Last updated: December 17, 2025

At The Ones Still Here, your trust is sacred. This policy explains what information we collect, why we collect it, and how we protect it. We believe privacy is not an obstacle to connection; it is the foundation.

1. Information We Collect

We collect only what is necessary:

• Submission form: Name (optional), email (optional), and story text. You may submit anonymously.
• Contact form: Name, email, and message.
• Email inquiries: Sent to Joshuaacolin@theonesstillhere.com, stored in a secure email client.
• Website analytics: Anonymous usage data (e.g., pages visited, device type) via Google Analytics, with IP anonymization enabled. No personally identifiable tracking.

We do not sell, rent, or trade your data, ever.

2. How We Use Your Information

• To respond to your messages or story submissions
• To share your story (always with your consent)
• To improve site functionality and accessibility
• To send occasional updates, only if you opt in (e.g., via a future mailing list; none exists yet)

You will never be added to a list without clear, active consent.

3. Data Storage and Security

All submissions and messages are stored on secure, password-protected systems (hosted via Namecheap). Backups are encrypted. Access is limited to Joshua, the site owner.

While no digital system is 100% immune to risk, we take reasonable measures to prevent unauthorized access, loss, or misuse.

4. Third Parties

• Google Analytics: Used for anonymous site insights. You can opt out via browser settings or tools like Google’s opt-out plugin
• Social media links: Clicking external links (Instagram, YouTube, etc.) takes you to platforms governed by their own privacy policies. We are not responsible for their practices.

We do not use cookies for advertising or tracking beyond essential analytics.

5. Children’s Privacy

We do not knowingly collect data from minors. If a submission appears to involve a minor, we will not publish it without verified guardian consent and ethical review.

6. Policy Updates

If this policy changes meaningfully, we will update the “Last updated” date and, if possible, notify returning visitors via a discreet banner. Continued use of the site implies acceptance.

Questions? Concerns?
Reach out directly: Joshuaacolin@theonestillhere.com

This is a space built on honesty.
Your story is safe here
not because we promise perfection,
but because we choose care, every time.