Policies & Disclosures

South Jersey Cultural Alliance Refund & Cancellation Policy

South Jersey Cultural Alliance (SJCA) is dedicated to strengthening and sustaining South Jersey’s cultural community by providing professional development, advocacy, marketing, and funding opportunities. Your membership and program participation are vital investments in the entire ecosystem—supporting small and emerging organizations, individual artists, and cultural nonprofits across the region.

As a nonprofit, we work hard to keep program fees as low as possible while ensuring the highest quality experiences. Absorbing the full cost of late cancellations and no-shows would ultimately raise the price of our programs and limit the resources we can provide to the cultural sector. Our refund and cancellation policy reflects the time, effort, and financial commitments required to develop and deliver impactful programs.

Membership Dues

• Non-Refundable: Membership dues are non-refundable once payment has been processed.
• SJCA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, member association, and your membership dues directly support the sustainability of South Jersey’s cultural community. They help SJCA provide essential services, including advocacy, funding resources, professional development, and cooperative marketing initiatives.
• Tax Deductible: Membership dues may be tax-deductible. Please consult your accountant for details. SJCA’s federal tax identification number is #22-3144933.
• Membership Transfers: Memberships may be transferred on a case-by-case basis for a $50 transfer fee. To inquire about transferring your membership, please contact info@sjca.net.
  

Program & Event Fees

• Cancellations by SJCA: If SJCA cancels an event or program, registered participants will receive a full refund or may apply their payment to a future event. Refunds will be processed within 14 business days of cancellation.
• Cancellations by Attendees:
  • More than 7 days before the event: Full refund minus any processing fees.
  • Less than 7 days before the event: No refunds, but tickets may be transferred to another attendee.
  • Why? Event costs include content development, venue and technology fees, speaker stipends, marketing efforts, and materials. These expenses are incurred in advance and are non-recoverable.
    

Regional Co-Operative Marketing Programs

• Non-Refundable: Payments for participation in SJCA’s cooperative marketing programs are non-refundable once marketing efforts have begun.
• Modifications & Cancellations: If a participant needs to modify or withdraw before marketing materials are finalized, requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
  

Administrative Errors

• If an overpayment or duplicate charge occurs due to an administrative error, a full refund may be requested within 60 days of the transaction. Requests must be submitted in writing to:
  📧 Shoanne Seijas, Membership and Programs Manager – sseijas@sjca.net
  

Refund Processing & Contact Information

Refund requests (where applicable) will be processed within 14 business days of approval.

📧 info@sjca.net
📞 609-833-7381

By completing a payment through our system, you acknowledge and agree to the terms of this refund policy.

South Jersey Cultural Alliance (SJCA) Terms of Use

Effective Date: January 1, 2025

Welcome to the South Jersey Cultural Alliance (SJCA). By using SJCA Membership, the Online Member Hub, the Cultural Asset Map, and the SJCA Mobile Application, you agree to comply with these Terms of Use. Please read them carefully.

If you do not agree with these terms, you may not access or use SJCA’s platforms.

1. Membership & Online Member Hub

1.1 Membership Eligibility & Use

• SJCA membership is open to individual artists, cultural organizations, and community stakeholders invested in supporting and sustaining South Jersey’s cultural community.
• Members must provide accurate and up-to-date information when joining or renewing their membership.
• Membership benefits, including access to the Online Member Hub, are non-transferable without prior approval from SJCA.

1.2 Membership Conduct

• Members are expected to engage professionally, respectfully, and collaboratively within the Online Member Hub.
• Any hateful, discriminatory, harassing, or defamatory behavior will result in immediate suspension or termination of membership privileges.
• Members are encouraged to share opportunities and resources but must not engage in unauthorized solicitation, spam, or promotional messaging unrelated to SJCA’s mission.

1.3 Termination & Revocation

• SJCA reserves the right to revoke membership privileges if a member violates these terms, misuses SJCA resources, or acts against the best interests of the cultural community.
• Membership dues are non-refundable (see Refund Policy for details).

