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Financial Assistance
A Y for All Community Members
Everyone belongs at the Y. We are committed to ensuring every community member, has access to our YMCAs. Our Financial Assistance program enables all individuals and families to become active members and participants at a rate that fits their budgets. This program is possible thanks to the many generous donors who support the YMCA’s Annual Campaign —100% of donations made to the Y help support kids, adults and families in our communities. To learn more about how you can support the YMCA of Easley, Pickens & Powdersville’s Share the Spirit Campaign through a donation, CLICK HERE.
How are scholarships awarded?
Assistance is granted on the basis of financial need. We use a sliding fee scale based on total household income.
Afterschool Program Financial Assistance:
- Pickens County Afterschool at the Easley YMCA: The scholarship process for Afterschool is now open and you can apply HERE. Before applying you must first register for Afterschool HERE.
- Anderson District One Afterschool: Scholarships for Y Afterschool in Anderson District One are processed through the schools. Please contact your child’s school guidance counselor for information on how to apply.
Summer Camp Financial Assistance:
Scholarship Levels
Annual Household Income | % Discount | |
Level 5 | $40,001-$45,000 | 5% |
Level 10 | $35,000-$40,000 | 10% |
Level 15 | $30,001 - $35,000 | 15% |
Level 20 | $25,001 - $30,000 | 20% |
Level 30 | $20,001 - $25,000 | 30% |
Level 40 | $15,001 - $20,000 | 40% |
Level 50 | $0 - $15,000 | 50% |
***Scholarships are awarded as funds are available. Some programs have limited scholarship monies available.***
I believe I am eligible for a scholarship, what do I do next?
We require supporting documentation to verify household size and income. We will need to review your most recent tax Form 1040, 1040a, 1040EZ or an IRS Verification of Non-Filing. If you do not have one of these documents, you can request a copy at the IRS website. Please bring one of these documents to any of our YMCA branches and our Member Services staff at the desk will be able to assist you.
Exclusions and Exceptions
Not all programs and membership are eligible for a scholarship. The following are not eligible for a scholarship (other exclusions may apply):
Membership Exclusions: College, Youth, 4 & 5 Adult Household
Program Exclusions: Lifeguard Training, Pool Parties, & Dance.
* Scholarships for After School sites located at schools are awarded by the school.
* The Summer Day Camp scholarship process uses a different application. You must first register for summer camp.
What if I can’t afford the income-based rate listed in the chart for my membership type?
For most situations, the listed income-based rate is the lowest rate we are able to provide. However, we realize there are certain situations that necessitate a lower rate for a period of time. Examples of these extenuating circumstances are: a recent traumatic event, a significant change in your financial situation, a death in the immediate family, major or emergency medical expenses, emergency custody situations or circumstances with disabilities/special needs. If you would like to share your story with us, please CLICK HERE. Please allow up to 14 days for us to follow-up with you!
If you have any questions or need help with Financial Assistance, please contact Member Services at your branch.
How long has the YMCA been offering financial assistance?
From its founding in 1844, the YMCA mission has been to strengthen the foundations of the surrounding community for Christ. As needs arise, the YMCA adjusts its programming to meet those needs. Our focus is on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Our programs help develop a child or an adult into his/her potential and a better quality of life. We do not want finances to be a significant barrier for someone wanting to be a part of the YMCA. The YMCA of Easley, Pickens and Powdersville has been offering scholarships/financial assistance pricing for decades.
Why do you adjust membership or program rates for household incomes less than $45,000?
The membership and program rates at the YMCA are determined by the average household income in our community, which is approximately $45,000 per year per household. This means that anyone with an average household income or higher can typically afford the standard rates set by the YMCA’s Board of Directors.
How are the adjusted rates determined?
There are two core factors in determining the adjusted rates. The first is the federal poverty guidelines and second, the resources given to the YMCA through donations. The more donations given to the YMCA, the more we can do for members, programs and outreach initiatives.
What will you do with my income information?
When you present your tax return or letter, a staff member will view the form right in front of you. They will look at two items – the total income line (line 22 of your 1040, line 15 or your 1040A or line 4 of your 1040EZ) and your filing status. Then, our staff will immediately return the form to you. We do not make copies of your documents. Your adjusted rate will be based on your income on the lines stated above.
I do not want to show my tax return. Do I have to?
The only reason you would need to provide verification of income is if you would like an adjusted rate. Households with an annual income between $0 and $45,000 will qualify. If your annual income is more than $45,001 or you don’t want an adjusted rate, there is no reason to provide your tax return. Your rate will be the standard rate.
What if I don’t have a tax return or do not have to file a return?
If you are not required to file taxes, please present a ‘Verification of Nonfiling’ letter which can be obtained for free by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. You may also request a ‘Verification of Nonfiling’ letter by visiting the IRS online and requesting a transcript. Because of privacy, our staff at the YMCA unfortunately cannot assist in this.
What if I can’t afford the income-based rate listed in the chart for my membership type?
For most situations, the listed income-based rate is the lowest rate we are able to provide. However, we realize there are certain situations that necessitate a lower rate for a period of time. Examples of these extenuating circumstances are: a recent traumatic event, a significant change in your financial situation, a death in the immediate family, major or emergency medical expenses, emergency custody situations or circumstances with disabilities/special needs. If you would like to share your story with us, please CLICK HERE. Please allow up to 14 days for us to follow-up with you!
Once I join, what happens if my financial situation changes?
We ask that you notify the Y if there is a significant change in your income that would change your eligibility. Whether it is an increase or decrease in financial ability, we would like for your adjusted rate to reflect your current financial situation.
Who all needs to provide proof of income?
All adults on the account and/or membership will need to provide proof of income. Again, if you have a unique situation, we are happy to sit down and talk about your specific needs.
I am living at home with my parents. Do I need to provide their income too?
Possibly. Because youth memberships are already priced for students living at home, we do not adjust the rate any lower. However, if you have a unique situation that we should consider, please CLICK HERE to share more of your story.
My employer has a corporate discount with the YMCA for memberships. Does the discount apply in addition to my adjusted membership rate?
No. Corporate discounts (or any discounts) cannot be applied to adjust membership rates. In the event that you have a corporate discount and you also qualify for an adjusted rate, you will need to select the lower of the two rates available to you. The income based membership rates cannot be adjusted any lower unless there is a special circumstance for us to consider.
I recently checked my adjusted rate but did not join. Now, the rates are different. What happened?
Income based membership rates are subject to change at any time based on available resources, future donor pledges and current contributions to the YMCA. Once you join, your adjusted membership rate is ‘locked’ for 24 months as long as your membership stays active.
