SMS Terms of Use

We Are Blood utilizes RingCentral for conversational SMS/MMS messaging services only. We are committed to delivering high-quality services while preventing spam, phishing, and fraudulent messages. In alignment with RingCentral’s Terms of Service, Acceptable Use Policy, CTIA guidelines, and carrier-specific codes of conduct, we adhere to the following practices:

Opt-In/User Consent for SMS/MMS Messaging
  • Express Consent Required: Before sending any conversational SMS/MMS messages, we must obtain your expressed consent. Implied consent is insufficient except in direct response to a received message. Consent must be actively given for each campaign or message type, with marketing or promotional messages requiring a separate consent.
  • Opt-In Method: You may opt-in to receive SMS messages from We Are Blood by submitting an online form at weareblood.org/about-us/contact/
  • SMS Consent Communication: The information (Phone Numbers) obtained as part of the SMS consent process will not be shared with third parties for marketing purposes.
  • Types of SMS Communications: If you have consented to receive text messages from We Are Blood, you may receive messages related to the following:
  • Conversational messages: We Are Blood: Action needed: Update your account password at https://weareblood.org/login due to a security check. Questions? Call (512) 381-0114. Message frequency may vary. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out.

    Example: “Hello, this is a friendly reminder of your upcoming appointment with [Name] at [Location] on [Date] at [Time]. Reply STOP to opt out of SMS messaging at any time.”
Opt-Out and Managing Preferences
  • Easy Opt-Out Method: You can opt-out of receiving SMS messages at any time. To do so, simply reply “STOP” to any SMS message you receive. Alternatively, message and data rates may apply. Messaging frequency may vary. You can contact us directly to request removal from our messaging list.
  • Getting Help: If you are experiencing any issues, you can reply with the keyword HELP. Or, you can get help directly from us at [email protected] or call (512) 206-1266.
    Additional Option: If you do not wish to receive SMS messages, you can choose not to check the SMS consent box on our forms.
  • Opt-Out Management: We track and manage opt-out requests diligently to ensure that those who opt out do not receive further communications.
Message Types and Frequency

Message frequency may vary depending on the type of communication. For example, you may receive up to [20] SMS messages per week related to your conversational messages. [appointments/billing, etc.].

  • Appointment Updates: Scheduling confirmations and changes
  • Service Messages: Lesson reminders and facility updates
  • Emergency Messages: Critical updates about facility operations or safety matters
  • Frequency: No more than 4 messages per week for regular communications

Example:
“Message frequency may vary. You may receive up to 6 SMS messages per week regarding your appointments or account status.”

Data Collection and Usage Specific to Messaging

In addition to our general data collection practices, for SMS/MMS services we collect:

  • Phone numbers
  • Message history and content
  • Opt-in/opt-out records with timestamps
  • Message delivery status
  • Time and date of communications
Messaging Details
  • Conversational SMS messages will be sent from our designated business number(s)
  • Service delivered via RingCentral’s messaging platform
  • Standard messaging rates may apply based on your carrier plan
  • Messages will be sent during business hours (8:00 AM – 8:00 PM local time) unless for emergencies
Standard Messaging Disclosures
Consent Records

We maintain detailed records of:

  • Date and time of messaging consent
  • Method of consent (website form, text message, written consent)
  • Phone number source and verification
  • Specific message types you’ve agreed to receive
Message Content Guidelines

All our messages will:

  • Clearly identify “We Are Blood” as the sender
  • Use clear, easy-to-understand language
  • Comply with blood center industry standards and regulations
Messaging Policies and Restrictions
  • Message Limits: We adhere to RingCentral’s guidelines of sending no more than 50 messages per originating number per minute. For higher volume needs, we engage RingCentral’s High Volume SMS solution.
  • Prohibited Campaigns and Content: We strictly avoid sending messages related to prohibited campaigns such as loan advertisements, credit repair offers, work from home advertisements, and others outlined by RingCentral and carrier policies.
  • Content Monitoring: Our messages do not engage in or promote illegal activities, adult content, violence, hate speech, or include misleading links.
Automated Messaging
  • Compliance for Automated or Promotional Messages: Automated and promotional SMS/MMS messaging is conducted only through numbers designed for such messages. We ensure logged consent for automated and promotional messages within our donor CRM system.
Carrier Fees and Restrictions
  • Potential Fees for SMS Messaging: Please note that standard message and data rates may apply, depending on your carrier’s pricing plan. These fees may vary if the message is sent domestically or internationally.
  • Responsibility and Compliance: We are responsible for adhering to all policies, regulations, and laws related to SMS/MMS messaging. Failure to comply may result in reduced message deliverability, service suspension, or termination, in addition to potential fines and penalties.
Data Privacy and Security
  • Commitment to Privacy: Your phone number and the content of your messages are protected and used solely for the purpose of sending you the agreed-upon messages. Our practices are in full compliance with our Privacy Policy, ensuring the security and privacy of your data.