Privacy Policy

Introduction

This Privacy Policy outlines how Abilities First, a public governmental body in the State of Missouri, collects, uses, discloses, and protects information obtained through our website (abilitiesfirst.net). As a public entity, we are subject to Chapter 610 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, commonly known as the Sunshine Law, which promotes openness in government. This means that certain information we collect may be subject to public disclosure upon request, in accordance with applicable laws.

We are committed to protecting your privacy while providing transparent and accessible online services. This policy applies only to our official website and does not extend to any linked external sites. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party websites you visit.

This policy may be updated periodically. Changes will be posted here, and we recommend checking back for updates.

Information We Collect

Automatically Collected Information

When you visit our website, we may automatically collect non-personally identifiable information to help us monitor and improve site performance. This includes:

  • Your IP address and domain name (e.g., the internet service provider you use).
  • The type of browser and operating system you are using.
  • The date and time of your visit.
  • The pages you access and the duration of your visit.
  • The referring URL (the site from which you linked to ours).

This data is collected anonymously and is not linked to personally identifiable information unless required for security purposes.

Personally Identifiable Information

We collect personally identifiable information (PII) only when you voluntarily provide it, such as when:

  • Submitting forms for services, registrations, or requests (e.g., email address, name, postal address, phone number).
  • Sending emails or participating in surveys.
  • Applying for permits, licenses, or other public services.

Required fields will be clearly indicated on forms. Optional fields are not necessary to complete your transaction but may help us serve you better. We do not collect PII from children under 13 without parental consent, in compliance with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).

How We Use Your Information

The information we collect is used to:

  • Process your requests, transactions, or inquiries.
  • Improve our website and services based on usage patterns.
  • Respond to your communications.
  • Comply with legal obligations, including public records requests under the Sunshine Law.
  • Ensure website security and prevent unauthorized access.

We do not sell, rent, or trade your PII to third parties for marketing purposes.

Sharing and Disclosure of Information

As a public entity, information you provide may become part of the public record and could be disclosed if requested under the Sunshine Law or other applicable laws. We may share information:

  • With other government agencies or contractors as necessary to fulfill your request.
  • In response to subpoenas, court orders, or legal processes.
  • To protect the rights, property, or safety of the public entity, its users, or others.

Security Measures

We employ reasonable security measures to protect your information from unauthorized access, alteration, or destruction. This includes firewalls, encryption for sensitive data transmissions (e.g., via HTTPS), and network monitoring software.

However, no online system is completely secure. If you submit sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers, do so only when necessary and through secure channels.

If we detect unauthorized attempts to access or tamper with our systems, we may share relevant logs with law enforcement.

Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Our website may use cookies to enhance user experience, such as remembering preferences or analyzing traffic via tools like Google Analytics. These cookies do not collect PII unless you provide it.

You can manage cookies through your browser settings. Disabling cookies may limit some site functionality. For more on Google Analytics, visit Google’s Privacy Policy.

Email Communications

Emails you send us may include your return address and any PII you provide. We use this to respond to your inquiry but treat emails as public records, subject to disclosure. Avoid sending confidential information via email unless encrypted.

Links to External Sites

Our website may contain links to external sites not controlled by Abilities First. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those sites. Review their policies before providing information.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Access, correct, or request deletion of your PII, subject to legal requirements.
  • Opt out of non-essential communications.

To exercise these rights, contact us using the information below. Note that public records may not be deletable.

Children’s Privacy

We do not knowingly collect PII from children under 13. If we learn of such collection, we will delete it promptly.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy to reflect changes in practices or laws. The effective date will be noted at the top. Continued use of the website after changes constitutes acceptance.

Contact Information

For questions about this Privacy Policy or to make a request regarding your information, contact:

Abilities First
3216 S. National Avenue
Springfield, MO 
(417)886-0404
info@abilitiesfirst.net

Effective Date: November 18, 2025