Policies
Table of Contents
Privacy Policy
Effective Date: November 30, 2025
1. Introduction
The DeSanto Centre for the Deaf (“DeSanto Centre,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) is committed to protecting the privacy and security of personal information we collect through our website www.desantocentreforthedeaf.org and in connection with our services. This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and your rights regarding your personal data.
2. Information We Collect
2.1 Information You Provide
We may collect personal information that you voluntarily provide to us, including:
Contact information (name, email address, phone number, mailing address)
Donation and payment information
Volunteer application information
Information submitted through contact forms, surveys, or email correspondence
Student enrollment information (collected separately with appropriate consents)
2.2 Information Automatically Collected
When you visit our website, we may automatically collect certain technical information, including:
IP address and browser type
Device information and operating system
Pages visited and time spent on our website
Referring website or source
3. How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect for the following purposes:
To process donations and provide tax receipts
To communicate with donors, volunteers, and supporters
To provide updates about our programs and impact
To respond to inquiries and requests
To improve our website and services
To comply with legal obligations
To administer volunteer and internship programs
4. Information Sharing and Disclosure
We do not sell, rent, or trade personal information. We may share your information only in the following circumstances:
Service Providers: With trusted third-party service providers who assist us in operating our website, processing donations, or conducting our operations (e.g., payment processors, email service providers)
Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or governmental authority
Protection of Rights: To protect the rights, property, or safety of DeSanto Centre, our students, staff, or others
With Your Consent: With your explicit permission for any other purpose
5. Protection of Children’s Privacy
The privacy and safety of children is of utmost importance to us. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children through our website. Any student information is collected offline with appropriate parental/guardian consent and is subject to strict confidentiality protections under our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy. We never publicly share personally identifiable information about students without explicit parental consent.
6. Cookies and Tracking Technologies
Our website may use cookies and similar tracking technologies to enhance user experience and analyze website traffic. You can control cookie settings through your browser preferences. For more information, please see our Cookie Policy.
7. Data Security
We implement reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. However, no internet transmission or electronic storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.
8. Data Retention
We retain personal information for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this Privacy Policy, comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce our agreements. Donation records are retained in accordance with IRS requirements and our Document Retention Policy.
9. Your Rights and Choices
You have the following rights regarding your personal information:
Access: Request access to the personal information we hold about you
Correction: Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete information
Deletion: Request deletion of your personal information (subject to legal retention requirements)
Opt-Out: Unsubscribe from marketing communications at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in our emails or contacting us directly
10. International Data Transfers
DeSanto Centre operates in Zambia and the United States. If you are located outside these countries, please be aware that information we collect may be transferred to and processed in these locations. By using our website or providing information to us, you consent to such transfers.
11. Third-Party Links
Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party sites you visit.
12. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. We will post the updated policy on our website with a new effective date. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.
13. Contact Us
If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us:
DeSanto Centre for the Deaf
Email: info@desantocentreforthedeaf.org
Website: desantocentreforthedeaf.org
Mailing Address: 2065 Highland Avenue, Rochester, NY 14610 USA
Acknowledgment
By using our website or providing personal information to us, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Privacy Policy.
Website Terms of Use and Disclaimer
Effective Date: November 30, 2025
1. Acceptance of Terms
Welcome to the website of DeSanto Centre for the Deaf (www.desantocentreforthedeaf.org). By accessing or using this website, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use this website.
2. About DeSanto Centre for the Deaf
DeSanto Centre for the Deaf is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing quality education and support services to deaf children in Zambia. Our website is designed to inform visitors about our mission, programs, and ways to support our work.
3. Use of Website
3.1 Permitted Use
You may use this website for lawful purposes only, including:
Learning about our organization and programs
Making donations to support our mission
Applying to volunteer or intern
Contacting us with inquiries
3.2 Prohibited Activities
You agree not to:
Use the website for any unlawful purpose
Attempt to gain unauthorized access to any portion of the website
Interfere with or disrupt the website or servers
Transmit viruses, malware, or other harmful code
Harvest or collect information about other users
Use automated systems to access the website without permission
4. Intellectual Property
All content on this website, including text, graphics, logos, images, and software, is the property of DeSanto Centre for the Deaf or its content suppliers and is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, modify, or create derivative works from any content without our express written permission.
