Family YMCA of Marion and Polk Counties

Overview

The Salem Withnell Family YMCA is the flagship facility of the Family YMCA of Marion and Polk Counties, a community-focused organization providing fitness, wellness, and family programs since 1892. Located in downtown Salem, Oregon, this 51,000 square-foot modern center emphasizes building healthy spirits, minds, and bodies through accessible amenities and inclusive programming. The overall atmosphere is welcoming, family-oriented, and community-driven, fostering a sense of belonging with spaces for all ages—from infants in parent-child swim classes to seniors in specialized fitness programs. Named after philanthropists Dick and Gayle Withnell, it highlights community impact through reach, relevance, and results, offering a vibrant hub for physical activity, social connection, and personal growth.

Features & Amenities

• Indoor Swimming Pool: ADA-accessible warm-water pool (84°-86°F) for swim lessons, lap swimming, recreational swims, and family activities.
• Gymnasium: Multi-use courts for basketball, pickleball, volleyball, and open play.
• Rooftop Terrace & Track: Outdoor running track (10 laps = 1 mile) with scenic views near the state capitol.
• State-of-the-Art Fitness Equipment: Three multipurpose training rooms with strength, cardio, and wheelchair-accessible gear, plus natural light.
• Free Group Exercise Classes: 80+ weekly sessions including Zumba, yoga, HIIT, metabolic conditioning, chair yoga, and Enhance Fitness.
• Child Watch (Play & Learn): Free drop-off for family members (Mon-Fri 8:30AM-1PM & 4:30-8PM; Sat 8:30AM-12PM).
• The Hive: Dedicated teen space (ages 10-17) for safe, fun hangouts and growth.
• The Square: Community cafe for coffee, sandwiches, and snacks (Mon-Sat 7AM-1PM; Mon-Thu 4-7:30PM).
• Additional Perks: Nationwide access to 2,000+ Ys, sister branch access (Monmouth-Independence & Silver Falls Ys), rooftop terrace, and court care services.

Services

• Swim Lessons: Progressive levels for parent/child, preschool, youth, teens, and adults (e.g., Water Discovery, Stroke Development, Lap Swim).
• Youth Sports: Team sports with $25 registration fee; discounts for family members.
• Childcare & Camps: School-age programs, preschool, day camps (e.g., Camp Silver Creek, YMCA Camp Greider), before/after-school care.
• Health & Wellness: Personal training, small group sessions (Pilates Reformer, Adaptive Yoga), Livestrong at the YMCA, Pedaling for Parkinson’s.
• Group Fitness & Specialty: HIIT, balance classes, senior programming, homeschool PE (HomeZone), family activities (crafts, cooking).
• Community Events: Signature events, prayer breakfasts, family nights, spiritual/mental wellness workshops.
• Memberships & Discounts: Reduced fees for childcare, camps, lessons; no contracts, flexible payments.

Pricing

• Membership Rates: Detailed in PDF (link available); includes family, individual, senior options with guest passes (5 at join) and nationwide access.
• Youth Sports: $25 non-refundable registration fee per season (Fall 2025 onward).
• Program Fees: Discounts for family members on swim lessons, camps, childcare; specific class pricing via registration portal (no current sessions listed in content).
• No Day Passes: For non-members at Salem Withnell Y.
• Flexible Payments: Auto-pay on 1st or 15th; cancel with 1-month notice.

Location & Hours

• Primary Location: 685 Court Street NE, Salem, OR 97301 (Phone: 503.581.9622; Directions via Google Maps).
  • Mon-Fri: 5AM-9:30PM
  • Sat: 7AM-7PM
  • Sun: 1PM-6:30PM
• Sister Branches:
  • Monmouth-Independence Family Y: Mon-Fri 8AM-12:30PM & 3-8:30PM; Sat 8-11AM; Sun Closed.
  • Silver Falls Family Y: Mon-Fri 6AM-1PM & 3:30-7:30PM; Sat-Sun 12-5PM.
• Pool & Program Schedules: Available online; current swim/group classes show no sessions (check for updates).

Notes

• What Makes This YMCA Special: Community philanthropy legacy (named for Withnell family); 3 Ys, one membership with nationwide access; strong focus on underserved groups (seniors, veterans via Courtney Place Housing, low-income via scholarships); free court care partnership; emphasis on holistic wellness (physical, mental, spiritual—e.g., chaplain services, interfaith events). No traditional saunas, but warm pool and wellness programs offer relaxation. Actively hiring; hosts events/reservations. Committed to inclusivity, results-driven impact, and saying ‘Yes’ to those in need.