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| - I have first hand knowledge of the downtown YMCA:
As such, I simply want to clarify some things. There is no "crossover fee" to use the downtown facility. This used to be the case, as another Yelper wrote, because the downtown branch does have higher overall rates. However, now, you can use any YMCA in Cleveland, any in the state of Ohio, and as I've informed people, you can use any YMCA in the USA really. All they have to do is call and verify your membership is active and without any owed balance, and you're good.
So far as outdated equipment/lockerooms etc., is that true? Sure, I'm not going to say it isn't. It's a building that's over 100 years old. Do your research on the history of the YMCA in Cleveland to see for yourself. That being said, THE DOWNTOWN YMCA will be in a NEW FACILITY IN 2016 located at the Galleria at East 9th Street. You can see the facility in a virtual walk-thru by going to www.clevelandymca.org and selecting the downtown branch. Please see the plans that are being laid out before you judge the existing facility on the age and appearance of the building as it is now. None of us look the same as we did when we were fresh out of high school, right?
The YMCA has a rich history built on being far more than a "gym and swim", and again merits homework to that end before you complain that it's not comparable to the plethora of franchise facilities. The YMCA offers rehabilitation programs for ex-offenders, homeless services, employment for special needs individuals and valuable after-school and summer camp programs for children who may otherwise be unattended by working parents and left to get in trouble. Membership dues also go to supplement and defray the cost of membership for military families and for those who cannot afford the regular fees - and who are often the most in need of recreation and fitness to achieve health goals and relieve familial and economic stress.
I would say that if you have any specific complaints with the facility, you reach out to the branch directors. If you don't know who they are -- look on the website, or ask at the desk. Any business welcomes constructive critique from it's customers or in this case, members. Complaining about it on Yelp doesn't create an opportunity for change.
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