The Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA Offers the 7th Grade Initiative Program

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ – (June 16, 2025) – The Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA is once again proud to offer free memberships to all students entering 7th grade for the 2025-2026 school year who live in or attend school in Clark, Scotch Plains, or Fanwood. The 7th Grade memberships begin on July 1, 2025, and run through June 30, 2026.

The 7th Grade Initiative Program gives teens access to free programming included with Y membership such as open gym, open swim and the Teen Wellness program in our facility as well as fee-based programming available at member rates. Fee based programming includes Youth Sports, including Middle School Track (Fall & Spring), Volleyball, Archery, Swim Lessons, Gymnastics classes and club, and Youth Enrichment classes.

The Fanwood-Scotch Plains Y recognizes that 7th grade is a pivotal and transitional time for many teens, a point when they are given the freedom to choose how they spend their out-of-school hours. The Y wants to support and encourage kids to make good decisions and form habits that lead to an overall healthy lifestyle. The 7th Grade Initiative program provides opportunities for fitness and life skills training, as well as an opportunity to socialize with peers in a safe, supervised and conveniently located environment.

This free membership also demonstrates the Y’s commitment to the healthy development of the whole person. Free 7th Grade membership is largely supported through donations to the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA’s annual fundraising campaign.

It’s easy to get started with your 7th grade membership. Present your school ID, roster or report card (if your school is outside of Scotch Plains, Fanwood or Clark, please bring proof of residence)

1. Student and parent/guardian complete and sign a membership application and code of conduct.*

2. Student will receive a Y ID card and begin their membership July 1, 2025.

*Both parent/guardian and student must be present to activate membership.

Questions? Please call us at 908-889-8880, email membership@fspymca.org, visit fspymca.org/membership/7th-grade-membership or stop by our Welcome Center.

About the YMCA

The Y is the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. For information on membership or programs, or to request a schedule of classes, please call the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA at (908) 889-8880 or visit www.fspymca.org. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.