Privacy Policy
Homeward Bound of WNC is committed to respecting and protecting the privacy of our donors and website visitors. This policy outlines how we collect, use, and safeguard your personal information. By using our website, you agree to the practices outlined in the most current version of this policy. Homeward Bound of WNC reserves the right to make changes to this policy at any time.
Website Traffic
We use tools like Google Analytics to gather general information about how visitors interact with our website—including how often pages are viewed, which features are most used, and traffic patterns. This data helps us improve the site’s content and functionality. All information collected is aggregated and used solely for internal analysis.
Personal Information
You are not required to share any personal information to browse our site. If you choose to make an online donation or subscribe to communications, we may collect details such as your name, address, phone number, email, and payment information. This data is used to process your donation, send acknowledgments, and provide updates related to our work.
If you consent to receive communications from Homeward Bound, we may also use your contact information to share newsletters, event details, or other updates. Donors who contribute $500 or more may be recognized in our annual report unless a request for anonymity is made.
We never sell, rent, or trade donor information. Occasionally, we work with third-party service providers—such as mailing houses or payment processors—who may access your information solely to perform services on our behalf. These providers are required to keep your information confidential and use it only for the intended purpose.
Data Security
Protecting your data is important to us. We use industry-standard security protocols—including secure HTTPS connections and encryption—to keep your credit card and other sensitive information safe during online transactions. However, no system is entirely immune to risk, and we cannot guarantee the security of any transmission over the internet. By using our site, you agree to assume responsibility for any potential risks and release Homeward Bound from liability related to unauthorized access or use of your data.
Cookies
Our website may use cookies—small files stored on your device—to track usage patterns and enhance your experience. Cookies can store information like your browser type, IP address, and pages visited. This information is used to improve website performance and tailor content to user preferences. You can manage or disable cookies in your browser settings.
Children’s Privacy
Our website is intended for a general audience. While individuals under the age of 18 may access content about Homeward Bound, they should not submit personal information without parental or guardian consent. Individuals must be 18 or older to make a donation through our website.
Third Party Sites
This site may contain links to other Internet sites. Homeward Bound of WNC provides such links for your convenience only, and is not responsible for the content of any site linked to or from this site. We disclaim all warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy, legality, reliability or validity of any content on any other site. Any claims a user might have against Homeward Bound of WNC with respect to such other sites is hereby waived.
Governing Law
You agree that your use of this website, this Privacy Policy, and any disputes relating thereto shall be governed in all respects by the laws of the State of North Carolina without regard to conflicts of law principles. Any dispute relating to this Privacy Policy shall be resolved solely in the state or federal courts located in Buncombe County, North Carolina. We work to process and maintain the information that you share with us. If you have any questions about your personal information, our site or our Privacy Policy, please contact Homeward Bound of WNC at rd@homewardboundwnc.org or (828) 579-3479.