The YMCA welcomes all who wish to participate and believes that financial circumstances should not be a barrier to access. Through our Open Doors program, the Defiance Area YMCA provides financial assistance to youth, adults, and families based on individual need and available resources. Applicants may be asked to provide documentation of financial need, and all information submitted is kept strictly confidential. 

To Apply: Please download, print, and complete the Open Doors Application linked below. Applications may also be picked up at the YMCA front desk. Once complete, turn in the application for processing at the YMCA. 

Eligibility, Terms, and Conditions

1. Applicant must work or reside in the YMCA service area.
2. Assistance will be granted on the basis of financial need and resources available. 
3. The YMCA believes that a strong sense of ownership and pride develops if the recipient has contributed to the cost of their YMCA involvement. Applicants will be asked to pay some portion of their fees. 
4. While membership financial assistance is awarded as a continuous program, the YMCA reserves the right to request a renewal application annually and at their discretion based on special circumstances.
5. Anyone who does not use their approved assistance may lose it, and may not be approved for funds in the future. 
6. At the YMCA's discretion, if an account's status is more than two weeks past due, your membership privileges will be suspended and your financial assistance may be terminated.
7. Support is granted following an interview with a staff member and a review of all documentation. The YMCA reserves the right to request additional information when necessary.  

Download Open Doors Application (PDF)