5. User-Generated Content
If you submit content to our website (such as comments, testimonials, or contact form submissions), you grant us a non-exclusive, royalty-free, perpetual, worldwide license to use, reproduce, modify, and display such content for our organizational purposes. You represent that you own or have permission to submit such content and that it does not violate any third-party rights.
6. Donations
Donations made through our website are processed securely through third-party payment processors. All donations are final and non-refundable unless otherwise required by law. As a 501(c)(3) organization, donations may be tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Please consult your tax advisor for specific guidance. Donors will receive written acknowledgment of their contributions as required by IRS regulations.
7. Third-Party Links and Content
Our website may contain links to third-party websites or resources. These links are provided for your convenience only. We do not endorse and are not responsible for the content, accuracy, or practices of any linked sites. Your use of third-party websites is at your own risk and subject to their terms and conditions.
8. Disclaimers
8.1 No Warranty
This website and its content are provided “as is” without warranties of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. We do not warrant that the website will be uninterrupted, error-free, or free of viruses or other harmful components.
8.2 Accuracy of Information
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations or warranties about the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content on this website. Information about our programs, impact, and operations may change without notice.
9. Limitation of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, DeSanto Centre for the Deaf, its directors, officers, employees, volunteers, and agents shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising from your use of or inability to use this website, even if we have been advised of the possibility of such damages. This includes but is not limited to damages for loss of profits, data, or other intangible losses.
10. Indemnification
You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless DeSanto Centre for the Deaf and its directors, officers, employees, and agents from any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, or expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) arising from your use of the website, your violation of these Terms of Use, or your violation of any rights of another person or entity.
11. Privacy
Your use of this website is also governed by our Privacy Policy, which is incorporated into these Terms of Use by reference. Please review our Privacy Policy to understand our practices regarding the collection and use of personal information.
12. Changes to Terms
We reserve the right to modify these Terms of Use at any time. Changes will be effective immediately upon posting to the website. Your continued use of the website after changes are posted constitutes your acceptance of the modified terms. We encourage you to review these terms periodically.
13. Termination
We reserve the right to terminate or suspend your access to the website at any time, without notice, for any reason, including violation of these Terms of Use.
14. Governing Law
These Terms of Use shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the United States and the state where DeSanto Centre for the Deaf is registered, without regard to conflict of law principles. Any disputes arising from these terms or your use of the website shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in that location.
15. Severability
If any provision of these Terms of Use is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
16. Contact Information
If you have questions about these Terms of Use, please contact us:
DeSanto Centre for the Deaf
Email: info@desantocentreforthedeaf.org
Website: desantocentreforthedeaf.org
Mailing Address: 2065 Highland Avenue, Rochester, NY 14610 USA
Cookie Policy
Effective Date: November 30, 2025
1. Introduction
This Cookie Policy explains how DeSanto Centre for the Deaf (“we,” “us,” or “our”) uses cookies and similar tracking technologies on our website http://www.desantocentreforthedeaf.org
By using our website, you consent to the use of cookies as described in this policy.
2. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are placed on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile phone) when you visit a website. Cookies help websites recognize your device and remember information about your visit, such as your preferences and actions taken on the site.
3. Types of Cookies We Use
3.1 Essential Cookies
These cookies are necessary for the website to function properly. They enable core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility. You cannot opt out of these cookies as the website cannot function properly without them.
3.2 Analytics Cookies
We use analytics cookies to understand how visitors interact with our website. These cookies help us:
Count the number of visitors to our website
See how visitors navigate through the site
Identify which pages are most popular
Improve website performance and user experience
Example: We may use Google Analytics or Jetpack Analytics, provided by WordPress.com,, which collects anonymous information about your visit, including pages viewed, time spent on the site, and referring website. This data is aggregated and does not identify individual users.
3.3 Functional Cookies
These cookies allow the website to remember choices you make (such as language preferences or region) to provide enhanced, personalized features. The information collected by these cookies is usually anonymized.
4. Third-Party Cookies
Our website may use third-party services that set their own cookies on your device. These may include:
Google Analytics: For website analytics and performance monitoring
Payment Processors: For processing online donations securely
Social Media Platforms: If you interact with social media sharing buttons on our site
GiveButter: For processing online donations. Please review GiveButter’s privacy policy at givebutter.com/privacy
Jetpack Analytics: to understand visitor behaviour on our site.
We do not control these third-party cookies. Please review the privacy policies of these third parties to understand how they use cookies and your information.
