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At Dan McKinney Family YMCA
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Check here for news about special happenings and updates that may affect your visit to the Y! Scroll down to see more specific information for different programming areas.
UPCOMING DAY CAMPS
Our camps are an exciting way to spend a school break! We include lots of action-packed activities that keep your children engaged and happy, like arts & crafts, sports and games. Set in the YMCA style of different crazy activities each and every day, your camper will have a great time while parents have peace of mind knowing their camper is safe. Register today!
- Spring Break Day Camp:
- March 31-April 4, 2025
- Summer Day Camp:
- First Week of Camp: June 2-6, 2025
- Last Week of Camp: August 11-15, 2025
Visit our day camp page for more information.
UPCOMING SPA MAINTENANCE
Our spa will be temporarily closed for maintenance starting March 3 for approximately 6-7 weeks. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to enhance your experience. We can’t wait to welcome you back to a refreshed and improved spa soon!
OVERNIGHT FAMILY CAMP
The YMCA of San Diego County offers unforgettable weekends full of fun and adventure for the whole family at two stunning overnight camp locations. Each weekend package includes lodging, meals, and a variety of staff-led activities designed to suit all interests and ages. Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore new activities, or simply spend quality time with family and friends, we have the perfect setting for you.
YMCA Camp Marston
- First Responder Family Camp | February 28–March 2, 2025 (Fri-Sun)
- Easter Family Camp | April 18–20, 2025 (Fri-Sun)
- Mother’s Day Family Camp | May 9–11, 2025 (Fri-Sun)
- Labor Day Family Camp | August 29–31, 2025 (Fri-Sun)
- Halloween Family Camp | October 31–November 2, 2025 (Fri-Sun)
- Thanksgiving Family Camp | November 28–30, 2025 (Fri-Sun)
- Winter Family Camp | December 19-21, 2025 (Fri-Sun)
Visit our Camp Marston overnight camp page for more information or register today!
YMCA Camp Surf
- Memorial Day Weekend | May 23–26, 2025 (Fri-Mon)
- Fourth of July Weekend | July 4–6, 2025 (Fri-Sun)
- Labor Day Weekend | August 29 – September 1, 2025 (Fri-Mon)
- Military Family Weekend | November 7–10, 2025 (Fri-Mon)
Visit our Camp Surf overnight camp page for more information or register today!
CHILD WATCH
Y Community Plus members with family memberships have unlimited access to Child Watch services at 12 YMCA branch locations across San Diego County. With easy reservations through the YMCA app, you can focus on your fitness or unwind at the Y while your children play under the supervision of highly trained YMCA staff. Not yet a Y Community Plus member? Current Y members can upgrade to the Y Community Plus membership plan by stopping by any location. If you currently have Child Watch services as an add-on to your family membership, you may continue to use Child Watch services on a drop-in basis. Learn more here.
- Child Watch hours: Mondays – Sundays, 8:30am – 1:00pm | Mondays – Thursdays, 3:00pm – 6:00pm | Fridays, 8:30am – 1:00pm.
WE'RE HIRING NOW!
You belong at the Y! Make an impact that goes beyond your work day. Be the reason someone discovers their potential, courage and joy while building and creating memories that will last a lifetime!
- Hiring now for swim instructors, lifeguards and more! View all openings and apply now.
- Interested in volunteering? We need your help! Programs, like youth sports, can’t happen without Y volunteers. Learn more and apply today.
AQUATICS OVERVIEW
Find out more about our aquatics facility at Dan McKinney Family YMCA and other pools around the county by visiting our aquatics facilities section page.
- Intermittent spa closure: In order to prioritize member safety, the spa at Dan McKinney Family YMCA will continue to have intermittent closures throughout the baseball season. Please see below for days/times of closures. Thank you for your understanding.
- Saturdays: 8:00am–6:00pm
- Sundays: 10:00am–5:00pm
- Mon-Fri: 4:45pm–6:00pm
HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
We’re here to help you find what moves you at the Y!
