MORE THAN A GYM - SOMEWHERE TO BELONG

The Y brings people together.  We are a non-profit like no other. That’s because in 10,000 neighborhoods across the nation, we have the presence and partnerships to not just promise, but deliver, positive change.

When you join the Y, you are more than a member of a gym.  You are a member of a movement and a place where:

· Parents find a safe, positive environment for children to play and develop lifelong friendships.

· Families come together to have fun and spend quality time with each other.

· Adults connect with friends, pursue interests and learn how to live healthier.

· Communities thrive because neighbors support each other and give back.

A HEALTHY INVESTMENT
EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1ST, 2011 - AUGUST 31ST, 2012

The Y accepts credit card payment for membership fees & program registration fees.

WE UNDERSTAND FINANCES - Financial Assistance

THE ESSENSE OF THE Y
With a commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility, the YMCA of Austin ensures that every individual has access to the essentials needed to grow, learn and thrive.
EVERYONE IS WELCOME
The YMCA welcomes all who wish to participate and believes that no one should be denied access to the Y based on their ability to pay. Through our Financial Assistance Program, the YMCA of Austin provides assistance to youth, adults and families based on individual needs and circumstances.
COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITY
Determining assistance amounts is handled by the Member Services Director in a confidential, fair and consistent manner. Every YMCA member receives the same membership benefits, regardless of whether or not they receive assistance. Y members can feel confident knowing that they are a part of an organization that cares greatly for the well-being of all people.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How is the financial assistance amount determined?
Financial assistance is based on gross monthly income, family size and personal circumstances when you apply. Gross monthly income includes wages/salary of all individuals contributing to the household income, as well as unemployment, child support, parental support, disability income, social security income, government assistance and retirement income. Assistance will be granted to the extent funds are available.

What is the duration of assistance and how do I renew?
Financial assistance is given in 3 month increments. At the end of the 3 months, simply reapply for continued assistance by submitting any changes in income and updated documentation to the Member Services Director. Use of facilities may be a determining factor in decisions concerning renewals. If you do not submit the appropriate paperwork for renewal your membership will expire. Membership fees and assistance are subject to change when you reapply.

Does financial assistance cover the entire cost of membership and program fees? Financial assistance reduces membership fees, it does not eliminate them. Financial assistance can be used towards membership fees, program fees for youth sports and activities, child care, preschool and other Y programs.

What if I haven’t filed Federal Income Taxes?
If you haven’t filed a Federal Income Tax you need to contact the Internal Revenue Service at 1.800.829.8374 to request a letter of verification of non-filing status and submit with this form.

When should I expect my application to be processed?
Completed applications containing all necessary paperwork will be reviewed within three weeks. Your request for assistance may be denied or put on hold without all the required paperwork.

I have additional questions and special circumstances. Who should I contact to find answers?
If you have additional questions or want to discuss special circumstances, please contact Michele Kuddes, our Member Services Director. She will be happy to answers any of your questions in a confidential manner.

CLICK HERE DOWNLOAD OUR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FORM

MEMBERSHIP DESCRIPTIONS

YOUTH : Any youth in grades 2 - 12.  Provides access to the wood gym, pool, tennis and racquetball courts, walking track, Kids Gym and Youth Zone.  No need to purchase for youth if your family has a family membership.

YOUTH WELLNESS CENTER : Any youth ages 14-18 years.  A brief orientation is required before youth are able to access the wellness center. No need to purchase for youth if your family has a family membership.

YOUNG ADULT/STUDENT : Any person ages 18-23, providing proof of school enrollment.  Or any person (any age) who is enrolled in at least 9 credit hours.

ADULT : Any person age18 years or older.

SENIOR : Any person age 65 years or older.

SENIOR COUPLE : Any couple age 65 years or older.

FAMILY : Includes1 or 2 adults living in the same household and dependent children.

LOCKER ROOM DESCRIPTIONS

LOCKER ROOM A
Enhanced, adult only (18 years and older) locker room service including use of whirlpool, steam room, towel service, lockers or baskets.

LOCKER ROOM B
Basic locker room service including use of lockers and showers.

