A Safe, Inclusive, and Equitable Space

The Guelph Youth Music Centre (GYMC) is committed to establishing and maintaining a safe, inclusive, equitable, and welcoming learning and working environment for all members of the GYMC community, regardless of real or perceived sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions, which includes lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, two-spirit and those who are questioning (2SLGBTQIA+). View or download the GYMC Sexual Orientation and Gender Identities Policies and Procedures.

We Are All Valued

The GYMC is committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive community that supports creative and critical expression amidst a culture that accepts the value of every individual.

The Guelph Youth Music Centre is committed to the highest levels of artistic and academic expression within the framework of our mission to develop and enrich young lives. We believe that diversity is an integral component to the arts recreational and educational process and we are committed to maintaining a multicultural environment that is open to all. Diversity includes race, colour, nationality, ethnicity, class, religion, disability, age, sex, gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation.

As with all artistic endeavours, the GYMC knows how strength in diversity is essential to a non-­‐profit’s ability to achieve social impact. At the same time commitment to diversity also requires sustainability, comprehensive assessment, adequate resources, and capacity for human resource engagement. These are key ingredients essential to ensuring a sustainable, responsive culture of transparent communication, opportunity and awareness.

Scent-Free Building

The Guelph Youth Music Centre has become increasingly aware of the need to eliminate the use of scented products wherever possible at our facility. For that reason, the GYMC has instituted guidelines to ensure we provide a scent-free environment, wherever possible, to those whose well-being is adversely affected when exposed to scents. For the general population, exposure to scents is not typically problematic, however, occasionally the presence of perfumes and other scented products can present indoor air quality concerns that may affect worker/visitor comfort. Furthermore, for a very small portion of the general population, scented products may present a risk of health hazard.

Scented products more commonly include the following:

• Personal hygiene products (e.g., shampoo, conditioner, hairsprays, deodorants, colognes, after-shaves, fragrances, perfumes, lotions, saps, cosmetics and creams).
• Industrial and/or household chemicals and cleaners.
• Air fresheners (e.g. deodorizers, potpourri, oils and candles).

We ask everyone visiting the GYMC to refrain from using perfume, hairspray or any discernible scent. Cleaning, maintenance, renovation, etc. with which an “atypical” odour is associated will be scheduled to occur at time of reduced occupancy, wherever possible. As we replace our cleaning produce, future purchases will be scent-free wherever possible and when it does not affect Public Health regulation compliance.

Nut-Free Building

The health and safety of all individuals are the GYMC’s top priority. To ensure a safe environment for those with severe nut allergies, our facility is designated as a Nut-Free Zone. Please avoid bringing foods that contain nuts as an ingredient, even in trace amounts. Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our facility safe for everyone.

Group Class Policies

Registration Requirements

• All participants must be registered and have paid in full prior to the start of the program.
• Registrations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the class reaches capacity.

Class Cancellations

• Classes may be subject to cancellation if there is insufficient enrollment. A minimum number of participants is required to run each program.
• If a class is cancelled due to low enrolment, registrants will be notified in advance, and a full refund will be issued.

Withdrawal & Refund Policy

• No Refunds for Withdrawals: Once registered, refunds will not be issued for withdrawals. This policy applies regardless of attendance or participation in the class.
• Exceptions: In certain cases, the registrar may evaluate requests for refunds based on unforeseen circumstances. All such requests must be submitted in writing for review. Refunds in these cases are not guaranteed and are issued at the sole discretion of the registrar.

Class Rescheduling

• In the event a class needs to be rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances, participants will be informed promptly. Every effort will be made to accommodate all registrants in the rescheduled class.

Code of Conduct

• All participants are expected to respect instructors, staff, and fellow participants at all times. Disruptive behaviour may result in dismissal from the program, without refund.

Weather Closures

• GYMC follows in the footsteps of the Upper Grand District School Board and the City of Guelph. When schools and evening/weekend city programs are closed, the GYMC  will close as well. If buses are canceled but schools remain open, the GYMC will remain open. Should weather conditions worsen throughout the day, the GYMC will make a decision by 2pm and notify students if classes will be cancelled. We will email parents if a decision to cancel classes is reached. The rescheduling of canceled classes may or may not be possible.

Food & Drink

• No food or drink is permitted in studios, except for water bottles.

Financial Assistance

• We are committed to making our classes accessible to all, regardless of financial situations. For families requiring financial assistance, please inquire about our Bursary program by emailing office@gymc.ca

Lost & Found

• GYMC is not responsible for any lost or stolen articles. Our lost and found is located in the Coat Room. Items are kept on site for a limited time, after which they are donated.