About PWYC Access Project

Close-up view of clear ocean water gently washing onto sandy beach

The PWYC Access Project was created to help health and wellness businesses implement flexible pricing models that increase access without risking financial stability.

Traditional pricing models create barriers that get in the way of inclusive community spaces. Pay What You Can (PWYC) and other flexible pricing systems offer a meaningful solution.

The PWYC Access Project provides tools, consulting, strategy, and implementation support to help businesses:

  • Expand access without compromising revenue

  • Reach customers who are currently priced out

  • Align pricing with values

  • Create inclusive spaces that strengthen community ties

When more people can participate, your community and your business grow stronger.

Mission

Reduce financial barriers to movement, healing, and community through innovative pricing systems that promote health equity and support small business growth.

Values

Inclusive Access. Everyone deserves a pathway into movement, healing, and community.

Health Equity. Reducing financial barriers strengthens community health and connection.

Sustainable Growth. Access initiatives should lift the community and support the business at the same time.

  • Climbing gyms function as a true 'third place,' where people come for community as much as for training. Access memberships lower financial barriers and invite new climbers into that community, strengthening well‑being and growing the sport. With Melanie Thompson leading our Community Access Membership Program, those values show up in the details: she communicates with kindness and clarity, responds quickly, and takes full ownership end‑to‑end. She makes a complex program easy for staff and seamless for participants. The result is a stronger, more diverse community today and sustainable growth for the sport tomorrow.

    -Justin Wyse, Chief of Staff, The Front Climbing Club

  • Over 80% of enrollees are new members

    Community Access Membership Program, The Front Climbing Club

  • Over 60% of enrollees are new customers (have never spent money at the gym before)

    Community Access Membership Program, The Front Climbing Club

About The Founder

Melanie has worked in the recreation industry since 2018, beginning as a wilderness adventure therapy field guide, and moving into community impact work. In 2023, she developed the Community Access Membership Program (CAMP) at The Front Climbing Club, a pay-what-you-can program that provided discounted access to three climbing gyms along the Wasatch Front in Utah.

Motivated by the belief that physical activity and community connection are essential for individual and social well-being, Melanie designs sustainable programs that reduce barriers to health and fitness. Her work centers on promoting equitable access through innovative pricing models and community partnerships.