Privacy Policy

Rural Empowerment Foundation (“REF”, “we”, “our”, or “us”) values your trust and is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect personal information shared with us through our website, programs, services, and communications.

By using our website or engaging with our organization, you agree to the practices described in this policy.

Introduction

Rural Empowerment Foundation is a registered non-profit organization working to improve the lives of rural and tribal communities through health, education, women empowerment, livelihood development, and environmental initiatives.

We are committed to transparency, accountability, and ethical handling of personal information provided by donors, volunteers, partners, beneficiaries, and visitors.

This Privacy Policy applies to all individuals who interact with us through our website, forms, events, programs, or communication channels.

Information We Collect

We collect personal information only when it is necessary and voluntarily provided by you. This may include:

Full name and contact details (phone number, email address)
Postal address and location details
Donation-related information and transaction references
Information submitted through contact, volunteer, partnership, or inquiry forms
Communication details shared via email, phone, WhatsApp, or written correspondence
Technical information such as IP address, browser type, and device data

We do not intentionally collect sensitive personal data unless required for a specific purpose and explicitly provided by you.

How We Collect Information

We may collect information when you:

Visit or browse our website
Fill out contact, donation, volunteer, or partnership forms
Register for programs, events, or awareness activities
Communicate with us via email, phone, WhatsApp, or postal mail
Support our organization through donations or sponsorships

Purpose of Collecting Information

The information collected is used solely to support the mission and operations of Rural Empowerment Foundation. This includes:

Responding to inquiries, requests, and messages
Communicating updates, newsletters, and program information
Processing donations and maintaining financial records
Organizing programs, training sessions, and community activities
Improving our website, services, and outreach effectiveness
Complying with legal, regulatory, and reporting requirements

Information Protection and Security

We are committed to safeguarding your personal information. REF uses appropriate physical, administrative, and technical safeguards to protect data against unauthorized access, misuse, alteration, or disclosure.

Access to personal data is limited to authorized personnel who require it for legitimate organizational purposes. While we strive to protect your data, no method of internet transmission is completely secure.

Rural Empowerment Foundation does not sell, rent, trade, or misuse personal information under any circumstances.

Cookies and Website Analytics

Our website may use cookies or similar technologies to enhance user experience and analyze website traffic. Cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our site and improve content and functionality.

You may choose to disable cookies through your browser settings; however, this may affect certain features of the website.

Third-Party Services and Links

Our website may contain links to external websites or services for informational purposes. REF is not responsible for the privacy practices, content, or policies of third-party websites.

We encourage users to review the privacy policies of any external sites they visit.

Disclosure of Information

We may disclose personal information only in limited circumstances, including:

When required by law, regulation, or legal process
To comply with government or regulatory authorities
To protect the rights, safety, or property of the organization
To prevent fraud, misuse, or unlawful activity

Donations and Financial Data

Donations made to Rural Empowerment Foundation are handled with strict confidentiality. Financial details are used only for transaction processing, accounting, and legal compliance.

We do not store sensitive banking or card information beyond what is legally and operationally required.

Children’s Privacy

REF is committed to protecting the privacy and welfare of children. Our website and online services are not designed to knowingly collect personal information from children without appropriate consent.

Any information related to children under our programs is handled with strict confidentiality and in accordance with applicable laws and ethical standards.

Your Rights and Choices

You have the right to:

Request access to your personal information
Request correction or deletion of your data (subject to legal requirements)
Opt out of non-essential communications

Requests can be made by contacting us using the details below.

Consent

By using our website, services, or submitting personal information, you consent to the collection, use, and processing of your information as described in this Privacy Policy.

Policy Updates

Rural Empowerment Foundation may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in practices, legal requirements, or organizational needs. Updates will be posted on this page.

Continued use of the website constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.

Contact Information

If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or the handling of your personal information, please contact us:

Rural Empowerment Foundation (REF)
📍 Bhadradri Kothagudem District, Telangana, India
📧 Email: ref.bkdist@gmail.com
📞 Phone: +91 75184 29456

Your trust matters to us. Rural Empowerment Foundation is committed to respecting your privacy while working responsibly to serve communities and create sustainable impact.