Terms of Use

These Terms of Use (“Terms”) govern your access to and use of the website, services, programs, events, outreach activities, donations, volunteering, and community participation offered by Shri Govindaji Gaudiya Math (SGGM Houston), operating under the International Gaudiya Vedanta Society Houston (IGVS). By accessing this website, making a donation, registering for programs, volunteering, or participating in temple activities, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

1. Acceptance of Terms

By using this website or participating in any SGGM Houston activity, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms, along with our Privacy Policy.

2. Use of Website and Services

You agree to:

• Use the website and services only for lawful, respectful, and community-oriented purposes.
• Not attempt to gain unauthorized access to systems, data, or services.
• