Privacy Policy

Our commitment to protecting your personal legacy and maintaining the trust of our community

The Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission Inc is built on a foundation of trust transparency and the deep-seated belief that every individual has a right to privacy and security in their interactions with our organization. We recognize that in the modern digital age your personal information is an extension of your identity and your legacy and we take our responsibility as stewards of that information as seriously as we take our stewardship of Dalton’s physical artifacts. This Privacy Policy is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how we collect use and protect your data across all of our platforms from our physical visitor center at 161 Raymond Dr to our digital presence at info@fdsc.site. We believe that privacy is not just a legal requirement but a fundamental part of our mission to foster a safe and welcoming environment for historical discovery. By engaging with our services you are entering into a partnership with us and we want you to feel fully informed and empowered regarding every piece of information you choose to share with us during your journey through Dalton’s history.

Our approach to data management is rooted in the principle of minimal collection and maximum protection which ensures that we only gather the information necessary to provide you with a high-quality and personalized experience. We view data as a borrowed asset that belongs to you and we commit ourselves to handling it with the same level of care and reverence that we would afford a rare 18th-century manuscript. This policy outlines our internal procedures for data handling the specific types of information we may collect and the rigorous security protocols we have implemented to prevent unauthorized access or disclosure. We believe that by being open and honest about our data practices we can build a stronger and more resilient relationship with our community members. We invite you to read through this document carefully to understand your rights and the various ways in which we work to safeguard your personal information while you explore the rich cultural heritage of our town.

The Scope and Application of Our Privacy Safeguards

Defining the boundaries of our protective measures and our commitment to total transparency

This Privacy Policy applies to all interactions you have with the Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission Inc whether those interactions occur through our official website our various social media platforms our email communications or in person at our physical headquarters. We have designed our privacy framework to be all-encompassing providing a consistent level of protection regardless of how you choose to engage with our mission. This policy covers the collection of personal identifiers financial information for donations and research inquiries that may contain sensitive family history data. We want our visitors to understand that our commitment to privacy extends beyond the digital realm into the physical archives where we maintain strict logbooks and visitor records to ensure the security of our collection and the privacy of those who utilize it for their personal research. By defining the scope of this policy so broadly we ensure that there are no gaps in our protective measures and that your information is safe at every touchpoint.

The application of these safeguards is a daily priority for our staff and volunteers who are trained to handle personal information with the utmost discretion and professional integrity. We regularly review our policies and procedures to ensure that they remain in alignment with current legal standards and the evolving needs of our community in the digital landscape. We recognize that as technology changes so do the potential threats to data security and we are committed to staying ahead of those challenges through continuous improvement and the adoption of best practices in information management. This policy serves as a living document that reflects our ongoing dedication to ethical stewardship and the protection of the personal legacies that are entrusted to our care. We believe that by maintaining a clear and comprehensive policy we provide our community with the peace of mind they need to fully engage with our historical programs and contribute to the ongoing story of Dalton.

Categories of Personal Information Collected

A detailed look at the types of data we gather to enhance your historical experience

When you engage with the Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission Inc we may collect several categories of personal information to provide you with a more tailored and meaningful experience. These categories include personal identifiers such as your name your physical address your phone number and your email address which allow us to communicate with you about upcoming events historical discoveries and organizational updates. We also collect financial information when you choose to make a donation or purchase a membership ensuring that these transactions are handled securely through encrypted payment portals. In the context of our historical research services we may collect more specific details regarding your family tree your ancestors and your historical interests which help our archivists provide you with the most relevant and accurate information possible. We are always mindful that this information is deeply personal and we handle it with the sensitivity it deserves ensuring that your family’s private history remains protected while we assist you in your research journey.

In addition to the information you explicitly provide we may also collect certain types of technical data through your use of our digital platforms such as your IP address your browser type and the pages you visit on our website. This information is used in an aggregated and anonymous format to help us understand how our community utilizes our online resources and to identify areas where we can improve our digital accessibility. We do not use this information to identify individuals but rather to gain insights into broader trends that allow us to enhance our educational offerings and our public outreach efforts. We believe that by collecting a limited amount of relevant data we can create a more engaging and effective platform for historical discovery that meets the diverse needs of our community. Every piece of information we collect is viewed as a tool for better service and we remain committed to the principle that your privacy should never be compromised in the pursuit of a better user experience.

