Our "Open Doors" Financial Assistance Program

The YMCA's Open Doors Program provides financial assistance to people in our community experiencing financial difficulty. Whether you're experiencing financial difficulty from the loss of a job, overwhelming medical bills, or separation or divorce, the Open Doors Program offers assistance designed to fit your financial situation and covers all Y activities and programs.

Who does the Open Doors program serve?

Youth referred by schools, churches and organizations
Adults who are out of work and their families
Adults on fixed incomes
Single parent families

What programs qualify for assistance?

Memberships, programs (e.g. aquatics, youth sports, etc.), child care and camps.

How much assistance will be provided?

The amount of financial assistance depends on the extent of the need and the cost of programs. We want to help as many people as possible and believe that a strong sense of ownership and pride is developed if recipients contribute to the cost of their YMCA involvement. It's unusual for us to provide 100 percent of the fee, however, no one is turned away because of inability to pay.

How do I get assistance?

To find out more about financial assistance, contact your nearest YMCA, download a copy of our Open Doors application and schedule an appointment with one of our membership professionals. At your meeting, it will be helpful for you to bring

Your most recent tax return. If you don't have a copy, you can request one from the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.
Your last two pay stubs, bank statement showing direct deposit amount, or Social Security/Disability checks
Documentation of any federal assistance including food stamps, rent subsidy, unemployment or disability
Student loan information if applicable
If you didn't file taxes last year or don't have the other requested documentation, please submit a letter explaining your financial situation.

How long will assistance continue?

Assistance is provided for a specific time period and will be reviewed for eligibility at least once a year. Some programs require more frequent review. If help is still needed when that time is up, you can reapply for assistance.

Why does the YMCA request financial information?

With information on family size and income, we can award assistance in a fair and consistent way, making sure that everyone receives equal consideration.

Who will see the financial information?

Personal financial information is handled confidentially and will not be shared with any other organization.

Who furnishes the funds for the Open Doors Program?

Funds for the Open Doors Program are provided by our members, donors, our Partner With Youth annual fundraising campaign and as part of our participation with the United Way.

MEMBERSHIP