Privacy Policy
The VLG Institute Last Updated: [Insert Date]
The VLG Institute ("we," "us," or "our") is committed to protecting the privacy of visitors to our website, vlginstitute.org (the "Site"). This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and the choices you have.
By using this Site, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy.
1. Information We Collect
We may collect the following types of information:
Information you provide directly:
Name, email address, and message content submitted through our Contact form
Name, email address, and payment information submitted through our Donate page (processed securely by our third-party payment processor)
Any other information you voluntarily provide when communicating with us
Information collected automatically:
IP address, browser type, device information, and pages visited, collected through standard website analytics and cookies
Information collected via third-party embedded content (such as our News feed) may be subject to the privacy practices of that third party
2. How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect to:
Respond to inquiries submitted through our Contact form
Process and acknowledge donations
Improve and maintain the functionality of our Site
Communicate updates about The VLG Institute's mission, research, and programs, where you have opted in
Comply with legal and regulatory obligations as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
We do not sell your personal information to third parties.
3. Third-Party Services
Our Site relies on third-party service providers to operate certain features, including:
Website hosting and analytics: Squarespace, Inc.
Payment processing: Stripe (for donations)
News aggregation: RSS.app (for displaying publicly available news content)
These providers may collect information governed by their own privacy policies. We encourage you to review those policies directly.
4. Cookies
Our Site may use cookies and similar tracking technologies to improve user experience and understand how visitors interact with our content. You can control cookie preferences through your browser settings.
5. Data Retention
We retain personal information only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes described in this policy, or as required by law (including recordkeeping obligations applicable to 501(c)(3) organizations).
6. Your Rights and Choices
Depending on your location, you may have rights to access, correct, or request deletion of your personal information. To make such a request, please contact us using the information below.
7. Children's Privacy
Our Site is not directed to children under 13, and we do not knowingly collect personal information from children.
8. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Updated" date.
9. Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or how your information is handled, please contact us at:
The VLG Institute Email: team@vlginstitute.org