5. How Long Do Cookies Last?
Cookies can be either:
Session Cookies: Temporary cookies that expire when you close your browser
Persistent Cookies: Cookies that remain on your device for a set period or until you delete them
6. Managing Cookie Preferences
6.1 Browser Controls
Most web browsers allow you to control cookies through their settings. You can:
View cookies stored on your device
Delete cookies
Block cookies from being set
Set preferences for specific websites
Note: Blocking or deleting cookies may impact your experience on our website and limit certain functionality.
6.2 Opt-Out of Analytics
To opt out of Google Analytics tracking, you can:
Install the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on
7. Do Not Track Signals
Some browsers have a “Do Not Track” feature that lets you tell websites you do not want your online activities tracked. Currently, our website does not respond to Do Not Track signals, as there is no industry standard for how to interpret these signals.
8. Children’s Privacy
Our website is not directed to children under the age of 13, and we do not knowingly collect information from children through cookies or other tracking technologies.
9. Updates to This Cookie Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.
10. Contact Us
If you have questions about our use of cookies, please contact us:
DeSanto Centre for the Deaf
Email: info@desantocentreforthedeaf.org
Website: desantocentreforthedeaf.org
Mailing Address: 2065 Highland Avenue, Rochester, NY 14610 USA
Consent
By continuing to use our website, you consent to our use of cookies as described in this Cookie Policy.
Photo and Media Consent Policy
Effective Date: November 30, 2025
1. Purpose
This policy establishes guidelines for taking, using, and sharing photographs, videos, and other media featuring students, staff, volunteers, and visitors at DeSanto Centre for the Deaf. The policy ensures that media is used appropriately, protects privacy, and obtains proper consent before publication.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all photographs, videos, audio recordings, and other media captured at DeSanto Centre facilities, during school activities, events, and field trips. It applies to all staff, volunteers, interns, visitors, and third-party contractors.
3. Consent Requirements
3.1 Students (Minors)
Written consent from parent/guardian is required before any photographs, videos, or other media featuring a student may be:
Published on the DeSanto Centre website or social media
Used in promotional materials, fundraising campaigns, or publications
Shared with media outlets or external organizations
Included in annual reports, newsletters, or presentations
Consent forms must be obtained during the enrollment process and updated annually. Parents/guardians may withdraw consent at any time by notifying the school in writing.
3.2 Staff and Volunteers
Staff and volunteers will be asked to provide consent for use of their image in organizational materials during onboarding. Consent is voluntary, and refusal will not affect employment or volunteer status.
3.3 Visitors and Event Attendees
Event attendees and visitors will be notified in advance if photography or videography will take place. Signage will be posted at events, and attendees who do not wish to be photographed may notify staff.
4. Permitted Uses of Media
With appropriate consent, media may be used for:
DeSanto Centre website and social media accounts
Fundraising materials and donor communications
Annual reports, brochures, and newsletters
Educational presentations and training materials
Press releases and media kits
Grant applications and reports to funders
5. Prohibited Uses
The following uses of media are strictly prohibited:
Use without proper consent
Personal use by staff, volunteers, or visitors (posting to personal social media accounts)
Sale or commercial use of images featuring students
Alteration of images in a way that misrepresents subjects or context
Use that violates dignity, privacy, or safety of individuals depicted
6. Protection of Student Privacy and Safety
6.1 Identifying Information
When publishing media featuring students, DeSanto Centre will use only first names or no names at all. Full names, ages, addresses, or other identifying information will not be disclosed without explicit parental consent.
6.2 Sensitive Situations
Extra caution will be exercised when photographing or filming:
Students in vulnerable situations or receiving medical care
Students who have experienced trauma or are in protective care
Activities that could be misinterpreted out of context
6.3 Dignity and Respect
All media must portray students with dignity and respect. Images that could embarrass, demean, or negatively impact a student’s welfare will not be captured or published.
