Privacy Policy for Children of Character Inc. dba Children in Christ Inc. (COC/CIC) WhatsApp Messaging

Effective date: April 18, 2023

Purpose

Children of Character Inc. dba Children in Christ Inc. (“COC”, “CIC”, “we”, “us”) uses WhatsApp messaging to send program communications and field reporting prompts to club coordinators. This policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, how long we keep it, and how you can exercise your rights.

Data We Collect

When you opt in to receive messages from COC/CIC, we may collect:

  • Phone number

  • Full name

  • Country

  • Timestamp of consent

  • The exact opt-in text you agreed to

  • Optional metadata such as opt-in source or campaign name

We do not collect payment information, national ID numbers, or health data through this messaging opt-in.

How We Collect Data

We collect your information when you complete a publicly accessible opt-in form that includes a clear checkbox confirming your agreement to receive WhatsApp messages. The form records your phone number and the date and time of your consent. COC/CIC staff may also collect opt-ins using secure intake tools that follow the same consent requirements.

Opt-in records are stored in secure, access-controlled systems such as cloud-based spreadsheets or databases.

How We Use Data

We use your information to:

  • Send field reporting prompts and follow-up messages

  • Provide program updates and notices

  • Send urgent alerts related to COC/CIC activities

  • Verify participation and improve our programs

Typical messages may include reminders to submit reports, notices of new guidance, or other announcements. Message frequency is generally up to four messages per month, though additional messages may be sent in urgent situations.

Sharing and Third Parties

We do not sell or share your phone number with third parties for marketing purposes.

We use third-party service providers, including Twilio and WhatsApp, to deliver our messages. These providers process your phone number only to send messages on our behalf and are required to protect your information in accordance with applicable laws and their own privacy and security commitments.

We may disclose your information if required by law, regulation, or a valid legal request, or to protect our rights or the safety of others.

Retention and Deletion

We retain opt-in records (including phone number, timestamp, and opt-in text) for up to five (5) years for compliance and auditing purposes.

You may request deletion of your stored records by contacting us at admin@childrenic.org and providing the phone number you wish to remove. We will process your request within a reasonable timeframe, subject to any legal obligations to retain certain records.

Opt Out and Help

You can opt out of receiving further messages at any time by replying Opt Out to any message. Your opt-out will take effect for future messages.

For assistance, reply HELP to any message or contact us at admin@childrenic.org.

Security

We use reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. Access to opt-in records is limited to authorized COC/CIC staff and trusted service providers who need the information to perform their duties.

Contact and Data Controller

The data controller for this messaging program is:
Children of Character Inc. dba Children in Christ Inc.
Email: admin@childrenic.org