Join the New West Essex YMCA Now, Start When the Doors Open

LIVINGSTON, NJ – Many people assume that joining the new West Essex YMCA early means paying monthly dues for a building that isn't open yet. It doesn't. Through the Y's Founding Membership offer, new members can reserve their spot at the new 56,000-square-foot Livingston facility now and wait to start until the doors open, anticipated in January 2027.

Founding Members choose the option that fits them:

• Count Me In: Members pay their first month at sign-up and nothing more until the new facility opens. Their next payment comes one month after opening day.
• Start Today: Members start right away at the current West Essex YMCA branch and move to the new facility when it opens.

With either option, the joiner fee of up to $150 is waived. Also, members who join with either option pay less than the standard rate at opening. The offer is available for a limited time.

"We want every family in this community to be able to say they were part of the new Y from Day One, whether they're ready to start today or would rather wait for the new building," said Cheryl Tuturice, District Executive Director at West Essex YMCA. “As this building has gone up, we've heard from so many neighbors who are excited about it but assume they have to wait to join. Founding Membership removes that barrier. You can claim your place now, skip the joiner fee, and walk through the doors on opening day already part of the Y."

The new facility will be twice the size of the current branch and offer four times the programs and classes. It also includes two pools and a splash pad, indoor walking track, and modern exercise studios that open to the outdoors. The project is supported by a community Capital Campaign that has raised more than $5 million.

"This new Y is about more than square footage," Tuturice said. "It's where kids will learn to swim, families will spend time together, and neighbors will get to know each other. Founding Members will be among the first to make it their own."

Founding Membership is one of several things about the new Y that surprise even longtime supporters. Other common misconceptions involve pausing a membership, financial assistance, family pricing, and free memberships for middle schoolers. A fact sheet is included.

To become a Founding Member, visit the West Essex YMCA Welcome Center or join online at thenewlivingstonymca.org.

New West Essex YMCA in Livingston: 5 Membership Myths vs. Facts

The new West Essex YMCA opens in Livingston in January 2027. Even people who have watched it go up are surprised by some of these facts:

1. MYTH: I can’t afford a membership, so I can’t join.

TRUTH: The West Essex YMCA gave $488,000 in financial assistance last year, reducing membership costs by up to 70 percent. No one is turned away for inability to pay. Applying for financial assistance is simple and confidential, and awards are based on need.

2. MYTH: You have to start paying monthly dues now to become a Founding Member.

TRUTH: You can reserve your spot today and start when the new building opens. “Count Me In” members pay their first month at sign-up and nothing more until one month after opening. The joiner fee is waived.

3. MYTH: If life gets busy, you have to cancel.

TRUTH: Current members can pause their membership instead of cancelling, so a busy season doesn't mean starting over. Memberships can be put on hold for up to three months, or up to six months for medical reasons. 14 days’ notice is required.

4. MYTH: A Y family membership costs as much as a high-end gym.

TRUTH: Family memberships include up to two adults and dependents up to age 26 and start at $128 per month, less than many people assume. Family Members also save 10 percent on Y programs like child care and summer camp. Membership includes a free wellness orientation with expert staff to kickstart your routine, free access to virtual fitness, and free child care while you work out at the Y.

5. MYTH: The free Middle School Membership is only for 7th graders.

TRUTH: The free membership covers Grades 6-8 and runs from September to June. Students just need to show a student ID when joining. Members meet with a personal trainer to learn to use the equipment and have designated time to use the facility. Membership includes free fitness classes during the week.

About the New Facility: 56,000 square feet in Livingston, N.J. It will be twice the size of the current branch and offer four times the programs and classes. The project is supported by a Capital Campaign that has raised more than $5 million.

Learn more: thenewlivingstonymca.org | 973-758-9039

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ABOUT THE Y

Established in 1885, the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges invests in its diverse communities to promote wellness, safety and quality of life for children, adults and seniors. Its six branches in East Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, New Milford, Hardyston, and Stillwater are committed to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility through an array of programs. Some 35,000 people belong to the Metro Y, which awards more than $2 million annually in direct and indirect financial assistance.