives to ensure access, inclusion and engagement for all to reach their personal potential in a welcoming and safe environment. We work on a case-by-case basis within our centers, sites and resources, to provide access to programs and services for all.

What We Stand For

The Y is the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through the following areas of focus:

Youth Development

Nurturing the potential of every child and teen
With holistic support, children and teens can develop the skills they need to be successful in life. The Y believes that youth development is the social-emotional, cognitive and physical process that youth experience from birth to career. The Y nurtures youth through the development process, helping them realize their potential to be active, thriving and contributing members of society.

Healthy Living

Improving the nation’s health and well-being
At the Y, being healthy means more than being physically active. It’s about maintaining a balanced spirit, mind and body. We bring families closer together, promote healthy living and foster connections through fitness, sports, fun and shared interests. As a result, thousands of youth, adults and families across our region receive the support, guidance and resources they need to become and stay healthy.

Social Responsibility

Giving back and providing support to our neighbors.
Our Y has been listening and responding to the most critical social needs of the Topeka area since our founding in 1880. The Y fosters the care and respect all people need and deserve in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Our work is made possible thanks to the support of thousands of volunteers, donors, leaders and partners.

The Y is for everyone. All are invited to join and enjoy our life-enhancing programs and services, regardless of age, faith, race, background, ability or socio-economic circumstance. With a Y membership, you have full access to our facility and member-only rates for programs and services.

Membership Categories

Our range of flexible membership categories help ensure you find a fit for your unique household.

• Youth: One youth, age 13-17. Must have an inactive adult on the membership.
• Young Adult: One adult, age 18-25.
• Adult: One adult, age 26 & older.
• Family: Two adults & their children under the age of 18 living in the same residence. Live in dependents ages 18-20 years old, who are active full-time students, can also qualify under this membership. (Max 6 dependents)
• Single Parent Family: One adult & their children under the age of 18 living in the same residence. Live in dependents ages 18-20 years old, who are active full-time students, can also qualify under this membership. (Max 6 dependents)
• Senior Adult: One adult age 60 or older.
• Senior Family: Two adults, with at least 1 adult over the age of 60 & their children under the age of 18 living in the same residence. Live in dependents ages 18-20 years old, who are active full-time students, can also qualify under this membership. (Max 6 dependents)
• Senior Single Parent Family: One adult over the age of 60 & their children under the age of 18 living in the same residence. Live in dependents ages 18-20 years old, who are active full-time students, can also qualify under this membership. (Max 6 dependents)

*Military, VA Employees, and First Responder Discounts available.

Corporate Memberships also are available. Inquiries can be directed to the business manager.

Attendant Program

The YMCA of Topeka welcomes guests of all abilities. If you require full-time assistance to complete daily activities, an attendant may be added to your membership. Attendants must be added to the account with approval from the business manager.

• Attendants may only enter the facility when accompanying the YMCA member.
• Attendants may not utilize the exercise equipment and must remain with their YMCA member.

Scholarship Program

As a nonprofit, the Y welcomes all regardless of their financial circumstances. Scholarships are available to provide financial assistance for monthly membership fees for those who qualify.

Scholarship applications are available at the Member Services desk or on our website.

A completed membership application and verification of household income is needed to apply. Anyone age 18 and older living in the residence will need to provide their income information.  If your financial circumstances change during your membership, you may inquire about adjustments to scholarships. Members receiving financial assistance will be asked to re-verify their income annually.

Equal Opportunity Policy Statement

The YMCA of Topeka enrolls and maintains memberships without regard to orientation, veteran status or other considerations made unlawful by applicable law. All members shall have full and equal access to our services. All members with disabilities shall be entitled to reasonable accommodation. Any member who believes that they have been treated unfairly should first report to the business manager or operations manager as soon as possible.

Member Code of Conduct

We ask all members to act in accordance with the values of the Y to maintain an atmosphere that’s free of offensive and unlawful conduct.

As an inclusive, welcoming environment for all, the Y will not tolerate:

• Fighting
• Use of abusive language
• Disrespect for property rights of the Y or others
• Conduct or actions of an explicit or sexual nature
• Derogatory or unwelcome comments based on an individual’s race, color, sex/gender, gender identity, religion, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status or other considerations made unlawful by applicable law.
• Verbal, physical or mental abuse—implied or expressed—that threatens the well-being of others.

As a private organization, the Y reserves the right to cancel the membership of any member or program participant who does not follow the Member Code of Conduct at all times, while on-site at the Y or during participation in any Y-affiliated event, regardless of location. Y associates may define what is considered inappropriate behavior in determining a member’s suspension or termination.

