Experiencing dissatisfaction at a community institution like the YMCA can be disheartening. It's a place often associated with positive values, health, and community engagement, so when those expectations aren't met, it's natural to feel let down. Perhaps the issues stemmed from a specific program that didn't deliver on its promises, or maybe there were concerns about the facility's upkeep or the conduct of certain staff members.
One of the most frustrating aspects of a negative experience at the YMCA is the feeling of disconnect from the community it's supposed to foster. When interactions are subpar, or when the environment doesn't feel welcoming, it undermines the sense of belonging that the YMCA aims to cultivate. This can lead to a sense of isolation and disappointment, especially for those who rely on the YMCA for social interaction or personal growth.
Ultimately, a bad experience at the YMCA serves as a reminder that even well-intentioned organizations can fall short of expectations. It highlights the importance of clear communication, responsive management, and a commitment to upholding the values that the YMCA represents. While one negative experience doesn't define the entire organization, it does underscore the need for continuous improvement and a focus on ensuring that all members feel valued and respected. Tammy the manager of the aquatic department is very unprofessional. She shouldn’t be the manager. My kid almost drowned because of her guard, and if how unprofessional they are, the Lifeguards should be picked wisely. It’s so upsetting when I find out that the life gaurd that actually do their job get fired. Tammy should be terminated as soon as possible. She is not a good fit to be a manager she’s very rude and never seen something like that. I am absolutely suing the YMCA Montclair because of how unprofessional the lifeguards are how I could’ve lost my son. My son is six years old. It took five minutes for Lifeguard to respond that wasn’t even on the chair the Lifeguard that jumped in named Armando. He was giving a class and he jumped in to save my son when the other guard is sitting on his chair, telling...
Read moreI'm not a member of YMCA and only come here for the adult swim lessons. I'm currently on my fourth season meaning this is four times taking their swim lesson session. So far it's been great. The instructors are friendly, patient, and encouraging. However I should clarify that I go to the evening swimming classes. Two seasons ago, I tried one of the weekday morning class and I did not like it. I thought one of the instructors there was unfriendly and made me feel unwanted. I had to go to the morning class instead of the evening due to other obligation that day. And I get it. Once you have your class and you bond with your students, someone new coming in can change the group dynamic. But it does not excuse the vibe that I got being there. Luckily I got assigned to a different instructor that day so it worked out. Back to the swim classes. Classes are offered Mondays & Wednesdays 10:15am & 7:30pm, or Tuesdays & Thursdays 8:30pm. Classes are 45 minutes. There is a Saturday classes for people who cannot make it on the weekdays The downside is that it's super crowded. I know I said I'm on my four season, which is not pocket change. One more season, and I would be looking at a thousand dollars on swim lesson. So this season should be my last. This does not mean it will take YOU four seasons to learn. Everyone learn at their own pace. I'm just a slow learner when it comes to swimming. But it is worth it. Great instructor, clean facility, and...
Read moreThe aftercare branch and camp branch of this facility is amazing! However, the staff at the Montclair branch itself is horrible. I made an EARLY payment for camp which was approved. The very next day a random card they had on file was charged the same I amount I paid already EARLY! I NEVER gave consent for this other card to be used. After being tossed around to about five people I finally spoke with JOY who was horrible to me. After I explained I did not appreciate the way she spoke to me she said "well I'm having a bad day". First off that was not professional of her and I'm sorry she was having a bad day but that does not mean you take it out on a paying customer who paid EARLY! She went on to say she was receiving a lot of problematic calls and that she doesn't know what I expect. If they were chasing me for money and I told them I was having a bad day I doubt that would of been an acceptable answer. Either way, my experience today has me seriously considering pulling my son from this YMCA altogether. A simple apology and acceptance of their error would of been fine but instead they treated me as if I did something wrong by paying EARLY. BEWARE, avoid speaking to JOY when she is having a bad day. IF I COULD GIVE JOY ZERO STARS I WOULD. I guess she doesn't care if she causes the YMCA to lose me as a customer bc they have so...
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