Policies & Code of Conduct – Big Spring YMCA

Membership Policies

Membership Disclaimer / Hold Harmless

I understand that there is a risk of serious injury associated with the use of the YMCA facilities, participation in YMCA programs and use of exercise and other equipment. As a condition of my membership I agree to assume the risk of injury arising from my use of the facilities, programs, equipment, and for all other matters at all YMCA locations or programs whenever occurring. On behalf of myself and my heirs, administrators, executors, I hereby release and hold the YMCA and its officers, trustees, employees, agents, and contractors harmless from all such claims for injury and damage. I understand that I would not be permitted to participate in any YMCA program or use any YMCA facility or equipment without signing this agreement

Membership Agreement

All members are required to present a current, valid YMCA membership card for identification when using the YMCA’s facilities and programs. Membership cards are not transferable to other people. As a member of the YMCA, you are agreeing to follow the policies, procedures, and appropriate behaviors for the safety and comfort of all members and guests.

I have read and understand the Disclaimer / Hold Harmless agreement.

In addition, I understand and agree that the conditions of the disclaimer / hold harmless agreement are in effect throughout my entire membership with the Big Spring Family YMCA.

I also understand and agree that if the membership is interrupted for any reason, these agreements will remain in effect during the period of interruption as well as after the membership is reinstated.

Code of Conduct

Because the YMCA is a volunteer-led non-profit organization that relies on fees and charitable contributions, we work very hard to manage our limited resources thoughtfully and prudently. For each program series, classes are carefully planned according to the number of participants – staff/participant ratios are determined for safety, program supplies are purchased and prepared, and staffing is finalized. Once a program series begins, these expenses are incurred by the organization.

This Code of Conduct is shortened. Please look for posted signs on YMCA walls for more information on code of conduct/ rules and regulations in each department.

Fitness Center Age Policy

Individuals, age 15 and older, may work out by themselves, although a spotter is recommended
Individuals, age 12-14 may not work out; Direct Parental Supervision is Required
Children, age 11 and younger, are not allowed in the fitness center

Refund Policy

Joiners’ fees, gift certificates, guest passes, and membership fees are non-refundable.
Program/Class fees are non-refundable after the first day of the program session. Please note that the first day of the program session is not always the first class of the session.
No credits, refunds, or make-up classes will be issued for classes missed due to personal reasons. Please consider all vacations, holidays, religious observances, and other personal activities prior to registering for classes.
A system credit will be issued when a medical excuse is presented and accompanied by a doctor’s note.
Refund requests can only be made during the current session; credits will not be issued once the session is over. YMCA system credits are applicable toward any YMCA program, are valid for one year from the date of issue but are not redeemable for cash.
Unforeseen Pool Closings Refund Policy: a system credit will only be given for unforeseen pool closings due to serval days out of commission. No refunds, credits or make-up lessons will be given for weather related closings. It is your responsibly to contact the Family YMCA to HOLD your account during the unforeseen events to prevent billing inflations
The Redwoods Group, the American Red Cross, National Lightning Safety Institute and YMCA of the USA recommend the proactive action of removing swimmers from indoor pools as a lightning storm approaches and until after it passes. For the safety of our swimmers, the pool will be cleared during electrical storms, and will remain closed until 30 minutes after the last occurrence of thunder and/or lightning.

Membership and Classes Policy

All participants in Big Spring Family YMCA programs must be members an administered into the Daxko Systems. If your membership expires before a session ends, you must renew your membership before the end of class. Please understand that memberships do not automatically cancel/terminate at the end of a class/program session. See below for termination policy.

Termination Policy

No membership contracts!! Your membership will continue uninterrupted until you provide us with a 30-day written termination notice available at the Membership Desk.

Privacy Policy

We recognize that many visitors to our website are concerned about the information they provide to us, and how we treat that information. Our goal is to provide an enjoyable and informative service for our families. Any personal information collected by the Big Spring Family YMCA will be kept strictly in-house. The Big Spring Family YMCA will not sell or provide this information to third parties.

Children –If you are 18 years of age or younger, please be sure to ask your parents for permission before providing any information to us.
Parents –We hope that you and your children enjoy our Web site. In communicating directly with minors over the Internet, we recognize the unique issues raised regarding the protection of your child’s privacy. We recommend that you caution your children about the importance of scrutinizing sources and remind them to check with you before revealing any personal information.

Data Security Standards

The Big Spring Family YMCA is committed to providing the highest level of security to members. Personal information, payment information and other data transmitted through our system are encrypted using 128-bit SSL encryption technology. Security procedures are tested and reviewed on a regular basis.

Parking Policy

Parking is prohibited where marked by yellow / handicap safety lines.
Parking of heavy-duty commercial vehicles is prohibited; Parking of unattached semi-trailers is prohibited.
Parking is prohibited in an intersection or a crosswalk, within 15 feet of a fire station driveway or fire hydrant, in front of the YMCA driveway, on YMCA sidewalks, on the roadway side of a parked vehicle (double parking) or in such a manner that obstructs the free use of access streets or parking lot.
Be aware of signage when you park. Read all sign they may include additional time-frame restrictions and other parking guidelines. We have many parking options that are available to you only while you are using the Big Spring Family YMCA facility or programs.
Cars that do not follow the above stipulations may be ticketed and/or towed at the owner’s expense.

