Capital District YMCA - Bethlehem Branch — Local services in Town of Bethlehem

I am writing to express my deep concern about the closure of the Albany YMCA and how this decision affects underprivileged youth in the community. The closure has created a serious gap in access to essential recreational and developmental programs—especially swimming—which are now primarily available at facilities in Delmar and East Greenbush.

These locations largely cater to more affluent, predominantly white communities, and are difficult to access for low-income families in Albany who often lack reliable transportation. This raises serious equity concerns. Every child deserves the opportunity to learn how to swim and participate in healthy, structured activities, regardless of where they live or their socioeconomic background.

I urge you to revisit this decision and consider the long-term impact it will have on the youth of Albany. The YMCA’s mission has always included a commitment to inclusion and community support. Right now, many of us feel that mission is not being upheld.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I hope to see meaningful steps toward restoring access and equity for all children...

I started my membership 9 years ago. After 2 knee replacements & 1 hip replacement surgery, I have just started back. I love the staff check in & exit friendliness, professional & courtesy, very high level of Emotional Intelligence. The spa & pool, (sauna & steam room are very clean & properly sanitized. The strength & cardio areas are TOP manufacturers & properly maintained w/cleaning spray and paper towels easily accessible for proper cleaning after use, The YMCA open/closing hours are perfect, wide range of times & all days. I’ve worked as a National Health Club Director, last 25 years, I have audited the “Good, Bad & Ugly “, truly this is One of the BEST, I’m so happy to have the privilege to have a membership here. The front end Director “MARK”, is one of the best, managers nationwide, my experience (50+ clubs, 12 states) Club excellence starts with LEADERSHIP, (owners, board & lead management, then individual employees) They do have 95% of service at highest level. Also, I have membership experience, at the top, most expensive & cheap wellness, health clubs & gyms in the (Albany) Capital...

I never write a review this time I have too I had the worst experience here starting canceling classes and never get a call to inform me then came in and no one know wish class my son is the class started and everybody don’t know what to do after almost 15 minutes they ask me to join the class I told them I need my 30 minutes class for my son and the executive director said no he was the worst person there he said after a conversation with him we will refund you means we don’t need you here as a mom I work hard for my kids to pay this classes how come you treat me like that just because I asked for the full time class and it was there mistake they didn’t know what class and what teacher is with you have to be example for your coworkers sooo disappointed my son was crying so bad because he miss his class shame on you hopefully there so someone very responsible can read this message and just to say this is not my first time here my son did his classes but it’s my last time...