Privacy Policy

SPARK GSO Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 9/2025
Last Updated: 9/2025

Introduction

SPARK GSO is committed to protecting your privacy and personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website, participate in our programs, or engage with our services.

Information We Collect

Personal Information You Provide

Contact Information: Name, email address, phone number, mailing address
Program Applications: Educational background, employment history, career interests, accommodation needs
Event Registration: Name, contact details, dietary restrictions, accessibility requirements
Donation Information: Name, contact details, payment information (processed securely through third-party processors)
Business Client Information: Company details, project specifications, marketing preferences

Sensitive Information

Disability-Related Information: Only collected when necessary for program participation and accommodation provision
Medical Information: Limited to accommodation needs and emergency contact information
Employment Records: Work history and references for program participants

Information Collected Automatically

Website Analytics: IP address, browser type, pages visited, time spent on site
Cookies: We use cookies to improve website functionality and user experience
Communication Records: Email correspondence and program-related communications

How We Use Your Information

Program Operations

Process applications for ASTEAM Engine workforce development programs
Provide appropriate accommodations and support services
Match participants with mentors and employment opportunities
Track program outcomes and success metrics

Service Delivery

Deliver SPARK Creative video production services to business clients
Coordinate SPARK ID events and community programming
Communicate program updates and opportunities
Process donations and provide tax documentation

Organizational Improvement

Evaluate program effectiveness and participant outcomes
Develop new services and improve existing programs
Conduct research on workforce development best practices
Report outcomes to funders and partners

Legal and Safety Requirements

Comply with applicable laws and regulations
Protect the safety and security of participants and staff
Respond to legal requests and enforce our policies

Information Sharing and Disclosure

We May Share Information With:

Strategic Partners:

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (for program funding and compliance)
Educational institutions (for program coordination and student support)
Employer partners (for job placement and internship opportunities)

Service Providers:

Payment processors (DonorBox, banking institutions)
Technology vendors (website hosting, email services)
Professional consultants (legal, accounting, evaluation)

Legal Requirements:

Law enforcement or government agencies when required by law
Third parties to protect rights, property, or safety

We Will NOT:

Sell or rent your personal information to third parties
Share sensitive disability-related information without explicit consent
Use your information for commercial purposes unrelated to our mission

Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational security measures to protect your personal information, including:

Encrypted data transmission and storage
Regular security assessments and updates
Limited access to personal information on a need-to-know basis
Staff training on privacy and data protection

Your Rights and Choices

You Have the Right To:

Access: Request copies of your personal information
Correction: Update or correct inaccurate information
Deletion: Request removal of your personal information (subject to legal requirements)
Portability: Receive your information in a structured, machine-readable format
Opt-Out: Unsubscribe from marketing communications at any time

To Exercise Your Rights:

Special Protections

For Program Participants Under 18:

We comply with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and require parental consent for participation of minors.

For Individuals with Disabilities:

We maintain strict confidentiality regarding disability-related information and only share such information as necessary for program services and accommodations.

For California Residents:

Under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), you have additional rights regarding your personal information. Contact us for specific CCPA requests.

Cookies and Website Analytics

We Use Cookies For:

Essential website functionality
Analytics to improve user experience
Social media integration

You Can:

Disable cookies through your browser settings
Opt out of Google Analytics tracking
Request information about third-party tracking

Data Retention

We retain personal information for as long as necessary to:

Provide services and support to participants
Meet legal and regulatory requirements
Maintain program records for evaluation and improvement

Typical Retention Periods:

Program participant records: 7 years after program completion
Donor information: As required by law for tax purposes
Website analytics: 2 years
Marketing communications: Until you unsubscribe

Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites. We encourage you to review their privacy policies before providing personal information.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. We will notify you of significant changes by:

Posting the updated policy on our website
Sending email notifications to program participants
Providing notice during program activities

International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in locations outside your state or country. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place for international transfers.

Contact Information

Privacy Questions or Concerns:

SPARK GSO
Attn: Privacy Officer
2223 N Church Street, Suite G
Greensboro, NC 27405

Email: info@sparkgso.org
Phone: 646-549-9055

Data Protection Complaints:

If you believe we have not adequately addressed your privacy concerns, you may file a complaint with:

North Carolina Attorney General's Office
Federal Trade Commission
Your local data protection authority (if applicable)

Definitions

Personal Information: Information that identifies, relates to, or could reasonably be linked with you
Sensitive Information: Information about disability status, medical conditions, or other protected characteristics
Processing: Any operation performed on personal information, including collection, use, storage, and disclosure

By using our website, participating in our programs, or engaging with our services, you acknowledge that you have read and understand this Privacy Policy.

For questions about this policy or our privacy practices, please contact us using the information provided above.