NEW! BOXING 101
Boxing 101 is a high-energy, full-body workout designed to improve cardiovascular fitness, strength and coordination through the fundamentals of boxing. This class combines intense cardio drills with bodyweight exercises, using gloves, shields and hitting pads for a dynamic, hands-on training experience. Whether you’re new to boxing or looking to refine your technique, this class will help build endurance, burn fat and tone your body while teaching proper boxing form! Register today!
- Dates: Every Monday from 4:15-5:15pm in Studio AB with CJ
- Drop-In Fee:
- Nonmembers: $20/session
- Members: $15/session — ask the Welcome Center about monthly rates!
Questions? Visit the Welcome Center or contact Health & Wellness Director, Jeremy Sobotka at jbsobotka@ymcasd.org.
GROUP EXERCISE AT SHEPHERD FIREHOUSE YMCA
Did you know we now offer group exercise classes at Shepherd Firehouse YMCA in La Jolla? We have plenty of offerings such as: ZUMBA, HIIT, Yoga, Les Mills Classes (such as BODYPUMP and BODYCOMBAT), plus so much more! Visit the Shepherd Firehouse YMCA homepage to see monthly offerings!
For questions, please contact Sean Flatow by email at sflatow@ymcasd.org or by phone at (858) 453-3483 ext. 1829.
MEN'S PERSPECTIVE GROUP
Join us for Men’s Perspective Group – a new well-being initiative to bring men together for healthy discussion on how to be the best version of themselves. Be a person of mental, physical and spiritual wellness, learn how to balance life situations, family and employment responsibilities, develop a personal life goal, grow in self-mastery and sound character, and be the person people want to be around. For male YMCA members ages 18+. Visit our blog to meet the founder, Jerry Kwasek and learn more about this great opportunity!
The Men’s Perspective Group will meet on the fourth Tuesday of each month. This group is for men who are seeking mental, physical and spiritual wellness, aiming to balance life situations, family and employment responsibilities. Grow in self-mastery and sound character as you become the person others want to be around!
SCHEDULE A MASSAGE TODAY!
Refresh and revitalize with massage! Make rest and recovery part of your wellness routine. Schedule your appointment at the Welcome Center today!
Single Session Pricing:
- 30-minutes | $60
- 60-minutes | $100
- 90-minutes | $130
(5x) Package Pricing:
- 30-minutes | $280
- 60-minutes | $480
- 90-minutes | $625
You may purchase via online — click the “Personal Training Punch Pass” and scroll until you see the desired package. To schedule, please visit the front desk or give us a call at (858) 453-3483.
For more information or questions, please contact Jeremy Sobotka at jbsobotka@ymcasd.org.
MASSAGE ON THE GO
After a hard workout, enjoy a free, thirty-minute relaxing massage with our new equipment rental! Ask a Wellness Coach for more information. ID is required to check out massage equipment.
HEALTH COACHING AT THE Y
A health coach can help you be accountable, get perspective on your strengths and identify areas for opportunity. They empower you to create or further develop your vision for healthy living. Check out our health coaching page for more information!
Your health is more than just what you eat or how often you exercise. Experience a new whole well-being approach is that is individualized, sustainable and transformational. Sessions are conducted in-person or virtually and have been designed to:
- Produce meaningful and long-term behavior change
- Identify motivators and resources for achieving your highest potential
- Uncover the success that lies within you through guided support
- Create and implement a plan for achieving your goals
- Develop lasting and restorative self-care practices
Personal Health Coaching Fee: $70/members | $90/participants.
For more information or to register, visit our front desk or contact Jeremy Sobotka at jbsobotka@ymcasd.org.
Memory Screening
Monthly memory screening will be held the first Thursday of each month. Flyers with a registration QR code will be posted around the branch 4-weeks prior to the event.
For more information, contact Geraldine Cui at gcui@ymcasd.org.
LIVESTRONG AT THE YMCA
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA engages cancer survivors through an approach that focuses on the whole person — mind and body. Through this program participants work with trained Y staff to improve cardiovascular endurance and functional ability, build muscle mass and strength, and increase flexibility. In addition to physical benefits, the program also focuses on the mental and emotional well-being of survivors and their families. This creates a supportive community environment where people affected by cancer can connect during treatment and beyond. Get more information online.