Y members or guests who observe behavior not fitting the Member Code of Conduct should promptly report concerns to a Y associate so that we may make every effort to investigate and resolve issues promptly, confidentially and effectively.

Membership Cards and Photo ID

Safety is a cornerstone of our center operations. Membership cards and photo IDs are essential tools to maintaining safety at all Y locations.

• All members receive physical or digital membership ID cards. Members may download their digital membership card from their online account into their Google or Apple wallets or can be accessed through the Y360 app.
• Lost physical membership cards can be replaced for $5 each. Cards that are worn out may be traded in for a new one at no cost.
• Check in using your digital or physical membership card at the Member Services desk every time you enter the Y. If you arrive without your card, you may show a photo ID with the Member Services desk.
• All members, adults and children, are required to have a current photo on file with the Y. Maintaining photos of adults and children in the system helps ensure those entering the Y are properly identified and help ensure the safety of children while at the Y.
• Each individual member has a unique membership ID card. For the safety and security of everyone, sharing a membership ID card with another person is not permitted and may be grounds for termination of your membership.

Nationwide Membership

With a YMCA Nationwide Membership, YMCA of Topeka members may utilize participating Y facilities throughout the country, subject to the policies and guidelines of the participating YMCA location.

Nationwide membership is an essential part of our cause to strengthen communities, enabling members to reach their health and wellness goals wherever they live, work or travel, and connect with the larger Y community in meaningful ways.

Guest Policy

Any person without an active YMCA membership may purchase a day pass in order to utilize the facility. Any guest under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian accompany them at their initial visit to complete all required waivers for their minor child or must have a membership (active or inactive) in their own name with all necessary waivers completed that the minor may be added on to.

• Each guest must present a valid photo ID (driver’s license, school ID, state or federal ID, passport, etc) to establish their non-member account.
• Each guest must be properly checked in through the front desk prior to entry.
• The Y reserves the right to limit guest access.

Sex Offender Policy

The Y monitors and verifies our active and non-active membership against the National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR), to enhance the safety of members, guests and associates in our facilities. Any person listed on this registry is not eligible for membership, guest access or program participation with the YMCA of Topeka.

Locker Rooms

Locker rooms are available for your convenience. Adults may bring any of their children age 6 and younger into the locker room with them. Children age 7 and older must use the gender appropriate locker room or family locker room. Modesty is required in the common areas of all locker rooms. Please keep a towel or wrap on at all times.

To ensure all Y members’ standards of privacy are respected and safety is prioritized, when using of our locker rooms, please wear a towel or clothing. The use of cameras or video recording devices is not permitted in any locker room.

Attire

Please wear attire appropriate for a family-oriented organization throughout all common areas of our facilities. Specific areas, such as the fitness center, swimming pool, and gymnasium may have additional clothing restrictions or requirements.

Security of Personal Property

Your safety and security while at any YMCA of Topeka site is top priority. To help create a safe environment, please leave valuables at home and utilize a lock to secure personal property on site in a locker whenever possible. The YMCA of Topeka does not provide locks, so please bring your own lock to secure personal property in a locker. Unrented lockers are available for use only during normal operating hours and property left in lockers overnight may be placed into the lost and found. Rented lockers are available for an additional monthly fee from the Member Services desk.

The YMCA of Topeka is not responsible for any theft or damage to personal property. Please remember, you are responsible for securing any items you bring on site. YMCA of Topeka employees, volunteers, and or representatives are not permitted to hold or watch personal property. We encourage you to secure or remove any personal property within your vehicle.

If you have any personal property stolen or damaged while at any YMCA of Topeka site, please contact an associate at the Member Services desk to complete an incident report. If necessary, you may also elect to file a police report with local law enforcement.

Tobacco and Drug Use

To support a safe and healthy environment, the use of any drugs or tobacco, including e-cigarettes and vaping, in YMCA of Topeka facilities or during sponsored programs or events is prohibited.

Weapons

All individuals are prohibited from carrying any firearms, tasers, knives or other potentially dangerous weapons within YMCA facilities or while participating in any YMCA-sponsored programs or activities.

Lost and Found

If you lose something on site, promptly check the lost and found at the member services desk to see if the item may have been turned in. We hold items in our lost and found for a period of 10 days. After 10 days, unclaimed items may be donated or disposed of. The YMCA of Topeka is not responsible for lost or stolen property.

Emergency Contacts

Please keep your contact information up to date. Your current address, phone number and emergency contact information are essential in case of an emergency. Some programs may require a written and signed physician’s approval prior to participation.

Facility Hours

Facility hours are subject to change. The most up-to-date facility hours can be found on our website.

