Programs and Ages

School-Age Child Care at the YMCA build self esteem, values and leadership skills. You’ll know they’re growing and exploring their potential, they’ll think they’re just having fun.

The YMCA offers a North Carolina star-rated, licensed program designed for ages 5-12 that is based on the four core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. We offer developmentally-appropriate activities that will enhance your child’s confidence, enrich his or her social and physical development and encourage self expression. Our program includes arts and crafts, individualized help with homework, group games, outside play and more.

Professional Staff

Each week’s activities are carefully planned to provide just the right balance of learning and fun. All YMCA School-Age Child Care staff members are certified in CPR, standard first aid and emergency procedures. In addition, counselors receive 40 hours of additional training in topics such as conflict resolution, diversity, team building and developmental assets. 

More Information

From the YMCA of Western North Carolina, Buncombe County Schools, and McDowell County Schools.

Please call 210-2273 to reach our Buncombe County Child Care Services office or 659-9622 to speak to someone about McDowell County Schools. All YMCA Buncombe County and McDowell County School-Age Child Care Programs are North Carolina state licensed.

Please see the Program Handbook pdf file at the bottom of this page for program fees.

Registration Options

Registration must be completed at least two weeks prior to attending the first day of program. Please see the Program Handbook pdf file at the bottom of this page for program fees.

Option 1: Register in person at:
(Buncombe) Child Care Services branch located at 53 Asheland Avenue, Suite 102-A. Monday - Friday, 8AM - 5PM
(McDowell) Corpening Memorial YMCA Branch 348 Grace Corpening Drive, Marion, NC during normal operating hours

Option 2: Send information by mail to:
Buncombe County & Asheville City
YMCA of Western North Carolina

Child Care Services YMCA
53 Asheland Ave. Suite 102-A
Asheville, NC 28801

McDowell County
YMCA of Western North Carolina
Corpening Memorial YMCA
348 Grace Corpening Drive
Marion, NC 28752

Registration Requirements

In order to complete your registration you must provide:

• A copy of each child’s immunization records and medical records.
• A completed and signed registration packet.
• A non-refundable registration fee.
• A non-refundable payment for the first week of attendance.
  If paying by check, please include your child’s name and school name on your check.
• A recent color photo of child.
• If applicable...a completed YMCA financial assistance application with three recent pay stubs and your most recent tax forms.
• A valid copy of your child care services voucher, if you are currently eligible for a subsidy.

Online Payment Instructions

Go to www.ymcawnc.org and click on the CHECK OUT OUR PROGRAMS ONLINE link at the bottom. Read the instructions and click "Register for Programs" to continue. For the first time login, please enter the CHILD'S last name, First name, and Parent's email address. The password is the first initial followed by the last initial and the birth date (mmddyy). Once logged in, choose Child Care branch and "My Rosters."  There should be a balance due option to view what is owed currently, and a link to pay that balance with a credit card.

Financial Assistance

THE YMCA IS CURRENTLY ACCEPTING SUBSIDY VOUCHERS FROM MCDOWELL COUNTY DSS and BUNCOMBE COUNTY CHILD CARE SERVICES . Please contact Buncombe County Child Care Services Subsidy Unit at 828-250-5500 for more information on the subsidy program. The YMCA does have limited resources available to provide financial assistance, but it is a requirement that you apply for subsidy first through Buncombe County Child Care Services.

Corpening Memorial YMCA Currently accepting subsidy vouchers from Buncombe, McDowell, Transalvania, and Caldwell counties.

Our YMCA Beaverdam location services the following Asheville City Schools: Claxton, Dickson, and Jones.