2. Cultural Asset Map

2.1 Purpose & Use

The Cultural Asset Map is a digital tool designed to highlight South Jersey’s cultural organizations, artists, and venues, enhancing visibility and connectivity within the cultural sector.

• Users may submit accurate and verified listings related to arts, history, and culture in South Jersey.
• Listings must not contain false, misleading, or inappropriate content.
• SJCA reserves the right to edit, modify, or remove any listings that violate these terms or do not align with the mission of the cultural community.

2.2 Intellectual Property & Data Use

• Users submitting listings retain rights to their organization’s branding, event descriptions, and intellectual property while granting SJCA permission to display and promote this information.
• Data scraping, automated data extraction, or unauthorized replication of Cultural Asset Map content is prohibited and may be subject to legal action under New Jersey Computer-Related Offenses Law (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-25 et seq.).

3. South Jersey Cultural Alliance Mobile Application

3.1 App Functionality & User Responsibilities

The SJCA Mobile Application serves as an extension of SJCA’s digital platforms, providing users with event listings, cultural asset mapping, and membership engagement tools.

• Users must not engage in hacking, unauthorized modifications, or interference with the app’s functionality.
• The app may collect usage data to improve user experience, but SJCA does not sell or misuse personal data (see Privacy Policy).
• Users must download the app only from authorized sources (e.g., Apple App Store, Google Play).

3.2 Content & Community Standards

• Users may contribute comments, reviews, or content within the app but must adhere to SJCA’s community guidelines, ensuring respect and inclusivity.
• Any content deemed offensive, harmful, or promotional in nature without SJCA approval may be removed, and users responsible may be restricted.

4. Intellectual Property & Data Use

4.1 Ownership & Use of Content

SJCA respects and champions the intellectual property rights of artists, cultural organizations, and creative professionals while also fostering shared access to public cultural resources.

• Any content, artwork, performances, written material, photography, videography, or other creative works shared through SJCA’s platforms remain the intellectual property of the original creator or rights holder.
• By submitting or sharing content on SJCA’s platforms, members grant SJCA a non-exclusive, royalty-free, worldwide license to display, promote, and distribute the content solely for the purpose of advancing the visibility, accessibility, and engagement of the cultural community in South Jersey.
• SJCA does not claim ownership over member-submitted content and will not sell or license such content to third parties without the creator’s explicit permission.

4.2 Respect for Copyright & Fair Use

All members and users of SJCA’s platforms must adhere to copyright laws as outlined in the U.S. Copyright Act (17 U.S.C. § 101 et seq.) and New Jersey’s Intellectual Property Protections.

• Any use of another artist’s or organization’s work must be properly credited and used within fair use guidelines.
• Unauthorized reproduction, alteration, or sale of copyrighted materials via SJCA’s platforms is strictly prohibited.

4.3 Digital Privacy & Data Protection

SJCA is committed to protecting the privacy of members, artists, and cultural organizations while ensuring transparency in how data is used.

• Personal and organizational information submitted through SJCA’s platforms will never be sold, traded, or distributed to third parties for commercial gain.
• Data collected for membership, events, and program participation is used strictly to support SJCA’s operations.
• Users who wish to opt-out of promotional communications or request data removal may contact info@sjca.net.

4.4 Infringement & Dispute Resolution

If a member or user believes that their copyrighted work, trademark, or intellectual property has been misused or infringed upon within SJCA’s platforms, they should:

1. Submit a written notice to info@sjca.net with supporting documentation.
2. SJCA will conduct a review and mediation process in accordance with U.S. and New Jersey intellectual property laws.
3. If necessary, SJCA will remove or modify the infringing content and, where applicable, refer the matter to legal authorities.

5. Liability & Disclaimers

• SJCA provides its digital platforms as a resource to the cultural community but makes no guarantees regarding uninterrupted service, accuracy, or security of the platforms.
• SJCA is not responsible for any third-party content, links, or interactions facilitated through its platforms.
• Users acknowledge that participating in SJCA programs, listings, and events is at their own risk.

