Privacy Policy

Last Updated: January 2025

Information Collection

When you use our safe reporting form, we collect information you voluntarily provide, including: contact information (name, email, phone number) if you choose to share it; the details of your report; any supporting documentation you upload; and your communication preferences. We also automatically collect certain technical information for security purposes, including your IP address, browser type, and access timestamps. You may submit reports anonymously, in which case we collect only the report content and technical security data.

Data Usage

We use the information collected through our reporting system exclusively to: review, investigate, and respond to submitted reports; connect individuals with appropriate support resources and services; fulfill our legal obligations including mandatory reporting requirements under Virginia law; maintain the security and integrity of our systems; and improve our reporting processes and services. We do not sell, rent, or share your personal information for marketing or commercial purposes.

Data Retention

We retain report information for a minimum of seven (7) years or as required by applicable Virginia law, whichever is longer. This retention period ensures compliance with legal obligations and allows for appropriate follow-up on reports. Anonymous reports may be retained indefinitely in de-identified form for statistical analysis and program improvement. Upon request, we will delete your personal information unless retention is required by law or necessary for ongoing investigations.

Third Party Sharing

We may share information from reports in the following circumstances: with law enforcement agencies when required by law or court order; with Virginia Department of Social Services or local child protective services when mandatory reporting obligations under Virginia Code §63.2-1509 apply; with licensed counselors, advocates, or partner organizations when necessary to provide requested support services (with your consent, except where legally mandated); and with service providers who assist in our operations under strict confidentiality agreements. We will notify you before sharing information except where prohibited by law.

User Rights

Under Virginia law, you have the right to: access the personal information we hold about you; request correction of inaccurate or incomplete information; request deletion of your information, subject to legal retention requirements; opt out of any non-essential data processing; and receive a copy of your data in a portable format. To exercise these rights, contact us using the information below. We will respond to requests within 45 days as required by the Virginia Consumer Data Protection Act (VCDPA).

Virginia Law Compliance

This privacy policy is designed to comply with Virginia state laws governing data privacy and protection. We adhere to the Virginia Consumer Data Protection Act (VCDPA) requirements for data controllers. As a religious organization providing services to vulnerable populations, we comply with mandatory reporting requirements under Virginia Code §63.2-1509 regarding suspected child abuse or neglect. Reports involving suspected abuse of minors will be reported to appropriate authorities as required by law, regardless of confidentiality preferences.

Contact Information

For questions about this privacy policy or to exercise your privacy rights, please contact us:

  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone: (276) 781-6812
  • Address: LionHeart Outreach, P.O. Box 1203, Abingdon, VA 24212