Member Policies

Creating a Safe, Welcoming Y for Everyone!

At the YMCA of Waycross, we are committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and family-friendly environment where individuals and families can focus on healthy living, personal growth, and building meaningful connections.

Our member policies are designed to ensure that everyone has a positive experience while enjoying our facilities, programs, and services. We ask all members and guests to demonstrate our YMCA core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.

Membership & Facility Access

• All members are required to check in at the Welcome Desk each time they enter the YMCA, regardless of how frequently they visit.
• Memberships are intended for use by the registered member and may not be shared or transferred to others.
• Guests must check in at the Welcome Desk and follow all applicable guest policies and fees.
• Members must follow posted facility hours, age restrictions, and guidelines for designated areas.
• Members under age 18 are not permitted to access EGYM during unstaffed hours.

Member Conduct & Respect

• Treat fellow members, guests, and YMCA staff with courtesy and respect.
• Abusive language, harassment, bullying, threats, or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.
• Follow all instructions provided by YMCA staff regarding safety, equipment use, and facility operations.
• Respect the privacy and personal space of others.
• Help maintain a positive, inclusive environment for individuals and families of all backgrounds and abilities.

Fitness Center & Equipment

• Wear appropriate athletic clothing and closed-toe athletic shoes in fitness areas.
• Use equipment safely and according to posted instructions.
• Return weights and equipment to their designated locations after use.
• Wipe down equipment after each use.
• Report damaged or malfunctioning equipment to YMCA staff immediately.
• Use headphones when listening to personal music or other audio.
• Follow all posted age requirements and supervision guidelines.

Aquatics & Pool Safety

• Follow all posted pool rules and lifeguard instructions.
• Children must meet applicable age and swim ability requirements for independent pool use.
• Appropriate swimwear is required.
• Running, horseplay, and unsafe behavior in pool areas are prohibited.
• Lifeguards and YMCA staff have the authority to restrict pool access when safety conditions require it.

Children & Youth

• Parents and guardians are responsible for following all age restrictions and supervision requirements.
• Children may only use designated areas and equipment appropriate for their age.
• Parents and guardians must follow applicable check-in, check-out, and supervision procedures for youth programs.
• Children must not be left unattended in areas where supervision is required.

Facility Cleanliness & Personal Belongings

• Help maintain a clean and welcoming facility by disposing of trash and keeping shared spaces orderly.
• Respect YMCA property, equipment, and facilities.
• Secure personal belongings appropriately. The YMCA is not responsible for lost or stolen items, subject to applicable law.
• Report unsafe conditions, suspicious activity, or facility concerns to YMCA staff.

Membership Accounts & Payments

• Members are responsible for maintaining current contact and payment information.
• Membership dues and applicable program fees must be paid according to YMCA payment policies.
• Membership cancellations, changes, and payment concerns should be directed to the Welcome Desk.
• Membership privileges may be suspended or terminated for unpaid balances or violations of YMCA policies, subject to applicable membership terms.

Policy Enforcement

YMCA policies apply to ALL members and guests, without exception or favoritism. Our staff are responsible for consistently enforcing these policies to help maintain a safe, respectful, and enjoyable environment.

Failure to follow YMCA rules may result in a warning, temporary suspension, or termination of membership privileges, depending on the nature and severity of the violation.

At the YMCA of Waycross, we believe that a strong community begins with mutual respect, personal responsibility, and a shared commitment to making the Y a place where everyone belongs!

For questions about membership policies or facility guidelines, contact the YMCA of Waycross at 912-285-8660 or visit us at 1634 Plant Avenue, Waycross, GA.