6. Contact Information

For questions regarding these Terms of Use, please contact:

✉️ info@sjca.net
📞 609-833-7381

By using SJCA Membership, the Online Member Hub, the Cultural Asset Map, or the SJCA Mobile Application, you acknowledge and agree to these Terms of Use.

South Jersey Cultural Alliance (SJCA) Data Policy

Effective Date: January 1, 2025

1. Purpose

The South Jersey Cultural Alliance (SJCA) Data Policy outlines how SJCA collects, manages, and shares data to:

• Support cultural landscape assessment & advocacy by gathering aggregated data on cultural participation and impact.
• Promote cultural tourism by providing publicly accessible information on South Jersey’s artists, cultural organizations, and events.
• Enhance visibility for individual cultural assets and creative professionals through digital profiles on the South Jersey Cultural Asset Map and Mobile Application.
• Ensure transparency and compliance with applicable data privacy laws and user rights.

SJCA provides members full control over their profiles and data via a self-service ArcGIS online portal, allowing them to update, modify, or remove their information at any time.

2. Data Collection & Sources

SJCA collects data from various sources to populate the South Jersey Cultural Asset Map, Membership Directory, and Cultural Tourism Resources.

A. Member-Provided Data (Self-Managed in ArcGIS Portal)

• Profile Information (organization/artist name, contact details, website, social media links, artistic discipline, location, membership level).
• Images & Media (photos, videos, and descriptions).
• Event Listings & Offerings (exhibitions, performances, workshops, and cultural tourism activities).

B. Public & Partnership Contributions

• Verified Public Data (integrated from local arts councils, historical registries, and tourism agencies).
• Collaborative Data Sharing (cultural districts, municipalities, and tourism organizations).

C. Data from SJCA Programs & Engagements

• Surveys & Feedback Forms (collected from members and audiences to improve services).
• Cultural Impact Reporting (aggregated data for grant applications, advocacy, and funding assessments).

3. Member Data Management & Access

A. Member Control & Self-Management

• Members own and control their own data and can update, modify, or remove their records through the ArcGIS online portal.
• Only verified members can edit their profiles.

B. Public Visibility & Cultural Tourism Promotion

• Member profiles and cultural assets may appear on:
  • SJCA.net
  • The South Jersey Cultural Asset Map
  • The SJCA Mobile App
  • Tourism promotion initiatives & partnerships

C. Data Opt-Out & Removal Requests

• Members may request removal of their profile by contacting info@sjca.net.
• Publicly sourced data subjects may also request removal through this process.

4. Data Usage & Sharing

A. Intended Use

Data hosted on SJCA’s platforms is used to:
✔ Promote cultural tourism & local engagement.
✔ Support arts advocacy & grant reporting.
✔ Connect artists, organizations, and audiences.
✔ Inform research on the regional cultural economy.

B. Data Sharing with Partners

• Local & State Tourism Agencies (for cultural promotion).
• Funding, Service, & Advocacy Groups (for impact analysis).
• Academic & Research Institutions (for cultural studies).

C. Commercial Use & Licensing

• Non-Commercial Use – Data is free for public exploration and non-commercial research.
• Third-Party Licensing – Organizations wishing to use data commercially must obtain explicit permission from SJCA.

5. Advertising & Sponsorship Policy

A. Purpose of Advertising & Sponsorships

SJCA offers paid advertising and sponsorships within the Cultural Asset Map and Mobile Application to:
✔ Promote local cultural organizations, tourism businesses, and artists.
✔ Generate revenue to sustain SJCA’s digital infrastructure.
✔ Support South Jersey’s reputation as a cultural destination.

