9th Grade Initiative

The YMCA of South Alabama believes every teen should have a place to be active, connect with others and belong.

Through our 9th Grade Initiative, students currently enrolled in 9th grade can receive a FREE YMCA membership for the school year.

The membership can be used at any YMCA of South Alabama location, giving teens access to opportunities to stay active, meet new people and become part of their Y community.

What’s Included?

9th Grade Initiative members can enjoy access to YMCA amenities and programs available for their age, including:

• Fitness facilities
• Pools and aquatics
• Group exercise classes
• Youth sports and events
• Opportunities to connect with other teens
• A welcoming YMCA community

Some amenities, classes and programs may vary by location or have additional fees or age requirements.

How to Get Started

Getting started is easy.

1. Download and complete the 9th Grade Initiative form.
A parent or guardian must complete and sign the required waiver.

2. Bring the completed form to any YMCA of South Alabama location.

3. Our Y staff will help set up your FREE 9th Grade Initiative membership.

[DOWNLOAD THE 9TH GRADE INITIATIVE FORM]

You can complete the form ahead of time and bring it with you when you visit the Y.

Where Can I Use My Membership?

Your 9th Grade Initiative membership can be used at any YMCA of South Alabama location:

Bounds Family YMCA
Daphne

Spanish Fort YMCA
Spanish Fort

John McClure Snook Family YMCA
Foley

North Mobile Family YMCA
Saraland

What Happens After 9th Grade?

We hope the Y becomes a place you want to keep coming back to.

The free 9th Grade Initiative membership lasts through the school year. For teens who are regularly attending the Y and would like to continue their membership after the program ends, financial assistance is available for families who need additional support.

We never want cost to be the reason someone loses access to the Y. Talk with our staff to learn more about available financial assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the membership really free?

Yes. There is no membership cost for eligible students participating in the 9th Grade Initiative during the school year.

Who is eligible?

Students who are currently enrolled in 9th grade are eligible to participate.

Does my parent or guardian have to join the YMCA?

No. A parent or guardian does not have to purchase a YMCA membership. They do need to complete and sign the required waiver for the 9th-grade student.

Does my parent or guardian need to come with me to sign up?

No. A parent or guardian does not need to come to the YMCA with you, but the required waiver must be signed before you can work out or use the facility.

Can I use more than one YMCA location?

Yes! Your membership can be used at any YMCA of South Alabama location.

How long does the free membership last?

The 9th Grade Initiative membership lasts through the school year.

Can I stay a YMCA member after the school year ends?

Yes. We encourage teens who are actively using the Y to stay involved. Financial assistance is available for families who need help with membership costs after the 9th Grade Initiative ends.

Do I need to fill out the form before coming to the YMCA?

You can download and complete the form ahead of time to make the process easier but it isn’t required we can also help you at our welcome center.

Ready to Get Started?

Download the form, have a parent or guardian sign the waiver, and bring it to the YMCA location that is most convenient for you.

[DOWNLOAD THE 9TH GRADE INITIATIVE FORM]

We can’t wait to welcome you to the Y.