Grand Valley Trails Association Privacy Policy

Effective March 13, 2026

The Grand Valley Trails Association recognizes the value of individual privacy. The privacy policy explains how we collect, use and protect the personal information of our members, volunteers, website users and participants in Association hikes and activities.

Information we collect

We collect personal information when individuals sign-up as members, register to attend hikes and other association events, interact with our website, and communicate with us. The information we may collect include name, email address, mailing address, telephone number, payment information, IP address, location, age (optional).

Where transactions involve payments, we collect the amount paid and the date paid. Confidential information such as credit card type and numbers are not kept by the Association. This information is processed through affiniPay, Wild Apricot’s payment processing partner.

How information is collected

Information may be collected through online and paper registration forms, event sign-ups, email communications, one-on-one communications, donations and website analytics/cookies.

How we use the information collected

We use the information to:

• Communicate club updates and events
• Manage memberships and registrations
• Improve our website and our communications to members
• Process donations and payments
• Gather demographics and analyze trends for internal purposes
• Comply with legal obligations
• Ensure the safety of organized hikes. To that end, we provide hike leaders with the registrants’ name and emergency contact information

Sharing information collected

We do not sell, trade or transfer users’ personal information to third parties without the information owners’ consent, except as required by law or as necessary to provide services, e.g. processing payments through AffiniPay, or Hike Ontario for hike insurance purposes. We may share information with trusted third parties who assist us in operating our website or in conducting official association business. Our website uses cookies to improve user experience and understand website traffic. Website users can opt to disable cookies in their browser recognizing that the functionality of certain features may be affected.

Data security

We take appropriate security measures to protect users’ personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure or destruction.

Individual privacy rights

You may access, correct or delete your personal data at any time and opt out from emails by updating your online profile directly or by contacting us at webmaster@gvta.on.ca. Members can change their profile to allow limited access to their data.  

Third-party links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites or services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of these third-party sites. We encourage users to review the privacy reviews of these website before providing any personal information.

Consent

By using our website and registering as a member of the association, you consent to the collection and use of your personal information as outlined in this policy.

Changes to the policy

We may update the policy from time to time. Changes will be posted as a revised Privacy Policy with a revised effective date.

Contact information

For questions or concerns about this policy, please contact us at info@gvta.on.ca