Privacy Policy

Effective Date: September 29, 2025
Last Updated: September 29, 2025

Introduction

H3LPRS (“we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting the privacy and security of personal information we collect from donors, beneficiaries, volunteers, and website visitors. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, share, and protect personal information in accordance with applicable privacy laws and best practices for nonprofit organizations.

As a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization, we handle personal information responsibly and transparently to maintain the trust essential to fulfilling our mission of bridging the digital divide.

Information We Collect

Personal Information Categories

We collect the following types of personal information:

  • Contact Information – Name, email address, phone number, mailing address
  • Donation Information – Payment card details, billing address, donation history, giving preferences
  • Beneficiary Information – Household income verification, technology needs assessment, program participation records
  • Volunteer Information – Background check results (when required), skills inventory, availability, emergency contacts
  • Website Activity – IP address, browser type, pages visited, interaction with content

Sensitive Personal Information

We may collect limited sensitive information only when necessary:

  • Demographic Data – Age range, disability status (for accessibility accommodations)
  • Financial Information – Income verification for program eligibility determination

How We Collect Information

We collect personal information through:

  • Direct Interactions – Donation forms, volunteer applications, program enrollment forms, newsletter signups
  • Automated Technologies – Cookies, web beacons, server logs for website analytics
  • Third-Party Sources – Payment processors, background check providers (for volunteers), public databases for grant applications

Why We Collect and Use Information

Primary Purposes

We use personal information to:

  • Deliver Programs – Provide technology access, digital literacy training, and technical support to beneficiaries
  • Process Donations – Handle transactions, send tax receipts, acknowledge contributions
  • Communicate – Send newsletters, program updates, volunteer opportunities, impact reports
  • Improve Services – Analyze program effectiveness, understand community needs, enhance user experience

Legal Basis

Our collection and use of personal information is based on:

  • Consent – When provided voluntarily through forms or registrations
  • Legitimate Interest – To operate our nonprofit mission effectively
  • Legal Obligation – To maintain records required for tax-exempt status

How We Share Information

Third-Party Service Providers

We share information only with trusted service providers who assist our operations:

  • Payment Processors – To handle secure donation transactions
  • Email Platforms – To send newsletters and program communications
  • Cloud Storage – To securely store program records and documents
  • Analytics Tools – To understand website usage and improve services

Legal Requirements

We may disclose information when required by law, including:

  • Government Requests – Valid subpoenas or court orders
  • Tax Reporting – IRS requirements for donation acknowledgments
  • Safety Concerns – To prevent harm to individuals or property

We Do Not Sell Information

H3LPRS never sells, rents, or trades personal information to third parties for marketing purposes.

Your Privacy Rights

Access and Control

Depending on your location, you may have the right to:

  • Access – Request copies of personal information we hold about you
  • Correction – Update inaccurate or incomplete information
  • Deletion – Request removal of personal information (subject to legal retention requirements)
  • Opt-Out – Unsubscribe from marketing communications
  • Portability – Receive your information in a structured format

How to Exercise Rights

To exercise privacy rights, contact us through:

  • Email: privacy@h3lprs.org
  • Phone: [To be added]
  • Mail: H3LPRS, 30 N Gould St Ste R, Sheridan, WY 82801

We will respond to requests within 30 days or as required by applicable law.

Data Security

Protection Measures

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures:

  • Encryption – SSL certificates for data transmission
  • Access Controls – Limited access based on role and necessity
  • Regular Updates – Security patches and software maintenance
  • Training – Staff education on data protection practices

Incident Response

In case of a data breach affecting personal information, we will:

  • Notify affected individuals as required by law
  • Investigate the cause and extent of the breach
  • Mitigate potential harm through appropriate measures
  • Report to authorities when legally required

Data Retention

We retain personal information only as long as necessary:

  • Donor Records – 7 years for tax compliance
  • Program Records – 5 years for grant reporting requirements
  • Marketing Lists – Until opt-out or 3 years of inactivity
  • Website Analytics – 26 months maximum

Children’s Privacy

We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 without parental consent. If we discover unauthorized collection from a child, we will promptly delete such information.

Cookies and Tracking

Types of Cookies

Our website uses:

  • Essential Cookies – Required for website functionality
  • Analytics Cookies – To understand website usage patterns
  • Preference Cookies – To remember user settings

Managing Cookies

You can control cookies through browser settings. Disabling certain cookies may limit website functionality.

State-Specific Rights

California Residents (CCPA/CPRA)

California residents have additional rights including:

  • Right to Know – Categories and specific pieces of personal information collected
  • Right to Delete – Request deletion subject to exceptions
  • Right to Opt-Out – Of any sale or sharing (though we do not sell information)
  • Right to Non-Discrimination – For exercising privacy rights

Other State Rights

Residents of Colorado, Connecticut, Virginia, and other states with privacy laws may have similar rights. Contact us to learn about rights specific to your state.

International Visitors

For visitors outside the United States, we process information in accordance with this policy and applicable international frameworks. By using our services, you consent to transfer of information to the United States.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. We will notify you of material changes through:

  • Website Notice – Banner announcement on our homepage
  • Email Notification – For registered users and donors
  • Updated Effective Date – At the top of this policy

Contact Information

For privacy questions, concerns, or requests:

H3LPRS
30 N Gould St Ste R
Sheridan, WY 82801
Email: privacy@h3lprs.org
Phone: [To be added]

Data Protection Officer: Taylor Ripley, Founder
Email: taylor@h3lprs.org

Accessibility

This Privacy Policy is available in alternative formats upon request for individuals with disabilities. Please contact us to request an accessible version.