7th Grade Initiative

The transition into adolescence is one of the most dynamic and influential periods of development, as children undergo broad changes.

The YMCA of Greater Brandywine offers all local seventh graders a free membership to the YMCA.

​​​​​​7th Grade Initiative

The YMCA of Greater Brandywine's 7th Grade Initiative offers free memberships to all 7th graders in the service area, promoting the well-being of mind, body, and spirit during this crucial developmental stage.

Free to Join - Includes Free Youth Membership - At All YGBW Locations

The program provides a safe space for building friendships, fostering healthy living, and guiding youth away from negative influences. By encouraging physical activity, supportive connections, and mental well-being, participants will improve their fitness, adopt healthier habits, and gain the confidence to pursue lifelong health goals.  

More than 1,000 seventh-graders enjoy this complimentary membership every year.

Program Goals

MIND

Mental Health and Wellness Support: Youth will engage in group sessions with Y staff and mentors to foster peer support, encourage open discussions about mental health, and build a sense of community. These sessions will be complemented by workshops and activities designed to promote mindfulness, stress management, and emotional resilience, equipping participants with essential skills for mental well-being. 

BODY

Fitness and Nutrition: Youth will participate in activities, workshops, and evidence-based health programs focused on understanding body composition and healthy eating habits, alongside fitness challenges designed to motivate them and promote physical activity. All information will be kept confidential to ensure privacy and security. 

SPIRIT

Community Building and Support: Youth will build a sense of community through service-learning projects and group activities, while also engaging in open discussions about personal growth, values, and experiences to foster belonging and personal development. 

 

Why the 7th Grade Initiative Matters

Kids at this age are discovering who they are, and we want to ensure that they’re set up for future success through an active lifestyle. 

 

Teenagers participating in a counselors in training program during summer camp at the Jennersville YMCA in West Grove PA

Get Started

To activate your membership, bring your school ID, roster or report card and a parent or guardian with you to the YMCA. 


7th Grade Initiative members are highly encouraged to commit to at least one volunteer service project and/or 2 - 4 volunteer service hours annually at their YMCA location. Learn more about volunteer opportunities for teens.

Teens can participate in Sitter Service or Safe at Home, YMCA programs that teach valuable skills.

What You Get

Use of the YMCA indoor facilities, in accordance with policies, during operating hours such as open socialization time, open time in the gymnasium and pool, programs and more!


Note: Activities vary by YMCA location and fees apply for some programs.

7th graders at the YMCA receive a free YMCA membership.

How It Helps

The YMCA knows that as kids face adolescence’s challenges, they are more likely to begin distancing themselves from formal organizations, friends and family and to experiment with unhealthy behaviors.

The 7th Grade Initiative offers an alternative where they can make new friends, discover their passions and develop a healthy lifestyle. We believe it's crucial to set the foundation for a healthy lifestyle at a young age.

Support for the 7th Grade Initiative is raised through the YMCA's Chester County Corporate Championship Benefit Golf Tournament. 

Download 7GI Handbook (PDF)

 

7th Grade Initiative Frequently Asked Questions

What is the free 7th grade membership?

The YMCA of Greater Brandywine’s 7th Grade Initiative offers seventh-grade students a complimentary youth membership during their 7th grade year.

Why 7th grade?

Seventh grade is a pivotal and transitional time for many teens – sports become more competitive and provide less opportunity for the average child to be involved in physical activity. Additionally, it is a time when teens are often given more freedom to choose how they spend their free time. Habits that begin in the 7th grade are likely to continue into adulthood. At the Y, we want to support and encourage kids to make good decisions and form healthy habits that lead to a healthy lifestyle.

How long is the membership effective?

Students are eligible for a complimentary 7th grade membership starting the summer after they finish 6th grade until they complete 7th grade. This membership will remain active until August 31st of the following summer after completing 7th grade.

What do I need to bring to prove that the student is in 7th grade?

We trust the enrolled parents and students are abiding by the 7th grade requirement.

What if the student is homeschooled?

Home-schooled students completing the required orientations are welcome in the program.
 

I don’t have a YMCA membership...

...if I sign my 7th grader up for a membership, can I work out with them — will I also get a free membership?

This free membership is only available for current 7th graders. However, we would love for family members to join the Y and enjoy the same benefits of membership. Complete the Membership Application and a member of our membership team will reach back with more information. Review YGBW membership rates and categories.

I have an existing membership that includes a 7th grader, do I get a discount?

If your 7th grader is the only youth/dependent on the family membership, you can downgrade to an adult only and have the youth do the free membership.

I just found out about this program, can I get reimbursed for the months I have already been paying for my 7th grader?

Any existing memberships will be adjusted at the time of enrollment into the 7th Grade Initiative. Enrolment will not be retroactive.

If I have more than one 7th grader in my family (i.e. twins or triplets), is my family still eligible for this membership?

Absolutely. 

Can a 7th grader sign up for this membership on his/her own or...

...does a parent/guardian need to be present to sign and complete the 7th grade membership application?

A parent-guardian will need to complete the electronic enrollment process on location at the Y or online remotely. Parents/guardians will need to complete and sign the electronic waiver during the registration process.

Is outdoor pool access included in the 7th Grade membership?

Outdoor pool memberships are available at select locations for an additional fee.

Are there any special activities for 7th graders? What can they do at the Y?

7th graders will have access to all eight YMCA of Greater Brandywine indoor facilities. They will also have access to much of the Y including gyms for basketball/pickleball, swimming pool, designated areas of the fitness center*, Group Exercise class, Enrichment Activities and Classes, and special events. Some programs require advance registration - Fee-based programs would benefit from the member rate.

*To utilize designated areas of the fitness center, the student must complete a Youth 
Fitness Orientation.