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1. Introduction

Veterans of the Storm (VOTS) is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of all individuals who engage with our services. This Privacy Policy explains how information is collected, used, and safeguarded when veterans interact with our platform, services, and staff.

2. Information We Collect

VOTS may collect the following types of information:

Personal Information

• Name (or preferred name)

• Contact information (email, phone number)

• Location (e.g., ZIP code or city)

Service-Related Information

• Responses to intake and screening questions (including suicide risk screening)

• Information shared during peer support or case management interactions

• Service needs (e.g., housing, mental health, benefits)

Usage Information

• Website activity (for basic analytics and improvement)

• Communication records (messages, sessions, follow-ups)

3. How We Use Information

Information collected is used to:

• Provide peer support and case management services

• Assess needs and level of risk

• Develop individualized support plans

• Coordinate referrals to VA and community-based services

• Track engagement and program outcomes

• Improve services and ensure program effectiveness

4. Confidentiality and Limits

VOTS is committed to maintaining confidentiality. However, there are important limits.

Information may be shared when:

• A participant is at immediate risk of harm to themselves or others

• Required by law or legal obligation

• Necessary to connect a participant to emergency or safety services

In these situations, information may be shared with:

• Emergency services (911)

• Crisis support services

• Appropriate VA or medical personnel

5. Suicide Risk and Safety Protocols

As part of providing suicide prevention services:

• Participants may be asked to complete screening questions

• Risk levels may be assessed by trained staff

• If a participant is identified as high risk, VOTS may initiate safety protocols

This may include:

• Contacting emergency services

• Connecting the participant to crisis resources

• Coordinating with appropriate care providers

6. Data Protection and Security

VOTS takes reasonable steps to protect information, including:

• Use of secure systems for data storage

• Limited access to authorized staff only

• Protection against unauthorized access or disclosure

However, no system can guarantee complete security.

7. Use of Third-Party Services

VOTS may use third-party platforms (e.g., case management systems, communication tools) to deliver services and manage data. These platforms are selected based on their ability to meet privacy and security standards.

8. Participant Rights

Participants have the right to:

• Request access to their information

• Request corrections to inaccurate information

• Ask questions about how their information is used

9. Non-Clinical Services

VOTS provides peer-based, non-clinical support.

• Services are not a substitute for licensed medical or mental health treatment

• VOTS does not provide diagnosis or clinical therapy

Participants are encouraged to seek licensed care when appropriate.

10. Contact Information

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or how your information is handled, you may contact:

Veterans of the Storm (VOTS)
[Your Email Address]
[Your Website or Contact Form]

11. Updates to This Policy

This Privacy Policy may be updated as needed to reflect changes in services, legal requirements, or program operations.