GROUP FITNESS CLASSES
Be sure to check our group fitness class schedule for new classes and updates. Remember, members have unlimited access to classes!
SHEPHERD FIREHOUSE GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES
Monday
Zumba | 9:00–9:55am | Andrea | Engine Room
Yin Yoga | 10:00-11:15am | Heidi | Studio C
HIIT | 11:30-12:30pm | Sheena | Engine Room
Tuesday
Tuesday | 9:30-10:25am | Sylvia | Engine Room
BODYCOMBAT | 5:00-5:55pm | Aaron | Engine Room
Wednesday
Zumba | 10:00-10:55am | Andrea | Engine Room
HIIT | 11:30-12:30pm | Sheena | Engine Room
Power Yoga | 5:30-7:00pm | Melinda | Studio C
Thursday
Hatha Yoga | 10:30-11:30am | Heidi | Studio C
HEALTH AND WELLNESS ORIENTATION
Meet with a wellness coach to get acquainted with equipment and classes, ask questions and chart a path to reach your goals. Schedule your 30-minute orientation at the Welcome Center! Learn more.
For any questions or concerns regarding Health and Wellness, please contact Jeremy Sobotka at jsobotka@ymcasd.org.
REIKI
Reiki therapy sessions with Lanie Chapman, certified Reiki master with more than 30 years of experience. Reiki is an ancient, safe, natural and proven healing technique for stress reduction and relaxation, mental clarity, reduction of pain, improved sleep, increase of confidence and self-esteem.
- Single Session (30-minutes): $45
- Three Sessions (30-minutes): $135
- Five Sessions (30-minutes): $225
- Single Session (60-minutes): $70
- Three Sessions (60-minutes): $210
- Five Sessions (60-minutes): $350
You may purchase via online — click the “Personal Training Punch Pass” and scroll until you see the desired package. To schedule, please visit the front desk or give us a call at (858) 453-3483.
For more information or questions, please contact Jeremy Sobotka at jbsobotka@ymcasd.org.
PERSONAL TRAINING
Working with a personal trainer can help you reach your goals and maximize your fitness potential! Improve your training with our class packages. Learn more about personal training here.
INBODY ASSESSMENTS
InBody body-composition assessments are available by appointment. Get a detailed breakdown of your lean tissue, water and fat mass in just 45 seconds. Now you can leave the guessing behind and know exactly what is inside your body! Free with a purchase of a PT package or $20 for members, $30 for non-members. See a coach or trainer to get signed up or contact Jeremy Sobotka, jbsobotka@ymcasd.org.
ADULT SPORTS
Adults can play too! This fall, enjoy volleyball and basketball leagues, pickleball lessons and clinics at the Y! View all sports here.
YOGA: PRIVATE LESSONS
Deepen your yoga practice with private yoga lessons. Be heard, be seen, transform and rise to your full potential! Contact Jeremy Sobotka at jsobotka@ymcasd.org for more information or schedule your private lesson.
PICKLEBALL CLINICS
Interested in learning pickleball or improving your game? Join us for our new, three week clinic on our indoor pickleball courts! Our knowledgeable instructors will teach you tips and tricks to take your game to the next level.
- Three weeks on Thursdays
- Intermediate clinic: 11:30am-12:30pm
- Beginners clinic: 12:30-1:30pm
- Register today!
For more information, contact Jeremy at jbsobotka@ymcasd.org.
PICKLEBALL
- Private lessons – Private lesson sessions with Eric are now available every day of the week to help you improve your game! Register online or at the front desk, then email Jeremy at jbsobotka@ymcasd.org to schedule your appointment time. Register now!
- Pickleball club – Come and play pickleball on Fridays, 9:00am – 10:30am, on the outdoor courts. Check in at the Welcome Center prior to play — we have limited spots, and play is first come, first served. Members may check out equipment at the Welcome Center, and are responsible for setting it up and taking it down. Learn more about pickleball here.
