Frequently Asked Questions

  This notice explains how we collect, use, and protect personal information in accordance with Georgia law and U.S. federal regulations for nonprofits.
Information We Collect

We collect only what we need to operate our programs and services, including:

• Contact details (name, email, address, phone).
• Donation and payment information (processed      securely).
• Volunteer or event registration data.
• Communications and preferences.

How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Process donations, send receipts, and manage      volunteer or event participation.
• Communicate updates, newsletters, or fundraising      appeals (you can opt out anytime).
• Comply with legal and tax obligations.
• We never sell your personal data.

Donor & Financial Privacy

We maintain donor confidentiality consistent with IRS rules. Donor names and addresses are not publicly disclosed.

Sharing Information

We share information only with trusted service providers (e.g., payment processors, email platforms) under strict confidentiality. We may also share information if required by law or to protect our rights and safety.

Data Security & Retention

We use reasonable safeguards (encryption, access controls, secure vendors) to protect personal data. Records are kept only as long as necessary to meet program, tax, or legal requirements.

Your Rights

You may request to access, correct, or delete your personal information, or opt out of communications by contacting us at privacy@thecalafoundation.org.

Breach Notification

If a data breach occurs, we will notify affected individuals as required by Georgia law.

Updates to This Policy

We may update this notice periodically and will post the revised date at the top of this page.
 

The CALA Foundation is committed to openness, accountability, and responsible stewardship of the resources entrusted to us. This policy outlines how we maintain transparency in our operations, finances, and governance in accordance with Georgia law and federal nonprofit requirements.

Governance & Oversight

• Our organization is governed by a Board of Directors, who provide oversight of operations, finances, and compliance with applicable laws.
• Board members act in the best interest of the organization and our mission, avoiding conflicts of interest.
• We follow all Georgia non-profit corporation laws and federal regulations governing tax-exempt organizations

Financial Transparency

• Annual reports & IRS filings: We prepare and make available our IRS Form 990 and audited financial statements, as  required by law.
• Donor confidentiality: We protect donor privacy in accordance with IRS rules and best practices while maintaining transparency about overall fundraising and expenditures.
• Budget & spending: We carefully allocate resources to programs, administrative costs, and fundraising in a manner consistent with our mission.

Public Access to Information

· Members of the public may request access to certain documents, including:

• IRS Form 990 and annual financial statements
• Board-approved policies related to governance and ethics
• Requests can be made by contacting compliance@thecalafoundation.org.

Ethical Practices & Compliance

• We uphold ethical standards in all programs, fundraising, and partnerships.
• Staff and volunteers are trained in compliance with      applicable Georgia state laws, federal nonprofit regulations, and internal policies.
• Conflicts of interest, fraud, or unethical behavior are investigated promptly, and corrective action is taken as necessary.

Reporting Concerns

• Stakeholders may report concerns about financial integrity, compliance, or ethical conduct via email at compliance@thecalafoundation.org.
• Reports will be treated confidentially to the extent permitted by law.

Updates & Continuous Improvement

• This policy is reviewed annually and updated as needed to reflect legal requirements, best practices, and lessons learned from operational experience.

Contact

For questions or requests regarding accountability or transparency:
compliance@thecalafoundation.org