Privacy Policy

Southern Tier Zoological Society, Inc. Privacy Policy

Effective Date: January 1, 2026

Last Updated: January 1, 2026


1. Introduction


The Southern Tier Zoological Society, Inc. (“we,” “us,” or “our”) is committed to protecting the privacy and security of our donors, volunteers, and website visitors. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your information in compliance with New York State and federal laws.


2. Information We Collect


We collect information that identifies you ("Personal Information") when you voluntarily provide it to us. This includes:

  • Contact Information: Name, email address, mailing address, and phone number.
  • Donation Information: Payment details (processed securely via [Neon Pay], billing address, and gift history.
  • Engagement Data: Information provided via forms, newsletter sign-ups, or volunteer applications.
  • Automatically Collected Data: We may collect IP addresses, browser types, and "cookies" to analyze website traffic and improve user experience.


3. Compliance with the New York SHIELD Act


In accordance with the New York Stop Hacks and Improve Electronic Data Security (SHIELD) Act, we maintain reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your "Private Information."

  • Scope: This includes protecting your Social Security number, driver’s license number, biometric information, and login credentials.
  • Data Breach: In the event of a security breach involving your private information, we will notify you and the New York Attorney General’s office as required by law.


4. How We Use Your Information


We use the information we collect to:

  • Process donations and provide tax receipts.
  • Send newsletters, updates, and marketing communications (subject to your right to opt-out).
  • Coordinate volunteer activities and events.
  • Comply with legal obligations and protect against fraudulent transactions.


5. Sharing Your Information


We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information with third parties. We only share information with:

  • Service Providers: Third parties who perform services on our behalf (e.g., payment processors, email services). These partners are contractually obligated to keep your data secure.
  • Legal Requirements: When required by law, subpoena, or to protect the safety of our community.


6. Children’s Privacy (COPPA Compliance)


Our website is not intended for children under the age of 13. In compliance with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), we do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If we discover that such information has been collected, we will delete it immediately.


7. Email Communications (CAN-SPAM Act)


If you subscribe to our emails, we will:

  • Use clear and accurate subject lines.
  • Identify the message as an advertisement or solicitation where appropriate.
  • Include our physical mailing address.
  • Provide a clear, "one-click" unsubscribe link in every email.


8. Your Rights and Choices


You have the right to:

  • Opt-Out: Unsubscribe from our mailing lists at any time.
  • Access & Correct: Request a copy of the data we hold about you or ask us to correct inaccuracies.
  • Cookies: Set your browser to refuse cookies, though some parts of our site may not function properly as a result.


9. Contact Us


If you have questions about this policy or our privacy practices, please contact:

Southern Tier Zoological Society, Inc. (Ross Park Zoo)

185 Park Avenue

Binghamton, NY 13903

info@rossparkzoo.org

(607) 724-5461 x110