- Private lessons now available with Eric! Register online or at the front desk, then email Health & Wellness Director Jeremy Sobotka at jbsobotka@ymcasd.org to schedule your appointment.
FAMILY & KIDS
Family-time is special at the Y. Spend time together and discover new activities for your child to explore.
Upcoming Events
Parents Night Out
Enjoy an evening out while we entertain the kids at the Shepherd Firehouse with games and crafts while making new friends! This event is for children ages 3-12, children must be potty trained. Register exclusively at the Front Desk! Limited spots are available and registration closes the day before the event, so act fast!
Upcoming Dates:
- Saturday, March 15 | 5:00 – 8:00pm | Theme: St. Patrick’s Day
- Saturday, April 12 | 5:00 – 8:00pm | Theme: Glow in the Dark
Registration cost for participants is $66, members can save up to 25%. Members also receive the family fee of $40 per child if more than one child is enrolled.
Contact Tina Dinh, Child Watch and Family Programs Coordinator, at Tdinh@ymcasd.org for more information.
Art Club
Wednesdays | 2:00 – 4:00pm — Love to draw, paint or both? Join us to create a masterpiece using different art techniques. We encourage members to bring their own supplies, as we have limited supplies available. Easel will be provided. For more information, please visit our Welcome Center.
Gymnastics
Jump into fun with gymnastics! Toddlers and teens can grow strong, get confident and find balance in a safe, fun and encouraging environment. Learn more.
NEW Adult Open Gym | Thursdays from 6:30 – 8:00pm
Dance
Saturdays | Shepherd YMCA Firehouse
Introduce your child to they joy of movement with dance classes for ages 3-12, where creativity and self-expression come alive! Our classes nuture confidence, teamwork and a love for the arts in a fun supportive environment!
- Preschool Ballet
- 9:15-10:00am | Ages 3-5
- Youth Ballet/Tap
- 10:15-11:00am | Ages 6-12
- 10:15-11:00am | Ages 6-12
Enroll today online or at the Welcome Center! For questions or more information, please contact Melina Bradley at mbradley@ymcasd.org.
Swim Lessons
Sign up for group or private swim lessons! Register today.
Swim Team
Our La Jolla Lightning swim team is practicing regularly! If your child would like to get involved, swimmers should be proficient in 100 yards freestyle with rotary breathing, 100-200 IM based on ability, 25-50 yards butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke and freestyle. Learn more about swim teams at the Y.
Parent and Child Programs
Join in as we expand our parent and child enrichment classes for parents and kids! We will have new art and music classes and rookie sports for those ages 2 to 5 years!
Sports
Join our 6-Week youth basketball league. Games will take place on Saturdays with practices during the week. Specific game times will be determined after teams are formed.
Peewee Basketball
Lessons | Monthly sessions
- Ages 4-5 | Tuesdays, 4:30pm or Saturdays, 9:00am
Youth Volleyball
Beginner Clinics | Monthly sessions
- Ages 8-10 | Wednesdays, 3:30pm or Saturdays, 11:00am
- Ages 11-13 | Wednesdays, 4:45pm or Saturdays, 12:00pm
Youth Basketball
Clinics | Monthly sessions
- Ages 6-11 | Beginner clinic | Tuesdays, 4:30pm or Saturdays, 10:00am
- Ages 7-12 | Intermediate clinic | Thursdays, 3:30pm
- Ages 10-13 | Advanced clinic | Thursdays, 4:30pm
Register today online or at the Welcome Center!
Volunteer Coaches are needed! We can’t play this seson without the help of great volunteer coaches like you! The Y will provide training. Interested? Apply online here.
SPLASH PAD BIRTHDAYS
The splash pad is now available for birthday parties! Contact our aquatics department to reserve your two-hour party time on Saturdays or Sundays!
Adventure Clubs
Adventure Clubs at the YMCA nurture the relationships between parents and children through camping and other outdoor activities. Enjoy weekend campouts (tent and cabin camping) from the desert to the mountains and beaches. Parents and their children can look forward to making new friends and participating in activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, crafts, campfire skits and more! Learn more.
