Free 7th Grade Initiative Program returning to the Y this Fall

The Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA is excited to bring back its free 7th Grade Initiative Program this school year. All incoming 7th graders residing in Scotch Plains, Fanwood and Clark can receive a free Y membership and have access to programs that will help them grow stronger in mind and body.

The 7th Grade Initiative Program - which runs through June 2024 – gives teens access to free programming included with Y membership such as open gym, open swim and lap swim, and free fitness programs for members such as the Teen Wellness program, Teen Cycle, Teen and Family Zumba, and Family Yoga.

This fall, the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA is also offering fee-based programming for teens that 7th graders can register for, including Middle School Cross Country, gymnastics classes, volleyball clinics and enrichment programs such as art, STEM and cooking.

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! Here’s how:

1. Visit the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA Welcome Center, located at 1340 Martine Avenue in Scotch Plains. Both student and parent/guardian must be present.

2. Present your School ID, roster or report card. If your school is outside of Clark, Fanwood or Scotch Plains, please bring proof of residence.

3. Student and parent/guardian must complete and sign a Membership Application and Code of Conduct.

4. Student will then receive an ID card and begin their membership right away.

For more information on the 7th Grade Initiative, visit https://fspymca.org/membership/7th-grade-membership or call 908-889-8880.

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The Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA is dedicated to improving the quality of life of the individuals, families and communities it serves through programs and services that build wholeness of spirit, mind and body. The YMCA is a not-for-profit organization founded on Christian principles, serving people of all ages, races, faith, cultures and socio-economic conditions. For information please call the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA at (908) 889-8880 or visit https://fspymca.org. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.

The Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA is 501(c)3 organization with a GuideStar 2022 Platinum Seal of Transparency and a Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator.