Type|Policies Begin|07/15/22 End|01/00/00

POLICIES AND PERMISSIONS

Policies are subject to all applicable laws.

Photography and Audio -I give the YMCA of the Triangle Area, Inc. ("YMCA") and its employees and agents permission to use for any lawful purpose my and/or the likeness of my child in image, voice and/or appearance as such may be embodied in any pictures, drawings, renderings, photographs, video recordings, audiotapes, digital images or the like, with the understanding that the YMCA will not publish an associated name.
 
I agree that the YMCA has complete ownership of such pictures, etc., including but not limited to illustrations, bulletins, exhibitions, videotapes, reprints, reproductions, publications, advertisements and any promotional or educational materials in any medium now known or later developed, including but not limited to the internet, television, radio, newspapers, magazines, social media sites (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Flickr, blogs, etc.), and/or YMCA audio, print or internet publications. I also agree that the YMCA has permission to release such pictures, etc. to the news media. I acknowledge that I will not receive any compensation or remuneration for the use of such pictures, etc. I understand that once such pictures, etc. are published to the media or on the internet, or are otherwise published, they may be used in publications and/or on websites outside of YMCA control.
 
Transportation -I understand and agree that for YMCA programs providing transportation for me/ my child 1) to a YMCA program from home, 2) home from a YMCA program or, 3) from his/her school to a YMCA program, the liability of the YMCA of the Triangle Area for me/ my child begins when a participant boards a YMCA vehicle and ends when the participant exits the vehicle. Under some circumstances, the liability of the YMCA will continue if the participant is exiting the YMCA vehicle to participate in a YMCA program. Pickup and drop off points will be determined prior to me/ my child attending the program for which the participant is registered. If YMCA staff encounters circumstances that they perceive as dangerous at the location where I am/ my child is scheduled to exit a YMCA vehicle, I/ my child will not be permitted to exit. YMCA staff do not buckle participants of any age into car seats or fasten seat belts. I understand NC Boating Laws require completion of a NASBLA-approved course before operating a vessel propelled by a 10+ hp motor.
 
I understand and acknowledge that the YMCA does not furnish any insurance for my protection should any claim or suit be made against me arising out of, in connection with, or related to the operation of a personally owned vehicle. I also understand that the YMCA has no insurance to repair damage that may occur to my personally owned vehicle arising out of, in connection with, or related to mentor activities. At all times, I will maintain automobile insurance coverage, as required by the laws of the State of North Carolina. I agree to indemnify the YMCA against all claims, losses, damages, and expenses, including attorney fees, which the YMCA may incur arising out of, in connection with, or related to, the use of my personal vehicle. I waive all claims that I have, or may have in the future, against the YMCA and/or its Board of Directors, officers, employees, insurers, volunteers, and agents. This release of all claims includes, but is not limited to, all liability for damages of any type, losses, or injuries that may arise out of, in connection with, or related to, the use of volunteer’s vehicle. I understand that I may consult an attorney at my own expense prior to signing this agreement. In the event that any portion of this agreement is deemed unenforceable, the remainder will continue in full force and effect. State of North Carolina law, without regard to conflicts of laws, will apply to this agreement. The exclusive venue for any action arising out of, in connection with, or related to, this agreement, will be the Superior Court sitting in Wake County, North Carolina. By my signature below, I acknowledge and agree to the following: I confirm that I have carefully read this Consent and Release. I agree to all of the above terms knowingly and voluntarily.
 
Field Trips -I permit my child to leave the YMCA on authorized trips under the supervision of the YMCA staff.
 
Programs Communication -I give permission for my school-aged child to communicate via email, web-based communication (such as Facebook) and phone (including cell phone text messages and images) with YMCA staff and volunteer advisors. I understand that my school-aged child and the staff and volunteer advisors may communicate about YMCA program information and other information while they are not supervised by YMCA personnel. I release and hold harmless the YMCA from any legal claims or liability related to such communications via email, web-based communication and phone.
 
