Frequently Asked Questions
If your question is not answered here, please contact us.
Who can participate at the YMCA?
What makes the YMCA unique?
How can I join the Y?
Can I access all of the YMCA of Lansing locations when I join one?
Is online registration available for membership? Once I become a member, is online registration available for programs and classes?
Does the Y offer financial assistance for membership and programs?
How do I volunteer my time to help the YMCA serve the community?
Is the YMCA a charitable organization?
Who are contributors to the YMCA?
Why should I give to the YMCA if I am not a member?
What is the HOPE Scholarship Program and how is it affiliated with the YMCA?
Is the YMCA affiliated with the YWCA?
Who can participate at the YMCA?
All people are welcome to participate in YMCA programs and use our facilities as members, regardless of race, ability, religion, sex, national origin, or income. In upholding our commitment that “everyone is welcome,” we acknowledge and respect the range of beliefs in our community by modeling acceptance, inclusion, compassion and love. We embrace the worth of each person and assist you in developing your unique gifts and abilities. Please let us know about any special needs.
What makes the YMCA unique?
The YMCA is a values-based, character-building, nonprofit membership organization that plays a vital role in contributing to the community. Our values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility are in everything we do. We plan our high-quality programs around essential elements to help kids grow up caring and responsible. Our staff is caring, competent and experienced. Our training includes safety, activity planning, CPR, First Aid and more.
At the YMCA, young people can develop new skills, increase self-esteem, and make new friends while having fun in safe, nurturing environment. Families can build stronger bonds, achieve greater work/life balance, and become more engaged in their communities. People of all ages and abilities can build a healthier spirit, mind and body.
Financial assistance is available, thanks to the generosity of donors like you. No one is denied access due to inability to pay.
How can I join the Y?
There are a variety of membership options to choose from, including joining one specific facility or having access to more than one. Membership privileges and access vary. For details, visit our Membership page or visit any of our locations for personal assistance.
Can I access all of the YMCA of Lansing locations when I join one?
If you purchase a membership from the YMCA of Lansing, then you can access all of our Lansing YMCA facilities. The YMCA of Lansing has five YMCA branches—Oak Park YMCA, Parkwood YMCA, Downtown YMCA Wellness Center and DeWitt YMCA; a YMCA Program Center located in Eaton Rapids; and overnight/resident camp located in Lake, MI—Mystic Lake YMCA Camp.
Is online registration available for membership? Once I become a member, is online registration available for programs and classes?
Register for a YMCA of Lansing Membership in person at your nearest YMCA. Once you are a member, there are several ways to register for programs and classes. For personal assistance, call or visit your YMCA. You can register for select programs and classes online via our Online Registration system.
Does the Y offer financial assistance for membership and programs?
YMCA membership and programs are open to everyone. Financial assistance is made available to those who cannot afford the services the YMCA provides. These funds come from the generosity of our donors, from grants, and from earned income of the association. We do not expect to turn anyone away if we have the capacity from any of these sources. We handle all financial assistance applications and supporting documentation confidentially. For details, visit our Financial Assistance page.
How do I volunteer my time to help the YMCA serve the community?
Volunteering is an important part of the energy and excellence of the YMCA. YMCA volunteers work at each facility; they help with programs and events; they serve on committees; and some lead as members of the Board of Directors. We are grateful for all volunteer help, and we need a wide range of skills and interests to help us meet the needs of the people and the community that we serve. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, view our Volunteering page or call or visit your YMCA.
Is the YMCA a charitable organization?
The YMCA of Lansing is a nonprofit organization recognized by the Internal Revenue Service with a 501(c)3 charitable designation. All donations made to the YMCA of Lansing are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. When you donate money, 100% of your donation is used to provide financial assistance to those in need and to subsidize programs. Make a donation online today!
Who are contributors to the YMCA?
Individuals, families, businesses, community partners, foundations, churches, civic groups and government grants all support the work of the YMCA to build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.
Why should I give to the YMCA if I am not a member?
Your support is still needed. Membership fees and donations are two different sources of income, both tied to our charitable mission. Income from program and membership fees and government sources cover the YMCA’s operating costs, program delivery, and membership services. It does not cover the cost of community programs for young people and adults or financial assistance for economically disadvantaged youth and families.
Donations to our Annual Campaign for Kids and Families go directly to support programs and scholarships that benefit young people, adults and families. Your donations support our efforts in the community to provide meaningful opportunities, positive experiences, and caring adult role models to help youth grow into responsible adults. Therefore, your support benefits every community member, regardless of their YMCA involvement.
What is the HOPE Scholarship Program and how is it affiliated with the YMCA?
The H.O.P.E. Scholarship Program (Helping Other People Excel) is an education initiative in cooperation with the Lansing School District, the City of Lansing , Lansing Community College, Michigan State University, the Lansing Police Department, and in cooperation with local businesses and private citizens.
The H.O.P.E. Scholarship Program was developed to assist Lansing School District youth in their commitment to graduate from high school and go onto college. Students are initiated into the program as sixth graders. Students promise to finish high school in exchange for two years of free tuition at Lansing Community College. The students are chosen by their school based on their ability to utilize the program. The YMCA partnered with the program to provide 3 month memberships at any location of the YMCA of Lansing to those H.O.P.E students based on criteria set by the Lansing School District including: increased GPA and better attendance.
Is the YMCA affiliated with the YWCA?
The YMCA and YWCA are not affiliated. Each is an independent nonprofit organization with a separate but strong mission. The YMCA’s primary focus is character-building programming that helps young people reach their fullest potential in environments that promote a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Our goal is to build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.