B. Advertising Standards & Vetting Process

• Advertisements must align with SJCA’s mission and cultural tourism goals.
• Prohibited Content: No misleading, discriminatory, political, or inappropriate ads.
• Review Process: All advertisements are subject to SJCA approval before publication.
• Advertiser Responsibility: Advertisers must certify that they own or have permission for all media and claims made in their advertisements.

C. Non-Endorsement & Indemnification

• SJCA does not endorse the products, services, or claims made by advertisers.
• Advertisers must indemnify and hold SJCA harmless against false advertising claims, consumer disputes, or legal action.

6. Privacy & Data Security Compliance

A. Compliance with State Data Protection Laws

Since SJCA collects and processes data primarily from individuals or entities in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New York, it complies with applicable state data protection laws, including:

1. New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act (CFA) & Data Breach Notification Law
   • Requires that businesses and nonprofits safeguard personal information and notify affected individuals in the event of a data breach.
   • Personal information includes names, email addresses, and publicly available professional specialization data.
   • SJCA data does not include sensitive identifiers (e.g., Social Security Numbers, driver’s license numbers, account passwords).

1. Pennsylvania Breach of Personal Information Notification Act (BPINA)
   • Governs how organizations must handle personal data and requires prompt notification of any unauthorized access or data breach.
   • Prohibits the misuse of personal data without user consent.

1. Delaware Online Privacy and Protection Act (DOPPA)
   • Requires that websites collecting data from Delaware residents clearly disclose what personal information is collected and how it is used.
   • Protects against unauthorized third-party sharing of personal data.

1. New York SHIELD Act (Stop Hacks and Improve Electronic Data Security Act)
   • Imposes data security requirements for organizations that collect personal information from New York residents.
   • Requires reasonable safeguards to protect personal data from unauthorized access, disclosure, or destruction.

B. Implied Consent & Data Collection

By engaging with SJCA’s membership system, submitting information to the South Jersey Cultural Asset Map, or participating in SJCA’s data collection initiatives, users imply consent to the collection, processing, and public display of relevant data in accordance with this policy.

• SJCA Member Users automatically receive a secure login with a paid membership, enabling them to access, update, modify, or delete their data at any time.
• Basic (No-Cost) Members may request a free login to manage their profile, event listings, and cultural asset information.
• Some cultural asset information is obtained through field research conducted by SJCA field experts and partner organizations. This data is vetted for accuracy and relevance before inclusion in the Cultural Asset Map to ensure it aligns with SJCA’s mission.
• By maintaining a presence on SJCA’s platforms, users acknowledge that:
  • Their submitted data may be publicly displayed to promote cultural tourism and regional engagement.
  • SJCA may integrate field-researched data into its platforms for historical, cultural, or tourism-related purposes.
  • Users are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of their submitted information and may update or remove it as needed.
• Users and listed organizations have the right to:
  • Access their profile and submitted data.
  • Modify or correct any inaccuracies.
  • Update, replace, or delete media files (e.g., photos, videos, descriptions).
  • Request a review or correction of field-researched listings if they believe the information is inaccurate.
  • Request removal of their profile or listing if they no longer wish to be included.

Users who do not wish to have their data included may request removal or modification by contacting info@sjca.net or adjusting their settings via SJCA’s Member login portal link.

C. Data Security Measures

SJCA is committed to protecting personal information and has implemented state-compliant security measures in accordance with New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New York data protection laws. These measures include:

1. Restricted Access Controls

SJCA employs role-based access controls (RBAC) and multi-factor authentication (MFA) to ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data.

• Limited Access Permissions:
  • Only designated SJCA administrators and IT personnel have access to secure databases and member records.
  • User data within the ESRI ArcGIS system is accessible only by users with authenticated SJCA Member or Basic (No-Cost) logins.
• Authentication Protocols:
  • Unique User Logins: Each member receives individual login credentials with permissions based on membership level.
  • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Required for administrative access to SJCA’s data management systems.
• Data Encryption & Transmission Security:
  • All sensitive information is encrypted at rest and in transit on ESRI ArcGIS servers.
  • Data transfers use SSL/TLS encryption protocols to protect against unauthorized interception.
• Monitoring & Intrusion Detection:
  • SJCA systems include real-time activity monitoring to detect unauthorized access attempts or anomalies.
  • Failed login attempts and suspicious activities trigger automatic security alerts for review.

