The Fond du Lac Family YMCA is introducing new safety procedures and facility improvements designed to strengthen security while maintaining the welcoming, community-focused environment families expect from the Y.
As part of the YMCA’s ongoing commitment to youth safety and community wellbeing, the organization will implement a Youth Program Spectator Verification process beginning Saturday, March 21 for individuals accompanying youth program participants who plan to access the facility during youth programs. These procedures are part of a broader effort to ensure staff know who is in the building at all times while continuing to provide a positive and accessible experience for everyone.
Supporting Youth Safety
Under the new spectator verification process, anyone accompanying a youth program participant who plans to access the facility during the program will be required to check in at the Welcome Desk before entering program areas.
Member spectators ages 8 and older will check in using their YMCA membership key card or Y App. Non-member spectators will create a non-member account, complete a brief verification process that includes presenting photo identification (age 16+), and use an individual facility access PIN provided by stafff, during the program session.
As part of the YMCA’s commitment to child protection, the verification process also includes screening through a secure visitor management system. Government-issued IDs are scanned and checked against sex offender registries in all 50 states and additional safety databases, providing immediate alerts to YMCA staff if a concern is identified.
“These procedures help us maintain a safe environment where children can learn, play, and grow,” said Amanda Bodden, Director of Youth Programs. “By knowing who is in the building and why they are here, we can better protect our staff and the youth and families we serve.”
Part of a Larger Safety Initiative
The spectator verification process is one component of a broader safety initiative connected to the YMCA’s capital campaign renovation project, which includes investments in building access and security improvements.
Planned updates will enhance both safety and convenience for members and guests while preserving the welcoming atmosphere the YMCA is known for.
Enhancing Safety While Preserving a Welcoming Environment
To create a more secure experience for everyone, planned renovations include updates to building entrances and investments in modern security measures, including:
- Additional security cameras throughout the facility
- Enhanced screening and entry procedures
- Relocating the Welcome Center desk closer to the main entrance to improve visibility and allow staff to better greet, assist, and verify individuals entering the facility
Together, these improvements are designed to ensure safer spaces while continuing to foster a warm and welcoming environment for all who walk through the YMCA’s doors.
Expanding Entry Procedures for All Visitors
In addition to spectator verification, the YMCA is also developing updated procedures for Facility Visitors, individuals entering the building for purposes other than YMCA membership access or participation in member activities.
Facility visitors may include individuals attending meetings, community events, facility rentals, seminars, or contracted services such as vendors and delivery personnel.
As part of the YMCA’s safety initiative, visitors will be required to check in upon arrival, present identification if applicable, and receive a visitor badge for the duration of their visit. Recurring visitors may also be asked to establish a non-member account in the YMCA software system and use an individual access PIN when entering the facility.
These procedures help ensure accountability and controlled facility access while continuing to welcome community partners and guests.
A Safer Y for Everyone
YMCA leaders emphasize that these updates reflect a growing commitment across the Y movement to balance accessibility with modern safety practices and strengthened child protection.
“Our YMCA has always been a place where families feel comfortable and connected,” said JJ Raflik, CEO/Executive Director. “These improvements allow us to strengthen safety while preserving the welcoming environment that makes the Y such an important part of our community.”
More information about the spectator verification process and the YMCA’s child protection policies can be found at fdlymca.org.