Privacy Policy

Appalachian Youth Service, Inc. (“AYS,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) is committed to protecting the privacy of everyone who visits our website. This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and the choices you have.

Information We Collect

Information You Provide

• Contact forms: name, email address, phone number, your role (parent, caseworker, school representative, etc.), and the contents of your message.
• Referral inquiries and secure uploads: documents submitted by authorized agency or school representatives in connection with a placement referral.
• Employment applications: information you submit when applying for a position.

Information Collected Automatically

• Standard log data such as IP address, browser type, pages visited, and referring pages.
• Cookies and similar technologies used for basic site functionality and anonymous analytics.

How We Use Your Information

• To respond to inquiries and route your message to the right team member.
• To process placement referrals initiated by authorized agencies and school districts.
• To evaluate employment applications.
• To maintain the security of our website and improve its content.

We do not sell, rent, or trade personal information. We do not use personal information for third-party advertising.

Confidentiality of Youth & Referral Records

Records submitted in connection with referrals — including court orders, psychological evaluations, school transcripts, and medical records — are treated as confidential and handled in accordance with applicable federal and Pennsylvania law, including regulations governing child welfare and juvenile records. Access is limited to authorized intake and clinical staff.

How We Share Information

We share information only: with service providers who help us operate this website (under confidentiality obligations); with referring agencies, courts, or school districts as required in connection with a placement; and when required by law, subpoena, or to protect the safety of a child.

Data Security & Retention

We use administrative, technical, and physical safeguards appropriate to the sensitivity of the information we handle. We retain information only as long as needed for the purposes described above or as required by law and our licensing obligations.

Children’s Privacy

Our website is intended for adults — parents, guardians, professionals, and community members. We do not knowingly collect personal information online from children under 13. If you believe a child has submitted information through this site, contact us and we will delete it.

Your Choices & Rights

You may contact us at any time to request access to, correction of, or deletion of the personal information you have submitted through this website, subject to legal record-keeping requirements.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with a revised “Last Updated” date.

Contact Us

Questions about this policy or our privacy practices?
Appalachian Youth Service, Inc.
P.O. Box 878, Ebensburg, PA 15931
Phone: (814) 472-7874 · Online contact form