In the spirit of Paramhansa Yogananda’s teachings, we strive to create an environment of trust, respect, kindness, and right relationship. We are committed to honoring the dignity and privacy of each person who participates in our programs.

Confidentiality and Privacy Policy

At Ananda’s Karma Yoga Ashram Program, we recognize that applicants and participants entrust us with personal information, including health, medical, emotional, spiritual, and background information. We are committed to treating this information with respect, discretion, and care.

Purpose of Information Collection

Information requested during the application process is collected solely for the purpose of:

  • Determining whether the Karma Yoga Ashram Program is an appropriate fit for an applicant.
  • Supporting the health, safety, and well-being of participants and the community.
  • Understanding any physical, emotional, psychological, dietary, or accessibility needs that may affect participation in the program.
  • Responding appropriately in the event of an emergency.
  • Administering and improving program operations.

Confidentiality of Applicant Information

All personal information provided through applications, interviews, medical questionnaires, and related communications will be treated as confidential.

Access to this information is limited to authorized staff members who have a legitimate need to review it as part of the application, acceptance, participant support, health and safety, or program administration process. We do not sell, rent, or share personal information with outside organizations for marketing purposes.

Medical and Mental Health Information

Because the Karma Yoga Ashram Program includes communal living, physical service activities, meditation, and participation in a structured spiritual  environment, we may request information regarding an applicant’s physical health, mental health history, medications, allergies, injuries, or other relevant conditions. This information is reviewed only for the purpose of assessing program suitability, supporting participant well-being, and providing appropriate care and accommodations when possible. Medical and mental health information will be handled with particular sensitivity and shared only with authorized staff members on a need-to-know basis.

Emergency Situations

If a participant experiences a medical, psychological, or safety-related emergency, relevant information may be shared with emergency personnel, healthcare providers, or designated emergency contacts as reasonably necessary to protect the health and safety of the participant or others.

Community Respect and Confidentiality

Ananda encourages an atmosphere of trust, kindness, and mutual respect. Participants may share personal experiences during classes, spiritual counseling, group discussions, or informal conversations. We ask all participants and staff to respect the privacy of others and refrain from sharing another person’s personal information, health information, life circumstances, or spiritual experiences without their permission.

Records Retention

Application materials and related records may be retained for administrative, legal, safety, and program continuity purposes. Records are stored in a manner designed to protect confidentiality and are accessible only to authorized personnel.

Photographs and Media

Photographs, videos, or testimonials will only be used in accordance with permissions granted by participants. Participants may decline permission for their image or likeness to be used in promotional materials.

Questions

Questions regarding this Confidentiality and Privacy Policy may be directed to the Karma Yoga Ashram Program staff.