7. Guidelines for Capturing Media
7.1 Authorized Photographers
Only authorized staff members or approved contractors may take photographs or videos for official DeSanto Centre purposes. All photographers must:
Have undergone background checks
Be trained in child safeguarding protocols
Follow this Photo and Media Consent Policy
7.2 Best Practices
Focus on activities, not individual children
Obtain verbal confirmation from present staff before photographing students
Photograph students in appropriate dress and settings
Ensure adequate supervision is present during photo sessions
Never photograph students in private settings (bathrooms, dormitories, changing areas)
8. Storage and Security
All media files containing images of students will be:
Stored securely on password-protected devices and cloud storage
Accessible only to authorized staff with legitimate need
Maintained in accordance with our Data Protection and Records Retention policies
Deleted or archived when no longer needed for organizational purposes
9. Third-Party Media and Visitors
Visitors, donors, volunteers, and media representatives who wish to take photographs or videos at DeSanto Centre must:
Obtain advance permission from the Executive Director or Head Teacher
Sign an agreement acknowledging this policy
Be accompanied by a staff member at all times
Submit any media for review and approval before publication or distribution
10. Social Media Guidelines
When posting media on social media platforms, staff must:
Verify that consent has been obtained for all individuals depicted
Use privacy settings appropriately
Avoid tagging students or including location information that could identify them
Monitor comments and remove any inappropriate content
11. Withdrawal of Consent
Parents/guardians may withdraw photo consent at any time by submitting a written request to the school. Upon receipt, DeSanto Centre will:
Stop using new images of the student
Remove existing images from the website and social media where feasible
Note: Printed materials already distributed and archived content may not be retrievable
12. Compliance and Violations
Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or volunteer status. Serious violations that endanger student safety or privacy may be reported to authorities.
13. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as needed to reflect best practices and legal requirements.
14. Contact Information
For questions about this policy or to submit photo consent forms, contact:
DeSanto Centre for the Deaf
Executive Director: lisa@desantocentreforthedeaf.org
Website: desantocentreforthedeaf.org
Mailing Address: 2065 Highland Avenue, Rochester, NY 14610 USA
Donor Stewardship and Gift Acceptance Policy Summary
Public Summary
Effective Date: November 30, 2025
Our Commitment to Donors
At DeSanto Centre for the Deaf, we are deeply grateful for the generous support of our donors. Your contributions make our mission possible and directly impact the lives of deaf children in Zambia. This policy outlines our commitment to ethical fundraising, transparent use of donations, and stewardship of donor relationships.
1. Our Values
We are guided by the following principles in all our fundraising and donor relations:
Transparency: We are open and honest about how donations are used
Integrity: We honor donor intent and manage gifts responsibly
Accountability: We report on our impact and financial stewardship
Respect: We protect donor privacy and honor their preferences
Gratitude: We acknowledge all gifts promptly and meaningfully
2. How We Use Your Donations
Every donation to DeSanto Centre is used to advance our mission of providing quality education and support to deaf children. Your gifts support:
Student tuition, meals, and educational materials
Teacher salaries and professional development
Facility maintenance and improvements
Student transportation and safety
Organizational operations and administration
Donations designated for specific purposes will be used solely for those purposes. If a designated project cannot be completed, we will contact the donor to discuss alternative uses that align with their intent.
3. Types of Gifts We Accept
We gratefully accept the following types of contributions:
Cash and checks
Credit card and online payments
Bank transfers and wire transfers
Securities and stocks
Planned gifts and bequests
In-kind donations (subject to review and approval)
All gifts are subject to review to ensure they align with our mission and do not impose unreasonable obligations or restrictions. We reserve the right to decline gifts that may be inappropriate or inconsistent with our values.
4. Tax Deductibility
DeSanto Centre for the Deaf is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. We provide written acknowledgment of all contributions as required by IRS regulations:
Receipts are issued for all donations
Year-end tax summaries are provided upon request
Our EIN (Tax ID): 33-3758560
Note: Please consult your tax advisor for specific guidance on the deductibility of your donation.
5. Donor Privacy
We respect the privacy of our donors and maintain strict confidentiality of donor information. Unless you provide explicit permission otherwise:
Your personal information will not be shared, sold, or traded with third parties
Your donation history remains confidential
You may request anonymity in all public recognition
Donors may opt out of fundraising appeals or update their communication preferences at any time.
6. Donor Recognition
We acknowledge and thank our donors in various ways, including:
Personalized thank-you letters
Recognition in our annual report (with permission)
Updates on program impact and student success
Invitations to special events and site visits
Donors who prefer to remain anonymous will be honored as such in all public materials.
7. Financial Accountability
We are committed to responsible stewardship of donor funds. Our financial practices include:
Annual independent financial audits
Board oversight of all finances
Public disclosure of our IRS Form 990
Transparent annual reports showing program expenses and impact
Compliance with all applicable laws and regulations
8. Refund Policy
All donations are considered final and non-refundable unless required by law. If you believe a donation was made in error or have concerns about how your gift was processed, please contact us immediately so we can address the situation.