Surveys and Research - I give the YMCA of the Triangle Area, Inc. (“YMCA”) and its employees and agents permission to include my child in their partner surveys and research for the purpose of program quality, community health and/or other improvement criteria. I understand that all information provided during participation will be kept confidential and managed securely when stored digitally. All data provided will be deidentified to ensure your child is not identifiable, and all data will highlight combined or group results. I understand that participation is voluntary and that I have the right to terminate my child’s participation at any time or to refuse their participation entirely without jeopardy to their status in the program. If at any time I need to remove participation permission for my child, I understand that the YMCA will need written notification.
 
Sex Offender Registry -North Carolina law prohibits sex offenders from accessing YMCA of the Triangle programs and facilities. In compliance with this law and in order to ensure the safety of our children, we regularly compare our membership and participant database to the National Registry of Convicted Sex Offenders and terminate the membership, programs, and/or access rights of anyone registered.
 
Personal Items and Damage Assessment -I understand that the YMCA is not responsible for any personal items damaged, lost or stolen at our programs. If I/ my child or anyone on the YMCA property causes damage to property belonging to the YMCA of the Triangle or another individual due to negligence, misuse or unsanctioned activity or behaviors, the YMCA reserves the right to charge a damage repair assessment fee.
 
Force Majeure -The performance of this Agreement by the YMCA is subject to act of God, government authority, curtailment of transportation, disaster, widespread illness, including epidemic and pandemic events, and other emergencies, any of which make it illegal, impossible, or commercially impracticable, for the YMCA to perform its obligations. It is provided that this Agreement may be terminated by YMCA for any one or more of such reasons by written notice from YMCA to the other party without liability to YMCA.
 
Inclement Weather -I understand that programs may not be available when school is closed due to inclement weather. Please refer to theYMCA website for the most up to date information.
 
Babysitting Policy -The YMCA strives to employ the very best staff possible in all of our programs. During staff time off or after they are no longer employed with the YMCA, these persons are private citizens and are no longer subject to our employment rules and procedures. The YMCA cannot and does not endorse or recommend its present or former staff members as babysitters to any parent or guardian of any child in any of our programs. Any babysitting arrangements with present or former staff of the YMCA is separate and independent from any YMCA program and must be based on the independent investigation, responsibility and judgement of the parent or guardian. I agree that the YMCA shall not be responsible and will be held harmless from any claims or liability in connection with such babysitting activities.
 
Horseback Riding -I acknowledge that horseback riding, trail rides, or using horses entail known and un-anticipated risks which could result in physical, emotional injury, paralysis, death or damage to myself, to property or to third parties. I understand that such risks simply cannot be eliminated without jeopardizing the essential qualities of the activity. The risks include, among other things: loss of control, collisions; horses, irrespective of their previous behavior and characteristics, may act or react unpredictably based upon instinct, fright, or lack of proper control by rider, such as biting, kicking, bucking, lying down or stumbling; latent or apparent defects or conditions in equipment, animals or property; acts of other participants in this activity, adverse weather conditions; contacts with plants, insects, or animals; my/ my child’s own physical condition or my/ my child’s own acts or omissions, the condition of the remote roads, trails, waterways, or terrain, and accidents connected with their use; first-aid, emergency treatment or other services rendered; consumption of food or drink. In the event that I file a lawsuit against YMCA, I agree to do so solely in the state of North Carolina, and I further agree that the substantive law of that state shall apply in that action without regard to the conflict of law rules of that state. I have reviewed, understand and acknowledge Chapter 99E-Article 1 of the North Carolina General Statues regarding State Equine and Farm Animal Activity Liability.
 
Toilet Training -Children age 3 and older need to be toilet-trained.
 
US Center for SafeSport - I acknowledge that I have received, read and understood the Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policy (MAAPP) for my/ my child’s participating sport or activity and agree to comply with its contents.
 

PAYMENT POLICIES
PAYMENT POLICIES

I understand policies concerning payment, cancelation and refunds. I cannot join or register for anything at the Y until outstanding balances due at any branch of the YMCA of the Triangle Area are paid.
 
Automatic Drafts - Your automatic withdrawal date will normally be the 1st, 9th, 17th or 24th of each month. IMPORTANT: If your draft date falls on a weekend or bank holiday, you will be drafted the following business day. It is your responsibility to notify your YMCA branch or the Customer Service Center to update your payment information.
 
