"FOR ALL" MEANS ALL.
At the Akron Area YMCA, our mission is "to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all." We strive to live this mission in all ways, including creating spaces throughout our association where people of all abilities can feel welcome and be successful in meeting their health and fitness goals.
ACCESSIBLE ENTRIES
All of our branches have handicap parking spaces near entrances to the building.
The Green, Kohl, Lake Anna, and Wadsworth YMCAs have flat entries into the building. The Riverfront YMCA has an ADA-compliant ramp that leads to their front door.
FLOOR PLANS
Most of our YMCAs are single-story buildings and are set up to accommodate mobility aids.
The Green, Lake Anna, and Riverfront YMCAs have a fitness center located on the first floor.
The Kohl and Wadsworth YMCAs have both stairs and an elevator to access their fitness centers on the second floor of their buildings. The Riverfront YMCA's Group Exercise classes and gymnasium on their second floor can also be accessed via elevator.
FITNESS EQUIPMENT
Much of our fitness equipment can be used by members of all abilities. Fitness staff are available to answer any questions or provide modifications.
Several branches have equipment that can be specifically adapted for wheelchair users, specifically the Lake Anna and Wadsworth YMCAs. If you have questions about what equipment you could be able to use, please do not hesitate to contact any of our branches. We're happy to set up a time for you or your loved one to come in and take a tour!
POOL FACILITIES
All branches (with the exception of Firestone Park) have an aquatics facility.
GREEN YMCA - The lap pool has stairs and a hydraulic lift chair with a 325 lb weight limit. The recreation pool has zero depth entry. Locker rooms and family changing area are wheelchair accessible.
KOHL FAMILY YMCA - There is a zero depth entry to the lap pool that members are able to use. There is also a wheelchair that can be used in the water as well as being used for gym access. The pool area also has a lift chair for anyone needing assistance into the pool.
LAKE ANNA YMCA - The LAY aquatics center has a zero depth pool entry and a pool lift.
WADSWORTH YMCA - The aquatics area at Wadsworth has three pools that are accessible: the Lap Pool has a stair entry and lift chair, with a depth of 3 ½ feet to 7 feet deep; the Rec Pool has a beach entry to 3 ½ feet; and the Summa Therapy Pool has a stair entry and lift chair, however this pool is used through pre-registered YMCA classes only. In the summer, the Y also operate the City’s Grizzly Pools outside – this is a separate fee for members, but has a beach entry pool and a deeper pool with stair entry and a lift chair. There are also accessible bathrooms/changing rooms available.
RESTROOMS & CHANGING FACILITIES
All branches have men's & women's locker rooms, as well as individual changing rooms.
GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES
Group exercise classes can be modified for members of all kinds of abilities. Our fitness instructors are ready and willing to make sure everyone can participate in their classes!
If you have questions about the nature of a particular class, please call or stop in to your local branch.
SERVICE ANIMALS
Registered Service Animals are welcome in our facilities and are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Members who wish to bring an Emotional Support Animal, however, should schedule a meeting with branch leadership prior to bringing their ESA to our locations. Please contact your local branch to set up a meeting.
At the end of the day, we want all of our members and guests to feel comfortable and supported.
If you'd like to take a tour of any of our facilities, please contact your local branch. We'd be happy to set up a time to meet with you!