FAMILY/SPECIAL NEEDS LOCKER ROOM
A co-ed locker room for families with young children and members with special needs. Seniors and Adult member categories may also use this locker room. Includes lockers, individual changing/showering rooms, hair dryers, baby changing table and convenient access tot he pool. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

JOINER'S FEE

$1ANNUAL YOUTH MEMBERSHIP

Youth in grades 2nd-12th can become members of the Y for $1 per year.  What does this membership include?

· Basketball Gym, Pool, Kids Gym, Youth Zone, Walking/Running Track, Racquet & Tennis Courts

· Discounted member pricing on swimming lessons

· Discounted member pricing on youth sports

· Discounted member pricing on gymnastics programming

Parents do not need to purchase the $1 Annual Youth Membership if they have a family membership.  The Y is able to provide the $1 Annual Youth Membership due to generous support from Hormel Foods, The Hormel Foundation, United Way of Mower County and our own Y members.

CORPORATE WELLNESS

The Y understands the importance of healthy and happy employees and that is why we have a Corporate Wellness Program that allows companies to help provide membership to their employees.  Contact our Membership Services Director for more details.

REIMBURSEMENT BENEFITS

Many insurance companies will reimburse a portion of membership fees to those who utilize the Y a specific number of times per month.  Not all plans under the participating programs below qualify, so please check with your insurance company to see if your plan is

eligible.  If you are eligible, simply present your insurance member ID card at the Y Front Desk and fill out the required forms to get started.

PARTICIPATING PROGRAMS:
UCare, Blue Cross / Blue Shield of Minnesota, Health Partners, Medica, CCS-TPA

FREQUENTLY ASKED MEMBER QUESTIONS

WHAT TYPES OF PAYMENTS ARE ACCEPTED FOR MONTHLY DUES?
The Y accepts credit cards, debit cards and bank drafts (from checking or savings). 

WHEN ARE MONTHLY DUES CHARGED TO MY BANK/CARD?
Dues are charged to bank accounts or credit/debit cards on the1st business day of each month.

WHAT CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS DOES THE Y ACCEPT?
The Y accepts VISA, MasterCard and Discover cards for monthly dues.  We DO NOT accept American Express credit cards.

 I WAS A Y MEMBER IN THE PAST. DO I NEED TO PAY THE JOINER'S FEE AGAIN?
Yes, if your membership has lapsed for more than 30 days you are required to pay the $50 joiners fee. 

MY COMPANY ALLOWS THE JOINER'S FEE TO BE WAVIED EVERYTIME I REJOIN?
No.  Your company membership only allows your joiner’s fee to be waived when you initially sign up for membership.  If your membership has lapsed for the more than 30 days and you decide to rejoin the Y you are required to pay the $50 joiners fee. 

I AM A MEMBER OF THE MILITARY. DO I GET OT USE THE Y FOR FREE?
We allow active duty members of the military who are on leave to use the Y for free.  Active military ID cards are required to access the facility.  All other members of the military are required to pay membership dues. 

CAN I PUT MY MEMBERSHIP ON HOLD?
The YMCA of Austin does not allow its members to put their membership on hold.

CAN I CANCEL MY MEMBERSHIP OVER THE PHONE?
The YMCA of Austin does not allow members to cancel their memberships over the phone.  Members must stop by the Y Front Desk to fill out a membership termination form.

I HAD A CHANGE IN MY FAMILY/FINANCES AND CAN NO LONGER AFFORD THE Y. WHAT SHOULD I DO?
The Y values you as a member and will do everything we can to help work out a payment situation that fits your needs.  Just ask to speak to our Member Services Director and explain your situation.

WHAT FORMS DO I NEED TO BRING WHEN APPLYING FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE?
People applying for financial assistance need to bring proof of all household income.

IS FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR CHILD AND YOUTH SPORTS?
Yes.  Financial Assistance isn’t just for membership fees.  We can also provide assistance for child care, youth sports, swimming lessons and other youth activities.  Just ask!

WHERE DO I DIRECT MY COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS?
There are a couple of options for submitting comments, suggestions or concerns.  You may go to our website and submit electronically.  You may visit our comment box which is on the wall, near the stairs leading to the lower level.  Or you may visit with Executive Director Mark Bjorlie who would be more than happy to discuss your concerns with you personally.