Returned Customer Payments - The YMCA will attempt to collect all returned outstanding payments until they are paid in full. All returned drafts or checks are subject to a $25 collection fee. If two drafts are returned within six months, draft privileges may be revoked and all fees must be paid in advance. If your draft is returned, it will be resubmitted on the YMCA’s next draft date. Your financial institution may charge a fee for each unsuccessful draft attempt. The YMCA will not reimburse bank fees due to draft attempts. If credit or debit card payments are rejected, it is your responsibility to contact your YMCA branch or Customer Service Center to resolve payment issues.

Cancellations - Cancelation is not complete until written confirmation is provided by the YMCA. If you do not receive notification, please contact the YMCA Customer Service Center. You are responsible for checking your bank and credit card accounts to ensure that automatic payments have been stopped.

Membership See Membership Changes and Membership Cancellations under Membership Terms and Conditions
Donations In order to stop payment on a pledge, the YMCA must receive a written notice two weeks prior to your automatic payment withdrawal date.
Programs If canceling before a program has started, you will be charged the program’s cancellation fee. If canceling after the program has begun, you will be charged the full program fee in addition to any services delivered or reserved.
Child Care If canceling before a program has started, you will be charged the non-refundable registration fee. If canceling after the program has begun, you will be charged for the registration fee and any program days occurring through the day your cancelation was confirmed.
Specialty Programs Cancellations and Refunds for specialty programs vary. Cancelation policies should be reviewed for Y Guides and Overnight Programs at YMCA Camp Sea Gull & Seafarer and YMCA Camp Kanata.

Program Changes - Deposits for weekly camps/ child care sessions are transferable to another weekly session if hte YMCA receives a written notice two weeks prior to the start of the program. Registration fees for yearly child care programs are not transferable. A new registration fee will be charged for each scheduled change.
 
Child Care Pricing - When choosing to register for the full year, the number of program days varies in each month based on your child’s school calendar and attendance selections made during registration. For your convenience, the cost calculated for your child’s program is totaled, then spread across their enrollment period and divided into even payment installments for your monthly draft. Late registrations and early cancelations are prorated based on the number of program days scheduled. Due to annuali

MEMBERSHIP TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Joining Fees -The joining fee is a nonrefundable, one-time fee that is paid upon joining. As long as the membership remains continuous, the joining fee is only paid once. If a member rejoins within six months, the joining fee is waived. The joining fee is based on your membership type. If you upgrade your membership within the first six months, you will be responsible for the difference in the joining fee. In addition, no refunds will be issued for a membership downgrade.
 
Membership Fees -Membership fees may be paid by:
Monthly Drafts: Monthly drafts are processed through automatically withdrawn from members financial institution of choice. We offer both Credit Card and EFT drafts. (Note: EFT draft is not available online.)
Payment in Full: Annual memberships may be paid by cash, check, or credit card. (Note: Payment in full is not an online option for initial joining. Annual payments may be made online after your first year.)
 
Members will receive 30 days’ notice before any increase in YMCA membership fees. Customers who pay annually would see the increase annually on January 1st.
 
Nationwide Membership -By participating in the YMCA Nationwide Membership Program, I agree to release the National Council of Young Mens Christian Associations of the United States of America, and its independent and autonomous member associations in the United States and Puerto Rico, from claims of negligence for bodily injury or death in connection with the use of YMCA facilities, and from any liability for other claims, including loss of property, to the fullest extent of the law.
 
Additional Policies -Information on Guests, Facility use and Pool guidelines should be reviewed in our Membership Policies.  
 

MEDICAL TREATMENT POLICIES

Accident Insurance -Participants are responsible for their own accident insurance when using the YMCA and when participating in YMCA programs off-site.
 
Medication -The YMCA does not normally administer any medication and will do so only when directed in writing by a parent or guardian. Medications must be in original containers with written instructions for dispensing. Generally, children are prohibited from having medication with them, unless the medication is dispensed on their person (such as an insulin pump) or a doctor has specifically indicated in writing that the participant may self-administer and safety precautions are met for the safe handling of the medication. If a doctor has given this written permission, a copy must be provided to the YMCA. A parent or guardian must give the medication to program staff. Medication will not be transported when children travel between their school site and the YMCA program.
 
