The Family YMCA of Southeast Mississippi
Member Code of Conduct & Facility Use Guidelines
At the Family YMCA of Southeast Mississippi, our mission is to put Christian principles into practice through programs
that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.
Guided by our core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility, the Y is committed to strengthening our
community through programs that support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
To ensure that everyone enjoys a safe, welcoming, and positive environment, we ask all members, guests, and program
participants to follow the guidelines below when visiting our facility or participating in YMCA programs.
We appreciate your partnership in helping us create a respectful and supportive community for all.
Creating a Safe and Welcoming Environment
The YMCA strives to provide a positive experience for everyone. If an individual chooses not to follow the expectations
outlined below, YMCA staff may take appropriate action.
• Individuals who do not comply with these guidelines may be asked to leave the facility by YMCA staff.
• If necessary, local law enforcement may be contacted to assist with situations involving refusal to leave or behavior
that threatens the safety of others.
• Repeated or serious violations may result in a no-trespass order issued by the Hattiesburg or Petal Police Department,
at the discretion of YMCA leadership.
Behavior Expectations
To maintain a respectful environment for everyone, the following behaviors are not permitted in YMCA facilities or
programs. Please note this list is not all-inclusive.
1. Wearing attire that is not appropriate for YMCA activities. Clothing should adequately cover the body and must
not contain vulgar or offensive language or imagery. Swimsuits should only be worn in the pool area. Shoes,
shirts, and appropriate attire are required in all other areas of the facility.
2. Using angry, abusive, or vulgar language including swearing, name-calling, or shouting.
3. Harassing, intimidating, or threatening others through words, gestures, or actions.
4. Theft, misuse of YMCA equipment, or damage to property.
5. Physical aggression, threatening contact, sexual activity, or inappropriate physical contact.
6. The possession, sale, use, or distribution of illegal substances or alcohol, or being under the influence of such
substances on YMCA property.
7. Use of tobacco products, including smoking or vaping. All YMCA facilities and surrounding properties are
tobacco-free environments.
8. Carrying concealed weapons or any objects that may be used as weapons within YMCA facilities or on YMCA
property.
9. Use of cell phones or cameras in locker rooms, restrooms, or on the pool deck.
10. Sleeping in the facility or lying on furniture or floors in a manner that prevents others from using the space.
Facility Use Guidelines
To help ensure the safety and enjoyment of all members:
1. Members must check in at the Member Services Desk each time they enter the facility. If a scan card is not
available, a valid ID may be required.
2. Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied and supervised at all times by a parent or responsible adult
(18 or older).
3. Youth ages 13–15 may use the facility independently; however, they may not use fitness equipment or access the
upstairs fitness areas until age 15 or completion of the Teen Safety Program.
4. In the Hattiesburg facility, children under 15 may use the upstairs walking track only when accompanied by a
parent or responsible adult (18 or older).
5. Children aged 12 and under must be actively supervised by a parent or responsible adult (18 or older) while in
the pool or on the pool deck.
6. Please store personal belongings in lockers. Gym bags, coats, and other personal items should not be left in
activity areas. The YMCA cannot assume responsibility for personal items.
7. Bicycles should be parked in the outdoor bike racks. Skateboards, scooters, and roller blades may be brought
inside but must be secured in lockers.
8. Please keep audio equipment at a volume that does not disturb others. Headphones or earbuds are encouraged.
Cell phone conversations should also be kept at a respectful volume.
9. Program areas close 15 minutes prior to building closing time.
10. The YMCA may take photographs of members and guests participating in YMCA activities for promotional
purposes.
11. Members and guests may be asked to identify themselves to YMCA staff when requested.
12. The YMCA reserves the right to deny membership or facility access to individuals who have been accused or
convicted of crimes involving sexual abuse or who are registered sex offenders.
13. Members and guests are encouraged to take responsibility for their personal conduct and safety. If assistance is
needed, YMCA staff are always available to help.
Violation of the Code of Conduct may result in suspension or termination of membership or facility privileges.
Membership or program fees will not be refunded in these cases.
Accidents and Personal Property
All individuals participate in YMCA activities at their own risk.
Please report any accident or emergency immediately to a YMCA staff member so we can assist. Our staff are trained to
respond to emergency situations.
The YMCA is not responsible for personal property that is lost, damaged, or stolen. Please secure your belongings in
lockers whenever possible.
Lost and found items can be located at the Member Services Desk.
Locker Room Guidelines
To ensure privacy and comfort for all members:
• Adult locker rooms are reserved for individuals 18 years and older.
• Children under 18 are not permitted in adult locker rooms.
• Families with children should use the appropriate youth or family locker room.
Girls’ Locker Room: For girls ages 8–17. Parents/guardians escorting children under the age of 8, please use the youth
locker room that corresponds with the parent/guardian gender.
Boys’ Locker Room: For boys ages 8–17. Parents/guardians escorting children under the age of 8, please use the youth
locker room that corresponds with the parent/guardian gender.
Lockers are available for daily use. Monthly locker rentals are available for $5 per month. Unauthorized locks may be
removed by YMCA staff.
Service Animal Policy
Service animals are welcome at the YMCA.
A service dog is defined as a dog that is individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability (including
physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other disabilities). Service dogs are permitted to accompany their handler in
all areas of the facility where members are allowed.
Emotional support animals, comfort animals, and therapy dogs are not recognized as service animals under Title II and
Title III of the ADA and are therefore not permitted in YMCA facilities.
Pets and other animals are not allowed in YMCA facilities.
