Privacy Policy

Our Commitment
World University Service of Canada (WUSC) is committed to protecting the privacy of personal information collected for its employees, donors, volunteers, alumni, members, and all other stakeholders. We value and respect the trust placed in us to uphold the privacy of this information and recognize that maintaining this trust requires that WUSC is both transparent and accountable in how we treat the information shared with us.

During the course of our various projects and activities, we gather and use personal information. Anyone from whom we collect such information is entitled to and can expect that it will be carefully protected and that any use of or other dealing with this information is subject to consent.

Defining Personal Information
Personal information is defined as any data that can be used to distinguish, identify, or contact a specific individual. This information can include an individual's opinions or beliefs, as well as facts about, or related to, the individual. Exceptions: business contact information and certain publicly available information, such as names, addresses, and telephone numbers as published in telephone directories, are not considered personal information.

Where an individual uses his or her home contact information as business contact information as well, we consider that the contact information provided is business contact information, and is not therefore subject to protection as personal information.

Privacy Practices
Personal information gathered by WUSC is kept in confidence. Our personnel are authorized to access personal information based only upon their need to deal with the information and only for the reason(s) for which it was obtained. Safeguards are in place to ensure that the information is not disclosed or shared more widely than is necessary to achieve the purpose for which it was gathered. WUSC also takes measures to ensure the integrity of this information is maintained and to prevent it from being lost or destroyed.

We collect, use and disclose personal information only for purposes that a reasonable person would consider appropriate in light of the circumstances. In instances where it is possible that information may be used for other purposes, we offer individuals the opportunity to opt not to have their information shared for purposes beyond those for which it was explicitly collected.

Website and Electronic Commerce
We use password protocols and encryption software to protect personal and other information we receive when a program or service is requested and/or paid for online. Software is routinely updated to maximize protection of such information.

Privacy Officer
The Director of Development is the designated Privacy Officer for WUSC.

Complaints/Appeals process
Any person who wishes to file a complaint about WUSC's personal privacy practices is requested to submit in writing and direct it to the Privacy Officer. If the person is not satisfied with the response of the Privacy Officer and subsequent action, if any, of the organization, the complaint will be forwarded to the Executive Director.

Updating of Privacy Policy
WUSC's Privacy Officer, in conjunction with other relevant staff, reviews our privacy policy and practices on an annual basis and makes changes as needed. Our website includes information on our most up-to-date practices.

Information about WUSC's Privacy Policy
WUSC will provide a copy of this privacy policy for use with staff and, on request, with its members, stakeholders or the general public.

For comments or complaints relating to privacy issues, please contact:

Kristin Downey

Ottawa, ON K1Y 4M8

(613) 761-3722