Enrichment
PRESCHOOL ENRICHMENT
Join us for our newly expanding parent and child enrichment classes!- Music & Art — Tuesdays | 10:00 – 11:00am
- Rookie Sports — Saturdays | 10:00am – 11:00am
TEEN PROGRAMS
Encourage your teen to discover new activities, make friends, and explore their potential in a fun and supportive environment — at the Y!
TEEN ENRICHMENT PROGRAMMING
Welcome to Teen Enrichment at Dan McKinney Family YMCA! We’re thrilled to be cooking up a whole new lineup of classes and workshops created just for our amazing Y teens! Whether you yourself are a teen or someone in your family is a teen interested in art, tech, sports, or something totally unique, we’re here to welcome you! Learn more about our teen enrichment programs today!
See below for a list of all Teen Center events happening at the Dan McKinney Family YMCA! All Teen Center programs are open to all teens in the community who want to attend.
- February 2025 – View Calendar
- March 2025 – View Calendar
Reach out to our Teen Enrichment Coordinator, Reese Kirkpatrick, at rkirkpatrick@ymcasd.org with any questions or feedback.
Teen Cooking Classes
Join our teen cooking class! Whether you’re a beginner or an iron chef, our cooking classes provide meals and lessons to meet you where you’re at. You can expect a fun and supportive environment to build your confidence, culinary skills and community! Register today!
- When: Wednesdays | 5:30–6:30pm | Monthly Sessions
- Location: Dan McKinney Teaching Kitchen | Dan McKinney Family YMCA
Teen Art
Dive into the world of creativity with our Teen Art program! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this class offers a fun and supportive environment to explore different techniques, express yourself, and connect with others through art. Register today!
- When: Once a month (days and times vary)
- Location: Dan McKinney Teaching Kitchen | Dan McKinney Family YMCA
Teen Nights
Introducing our Teen Nights hosted by Dan McKinney Family YMCA —an exciting new way for teens to get out there, explore new activities and make new friends. Once a month, the Shepherd Firehouse YMCA transforms into the ultimate hangout spot just for teens. Join us for game and movie nights, holiday festivities and many nights of fun with friends! Ages 12-17. Register today!
Fee: Free for YMCA members | $10 for nonmembers
Location: Shepherd Firehouse YMCA, 7877 Herschel Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037 — get directions
Contact information:
- Hannah Lewis, Teens Director | hlewis@ymcasd.org
- Reese Kirkpatrick, Teens Coordinator | rkirkpatrick@ymcasd.org
YOUTH GOVERMENT
MODEL LEGISLATURE & COURT (MLC)
High School Program | Grades 9–12
Are you interested in shaping the future? Model Legislature & Court is geared specifically for high schoolers to give them the unique opportunity to step into the roles of state legislators, lawyers and judges, allowing you to develop your public speaking, critical thinking and leadership skills. Learn more!
Registration is now open! For more information, please reach out to Hannah Lewis at hlewis@ymcasd.org.
MODEL UNITED NATIONS (MUN)
Middle School Program | Grades 6–8
Middle school students or “ambassadors” come together in delegations and participate in the program with peers from across California. They are given the opportunity to discuss international issues, discover other cultures, develop life enhancing skills, and make new friends. The three-month program includes two in-person events*, a 1-day training and the culminating 2-night Model United Nations Summit. There, delegates represent assigned countries as ambassadors and work to solve global issues with the skills they have acquired. Learn more!
Important Dates and Information:
- Parent Information Session: January 29 & February 5, 2025 | 6:30pm at Dan McKinney Family YMCA
- Weekly Meetings: Wednesdays | 6:30–7:30pm
- MUN Conferences:
- Training Conference 1: Saturday, March 22, 2025 | North High School, Torrance CA
- MUN Summit: April 25-27, 2025, at Camp Pali Mountain, Running Springs, CA
For more information, please reach out to Hannah Lewis, hlewis@ymcasd.org | 858-453-3483 ext 1832.
