Privacy Policy

Kwan Um Zen Online
Effective Date: October 1, 2025

Introduction

Kwan Um Zen Online (“we,” “our,” or “the organization”) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Statement explains how we collect, use, store, and protect personal data from donors, staff, volunteers, beneficiaries, and website visitors across our global operations.

We comply with applicable privacy and data protection laws, including the Massachusetts Data Security Regulations (201 CMR 17.00), U.S. federal guidance, and international regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Information We Collect

We may collect the following categories of personal information:

  • Donors: Name, contact details, payment information, donation history.

  • Beneficiaries/Program Participants: Name, demographic data, program participation records (collected only when essential to deliver services).

  • Staff, Contractors, and Volunteers: Employment records, background checks, payroll/benefits details, emergency contacts.

  • Website Visitors: IP address, device type, and browser, cookies, and browsing behavior.

How We Use Your Information

We use personal data only for legitimate organizational purposes, including:

  • Processing donations and issuing tax receipts.

  • Communicating with donors, members, and supporters.

  • Delivering and improving programs and services.

  • Meeting legal, regulatory, and financial reporting obligations.

  • Recruiting, managing, and supporting staff and volunteers.

  • Monitoring and securing our digital platforms.

Sharing of Information

We do not sell or rent your personal information.
 We may share data only in these circumstances:

  • With trusted third-party service providers (such as payment processors, cloud services, or IT providers) under strict confidentiality agreements.

  • When required by law or legal process.

  • With international partner offices or field programs, it is only necessary for program delivery.

International Data Transfers

As an international organization, your information may be transferred across borders. We ensure that adequate safeguards (such as standard contractual clauses or equivalent measures) are in place when transferring personal data outside the U.S. or the European Union.

Data Retention

We retain personal data only as long as necessary for operational, legal, or contractual purposes. After that, data is securely deleted or anonymized.

Data Security

We use industry-standard safeguards to protect personal data, including:

  • Encryption of sensitive data in transit and at rest.

  • Role-based access controls and multi-factor authentication.

  • Secure cloud storage providers that meet recognized compliance standards.

  • Regular staff training on digital security and privacy.

Your Rights

Depending on your location, you may have the right to:

  • Access the personal information we hold about you.

  • Request corrections or updates.

  • Request deletion of your information (subject to legal requirements).

  • Withdraw consent for certain uses of your data.

  • File a complaint with a data protection authority if you believe your rights have been violated.

👉To exercise these rights, please contact us (see below).

Cookies & Website Tracking

Our website uses cookies to improve user experience and track aggregate visitor statistics. You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings.

Contact Us

If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Statement or how we handle personal information, please contact:

Data Privacy Contact
Annie Choquette
Kwan Um Zen Online
28 Old Stagecoach Road, Bedford, MA 01730
Email: KUZO.Accounting@kwanumzen.org

Updates to This Privacy Statement

We may update this Privacy Statement from time to time to reflect changes in law, technology, or organizational structure. Updates will be posted on our website with a revised effective date.