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Privacy Policy for B.E.A.R. Foundation

Last updated: 02 December 2024

The B.E.A.R. Foundation (“we,” “us,” or “our”) is committed to protecting the privacy and personal data of our users, partners, donors, and beneficiaries. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and disclose your personal information in compliance with global data protection laws, including the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) in South Africa, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union, and other applicable laws.


1. Scope of the Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy applies to all personal information collected through:

  • Our website (www.thebearfoundation.org).
  • Email communications, forms, or surveys.
  • Events, workshops, or outreach programmes.
  • Social media platforms.

By interacting with us, you consent to the practices described in this Privacy Policy.


2. Information We Collect

2.1 Personal Information

We may collect the following types of personal information:

  • Full Name
  • Contact Details (email address and phone number)
  • Demographic Information (age, gender, or location)
  • Payment or donation details (if you contribute financially)
  • Any additional information you provide in forms or correspondence.

2.2 Non-Personal Information

We also collect non-personal data such as:

  • Browser type and version
  • Device type
  • IP address
  • Cookies and usage data for analytics purposes

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your information for the following purposes:

  • Service Delivery: To facilitate communication, respond to inquiries, and provide requested services or information.
  • Programme Management: To enrol participants in our programmes, events, and workshops.
  • Donor Relations: To process donations and send receipts or acknowledgements.
  • Marketing and Communication: To share updates, newsletters, or opportunities to get involved.
  • Compliance: To comply with applicable laws, including financial record-keeping and reporting obligations.
  • Website Functionality: To analyse user behaviour and improve website functionality.

4. Legal Basis for Processing Personal Information

We process your personal data based on the following legal grounds:

  • Consent: When you provide explicit consent, such as signing up for newsletters or programmes.
  • Legitimate Interest: For purposes like programme management, donor engagement, and improving services.
  • Legal Obligation: To comply with legal and regulatory requirements.

5. Sharing Your Information

We will never sell or rent your personal information. We may share your data with trusted third parties, such as:

  • Service Providers: For web hosting, payment processing, and analytics services.
  • Law Enforcement or Regulators: When required by law or for protecting our legal rights.
  • Partner Organisations: For collaborative events or programmes.

6. Data Storage and Security

We take reasonable measures to protect your data, including:

  • Secure servers and encrypted storage.
  • Restricted access to personal data.
  • Regular monitoring for security breaches.

While we take precautions, no system is 100% secure. You provide data at your own risk.


7. International Data Transfers

If you interact with us from outside South Africa, your data may be transferred to South Africa or other countries. We ensure such transfers comply with applicable laws by using safeguards like Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs).


8. Your Rights

8.1 Under POPIA and GDPR, you have the following rights:

  • Access: Request access to your personal data.
  • Rectification: Request corrections to your information.
  • Deletion: Request deletion of your data where applicable.
  • Objection: Object to certain uses of your information, such as marketing.
  • Data Portability: Request a copy of your data in a structured, electronic format.
  • Withdraw Consent: Withdraw your consent at any time.

To exercise these rights, contact us at info@thebearfoundation.org.


9. Retention of Data

We retain your personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes for which it was collected or to comply with legal obligations.


10. Cookies Policy

Our website uses cookies to enhance your user experience. You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings.


11. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to external sites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these third parties.


12. Updates to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Significant changes will be communicated on our website.


13. Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, please contact us:


By using our services, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy. Thank you for trusting B.E.A.R. Foundation.