Registration open February 2025.
Y’s Active Adults (55+)
YAA EVENTS
More information coming soon!
THE WHOLE HEALTH PROGRAM
The Whole Health Program, in partnership with the San Diego VA, provides wellness programs for veterans throughout San Diego County. Veterans are invited to participate in activities like Tai Chi and Yoga at the Dan McKinney Family YMCA in La Jolla, promoting physical and mental well-being. Interested in participating in our group exercise classes, such as Tai Chi, Yoga, Aqua Aerobics and much more? Check out our group exercise schedule here.
For more information, contact Geraldine Cui at gcui@ymcasd.org.
YAA CLubs
- Coffee Club — Mondays | 8:30–9:30am | Coffee Club is our Y Active Adults focus group. Share your ideas, give feedback and help us select the clubs, trips and activities offered here at Dan McKinney Family YMCA.
- Mahjong Monday — Mondays | 11:00am–1:00pm | Show off your competitive side and see if you can be the champion of Mahjong Monday! Free for members and welcome to all levels. Learn as you go or just observe if you are a mahjong newbie.
- Walking Club — Wednesdays | 9:00–11:00am | Enjoy a walk with fellow Y members as we explore our surrounding neighborhood. Bring your walking shoes!
- Crocheting and Knitting Club — Wednesdays | 11:00am–1:00pm | Knit, crochet, and socialize with other members! Work on projects together and share ideas. Bring your own supplies; the YMCA can also assist in providing knitting supplies to get you started!
- Art Club — Wednesdays | 2:00-4:00pm | Love to draw, paint or both? Join us to create a masterpiece using different art techniques. We encourage members to bring their own supplies, as we have limited supplies available. Easel will be provided. For more information, please visit our Welcome Center.
- Quilting Club — Second Wednesday | 11:00am-3:00pm | Join us for creativity and connection at our Quilting Club, where members gather to craft and share their passion for quilting!
- Ping Pong Club — Tuesdays & Thursdays | 10:00-11:00am | Join us for some friendly competition and fun at our Ping Pong Club, where players of all skill levels are welcome to rally and connect!
- Book Club — Second Thursday | 12:30–2:00pm | Join us for a discussion about the book of the month at our book club group! Please visit our Welcome Center for information on our monthly reading.
- Bridge Club — Fridays | 9:30–11:30am | Join us for Bridge Club! Bridge is a trick-taking card game using a standard 52-card deck that is played with partners sitting opposite from each other at a table. A Bridge deal consists of two phases, which are bidding, and card play. Each partnership attempts to score points by making its bid, or by defeating the opposing partnership’s bid and the side with the most points wins.
*These events are free for members to attend. All clubs are subject to cancellation. Please check in at our Welcome Center.
Y Active Adult Activities Around the County
More to explore
View our Y Active Adults page to view programming and activities around the county.
Events and Special Activities
Blood Bank
Did you know you could help save up to three lives by giving blood? The YMCA of San Diego County has partnered with the San Diego Blood Bank to host blood drives across the county this year. Help address a critical need for blood donations in our community!
More information and dates coming soon!
Make an appointment here or call (619) 400-8251.
Y in the COMMUNITY
CONNECTING YOU TO CARE
We’ve streamlined the child care search process with our enhanced referral system to help parents make the best decision for their families. Learn more!
HELP PAYING FOR CHILD CARE
Do you or someone you know need help paying for child care?
The San Diego County Centralized Eligibility List (CEL) is one application that connects you to different agencies across San Diego to help pay for child care for families who qualify. Child care has become the second-largest expense for families – spending up to 50% of their household budget a year. See if you qualify for this service today.
KEEP IN TOUCH
Connect on social
COMMUNICATION PREFERENCES
Visit our subscription center to opt in for text-message alerts to ensure you receive updates that may affect your visit to the Y.
Contact us
If you have any questions or concerns, our membership team is here to help! Call us at (858) 453-3483 during regular business hours or send an email: ljfeedback@ymcasd.org and we’ll get back to you soon!
