Who is the YMCA of Catawba Valley?

We’re glad you asked! 

The YMCA of Catawba Valley is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening our communities and helping people improve their health and well-being, build meaningful connections and reach their full potential.

Our current service area stretches from Lincoln County to Burke County, connecting communities across the region with opportunities and resources that help people learn, grow and thrive. The new Rutherford College YMCA will become our sixth location, giving us another way to serve our region and bringing convenient Y access closer to the Rutherford College community.

We look forward to getting to know the Rutherford College community, and becoming a part of it.

When will the Rutherford College YMCA open?

We can’t wait to welcome you! The Rutherford College YMCA is scheduled to open in January 2027.

We’ll share the official opening date and more details about accessing the facility as we get closer to opening day.

What are the hours?

The Rutherford College YMCA will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Whether you like to start your day with an early morning workout, stop in after work or exercise later in the evening, you’ll have the flexibility to visit when it works best for you.

Will YMCA staff be at the facility?

The Rutherford College YMCA will be a non-staffed facility, which is what allows us to provide members with convenient 24/7 access.

While staff will not be stationed at the branch, our YMCA team will regularly visit the facility for cleaning, maintenance and other operational needs.

Who can use the Rutherford College YMCA?

The Rutherford College YMCA is designed specifically for adults ages 18 and older. Because of the facility’s non-staffed, 24/7 model - children, teens and guests will not be permitted in the facility.

Access will be available to:

• Members with a Rutherford College YMCA membership
• YMCA of Catawba Valley Association members ages 18 and older with 24/7 access

Because of the unique non-staffed and controlled-access model of this facility, Nationwide Membership access will not be available to members whose home YMCA is outside the YMCA of Catawba Valley Association.

If you’re visiting our area from another YMCA, we’d be happy to welcome you at one of our other YMCA of Catawba Valley locations that participates in Nationwide Membership.

What fitness equipment will be available?

You’ll have the essentials you need for a great workout! The Rutherford College YMCA will feature a selection of strength-training and cardio equipment to support a variety of fitness levels, routines and wellness goals.

Will group exercise classes be available?

While traditional instructor-led group exercise classes will not be offered at this location at this time, members will have access to YMCA360, our virtual wellness platform.  YMCA360 gives members access to virtual fitness and wellness content that can complement their workouts at the branch or help them stay active wherever they are.

What types of membership types will be accepted?

We want to make it easy for eligible adults to connect with the Y. The Rutherford College YMCA will offer:

Adult (18 years +) memberships

Two Adult Household memberships

Select Insurance Based Memberships*

*Eligibility requirements may apply to insurance based memberships.

We also offer financial assistance to help make YMCA membership accessible to those who qualify. 

What membership options will be available?

You’ll be able to choose the membership option that best fits how you plan to use the Y.

Rutherford College Branch Only Membership
Looking primarily for convenient fitness access close to home? This option will provide access to the Rutherford College YMCA at a branch only membership rate.

YMCA of Catawba Valley Association Membership
Want access to even more of the Y? An Association Membership provides access to all six YMCA of Catawba Valley locations, as well as eligible Nationwide Membership access at participating YMCAs across the country.

Check back soon for more information on rates and Founding Member Joining Specials! 

How do I join?

We’re making joining as convenient as possible. You’ll be able to join online or visit the nearest staffed YMCA of Catawba Valley branch, where our team will be happy to help you get started.

How will I enter the facility?

Your YMCA membership scan card will be your key to the Rutherford College YMCA.

Simply scan your card for access when you arrive. Because this is a non-staffed facility, be sure to bring your membership scan card each time you visit.

How will the YMCA help keep the facility secure?

We want members to feel comfortable and confident when visiting the Rutherford College YMCA.

The facility will have controlled access through YMCA membership scan cards and will be monitored by security cameras at all times. These measures are an important part of maintaining a secure 24/7 environment for our members.

How will cleaning and maintenance be handled?

A non-staffed facility doesn’t mean an uncared-for facility! Our YMCA team will regularly visit the Rutherford College YMCA to provide routine cleaning, equipment care and facility maintenance.

Our goal is to provide a clean, welcoming space every time you visit.

Can I bring a guest?

Because the Rutherford College YMCA is a non-staffed, 24/7 facility with controlled member access, guests will not be permitted at this location.

We appreciate your help in maintaining a secure environment by never allowing another person to enter using your membership access.

Will there be child care or youth programs?

The Rutherford College YMCA is designed specifically for adults ages 18 and older, so child care and youth programming will not be offered at this location.

Members with an Association Membership can explore the many programs, amenities and services available for children, teens and families at our other YMCA of Catawba Valley locations.

What if I need help with my membership or have a question?

We’re still here to help! You can receive membership and account assistance online or by connecting with the team at one of our staffed YMCA of Catawba Valley locations.

We’ll share additional contact information and helpful resources before the branch opens.

What makes the Rutherford College YMCA different from a traditional YMCA branch?

Think of the Rutherford College YMCA as another way to experience the Y: one designed around flexibility, convenience and access to healthy living opportunities.

The smaller, non-staffed model gives adult members 24/7 access to strength and cardio equipment while still providing opportunities to stay connected to the broader YMCA of Catawba Valley.

Whether your workout happens at 5 a.m., during your lunch break or late in the evening, we’re excited to give you another way to make healthy living work for you.