top of page

Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 2025 - 04 - 21

Organization Name: West Coast Speaks Health Society
Website: www.westcoastspeaks.ca

At West Coast Speaks we are committed to protecting the privacy of individuals and the personal information they share with us. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your personal information in accordance with the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) and other applicable Canadian privacy laws.

1. Who We Are

We are a non-profit organization in Canada that promotes and facilitates opportunities for social connection through conversation. Grounded in research, we aim to improve social health by reducing isolation and loneliness, fostering meaningful interactions, and strengthening community bonds.

 

2. Your Consent

By using our website, signing up for our newsletter, or making a donation, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your personal information as outlined in this Privacy Policy. You may withdraw your consent at any time, subject to legal or contractual restrictions.

 

3. What Personal Information We Collect

We only collect personal information that is necessary for the purposes identified in this policy. This may include:

  • Contact Information: Your name, email address, phone number, and mailing address.

  • Account Information: When you register on our website.

  • Newsletter Sign-Up: Your name and email address.

  • Donation Information: Amount donated, donation date, and payment details (processed by third-party payment providers).

  • Website Usage Data: IP address, browser type, referring pages, and website activity (collected via cookies and analytics tools).
     

We do not knowingly collect personal information from individuals under the age of 16 without parental consent.

4. How We Use Your Information

We use your personal information for the following purposes:

  • To communicate with you about our programs, events, and updates

  • To manage user accounts and newsletter subscriptions

  • To process donations and issue receipts

  • To improve our website and services through analytics

  • To comply with legal or regulatory requirements
     

We will only use your information for the purposes for which it was collected, unless you provide further consent or as permitted or required by law.

 

5. How We Share Your Information

We do not sell or rent your personal information. We may share your information with:

  • Trusted third-party service providers who assist us in operating our website, processing donations, or sending communications (e.g., email and payment platforms)

  • Government or regulatory authorities if required to comply with legal obligations
     

All third parties are contractually obligated to maintain the confidentiality and security of your personal information.

 

6. How We Store and Protect Your Information

Your information is stored securely using industry-standard measures. We retain your data only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected, or as required by law (e.g., for donation tax records).

We implement appropriate safeguards including encryption, secure servers, and restricted access to protect against unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or misuse.

 
7. Your Rights Under Canadian Law

You have the right to:

  • Access your personal information held by us

  • Correct or update any inaccuracies

  • Withdraw your consent (subject to legal restrictions)

  • File a complaint with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC) if you believe your privacy rights have been violated
     

To exercise your rights or request more information, please contact us using the details below.

 

8. Cookies and Website Tracking

Our website uses cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience and collect non-personal data for analytics. You can control or disable cookies through your browser settings.

 
9. External Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the content or privacy practices of those sites. Please review their privacy policies if you choose to visit them.

 

10. Updates to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The revised version will be posted on this page with the updated “Effective Date.” Your continued use of our website indicates your acceptance of the revised terms.

Contact Us

If you have questions, concerns, or would like to request access to your personal information please contact us, or if you are not satisfied with our response, you may contact the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada at https://www.priv.gc.ca.

bottom of page