Frequently Asked Membership Questions

Who can participate at the Y?

All individuals are welcome to attend Y programs and use our facilities as members regardless of race, ability, religion, sex, national origin, or level of income. To make our programs accessible to all, we provide Financial Assistance, which is made possible by generous donors to our annual Invest in Youth Campaign.

How can I join the Y?

The YMCA of Greater Rochester is a membership organization. You may join the specific facility of your choice, which, in most cases, grants access to all YMCA of Greater Rochester facilities. This is called a Passport Membership. Our YMCA also offers a Neighborhood Membership, which grants access to the Maplewood, Monroe and Southwest Branches only..

What is the difference between a Passport Membership, a Neighborhood Membership and a Program Membership?

A Passport Membership provides access and membership privileges to all YMCA of Greater Rochester facilities. Members receive year round program access and facility use. Many programs are offered at no additional cost, and there are savings on programs where a fee is charged.

A Neighborhood Membership provides access and membership privileges to the Monroe and Southwest Branches only. Neighborhood Members receive year round program access and facility use at these two facilities.


A Program Membership provides an alternative to facility membership for those who wish to enroll in only selected classes/programs. It does not include fitness or aquatics facility privileges.

What payment options are available?

Most Y members take advantage of our convenient, automated monthly payment system, which can be done via bank draft using a credit card (Visa, MasterCard or Discover) or a bank account. Membership dues may also be paid in one annual payment, which is renewed yearly.

Does the Y offer Financial Assistance?

Yes. Thanks to the generosity of members, small businesses, corporations and foundations, the Y is able to offer Financial Assistance to keep Y programs affordable for all, regardless of the ability to pay.

What types of insurance co-payment benefits can I use at the Y?

The YMCA of Greater Rochester recognizes reimbursement benefits with both MVP Health Care and Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. These benefits include, but are not limited to:

TriVantage and Preferred Gold are plans offered by MVP Health Care:

  • SilverSneakers is the nation's leading exercise program designed exclusively for older adults and is available at no additional cost (beyond any monthly premium) to Preferred Gold members. Ask a member service representative if your health plan is eligible.
  • Members of TriVantage Active Lifestyles Plan receive up to $300 per year per subscriber for healthy adult activities such as a YMCA membership, personal trainers, exercise classes or joining a healthy weight support program.
  • Members of TriVantage Family Focus Plan receive up to $300 per year per subscriber for healthy activities for dependents under 18. These activities include but are not limited to a YMCA membership, swimming lessons, Lifeguard Training and summer camp.
  • TriVantage Healthy Alternative EPO members can receive reimbursement for specific non-traditional therapies such as Chiropractic, Acupuncture and Message Therapy.

 

For more information about MVP programs and benefits, visit www.mvphealthcare.com or call (585) 325-3113.

 
Excellus BlueCross BlueShield Benefits:

  • Blue Healthy Choices subscribers with the Fit & Healthy Option are eligible for up to $300 per calendar year for a YMCA membership or toddler gym & swim programs.
  • Blue Healthy Choices subscribers with the Healthy Family Option are eligible for up to $100 per calendar year for a YMCA membership or toddler gym & swim programs.
  • Healthy Blue subscribers can earn HealthyRewards dividends by participating in health & wellness programs at the YMCA.
  • Effective January 1, 2012: All Medicare Advantage members are eligible for a yearly YMCA membership through the Silver & Fit program. This Excellus BCBS program requires a $25 yearly annual fee paid to Silver & Fit to participate.
  • Are you a current Go Getter Member? Please click here to learn about upcoming changes to the program.

 

For more information about Execllus BlueCross BlueShield programs and benefits, visit www.excellusbcbs.com or call 1-800-671-6081.

May I volunteer at the Y?

Volunteering is an important part of the energy and excellence of the Y. Y volunteers work at each location, 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 meet the needs of the organization.

Is the YMCA a charitable organization?

Yes, the YMCA of Greater Rochester is a non-profit organization, recognized by the IRS with a 501(c)3 charitable designation. All donations made to the YMCA of Greater Rochester are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. When you donate money, 100 percent of your donation is used to subsidize program costs or to provide financial assistance to those in need. Click here for more information about making a donation.

How do you register for programs?

Y programs are scheduled into six sessions throughout the year. Members always receive priority registration, which typically begins two weeks prior to the start of the session. Most programs are available for online registration using our easy, convenient Easy to Enroll system. Members may also register for programs by visiting the member service desk. Many classes have limited enrollment, and all registrations are taken on a first come, first served basis.

What are the Y hours of operation? 

Hours of operation vary from branch to branch. Please check with your branch for details. In addition, some areas of the facility, such as the pool and gym, are restricted based on schedules. Please visit your branch's member service desk regularly for schedule changes.