MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)–The Marion Family YMCA has announced a new initiative that will make its downtown Rec Center completely free for all teens in Marion County, regardless of whether they have a YMCA membership.

Beginning August 18, the Rec Center, located at 240 West Church Street, will be open Monday through Friday from 2:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for all students in grades 6 through 12. The facility includes a full-size gymnasium, a teen lounge, an art/maker space, and a tech lab.

Marion City Schools will provide after-school transportation to the Rec Center from Grant Middle School and Harding High School. While transportation to the center is provided, teens must arrange their own ride home and are free to leave at any time. Free snacks will also be available daily, thanks to Marion City Schools.

To register, teens can stop by the Rec Center to pick up a form or download one from the YMCA’s website. A legal guardian’s signature is required for all participants. Marion City Schools will also make forms available to families at Grant and Harding.

While the Rec Center is free, teens who want access to the main YMCA facility on Barks Road will still need a Youth Membership, which costs $16 per month.

For more information, contact the Marion Family YMCA at 740-725-9622, ext. 200.