Spectator Membership

The Y is introducing a new safety feature across all YMCA of Greater Erie Locations and Facilities to better protect our staff, members, participants and guests. We’re asking all parents, guardians, and spectators – who are not already YMCA members – to take one important step:

A Spectator Guest Membership is required for individuals who frequently enter our YMCA locations and facilities but are not participating in programs themselves. It’s simple, free, and helps us maintain a secure environment for everyone.

Why is this required?

Just like our local school districts, we’re taking proactive steps to ensure every person entering our locations and facilities is appropriately screened.

This initiative supports our ongoing commitment to:

Child Safety
Community Responsibility
A Welcoming, Secure Environment for All

Ready to Proceed

Click Here and Select What Best Describes You

Brand New to the Y: Select “I have Never been a member or participant and I want to create a New Account. (Far Right Option).
- Select the branch closest to your home address.
- Scroll down and choose Spectator Guest (Non-Member) and hit continue. No cost is associated with this membership type.
- Follow the prompts to complete the enrollment. You will need to upload a photo (or have one taken at your first visit) and sign the electronic waivers.
I Have Participated in YMCA Programs or been a Member Previously: Select the option that best describes you – either “I am an existing ONLINE USER and I KNOW my login credentials” or “I am MEMBER or PARTICIPANT and I DON’T KNOW my credentials.”
- If you DO have an active membership, you do not need to sign up for a Spectator Guest Membership. Just scan into the facility as normal. If you have an online profile but do not have an active membership, sign in and choose Edit My Membership.
- If you DO NOT have an active membership or profile, Scroll down and choose Spectator Guest (Non-Member) and hit Continue.
- Follow the prompts to complete the enrollment. You will need to upload a photo (or have one taken at your first visit) and sign the electronic waivers.

Next Steps:

Stop by the YMCA Membership Desk
Bring a valid photo ID (required to complete the process)
Take your photo if necessary
Sign Waivers if necessary
Receive your access: Get a Spectator Membership Digital Barcode

FAQS

Who is required to get a Spectator Guest Membership?

A Spectator Guest Membership is required for individuals who frequently enter YMCA of Greater Erie locations and facilities but are not participating in programs themselves. This membership is designed to save time and simplify the check-in process for those who visit regularly in a non-participant role.

You’ll need a Spectator Guest Membership if you are:

A parent, guardian, or family member who regularly attends youth sports practices or games
Someone who brings a child to swim lessons or other youth programs on a recurring basis
A frequent visitor who is not a member but comes in often to observe or assist

The goal of this membership is to make your entry into the YMCA faster and more convenient, so you don’t have to stop and sign in every time you visit.

YMCA members do not need to sign up.

How much does it cost?

It’s completely free.

Why is this being implemented?

Just like our local schools, we’re taking proactive steps to ensure every visitor is appropriately screened. This supports child safety, community responsibility, and a secure environment for all.

Do I need this if I already have a YMCA membership?

No. YMCA members already have facility access.

When should I sign up?

Enroll no later than January 1st to avoid game-day delays.

What happens if I don’t sign up by January 1st?

You will experience delays entering the facility and may miss part or all of the game.