Privacy Policy
Your privacy is important to First Step Ministry. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect personal information when you visit our website, communicate with us, or make a donation.
By using our website, you consent to this policy.
Who We Are
First Step Ministry (“we,” “our,” or “us”) is a nonprofit, faith-based organization serving children and communities through outreach, discipleship, and church planting in Mexico and Central America.
Website: www.firststepministry.org
Information We Collect
We collect personal information in the following ways:
a. Information You Provide Directly
When you:
-
Make a donation
-
Fill out a contact form
-
Subscribe to newsletters
-
Register for mission trips or volunteer opportunities
we may collect your: -
Name
-
Email address
-
Mailing address
-
Phone number
-
Payment details (for donations)
-
Any additional information you choose to provide
b. Information Collected Automatically
When you visit our website, our system may automatically collect:
-
IP address
-
Browser type and version
-
Pages visited and time spent on the site
-
Device and operating system information
This data helps us improve the website experience and security.
How We Use Your Information
We use personal information for the following purposes:
-
To process and acknowledge donations
-
To communicate with you about events, mission updates, or volunteer opportunities
-
To send receipts, thank-you messages, and newsletters (if subscribed)
-
To improve our website and outreach programs
-
To comply with legal or financial reporting obligations
We do not sell, rent, or share your personal information with third parties for marketing purposes.
Payment Processing
Online donations are processed securely through third-party payment platforms such as PayPal, Stripe, or other reputable processors.
We do not store your full credit card information on our servers.
All transactions are encrypted using SSL (Secure Socket Layer) technology to protect your data during transfer.
Cookies and Tracking
Our website may use cookies to improve functionality and analyze site performance. Cookies help remember your preferences for future visits.
You can disable cookies in your browser settings, but certain features of the site may not function properly if cookies are turned off.
Email Communications
If you subscribe to updates, you may receive occasional emails from us about mission news, giving opportunities, or upcoming events.
You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the “unsubscribe” link in our emails or by contacting us directly.
Information Sharing
We only share personal data:
-
With trusted service providers that help us operate our website or process donations (under confidentiality agreements).
-
When required by law or legal process.
-
When necessary to protect the rights, property, or safety of First Step Ministry, our users, or others.
Data Security
We take reasonable administrative, technical, and physical measures to protect your information against loss, theft, misuse, or unauthorized access.
However, no system is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute data security.
Children’s Privacy
We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 years old without parental consent.
If we learn that we have collected data from a child without authorization, we will delete it promptly.
Your Rights
You may request to:
-
Review or correct your personal information
-
Delete your data from our records (except where legally required to retain it)
-
Opt out of communications at any time
To do so, please contact us using the information below.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any revisions will be posted on this page with the updated date.
Contact Us
If you have questions or requests regarding this policy, contact:
📧 privacy@firststepministry.org
🌐 www.firststepministry.org