• New Year’s Day — Closed
• Easter Sunday — Closed
• Memorial Day — Closed
• Independence Day — Closed
• Labor Day — Closed
• Thanksgiving — Closed
• Christmas Eve — Limited Hours
• Christmas Day — Closed
• New Year’s Eve — Limited Hours

Facility hours may vary during inclement weather, such as ice, snow or severe weather. Any facility closures will be communicated via the YMCA of Topeka Facebook page or by email (if subscribed).

Supervision Requirements

All children under 9 years of age must be directly supervised by a parent or guardian while on Y property or at a Y program location, unless the children are participating in an organized Y program.

• Parents or guardians of children under the age of 9 must remain on Y property while their children are at the Y unless enrolled in a fee based, supervised Y program.
• Children age 9 and older may be at the Y unsupervised and must follow guidelines for the designated age group.

KidZone

Kidzone is a free service for active members with children ages 2 to 8 years of age. It provides a safe, fun environment for up to two hours per day. The child must be listed on an active Y membership with a photo and KidZone agreement on file before using the KidZone service.

At least one parent, custodian, or guardian of each child must remain on the premises and remain accessible.

KidZone is available to non-members for $5.00 in addition to any applicable day pass rates and must have a signed KidZone agreement on file.

Monthly fee payments are to be made via an automatic draft from a bank account, debit card or credit card of your choice. An automatic draft allows your monthly membership fee to be paid directly from your bank or credit account, with no hassle to you.

• Members and non-members may sign into their account to update membership or payment information or to make payments on their account
• Please monitor your monthly bank or credit card statement for any discrepancies.
• Contact Member Services to setup eCheck/ACH payments if desired in place of credit or debit card transactions

Returned Payments

Outstanding balances, resulting from uncollected returned payments, must be resolved before the participant can attend or enroll in any Y program.

• A redraft of a fee payment can occur up to two times, if the initial attempt to draft is unsuccessful.
• If your check, debit card or credit card payment has been declined for reasons other than non-sufficient funds, it may be necessary for you to pay your fees at the Y location.
• Returned payment fees are non-refundable

Membership Refunds

Membership dues are non-refundable.

Program Refunds

If participating in a Y program, refunds will only be issued prior to the start of a program session. After the program has started the participant (or parent/guardian for a youth participant) may request a transfer into a future program sign-up. Any transfer requests will be considered by the program director.

Membership Changes

Change is inevitable, even when it comes to your Y membership. We offer a web portal for members and non-members to manage updates to their member information.

Membership Upgrades/Downgrades

Additional individuals may be added to your membership through your online account or at the Member Services desk. To make changes to the membership type or to remove members from your membership, please contact Member Services. Please allow up to 10 days for membership changes to take effect.

Moving Away

Memberships to the YMCA of Topeka are not transferable to other YMCAs. If you’re moving out of the area, you will need to cancel your YMCA of Topeka membership and join again in your new city. Most YMCAs participate in the Nationwide Membership program, and with coordination your YMCA of Topeka membership may allow you access at a new YMCA allowing you to utilize the remainder of your YMCA of Topeka membership before starting a new membership at your new location.

At your request, we will provide a letter stating the cancellation date of your membership here in Topeka and the amount of joining fees you paid. Contact the Y in your new area to find out their policies, joining fees and dues, as details will vary.

Membership Cancellation

To cancel your membership, submit a cancellation request online through your account or in-person at the Member Services desk. A 30-day written notice prior to cancellation (ex: you must cancel on or before December 1^st for the January draft to stop) is required. We cannot accept cancellations by phone, email, verbally or by fax.

The Y reserves the right to cancel a membership with appropriate notice.

Rejoining the Y

If a member reactivates their membership within 4 months of cancelling, the joining fee will be waived.

The Y strives every day to provide a welcoming place where anyone, from beginning exercisers to competitive athletes, can come to improve their health and well-being.

The following health and wellness policies are designed to help ensure safety and a positive experience for all members who use the Y.

Fitness Center Rules

• You should understand the risks involved with strength or cardiovascular training
• Athletic shoes must be worn at all times in all workout areas. “Crocs”, open-toed shoes, boots, slippers, and dress shoes are prohibited
• Proper workout attire should be worn in the Fitness Center and Fitness Studio
• Wipe down all equipment with provided cleaner sprayed on a towel (do not spray the equipment)
• Return all equipment you use to its designated location
• Please respect the equipment and others in the facility by not dropping or throwing weights
• For your safety and the safety of others, please use a spotter when lifting heavy weight
• Refrain from using profanity and foul or sexual language
• Report any injury or equipment problems to staff
• No spitting in the facility
• All beverages must have a lid

Gymnasium Rules

• No hanging on the basketball rims or net
• Return all equipment to the member services desk
• Refrain from using profanity and foul or sexual language
• No spitting in the facility
• All beverages must have a lid
• No food, candy, or gum in the gym
• No hard-sole shoes on gym floor

Personal Training Guidelines

Only associates employed by the YMCA of Topeka are allowed to provide personal training within the YMCA of Topeka facility. Our trainers are nationally certified in accordance with the Y’s history and philosophy and are committed to carrying out our mission by providing high-quality personal training programs.