YMCA Member Code of Conduct

The Big Spring Family YMCA is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all members and guests. To promote safety and comfort for all, we always expect individuals to act appropriately when they are in our facility or participating in our programs.

We expect persons using the Big Spring Family YMCA to behave in a mature and responsible way, and to respect the rights and dignity of others. Our Code of Conduct does not permit language or any action that can hurt or frighten another person, or that falls below a generally accepted standard of conduct.

Prohibited actions specifically include but are not limited to:

Inappropriate attire; appropriate attire includes gym shorts, shirts, or sweat suits in the physical area, and regular swimsuits or clean shorts without frayed ends in the pool area.
Angry or vulgar language, including swearing or name-calling.
Physical contact with another person in any angry, threatening or offensive way.
Any sexual activity or sexual contact with another person.
Harassment or intimidation by words, gestures, body language or any menacing behavior.
Theft or behavior that results in the destruction of property.
Carrying any weapons or devices or objects that may be used as weapons.
Using or possessing illegal substances or alcohol on YMCA property, in YMCA vehicles, or at YMCA sponsored programs.
Smoking/ Vaping in the is not permissible in or around the YMCA and its property is a smoke-free environment.

The YMCA conducts regular sex offender screenings on all members, participants, and guests. If a sex offender match occurs, the YMCA reserves the right to cancel membership, end program participation, and remove visitation access.

The Big Spring Family YMCA reserves the right to deny access or membership to any person who has been accused or convicted of any sex-related crime; habitually or excessively uses illegal substances; has ever been convicted of any offense relating to the use, sale, possession, or transportation of illegal substances, or continuous or excessive use of alcohol.

Outside Personal Training and Coaching Policy

Based on the recommendations from our national organization YMCA of the USA, and due to the fact that personal training services are offered by the our YMCA, only Big Spring Family YMCA certified personal training staff members will be allowed to utilize YMCA facilities for personal training services, including and not limited to sports technique/agility training.

If a member or guest believes a violation of the YMCA Member Code of Conduct has occurred, they should report the behavior to a YMCA staff member. The Big Spring Family YMCA staff members are eager to be of assistance; members and guests should not hesitate to notify a staff member if assistance is needed.

In order to be able to carry out these policies, we ask that members and guests identify themselves to YMCA staff members when asked.

Waivers

Membership Disclaimer / Hold Harmless

Mobile Phones

The public use of YMCA phones is limited to emergency calls only
The use of personal camera phones in the YMCA is restricted in weight- room, restrooms, sauna, swim area, childcare or places that can be considered inappropriate; requiring approval by the YMCA administration in such event such as sport recreation event, parties, etc.

Locker Room — (Members Lockers)

Public restroom and members lockers provide lockers
Members are allowed using VIZpin access. Lockers can be rented for 4.00 a month. If you do rent, please lock your locker to prevent articles or personal belonging from being stolen
Youth under the age of 17 years are not permitted in the Members Locker rooms; they can use the public restroom.

Authorization for Credit Card Transactions

I authorize the YMCA to initiate electronic funds entries to my credit card. Should any membership deduction not be honored by my financial institution for any reason, I realize that I am responsible for payment, plus a service charge of $34.00. This is in addition to any service charge that my financial institution may charge my account. I understand that it is my responsibility to notify the YMCA in writing should I change my financial institution or account at any time. This authorization to deduct funds remains in effect until the YMCA has received 30-day written notification from me indicating my desire to cancel my membership.

The YMCA Board of Directors may, at its discretion, adjust the monthly rate applicable to my membership category. I understand that I will receive at least 20-days’ notice prior to any such change in my membership dues. It is further understood that if such payment is not honored by the credit card institution, then the YMCA, at its discretion, may resubmit the amount due for payment on a future date.

Photo Release

In consideration of the good will, public service and community aid provided by the Big Family YMCA, which you support and from which you have received benefit by becoming a member and/or using the program and/or attending YMCA event, you hereby grant permission to the YMCA to use your name, take and publish photographs, videotapes or motion pictures of you or which include your voice, in any media and promotional material for legitimate purpose, All rights to such photographs videotapes, motion pictures and recordings are released. You understand that you shall receive no compensation from their use from any source whatsoever.

