TEEN and YOUTH CODE OF CONDUCT FOR MEMBERS AGED 8 - 17 YEARS OLD

In order to provide a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment for all teens and youth, the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo will require all families / youth to review the Teen and Youth Code of Conduct to establish expectations and understanding. We ask that all parents review these expectations with thier youth prior to spending supervised and unsupervised time at the Y.

Facility Use

  • Must check in with a membership card, photo of membership card or through the YMCA app, every day. No one is allowed to enter the YMCA without scanning in to verify active member status and membership account is updated with no balance due.
    • The YMCA must know who is in the building
    • Only Members are allowed in the building. Out of town guests are allowed in once they have completed all the registration requirements.
  • Treat YMCA equipment, supplies, and spaces with care.
  • Clean up after yourself and return equipment when finished.
  • Food and drinks may only be allowed in designated areas. This does not include the GYM, or Fitness areas (water only).
  • Lockers are for daily use. Not for overnight use.
  • Bring a lock to secure your belongings. The YMCA is not responsible for lost items.

Respect for Everyone

  • Treat all members, staff, and guests with kindness and respect.
  • Bullying, teasing, harassment, or discrimination of any kind is not allowed.
  • No profanity allowed.
  • Follow directions from YMCA staff and volunteers.
  • Fighting, threats, or aggressive behavior will not be tolerated.
  • Weapons, alcohol, tobacco, vapes, or drugs are strictly prohibited.
  • Engaging in sexual actions or behavior is strictly prohibited.
  • Youth must wear appropriate clothing and footwear for activities.

Stay in Approved Areas

  • Youth must remain in program-approved and age appropriate program areas. See the Age Guidelines to know the age requirements for each department.
  • If appropriate age, an orientation may be required to use fitness equipment.
  • If appropriate age, and swim test may be required to use the aquatics area.
  • When in a program area participate according to the program guidelines.   

Safety First

  • Running, roughhousing, pushing, or unsafe play inside the building is not allowed.
  • Use equipment only for its intended purpose.
  • Report injuries, unsafe conditions, or concerns to staff immediately.
  • Follow all safety rules for the gym, pool, fitness areas, and program rooms

Technology & Devices

  • Use of Phones are prohibited in the all the locker rooms.
  • Phones and personal electronic devices may only be used in designated areas.
  • Out of the respect for others and privacy, please use headphones.
  • Photos or videos of others may not be taken without permission.
  • Use of internet/social media/music must follow the YMCA Core Values and the Code of Conduct.

Supervision Requirements

  • Youth ages 8–11 must remain in supervised program areas unless accompanied by a parent/guardian.
  • Youth ages 12–17 may access approved areas of the building according to YMCA policies and staff direction.
  • Some areas (fitness centers, weight rooms, pools) may require orientation or staff supervision.
  • When the youth center and/or gym is closed, youth must either proceed to another designated area or exit the building.
  • Youth are not to wander through the building, run or engage in horseplay, or act disrespectfully toward other members and staff.

Consequences for Not Following Rules

If rules are not followed, the YMCA may take the following steps:

  1. Verbal reminder or warning
  2. Suspension from the program or facility with Parent/guardian notification.
  3. Suspension from Program or facility to include in person meeting with parent/guardian to reenter the facility.
  4. Termination of membership.

YMCA Core Values

All youth are expected to follow YMCA Core Values:

  1. Integrity
  • Caring – Be kind and helpful
  • Honesty – Tell the truth and do the right thing
  • Respect – Treat others and property well
  • Responsibility – Be accountable for your actions

2. Health

3. Diversity

4. Collaboration

Ask for Help

If you ever feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or need help:

  • Talk to a YMCA staff member immediately.
  • Staff are here to help and support you.