Wayne YMCA Offers Free Memberships to Middle Schoolers

Incoming sixth, seventh and eighth graders can enjoy free Wayne YMCA memberships starting in September.

Middle schoolers who sign up will have access to the YMCA’s youth wellness center, pool, gymnasium and teen center. Activities include fitness coaching, recreational swimming, group exercise classes, basketball, homework help and more. Transportation from the Wayne middle schools is available for a nominal fee.

“Our free middle school membership program helps preteens and young teens gain resiliency and a sense of belonging as they learn fun, healthy habits that can carry them into adulthood,” West Essex YMCA Executive Director Laura Tiedge said.

Middle schoolers who belong to the YMCA tend to remain engaged with their peers, families and the wider community, and that involvement can counteract the negative influences they are exposed to that can lead to poor decision-making, Tiedge said.

The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges (Wayne YMCA is one of six branches) began offering the program to seventh graders in 2008, and expanded it to sixth and eighth graders last year. Parents who want to receive information about the initiative are asked to submit a form, which can be filled out online at metroymcas.org/forms/free-ymca-midde-school-membership/.

###

ABOUT THE Y

Established in 1885, the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges is the largest association of YMCAs in New Jersey, serving more than 55,000 individuals, including 30,000 members, and providing nearly $1.3 million in direct financial assistance. Its six YMCAs, located in East Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, Hardyston, Stillwater and Wayne, are committed to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living, and fostering a sense of social responsibility. They offer an array of programs that build spirit, mind and body for people of all ages and all circumstances.