Join the PALW
A free first step toward programs, support, and community connection.
Be part of our welcoming community, for free
PALW membership is a simple, free way for youth, adults, and seniors to begin participating in eligible programs, activities, and facility-based services in Wilmington and New Castle County.
By completing a membership form, you help our team understand who is participating, keep important information on file, and create a safe, welcoming environment for everyone who comes through our doors.
Whether you are signing up a child, joining as an adult, or connecting with senior programming, membership helps you take the next step into a community built around support, connection, and opportunity.
What to know before you join
Free to Join
at Any Age
PALW membership is free for eligible youth, adults, and seniors.
Required for Participation
Membership is required for PALW facility-based programs and activities.
Quick and Easy
to Complete
Most memberships are approved within 24 hours. If you complete your form while at the PALW facility, approval may be immediate.
Some Activity Fees May Apply
Some programs, classes, or activities may have separate participation fees or requirements. See our FAQs for more information.
Choose the membership that's right for you
Please select the membership type that matches the participant’s age group. Each participant must complete a separate membership form.
After you submit your membership form, PALW will process your information. Most memberships are approved within 24 hours. If you complete your form while at the PALW facility, approval may be immediate. A PALW team member may follow up if additional information is needed.
Youth Membership
For ages 8–18, including 18-year-old students through high school graduation.
Youth membership helps eligible participants access PALW programs and activities such as open gym recreation, mentoring, tutoring, chess, intramural sports, Safe Haven programming, prevention programs, field trips, and more.
Youth members may also participate in eligible future programming, including aquatic center activities when available. PALW provides dinner for youth members through its partnership with the City of Wilmington Meal Program.
Youth membership forms must be completed and signed by a parent or guardian.
Adult Membership
For ages 18–54, excluding 18-year-olds still in high school.
Adult membership is for adults participating in eligible PALW programs, services, fitness activities, or volunteer opportunities.
Adult membership may help connect participants to eligible opportunities such as the I.M.P.A.C.T. Housing Resource Program, fitness center activities, Zumba, Yoga, Adult Basketball, and volunteering.
Some adult classes and activities may have a separate participation fee. See our FAQs for more information.
Senior Membership
For ages 55+
Senior membership is for adults ages 55 and older participating in PALW’s senior programming, wellness activities, meals, and other eligible senior-focused opportunities.
Senior members are welcomed into a supportive environment where they can connect with others, take part in programming, and access activities designed to support well-being and community connection.
Senior programming includes breakfast and lunch for participating senior members.
Membership FAQs
Yes. PALW membership is free for eligible youth, adults, and seniors.
Yes. Membership is required to participate in PALW facility-based programs and activities.
Membership is free. Some programs, classes, or activities may have separate participation fees or requirements.
Zumba, Yoga, and Adult Basketball currently have a $5 nightly participation fee.
Yes. Each participant needs a separate membership form at this time.
A parent or guardian must complete and sign the Youth Membership form.
The Second Chance Rental Program partners with landlords and public housing authorities to support individuals seeking to re-establish rental history after past housing challenges.
Through structured guidance and collaboration, participants work toward stable housing and responsible tenancy.
Participation is based on eligibility and landlord partnership availability.
An 18-year-old student should complete the Youth Membership form until they graduate from high school.
No. Children enrolled in the Early Learning Center do not automatically become general PALW members. General youth membership begins at age 8.
Adult membership is for adults participating in approved adult programs, services, fitness activities, or volunteer opportunities.
Adults may not use the facility solely to accompany, train, or participate with youth unless they are part of an approved PALW program.
Yes. PALW participants may be required to follow facility rules, complete waivers, and agree to a code of conduct as part of the membership or program participation process.
These guidelines help PALW maintain a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for everyone.
Ready to join PALW?
Select the membership type that matches the participant’s age group and complete the appropriate form.
We can’t wait to see you!