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The Open Doors Financial Assistance program provides reduced rates for YMCA memberships and programs based on household income and size. Our goal is to ensure everyone has access to YMCA services, eliminating financial barriers.
You can apply online at ymcalincoln.org/opendoors or by dropping off your application and required documents at any Lincoln YMCA location.
Fast Track: A quicker option for 35% off Y Memberships and Program if you receive any of the below Government Assistance programs: SNAP, Child Care Subsidy, Low Income Housing Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Medicaid, and Aid to Families Dependent Children (AFDC)
Traditional: A full review of your gross annual income to determine a discount of 10-50%. This takes a bit longer but may offer more support.
Yes! However, discounts cannot be combined. If you apply for Fast Track Assistance but believe you may qualify for a greater discount through Traditional Assistance, you’re welcome to reapply using the Traditional method. Just keep in mind that the maximum discount available is 50%.
For the Traditional Application, you must provide one or more of the following documents for income verification:
Tax Information
- Federal 1040 Tax Form – first two pages (W-2s are NOT accepted)
- If you do not file taxes, you will be asked to provide a brief explanation
Income Verification (Provide the below documentation that best reflects your income situation.)
- Employment Income: Two current paystubs showing gross pay for each working adult in the household OR employer letter with average hours worked per week and hourly wage.
- Self-Employment Income: Schedule C from your 1040 Federal Tax Form
- Government Benefits: Social Security, Disability, SSI, or VA Benefits letter or 2 recent bank statements showing deposits
- Retirement Income: Retirement/Pension/IRA Documentation
- No Current Income: Provide a brief statement specifying how you are currently meeting your basic needs
For the Fast Track Application, you only need to provide proof of enrollment in SNAP, Medicaid, Child Care Subsidy, Aid to Families Dependent Children, or LIHEAP.
Fast Track: Up to 5 business days
Traditional: Up to 14 business days
Note: We'll email you once your application is processed–don't forget to check your junk folder!
Yes! Include everyone living in your household at least 50% of the time when you apply.
Yes, financial assistance is reviewed annually. You'll get a reminder when it's time to renew. If you are over the age of 75 at the time you apply, you will not be required to renew.
Most programs – including youth sports, swim lessons, and child care – are eligible. Assistance does not cover past fees, Joiner Fees, or specialty programs. A full list of programs can be found here.
Yes, you can use Financial Assistance for Camp Kitaki. However, it works a little differently than membership or other programs. Camp discounts are not applied automatically. You’ll need to register your camper at ymcacampkitaki.org and pay the $100 non-refundable deposit first. Then, forward your award email to campkitaki@ymcalincoln.org and include your camper’s name. Our staff will apply your Financial Assistance and let you know your updated balance.
Yes. The discount will apply to the child’s account and will show on receipts for either parent. However, to include your child on your application for assistance, they must reside with you at least 50% of the time.
Unfortunately, no. Financial assistance only applies to future programs and memberships.
If using the online application, you can click on “Select Language” in the right-hand corner to choose from a variety of languages. There will be a printable Spanish version coming soon!
Please email us at fa@ymcalincoln.org. We’re happy to help with any questions or technical issues during the application process.