Pool Rules and Usage

Adults must be with youth the entire time if the child is dependent on a flotation device or below Fish level. Children 14 years of age and younger must have a parent present in the pool area. The lifeguard has the right to ask the child to perform a swim test which entails one lap of backstroke and freestyle plus treading water for one minute
A lifeguard must be on duty in order for anyone to swim or use sauna
Children, age 7 and younger, must always be accompanied by an adult in the water unless they have passed the swim test.
All individuals, age 17 and younger, are required to pass a swim test in order to swim in the deep end of the pool.
Hot Tubs and saunas are for adults

Rules & Regulations for After- Hours Access

The fee for after-hours access is $20.00 additional per month- per individual or $30 for a couple sharing the same VIZpin key under the same unit in membership (speak to a YMCA representative about these terms). This service is not transferable from one individual to another. The VIZpin is a virtual key installed on your phone.
In order to receive a VIZpin after-hour access, you must have an active membership in accordance with the plans offered by the Big Spring YMCA. In which the card will only be activated if you agree to add it in a reoccurring draft on the 1^st or 16th of each month.
All members must present their key card at the front desk upon entry into the facility during staffed hours.
After hour access is limited to the fitness center and general locker rooms only. No other access is to be entered. Entering in prohibited areas can lead to possible termination of membership.
If a YMCA member claims that his/her membership card has been lost, stolen or destroyed, the YMCA will require an affidavit setting forth the relevant circumstances and payment of a service fee before issuing a replacement card. Service fees are subject to change by the Big Spring family YMCA.
YMCA members are not allowed to bring or allow non-members to use their after-hours access door. Violation penalty up to $200.00 and possible termination of membership.
Valuables should be secured in lockers. YMCA is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
All individuals using the YMCA facilities must wear appropriate exercise attire: no jeans, hard sole shoes, bathing suits, flip flops, sports bras, (only) or bare feet on gym floor.
No smoking, vaping or tobacco is allowed anywhere in the building. No alcoholic beverages, illicit drugs, or steroid are allowed in the YMCA any time. No one under the influence of the aforementioned is allowed on the premises of the facility.
Except for capped water bottles, eating or drinking in the facility are prohibited
Members are expected to be respect one another and no profanity or other excessive noise or distraction is allowed within the facility.
Do not monopolize the weights/ strength training equipment. Share the equipment if people are waiting
Failure to utilize the facility does not relieve obligations hereunder. In the event of permanent disability, membership may be cancelled upon notice in writing. A request for a freeze or cancellation due to temporary illness or injury must be substantiated in writing by a physician and may be granted upon a 30-day notice.
The member agrees to be subject to the control and guidance of the facility staff while on the premises and will follow instructions of facility personnel. Member agrees to conduct his/herself in a quiet, well- mannered fashion while on the premises and reserve all criticism of any kind about other facility members, guest, or facility personnel until in a private office with the facility manager. The member agrees to obey all rules and conditions of membership contained in this contract or o the future prescribed by the facility and the facility reserves the right to revoke or terminate the membership if a member fails to keep and obey any such rules and conditions.
The member agrees to pay an extra charge for any damage/ destruction arising from careless use of equipment, dropping of weights, etc, or malicious damage caused by member to walls, equipment, restroom facility and floors.
Only flat benches may be moved around the center. All other equipment is to remain stationary.
Keep the facility clean. Please pick up after yourself and discard your trash.
The member agrees and represents on behalf of his/ herself all exercises, treatment, and use of al facilities shall be undertaken at each members/ own risk, that each member is in good physical condition and physically able to undertake any and all physical exercises and treatment provide by the facility, and the corporation which owns the facility and / or any affiliated companies and /or their respective agents and employees shall not be liable for any claims, demands, injuries, damages, actions or causes of actions to members of their property, which arise wholly or partially due to the negligence of a member, and/ or which arise wholly or partially due to the negligence of the corporation which owns the facility and/ or any affiliated companies and/ or their respective agents and employees or the premise where the same are located; and the members the herby expressly forever release and discharge said corporation and any affiliated companies and their respective agents and employs from all such claims, injuries, damages, actions or causes of action. In case of an accident, the member agrees on behalf of his/ herself and al family members that the injured party will be examined at Member sole expense by a licensed physician who shall report in writing to both the injured party and the corporation owning the facility.
The fitness center offers a non- threatening environment to get healthier. We discourage dropping weights, emotional, outburst, and loud grunting while working out. Please respect others that are trying to exercise.
You cannot bring your own fitness equipment, i.e.- weights, benches, etc.
Please leave all electronic equipment alone such as TV’s, radios provided by the YMCA
The fitness center is not staffed; however, the YMCA does randomly check the status of member card holder during nights to monitor and minimize the abuse of non-member sneak ins.
In case of equipment malfunction please notify the YMCA via email at theymca@att.net
Rules and regulations at the facilities are subject to change without notice. Please obey all posted rules the YMCA has laced on walls throughout the facilities.
The obligation to pay dues is not dependent upon the availability of the YMCA’s facilities or the members usage of the outages, weather, repair /maintenance, construction or other incidents/ acts of nature may cause a restricted use of the facilities at any time.
Note: Violation of these facility rules may result of loss/ suspension of your membership without refund and additional charges when warranted.
The Big Spring Family YMCA is protected by CCTV security cameras, images are recorded for crime prevention, facility violations and public safety