2. Regular Security Audits

SJCA conducts routine security audits to assess vulnerabilities, ensure compliance, and maintain data integrity.

• Quarterly Compliance Reviews:
  • Data handling processes are reviewed every three months to verify compliance with NJ, PA, DE, and NY data laws.
• Access Logs & Review Procedures:
  • All data modifications and access logs are tracked, recorded, and reviewed to identify unauthorized activities.
• Policy Updates & Employee Training:
  • SJCA’s security policies are updated annually based on emerging cybersecurity threats and best practices.
  • Staff handling sensitive data undergo mandatory cybersecurity training to stay informed on phishing risks, data handling protocols, and incident response procedures.

3. Data Breach Response Plan

In the event of a data breach, SJCA follows a structured incident response plan to minimize damage and comply with state reporting regulations.

Step 1: Immediate Containment & Investigation

• Detection & Confirmation: SJCA’s IT team investigates potential breaches via intrusion detection systems and access logs.
• Containment Measures:
  • Temporarily disable compromised accounts or limit access to affected systems.
  • Revoke unauthorized access tokens and update security credentials.
  • Isolate affected servers or databases to prevent further exposure.

Step 2: Risk Assessment & Forensic Analysis

• Determine the Scope of the Breach:
  • Identify what data was accessed, altered, or stolen.
  • Assess potential risks for affected members and SJCA systems.
• Engage External Cybersecurity Experts (if needed):
  • If a large-scale breach occurs, SJCA will consult cybersecurity specialists to perform forensic analysis and recommend corrective actions.

Step 3: Notification to Affected Individuals & Authorities

• State-Mandated Notifications:
  • If personal data of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, or New York residents is compromised, SJCA will notify state regulatory bodies as required by law.
• User Notification Process:
  • Affected users will be notified via email and platform announcements within the state-required notification timeframe.
  • SJCA will provide details on:
    • What information was compromised
    • What steps users should take to protect themselves (e.g., password changes, fraud alerts)
    • What corrective actions SJCA is implementing

Step 4: Corrective Measures & Future Risk Mitigation

• Security Patch Implementation:
  • Identify vulnerabilities and apply necessary security patches to affected systems.
• Strengthened Security Protocols:
  • Introduce additional encryption layers, stricter access controls, and system-wide security enhancements.
• Post-Breach Audit & Policy Review:
  • Conduct internal audits to determine the effectiveness of the response.
  • Update SJCA’s Data Security Policy based on lessons learned.
  • Reinforce employee training on breach prevention and incident handling.

7. Legal Disclaimers & Limitation of Liability

A. No Warranties & User Reliance Disclaimer

• SJCA provides the Cultural Asset Map and Mobile Application “as is”, without warranties of any kind.
• SJCA is not liable for errors, omissions, or reliance on the provided data.

B. Member & Advertiser Indemnification

• Members submitting data must indemnify SJCA against legal claims arising from inaccurate, false, or unauthorized content.
• Advertisers must agree to hold SJCA harmless from legal claims related to their ads, offers, or promotional content.

C. Force Majeure Protection

• SJCA is not responsible for disruptions due to cyberattacks, government regulations, server failures, or natural disasters.

8. Terms of Use & Policy Updates

• Compliance: All users must comply with this policy and applicable laws.
• Policy Changes: SJCA may update this policy as needed. Changes will be posted on SJCA.net.

9. Contact & Questions

For data inquiries, profile updates, or opt-out requests, please contact:
📧 info@sjca.net
📍 South Jersey Cultural Alliance
🌐 https://www.sjca.net

By using the South Jersey Cultural Asset Map, Membership Directory, and Mobile Application, contributors and users agree to the terms outlined in this policy.