To provide safe, high-quality personal training at all times, personal trainers who are not employed by the Y are prohibited from training others or conducting business at the YMCA of Topeka.

Wellness Floor Age Requirements

• Youth are able to participate in programs or classes specifically designed for them (such as youth or family-friendly group exercise classes).

The Y encourages aquatic exercise and recreation in our pool and hot tub. Your safety and the safety of all who use our pools is a priority.

Lifeguards & Water Safety

During your visit, you may observe ongoing training exercises, including live water safety and rescue drills. All Y lifeguards are trained and certified to mitigate aquatic emergencies and conduct emergency and rescue care when necessary. Such training allows the Y’s lifeguards to stay prepared as the guardians of your safety and well-being.

Swimwear Guidelines

Appropriate swimwear is required to enter the pool or spa. Swimwear is clothing intended to be worn by people engaging in a water-based activity or water sports, such as swimming, and made of a material such as Lycra with nylon, and Spandex.

Material not intended for swimwear will not be allowed. This includes cutoffs, jeans, sweats, underwear, and bras. Please check with the Aquatics Director if you are unsure if your swimwear meets these guidelines or if special circumstances are required.

Infants and children who are not potty trained must wear a swim diaper and appropriate swimsuit.

Age Guidelines

Swim Test: Pass the Test. Lose the Vest.

Swimmers wishing to swim without a PFD must pass a swim test administered by the Y:

1. Jump into the deep end of the pool, submerge fully, return to the surface and immediately begin swimming without pushing off the wall.
2. Swim in a horizontal position, on stomach and on top of the water.
3. Exit the pool without assistance using either the wall or the pool ladder.

The swim test is only offered when a lifeguard can safely administer it. Depending on pool utilization, the test may not be available certain times of the day. Check with the on-duty lifeguard to determine when the test can be safely administered.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Lifeguards have the discretion to mandate a PFD on a swimmer, including a swimmer who may have previously passed a swim test, or require a swim test for any swimmer at any time.

Pool and Hot Tub Rules

Lifeguards enforce rules for the benefit and safety of all swimmers.

• No running, dunking or rough play.
• Personal flotation devices (PFDs) must be US Coast Guard-approved. Life jackets are available in the pool area. Arm floaties or rings are not acceptable forms of floatation devices.
• Pool toys must be approved by a lifeguard and subject to pool occupancy.
• Return all equipment you use to its designated location
• No diving is allowed. Enter the water feet first facing forward.
• Please shower prior to entering the pool or hot tub.
• Excessive underwater breath holding or breath holding games are not permitted.
• Non-potty-trained infants and children must wear a swim diaper.
• All beverages must be in plastic bottles or cups with a lid. All glass is prohibited in the pool area.
• No food, candy, or gum in the pool area.
• Snorkels or mermaid tails are allowed for swimmers 18 years of age and older only.
• Swimmers currently experiencing sores, infections, or diarrhea are not permitted to use the pool or hot tub.
• Swimmers under the influence of drugs or alcohol are not permitted to use the pool or hot tub.
• Refrain from using profanity and foul or sexual language
• No intimate contact is allowed in the pool area.
• Phones are not allowed to be used while in the pool or hot tub
• Individuals not employed by the YMCA are not permitted to provide swim instruction or coaching.
• Lifeguards have full and final authority in the pool area; they may remove individuals who fail to adhere to rules and guidelines

For your safety we request you observe the following additional guidelines when utilizing the hot tub:

• Must be 18 years of age or older to use the hot tub.
• Do not exercise in the hot tub.
• Do not use the hot tub if you are pregnant, elderly, or an individual with health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, high/low blood pressure, respiratory problems, or have been advised by a health professional agsinst using a hot tub.
• Do not use while taking medication which your physician has determined to be dangerous when used under heat and humid conditions.
• Observe reasonable time limits of 10 to 15 minutes to prevent overheating/hyperthermia which may result in nausea, dizziness or fainting.
• Do not use if water temperature is greater than 104­°F/40°C.

Ask a lifeguard if you have any questions or concerns.