The Intersection of Private Data and Public History

Navigating the delicate balance between personal privacy and the preservation of communal records

One of the unique challenges we face as a historical commission is navigating the intersection between individual privacy and our mission to preserve public records and historical documents. We recognize that our archives contain vast amounts of information regarding the lives of Dalton’s residents throughout history and we take a nuanced and ethical approach to how this information is shared and preserved. While historical records are often public in nature we strive to respect the privacy of living individuals and their immediate families by implementing certain restrictions on the access and use of recent documents. We believe that history should be a source of enlightenment and connection rather than a source of intrusion or discomfort and we work closely with our researchers to ensure that their work is conducted with respect for the dignity and privacy of those whose lives are documented in our collections. This ethical balance is at the heart of our archival practice and it guides our decisions regarding the acquisition and display of personal papers and family records.

When we acquire new documents or artifacts we carefully evaluate the potential privacy implications for the individuals involved and their descendants. We may choose to seal certain records for a specific period of time or to redact sensitive personal information that is not essential to the historical narrative. We also provide guidance to our donors on how to handle the privacy concerns associated with their family papers ensuring that their desire to preserve history is balanced with their need to protect their family’s private life. We believe that this careful and compassionate approach to archival management is essential for maintaining the trust of the community and for ensuring that the history of Dalton is told in a way that is both accurate and respectful. By being proactive and thoughtful in our handling of historical data we create a culture of stewardship that honors the past while protecting the privacy of the present and the future.

Methods of Data Collection and User Consent

How we gather information and the importance of your voluntary participation in our mission

The Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission Inc utilizes several methods to collect information from our community members all of which are designed to be transparent and based on your informed consent. Our most common method is through the voluntary submission of forms on our website or at our visitor center where you can sign up for our newsletter register for a workshop or apply for a volunteer position. We also collect information through direct email correspondence and through the use of our research request services where you provide us with the details necessary for our archivists to assist you. We believe that every instance of data collection should be an opportunity for you to express your support for our mission and we ensure that you are always aware of what information is being collected and why it is needed. Your consent is the cornerstone of our data practices and we provide you with clear options to opt in or opt out of our various communication channels and programs.

In addition to direct submissions we also use certain automated technologies such as cookies to collect information about your interaction with our digital platforms. Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device and help us to recognize you as a returning visitor providing you with a more seamless and personalized experience. We use these technologies to remember your preferences to analyze the effectiveness of our website and to ensure the security of our online transactions. You have the ability to manage your cookie preferences through your browser settings and we provide clear information on our website about how these technologies are used. We believe that by being open and honest about our methods of collection we empower you to make informed decisions about your digital privacy. Your trust is our most valuable asset and we work every day to ensure that our data collection practices are worthy of that trust.

The Purpose and Use of Your Personal Information

How we utilize your data to strengthen our programs and support the preservation of Dalton’s past

The personal information we collect is used primarily to fulfill our mission of preservation education and community engagement in a way that is efficient effective and personalized. We use your contact information to keep you informed about our upcoming lectures festivals and historical tours ensuring that you never miss an opportunity to connect with Dalton’s heritage. If you have made a donation or purchased a membership we use your information to process the transaction and to provide you with the necessary tax documentation and acknowledgments. We also use the details you provide in your research inquiries to help our archivists locate specific records and to provide you with a comprehensive and accurate response to your questions. Every use of your data is directly tied to our goal of providing you with a high-quality historical experience that enriches your understanding of our community’s past.

We may also use your information in an aggregated and anonymous format to help us secure grants and funding from regional and national organizations. By demonstrating the breadth and diversity of our community support we can better advocate for the resources we need to continue our preservation efforts and to expand our educational offerings. We want our visitors to know that their data is never sold traded or rented to third parties for commercial gain. We only share information with trusted service providers who assist us in our operations such as our email marketing platform and our secure payment processors and these partners are bound by strict confidentiality agreements to ensure the protection of your data. We believe that your personal information should be used exclusively for the benefit of the community and the advancement of our shared mission and we are committed to maintaining the highest ethical standards in every aspect of our data usage.

