Last Updated: March 12, 2026
The Ontario Association of Grief, Bereavement and Loss is committed to protecting the privacy and personal information of individuals who visit our website, participate in our programs, or support our initiatives. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your information.
1. Information We Collect
We may collect personal information in the following ways:
Information You Provide
When you interact with our website or organization, you may voluntarily provide personal information such as:
• Name
• Email address
• Phone number
• Mailing address
• Donation information
• Volunteer applications
• Messages submitted through contact forms
• Auction participation details
This information is only collected when you choose to provide it.
Website Usage Information
When you visit our website, certain technical information may be automatically collected, including:
• IP address
• Browser type
• Device type
• Pages visited
• Time spent on the site
This information helps us improve the functionality and performance of our website.
2. How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect to:
• Respond to inquiries or messages
• Process donations
• Coordinate volunteer opportunities
• Provide updates about programs such as the Porchlight initiative
• Manage community auctions or fundraising activities
• Improve our website and services
• Maintain communication with supporters and community members
We only use personal information for the purposes for which it was collected.
3. Donation Information
If you make a financial contribution through our website or a third-party payment platform, payment information is processed securely by the payment provider. The Ontario Association of Grief, Bereavement and Loss does not store credit card numbers or financial account details on its servers.
4. Sharing of Information
We respect your privacy and do not sell, rent, or trade personal information.
Your information may only be shared:
• With trusted service providers who help operate our website or donation platforms
• When required by law
• When necessary to protect the safety of individuals or the integrity of our organization
All third-party providers are expected to maintain appropriate privacy and security protections.
5. Volunteer and Peer Support Privacy
Individuals participating in programs such as the Porchlight peer support initiative may share personal experiences or sensitive information.
All volunteers are expected to follow confidentiality guidelines and ethical standards designed to protect the dignity and privacy of those seeking support. However, Porchlight is a peer support program and not a clinical counseling service, and therefore confidentiality cannot be guaranteed in the same manner as regulated healthcare services.
6. Cookies
Our website may use cookies or similar technologies to improve user experience and track website performance.
Cookies may help us:
• Understand how visitors use our site
• Improve website functionality
• Optimize content and navigation
You may adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies if you prefer.
7. Data Security
We take reasonable administrative and technical measures to protect personal information from unauthorized access, misuse, or disclosure.
However, no method of online transmission or electronic storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.
8. External Links
Our website may contain links to third-party websites, such as donation platforms, community partners, or resources.
We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of external websites. Visitors should review the privacy policies of those sites separately.
9. Your Rights
Individuals may request to:
• Access their personal information
• Correct inaccurate information
• Request removal of personal data where appropriate
Requests can be made by contacting us using the information below.
10. Contact Information
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or how your information is handled, please contact us.
11. Policy Updates
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices, technology, or legal requirements. Updated versions will be posted on this page with a revised effective date.