Notice: With respect to giving injections to children participating in its programs, the YMCA will comply fully with the requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act. For those children who require injections, or who have other special medical needs, the YMCA will consider all requests for reasonable modifications to its program, including meeting with the parent(s) or guardian(s) of such children to discuss such modifications, and strive to develop a mutually acceptable plan designed to address the medical circumstances of each individual child. The YMCA does not administer, and is not responsible for administering, medications that have to be inserted into body cavities. The YMCA will consider requests for reasonable modifications to the above Medication Policies that do not amount to a fundamental alteration of its program..
 
Pathogen Exposure -I understand that, while I/ my child is in the care of the YMCA, if a participant is exposed to a body fluid on broken skin or mucous membrane (e.g. splashing in mouth or eye) from another participant, the YMCA will contact both parties involved. They will explain what has occurred, and provide the name of the attending physician of the source participant to the exposed participant. If a staff member has a blood or body fluid exposure from a participant, the YMCA will provide the name and telephone number of the attending physician to the staff member.
 
I have read and agree with the statement and specifically authorize the YMCA to release the name and telephone number of physician(s) and a description of the event to the participant/ parent or guardian of any participant who is exposed to blood or body fluid or to any staff member who experiences such an exposure from a participant.
 
Routine Care -I hereby give permission for a registered nurse or physician selected by the YMCA to perform routine tests and treatment for my health/ the health of the participant.
 
Permission to disclose information -I agree to allow medical staff to speak with YMCA personnel regarding any medications I/ my child is taking as well as specific medical or psychological conditions that may impact my/ the participant’s ability to participate in YMCA programs. I authorize the YMCA to release any health records related to me/ my child as may be necessary for treatment, referral, billing or insurance purposes.
 
Health History -I understand I am required to inform the YMCA if I have/ my child has been exposed to or has contracted any potentially serious communicable disease (such as chickenpox, hepatitis, meningitis, lice, etc.) or has experienced fever, vomiting or diarrhea prior to attending a program. When required, in ordinance with the American Camping Association, I agree to have the participant(s) examined by a licensed physician within one year of arrival to an overnight camping program in addition to submitting a properly completed Health Examination Form, documenting required immunizations and proof of personal insurance. Falsification or lack of full disclosure of this information may result in a dismissal from the program.
 
Medical Expenses -I agree to pay for all medical expenses that may be necessary for the health and well-being of me/ my child. The YMCA does not file medical insurance claims. In certain circumstances, YMCA staff will pay for medical care needed. The YMCA will provide detailed receipts and medical information for you to file a claim with your health insurance company, and the YMCA will invoice you directly for these expenses. I understand that I am responsible to pay the YMCA for these medical expenses within 30 days of receiving an invoice.
 
Emergency -In the event of an emergency in which the parent/guardian or listed emergency contacts cannot be reached, the YMCA will contact emergency medical personnel and, pending their arrival, take those actions that are in YMCA judgement to be in the best interests of the participant.
 
 

BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES AND EXPECTATIONS

All individuals agree to the behaviors and expectations outlined in the YMCA Code of Conduct. Failure to adhere to the Code of Conduct may result in immediate suspension or dismissal.
 
At the YMCA of the Triangle, our behavior expectations and discipline procedures are based on our core values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and faith. We believe in creating a safe, secure and fun environment where all participants have the opportunity to learn the importance of demonstrating good character. We believe that in order to do this, all participants need to know and understand the rules and expectations for appropriate behavior. We also believe that when participants do not follow the rules or when they demonstrate inappropriate behavior, we have an opportunity to help them learn from their mistakes.
 
The YMCA promotes behavior guidance and discipline through creating a positive environment, developing structure and clear limits, promoting social and emotional learning, reinforcing our core values and addressing challenging behaviors.