Rigorous Security Measures and Data Protection

The physical and digital safeguards we employ to ensure the safety of your information

At the Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission Inc we understand that the security of your personal information is of paramount importance and we have implemented a comprehensive set of physical and digital safeguards to prevent unauthorized access or disclosure. Our digital platforms utilize industry-standard encryption protocols and firewalls to protect your data during transmission and storage ensuring that your financial transactions and personal communications remain secure. We also maintain strict internal controls over who can access your information ensuring that only authorized staff and volunteers with a legitimate need to know can view your records. We regularly update our software and security systems to protect against the latest cyber threats and we conduct periodic audits of our data practices to identify and address any potential vulnerabilities. Our commitment to security is a continuous process that reflects the high value we place on the privacy and trust of our community members.

In addition to our digital safeguards we also maintain rigorous physical security measures at our headquarters at 161 Raymond Dr. Our physical archives and administrative records are kept in secure climate-controlled environments with limited access and monitored by modern security systems. We maintain a clear chain of custody for all sensitive documents and ensure that personal information is handled with the same level of care and discretion as our most precious historical artifacts. We also have clear procedures in place for the secure disposal of information that is no longer needed ensuring that your data is not left vulnerable after its useful life has ended. We believe that by combining advanced technology with traditional security practices we provide a robust and resilient defense for your personal information. Our goal is to create a secure environment where you can explore the history of Dalton with complete peace of mind knowing that your data is in safe hands.

Your Rights and Control Over Your Information

Empowering you to manage your data and maintain control over your historical legacy

We believe that you should always remain in control of your personal information and we provide you with several easy-to-use tools and processes to manage your data and your communication preferences. You have the right to request a copy of the personal information we hold about you and to ask for any inaccuracies to be corrected or for your information to be updated. You can also request that your information be deleted from our active records or that we limit the ways in which your data is used. We strive to respond to all such requests promptly and in a way that respects your privacy and your individual needs. We believe that by empowering you to manage your data we build a more transparent and respectful relationship that honors your autonomy and your rights as a member of our community.

You also have the right to opt out of our marketing and promotional communications at any time by using the unsubscribe link provided in our emails or by contacting us directly at info@fdsc.site. We want our communication with you to be a source of inspiration and engagement rather than a burden and we respect your choices regarding how and when you hear from us. If you have questions or concerns about our data practices we encourage you to reach out to us so that we can address them in a professional and timely manner. We are committed to a policy of open dialogue and mutual respect and we value your feedback as we work to improve our privacy framework and our community outreach. Your legacy is yours to manage and we are here to support you in ensuring that your personal information is handled in a way that reflects your values and your preferences.

Children’s Privacy and Family-Friendly Protection

Our special commitment to safeguarding the information of our youngest historians

The Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission Inc is a family-oriented organization and we are particularly committed to protecting the privacy and safety of the children who participate in our programs. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under the age of thirteen without the explicit and verifiable consent of a parent or legal guardian. Our youth programs are designed to be safe and educational and we encourage parents to be actively involved in their children’s exploration of Dalton’s history both in person and online. If we become aware that we have inadvertently collected information from a child without parental consent we take immediate steps to delete that information from our records. We believe that fostering a safe environment for children to learn and grow is a vital part of our mission and we take our responsibilities under the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act and other relevant laws very seriously.

We also provide parents with the same rights and controls over their children’s information as they have over their own and we are always happy to discuss our youth-focused data practices with any concerned parent or guardian. We believe that by protecting the privacy of our youngest community members we are helping to ensure that the next generation of historians and preservationists can engage with their heritage in a secure and positive way. Our family-friendly approach is reflected in every aspect of our work from the content of our workshops to the design of our digital platforms ensuring that history remains an accessible and joyful experience for everyone. We believe that privacy is a shared responsibility and we look forward to working with the families of Dalton to create a safe and vibrant community for historical discovery.

Data Retention and the Lifecycle of Information

How we manage the long-term preservation and eventual disposal of your personal records

The Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission Inc maintains a clear and ethical policy regarding the retention of personal information ensuring that we only keep your data for as long as it is needed to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected. We recognize that certain types of information such as donation records and historical research inquiries may need to be kept for several years for administrative or legal reasons. However we regularly review our records to identify information that is no longer necessary and we take proactive steps to securely delete or anonymize that data. We believe that responsible data retention is a key component of our privacy mission helping to reduce the amount of personal information we hold and to minimize the potential risk of unauthorized access or disclosure. Our goal is to maintain a lean and efficient archival system that prioritively respects the privacy of our current community members while preserving the essential records of our town’s history.