9. Ethical Fundraising Practices
We adhere to ethical standards in all fundraising activities:
We never use high-pressure tactics or misleading information
We accurately represent our programs and impact
We respect donor decisions and preferences
We do not compensate staff based on funds raised
We encourage donors to give thoughtfully and within their means
10. Questions or Concerns
We welcome questions about our fundraising practices, use of donations, or this policy. Please contact us:
DeSanto Centre for the Deaf
Info@desantocentreforthedeaf.org
Website: desantocentreforthedeaf.org
Mailing Address: 2065 Highland Avenue, Rochester, NY 14610 USA
Thank you for your generous support of DeSanto Centre for the Deaf.
Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy Summary
Public Summary
Effective Date: November 30, 2025
Our Commitment to Child Safety
At DeSanto Centre for the Deaf, the safety and well-being of every child is our highest priority. We are committed to creating and maintaining a safe, nurturing environment where all children can learn, grow, and thrive free from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and harm.
1. Our Safeguarding Principles
Our approach to child protection is guided by these core principles:
Child-Centered: The best interests of the child are paramount in all decisions
Prevention First: We proactively prevent harm through careful screening, training, and supervision
Zero Tolerance: We have zero tolerance for child abuse in any form
Accountability: All staff, volunteers, and visitors are accountable for child safety
Transparency: We maintain open communication with families and authorities
2. What We Mean by Child Protection
Child protection encompasses safeguarding children from all forms of harm, including:
Physical abuse
Emotional or psychological abuse
Sexual abuse and exploitation
Neglect
Bullying and peer-on-peer abuse
Discrimination and harmful traditional practices
3. Our Safeguarding Measures
3.1 Safe Recruitment
We take great care in selecting staff and volunteers who work with children:
Comprehensive background checks and reference verification
Interviews include child protection questions
All staff sign a Code of Conduct committing to child protection
3.2 Training and Awareness
Mandatory child protection training for all staff and volunteers
Regular refresher training and policy updates
Age-appropriate safety education for students
3.3 Safe Environment
Adequate supervision at all times
Physical safety measures including secure facilities and emergency protocols
Clear behavior expectations and positive discipline approaches
Controlled visitor access and monitoring
4. Reporting Concerns
Everyone has a responsibility to report concerns about child safety. If you suspect or witness any form of abuse or neglect:
Staff and volunteers must immediately report concerns to the designated Child Protection Officer or Head Teacher
Parents and community members can report concerns confidentially to our Child Protection Officer
All reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly according to established procedures. We work with local child protection authorities and law enforcement as appropriate.
All concerns will be treated with appropriate confidentiality. While we cannot guarantee complete anonymity given our small organizational size, we are committed to protecting individuals who report concerns in good faith from any form of retaliation.
5. Response to Concerns
When a concern is raised, we follow established procedures:
Immediate action to ensure child safety
Confidential investigation with appropriate authorities
Support services for affected children and families
Appropriate disciplinary or legal action
Ongoing monitoring and follow-up
6. Partnerships and Compliance
DeSanto Centre complies with all applicable child protection laws in Zambia and the United States. We work in partnership with:
Local child protection authorities
Law enforcement
Social services and healthcare providers
International child protection organizations
7. Parent and Family Involvement
We believe parents and guardians are essential partners in keeping children safe. We:
Communicate openly about our safeguarding practices
Provide regular updates on school activities and student well-being
Welcome parent questions and concerns
Offer resources on child safety at home and in the community
8. Visitor and Volunteer Guidelines
All visitors and volunteers must:
Complete screening and orientation processes
Sign our Child Protection Code of Conduct
Be supervised by staff at all times when interacting with students
Follow all photography and communication guidelines
9. Continuous Improvement
We are committed to continuously strengthening our child protection practices through:
Annual policy review and updates
Regular safeguarding audits
Learning from incidents and best practices
Engagement with child protection experts
10. Contact Information
For questions about child protection or to report concerns:
Child Protection Officer: safeguard@desantocentreforthedeaf.org
Website: desantocentreforthedeaf.org
Mailing Address: 2065 Highland Avenue, Rochester, NY 14610 USA
This is a summary of our full Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy.
The complete policy is available upon request to staff, volunteers, and parents.