Privacy Policy

Effective Date: January 1, 2026

This Privacy Policy (“Policy”) describes how Hooks of Hope, Inc. (“Hooks of Hope,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) collects, uses, maintains, discloses, and safeguards information obtained from users (“you” or “your”) of the website located at www.hooksofhope.org(the “Website”).

By accessing or using the Website, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to be bound by this Policy.

1. INFORMATION WE COLLECT

We may collect information that identifies, relates to, describes, or could reasonably be linked to an individual (“Personal Information”), including:

(a) Information You Provide Voluntarily

  • Full name
  • Email address
  • Telephone number
  • Mailing or billing address
  • Donation and transaction-related information
  • Information submitted through applications, registrations, surveys, or correspondence

(b) Automatically Collected Information

We may automatically collect:

  • IP address
  • Browser type and version
  • Device identifiers
  • Website usage data (pages visited, time on site, referring URLs)
  • Data collected through cookies and tracking technologies

(c) Potentially Sensitive Information

You may voluntarily provide information relating to personal circumstances, including health, wellness, or military service experiences. Submission of such information is entirely voluntary and at your discretion.

2. PURPOSES FOR COLLECTION AND USE

We collect and use Personal Information for legitimate organizational purposes, including:

  • Operating and maintaining the Website
  • Responding to inquiries and communications
  • Processing applications, registrations, and donations
  • Administering programs, retreats, and services
  • Coordinating counseling referrals and support services
  • Sending updates, newsletters, and mission-related communications
  • Improving Website functionality and user experience
  • Preventing fraud and ensuring security
  • Complying with legal and regulatory requirements

3. HEALTH AND COUNSELING INFORMATION (IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE)

Hooks of Hope may facilitate connections to third-party counseling providers, including partners such as SOF Network.

However:

  • Hooks of Hope is not a healthcare provider
  • We are not a “Covered Entity” or “Business Associate” under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
  • Information submitted through the Website is not intended to be Protected Health Information (PHI)

Any health-related information you choose to provide:

  • Is provided voluntarily
  • May not be protected under HIPAA standards while in our possession
  • Should be limited to what you are comfortable sharing

Once you engage directly with a licensed counseling provider, their independent privacy policies and applicable laws (including HIPAA, where applicable) will govern your information.

4. LEGAL BASES FOR PROCESSING (WHERE APPLICABLE)

We process Personal Information based on:

  • Your consent
  • Fulfillment of a transaction or request
  • Compliance with legal obligations
  • Legitimate organizational interests

5. DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION

We do not sell, rent, or trade Personal Information.

We may disclose information:

(a) Service Providers

To trusted vendors (e.g., payment processors, email platforms, hosting providers) under confidentiality obligations.

(b) Program Administration

To partners assisting in program delivery (e.g., retreat logistics or counseling coordination), limited to what is necessary.

(c) Legal Compliance

When required by law, subpoena, or legal process.

(d) Protection of Rights

To protect the safety, rights, or property of Hooks of Hope, participants, or others.

6. DONOR PRIVACY AND CHARITABLE GIVING

Hooks of Hope is committed to respecting donor privacy.

  • We do not sell, rent, or share donor lists with third parties for marketing purposes
  • Donations may be processed through secure third-party providers
  • Donor information may be used for:
  • Issuing receipts and acknowledgments
  • Maintaining internal records
  • Communicating organizational updates

We may accept donations through:

  • Direct contributions
  • Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs)
  • Institutional or financial partners

All donor information is handled with discretion and used solely to support our mission.

7. SMS, PHONE, AND TCPA COMPLIANCE

By providing your phone number, you expressly consent to receive communications from Hooks of Hope, which may include:

  • Calls
  • Text messages (SMS/MMS)
  • Pre-recorded or automated communications (where applicable and permitted by law)

These communications may relate to:

  • Program participation
  • Event logistics
  • Follow-ups and support services
  • Organizational updates

Important:

  • Consent is not a condition of participation or donation
  • Message and data rates may apply
  • You may opt out at any time by:
  • Replying “STOP” to text messages
  • Contacting us directly

We comply with the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and applicable state laws governing communications.

8. COOKIES AND TRACKING TECHNOLOGIES

We use cookies and similar technologies to:

  • Analyze Website traffic
  • Improve performance and functionality
  • Enhance user experience

You may disable cookies via your browser settings, though certain features may not function properly.

9. DATA RETENTION

We retain Personal Information only as long as necessary to:

  • Fulfill the purposes outlined in this Policy
  • Comply with legal, tax, or regulatory obligations
  • Resolve disputes and enforce agreements

10. DATA SECURITY

We implement commercially reasonable safeguards to protect Personal Information.

However, no system is completely secure. You acknowledge that:

  • Transmission of data over the Internet carries inherent risks
  • We cannot guarantee absolute security

11. THIRD-PARTY LINKS

The Website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for their privacy practices. You are encouraged to review their policies separately.

12. YOUR PRIVACY RIGHTS

Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have rights to:

  • Access Personal Information
  • Correct inaccurate data
  • Request deletion
  • Opt out of certain uses

California Residents (CCPA/CPRA)

You may have additional rights, including:

  • Right to know what data is collected and how it is used
  • Right to delete Personal Information
  • Right to correct inaccuracies
  • Right to limit use of sensitive information
  • Right to non-discrimination

To exercise your rights, contact us using the information below.

13. CHILDREN’S PRIVACY

The Website is not intended for children under 13. We do not knowingly collect Personal Information from children.

14. EMAIL COMMUNICATIONS

By providing your email address, you consent to receive communications from us related to our mission and programs. You may unsubscribe at any time using the link provided in emails.

15. CHANGES TO THIS POLICY

We reserve the right to update this Policy at any time. Updates will be posted with a revised Effective Date. Continued use of the Website constitutes acceptance of any changes.

16. CONTACT INFORMATION

For questions, requests, or concerns regarding this Policy:

Hooks of Hope, Inc. 8480 Seacrest Drive Vero Beach, FL 32963 United States

Email: john@hooksofhope.org