When we determine that information is no longer needed we utilize secure disposal methods such as shredding for physical documents and permanent erasure for digital records. We do not simply discard sensitive information but ensure that it is destroyed in a way that makes it impossible to recover. This commitment to secure disposal is a vital part of our data lifecycle management providing you with the assurance that your information is protected from start to finish. We believe that by being thoughtful and proactive in our data retention practices we demonstrate our respect for your privacy and our commitment to professional excellence in information management. Your personal legacy is a precious resource and we work every day to ensure that it is handled with the care and the caution it deserves throughout its entire lifecycle within our organization.

Third-Party Sharing and Collaborative Safeguards

Our rigorous standards for the partners and service providers who assist in our mission

While the Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission Inc does not sell or trade your information we do work with a limited number of trusted third-party service providers who help us manage our operations and provide you with a high-quality experience. These partners include our secure payment processing companies our email distribution platforms and our digital hosting providers all of whom are carefully vetted to ensure that they maintain the same high standards of privacy and security as we do. We enter into formal agreements with these partners that strictly limit their use of your information to the specific services they are providing on our behalf and we require them to implement robust security measures to protect your data. We believe that these collaborative safeguards are essential for providing a modern and efficient service while maintaining the integrity and privacy of our community members’ personal information.

We also recognize that in certain rare circumstances we may be legally required to disclose personal information in response to a subpoena a court order or other governmental request. In such cases we strive to notify you of the request unless we are legally prohibited from doing so and we provide only the information that is strictly necessary to comply with our legal obligations. We believe in the importance of transparency and we work to ensure that any legal disclosure is handled with the same level of care and professional discretion as our everyday data management. Our commitment to your privacy remains our primary concern and we will always advocate for the protection of your information within the bounds of the law. By maintaining clear and rigorous standards for our third-party relationships we ensure that your information remains safe regardless of where it is stored or processed.

Ongoing Policy Updates and Community Notification

Our commitment to keeping you informed of changes in our privacy practices and legal obligations

The digital and legal landscape of privacy is constantly evolving and the Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission Inc is committed to keeping our community informed of any changes to our privacy practices or policies. We regularly review this Privacy Policy to ensure that it remains current and accurate and we post the most recent version on our website with a clear update date. If we make any significant changes to how we collect use or protect your information we will notify you through a prominent notice on our website or through direct email communication providing you with the opportunity to review the changes and to adjust your preferences accordingly. We believe that proactive notification is a vital part of our commitment to transparency ensuring that you always have the most up-to-date information regarding your privacy rights and our stewardship of your personal data.

We also encourage our community members to review this policy periodically and to reach out to us with any questions or suggestions for improvement. We value your input and your perspective and we believe that by working together we can create a privacy framework that truly reflects the needs and values of the Dalton community. Our mission of historical preservation is a shared endeavor and we believe that your trust and your privacy are the essential foundations of that partnership. By maintaining an open and ongoing dialogue about our privacy practices we ensure that the Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission remains a trusted and respected institution for generations to come. Thank you for your continued support and for your interest in the rich and beautiful history of our town.

Contact Information and Privacy Inquiries

Direct lines of communication for any questions or concerns regarding your personal data

If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or if you would like to exercise your rights regarding your personal information we encourage you to contact us through any of the methods listed below. We have a dedicated team member who is responsible for overseeing our privacy practices and ensuring that all inquiries are handled with the professional attention and respect they deserve. We believe that clear communication is essential for maintaining trust and we are committed to providing you with the information and support you need to feel secure in your interactions with our organization. Whether you are seeking clarification on a specific policy or looking for assistance with a data-related request we are here to help and to ensure that your privacy is protected.

Postal Address Friends of the Dalton Historical Commission Inc Attn: Privacy Officer 161 RAYMOND DR DALTON, MA 01226-1034

Email Communication Email: info@fdsc.site Please include “Privacy Inquiry” in the subject line of your email to ensure that it is directed to the appropriate team member for a prompt and comprehensive response.

Physical Visit You are also welcome to visit us in person at our headquarters at 161 Raymond Dr to discuss any privacy concerns or to learn more about our archival practices. We value face-to-face connection and are happy to provide you with a deeper understanding of how we protect the historical legacy of Dalton and the personal information of our community members. We look forward to hearing from you and to continuing our partnership in the preservation of our town’s unique and inspiring past.