The YMCA OF COLUMBIA
Effective Date: January 20, 2026
The YMCA of Columbia (“the YMCA,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, protect, and share information when you visit our website, use our mobile applications, participate in our programs, apply for financial assistance, or interact with us in other ways.
Scope of This Policy
This Privacy Policy applies to information collected through:
- The YMCA of Columbia website
- Online registrations, forms, and applications
- The YMCA of Columbia mobile application
- In-person memberships, programs, and services
- Financial assistance applications
- Communications with our staff
This policy does not apply to third-party websites or services that may be linked from our website.
Information We Collect
The YMCA of Columbia may collect personal information, including but not limited to:
- Name, address, email address, and phone number
- Date of birth and household/family information
- Gender and Race (optional)
- Emergency contact information
- Membership and program participation details
- Payment and billing information
- Health or wellness information provided voluntarily for program participation
- Mobile app usage data related to account access, notifications, and features
Financial Assistance Information
When applying for financial assistance through our Open Doors program, we may collect confidential financial and personal documentation, including proof of income or other verification materials as outlined on the financial assistance application available on our website.
These documents are used solely to determine eligibility for financial assistance and are maintained securely by the YMCA of Columbia
We may also collect non-personal information such as browser type, device information, and website usage data through cookies or analytics tools to help improve our services.
How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect to:
- Process memberships, program registrations, and payments
- Evaluate eligibility for financial assistance
- Communicate schedules, updates, and important YMCA information
- Provide access to features within the YMCA mobile app
- Support member services and safety operations
- Improve our programs, facilities, website, and digital tools
- Maintain accurate records for operational and legal purposes
- Comply with applicable laws and regulations
Information Sharing & Disclosure
The YMCA of Columbia does not sell or rent your personal information.
We may share information:
- With trusted third-party service providers who assist with operations such as membership management, registration systems, payment processing, communications, or technology platforms
- When required by law, regulation, or legal process
- To protect the safety, rights, or property of members, staff, or the YMCA
All service providers are expected to safeguard personal information and use it only for authorized YMCA purposes.
Data Security
The YMCA of Columbia takes reasonable administrative, technical, and physical measures to protect personal information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.
Sensitive documents, including financial assistance materials, are stored securely and accessible only to authorized staff. While we take strong precautions, no system can guarantee complete security.
Accessing & Updating Your Information
Members may review or update their personal information by:
- Logging into their online account
- Using the YMCA mobile app
- Contacting our Front Desk or Member Services staff
Applicants for financial assistance may update or provide additional documentation by contacting the YMCA directly.
Children’s Privacy
The YMCA of Columbia collects information about minors only as necessary for membership, program participation, and safety. Access to children’s information is limited to authorized staff.
Parents or legal guardians may review or update their child’s information by contacting the YMCA.
Third-Party Links
Our website and digital platforms may include links to third-party websites. The YMCA of Columbia is not responsible for the privacy practices or content of those external sites. Users are encouraged to review the privacy policies of any third-party websites they visit.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
The YMCA of Columbia may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on our website with an updated effective date.
Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or how your information is handled, please contact info@columbiaymca.org.