The YMCA of the Triangle uses six simple rules to communicate behavior expectations to all participants in our programs. The purpose of these rules is to ensure the safety of our participants and staff and to create a positive environment for all. These rules are:

  • Listen and follow directions
  • Do what’s right.
  • Keep your hands and feet to yourself.
  • Try everything and do your best.
  • Be an upstander. If you see something, say something.
  • Be safe and have fun!

  • All participants are expected to follow the rules established by the YMCA for the safety of all other participants in the program. Your cooperation and support help ensure that everyone has a safe and fun experience.

    The YMCA uses positive discipline which means staff members promote desired behaviors through teaching and reinforcement. Staff will redirect or problem solve with participants when they are not displaying desired behaviors, rather than restrict behaviors by taking away opportunities or controlling participants with fear of punishment. We believe this approach focuses on the needs of the participants and contributes positively to their overall development. Staff shall use positive discipline, which shall include the following:

  • Communicate to participants using positive statements.
  • Encourage participants/youth, with staff support, to communicate their thoughts and provide solutions in order to resolve interpersonal conflicts.
  • Communicate with participants by speaking in a calm, quiet manner about the expected behavior.

  • There are times when restrictions may be necessary, and will most likely be directly linked to the health, safety or well-being of you/ your child or others. The YMCA staff does not use corporal punishment under any circumstance. In the event of a participant harming themselves, another participant, or an adult, staff may physically restrain the participant to ensure safety.

    The YMCA does not allow the following behaviors including but not limited to:

  • Any action that could threaten the physical or emotional safety of the participant, other participants or staff.
  • Prohibited conduct may include, but is not limited to: abusive jokes, insults, slurs, threats, name calling or intimidation.
  • Destructive behavior.
  • Behavior that is of a habitual nature and negatively impacts the program, and/or safety and enjoyment of others.
  • Behavior that is of a sexual nature.

  • YMCA Discipline Procedures - If a participant is unable to meet established behavior expectations, YMCA staff will follow these disciplinary procedures below. The YMCA staff desire to partner with individual participants and families of the youth in our care. If at any time you have concerns about your child’s behavior or success in our program, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Program Director to set up a conference.

  • Conversation between staff and participants to discuss behavior and reset expectations
  • Staff will first use positive reinforcement and redirection to redirect a participant’s behavior. If this is ineffective, staff may use a temporary suspension/ timeout as an opportunity for the participant to take a break from the behavior before rejoining the activity.
  • Staff will communicate with the participant directly or with a parent/guardian if/ when youth is not following established YMCA rules. This communication may be at Rides Out, over the phone or via a conference.
  • If positive discipline and redirection are ineffective in changing participant behavior, the Program Director may suspend the participant. Length of suspension will be determined based on each individual situation. Factors such as type/severity of behavior, behavior history, age of participant, etc. will be considered when determining the length of suspension.
  • If the participant continues to have challenges after a suspension, the Program Director may set up a conference to develop a behavior plan for the participant.
  • If suspensions nor a behavior plan are effective in changing the participant’s behavior, the participant may be dismissed from the program. Dismissal from the program for disciplinary reasons could result in permanent removal from all YMCA programs and facilities.

  • Special Accommodations - Everyone who attends YMCA programs has unique needs. We are better when we take time to find out what those needs are, build empathy and understanding, and respond to individuals appropriately. The YMCA offers inclusive, welcoming programs dedicated to serving those needs in the best way possible. Because every person is unique, we address each request individually.

    Your/ your child’s success and safety in our programs are our top priorities; therefore, we respectfully ask you or parents and caregivers to inform the YMCA, prior to the start of the program, of any special needs which may require special accommodations, so we can work together to support you/ your child in reaching your/ their full potential.
     

    CUSTODIAL RIGHTS

    Court Orders - If parents are separated or divorced, the parent/ guardian completing this registration must inform the YMCA if custodial rights are joint or sole. If relevant court order(s) exist regarding custody of a minor, the YMCA requires a current signed copy of court order(s) with your registration/ application. In the case of joint custody, the Y must have written consent from each parent on file in order to add, edit or delete names to Emergency Contacts and Authorized Pick Ups. This condition may be applicable in other areas as well. Otherwise, only the parent having sole custody as identified in the signature below may make changes.
     

    vP014Revised: July 15, 2022