(Chelsea Update would like to thank Matt Pegouskie for the information in this story.)
5 Healthy Towns Foundation (5HF) and the Chelsea and Dexter Wellness Centers are partnering with the City of Chelsea and Chelsea School District to launch a new teen membership program.
The program will allow 13-17 year-olds from any of our 5 Healthy Towns the opportunity to have their own membership to Chelsea and Dexter Wellness Centers.
The pilot runs from July 31 – Aug. 25 and is intended to provide youth with access to local wellness facilities, while also helping to collect feedback to inform about future needs related to youth and family wellness programming.
“We are excited to launch this pilot membership for youth and are thankful for the support and vision that our partners share for increasing access to the incredible amenities available in Chelsea and Dexter,” says Steve Petty, 5HF CEO in a press release. “We hope this is a catalyst for greater collaboration in future.”
Passes cost $15 and include:
Access to the centers from 12 – 5 pm Monday through Fridays
Access to the centers from 12:30 – 2:30 pm on Saturdays
Access to the gymnasium at Chelsea School District’s Washington Street Education Center from 2 – 4 pm, Monday through Friday, between August 7 – 25.
Wellness Center access includes full access to the fitness floor at both Wellness Centers, and the gymnasium at Dexter. Access to pools, steam rooms and whirlpools will not be available due to lifeguard shortages.
The City of Chelsea, Chelsea School District and 5 Healthy Towns Foundation are each contributing resources to subsidize the cost of the membership for teens. Financial Assistance is also available for any teens who are unable to afford the cost of membership.
“Chelsea School District is proud to partner with the City of Chelsea and 5 Healthy Towns to be able to provide additional summer recreation options for our students and families,” said Chelsea School District Superintendent Mike Kapolka.
Teens are required to bring their parents or guardians to the Member Services Desk at either center to sign up. Parents do not need to be present for youth to access the centers. A group orientation is required before pass usage may begin and will be scheduled during registration.
Teens who need transportation help to get to the centers should visit the Western Washtenaw Area Value Express website (ridethewavebus.org) to learn more about options like the Chelsea Community Ride and Chelsea – Dexter connectors.
