SMS Messaging Privacy Policy - Hopeful Horizons

Chapter:	Rights Protection
Title:	SMS Messaging Privacy Policy
Policy: ☒ Procedure: ☐	Review Cycle: Triennial Author: CEO	Adopted Date: 09.24.26 Review Date: 09.2029	Related Policies: Confidentiality and Privacy

Purpose:

At Hopeful Horizons, protecting privacy is our priority. This SMS Messaging Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard information when individuals opt into our SMS program. By enrolling, individuals agree to these terms, which comply with the 2026 Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), Campaign Registry requirements, and Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association (CTIA) Best Practices.

Scope:

This procedure applies to:

☒ All HH Staff ☐ Selected HH Staff, as specified:

☒ HH Board Members ☒ HH Volunteers

☒ Other: Clients, Program Participants, Donors, and other Stakeholders

Policy:

Individuals must opt-in to receive SMS messages from Hopeful Horizons. Opt-in consent applies solely to Hopeful Horizons. Hopeful Horizons does not share an individual’s SMS consent with third parties or affiliates. National Do Not Call Registry (DNC) protections apply to SMS; Hopeful Horizons honors existing DNC registrations unless an individual expressly opts in.

Hopeful Horizons collects the following information when an individual opts in to SMS:

• Phone Number: The mobile number you provide to receive SMS messages.

• Message Interaction Data: Delivery and engagement metrics (e.g., delivery status,

response keywords).

• Consent Records: Timestamps and methods of opt-in (web form, keyword, verbal, paper

or e-mail).

Hopeful Horizons uses this information to:

• Send SMS messages (notifications, updates, and reminders) per opt-in

preferences.

• Demonstrate regulatory compliance (TCPA 2025, Campaign Registry).

• Improve messaging and measure engagement.

A. Message Frequency and Data Rates

The SMS message frequency will vary but will not be more than 3-5 messages per day unless there is a notification event. Message and data rates may apply; check your carrier’s terms.

B. Opt-Out and HELP Instructions

Hopeful Horizons informs individuals that they can text “STOP” to any message to unsubscribe immediately. They can also text “HELP” for assistance or contact us at [email protected] or 843-524-2256.

C. Data Sharing, Disclosure, and Security

Hopeful Horizons will never sell an individual’s data. Only required data may be shared with service providers (e.g., carriers) with strict confidentiality regarding SMS delivery. Reasonable measures are in place to protect individual data, though no system is infallible.

D. Record-Keeping and Proof of Consent

Hopeful Horizons retains all opt-in and opt-out records, including timestamps and consent methods, to comply with TCPA 2026 and Campaign Registry guidelines.

E. Changes to This Policy

Hopeful Horizons may update this Policy as laws evolve. Material changes will be communicated via SMS or on our website. Continued use after updates constitutes acceptance.

Communication and Training:

Employees and volunteers shall receive notice of the policy approval during the periodic review process. Employee notice of policy approval shall include substantive changes and will provide a link to the policy located on the HH employee portal.

Definitions:

SMS: Stands for “Short Message Service” and is used by Hopeful Horizons through our client database and/or Voice Over Internet Phone (VOIP) system messaging option to send appointment, meeting, and other pertinent reminders to subscriber’s mobile devices when they opt into receiving messages. Hopeful Horizons may also use messaging services through fundraising platforms for text to give campaigns, auction bidding, event reminders, etc.

Other Related Materials:

See below

References/Legal Authority:

Change Log:

Date of Change	Description of Change	Responsible Party
9.2026	New policy	Operations Coordinator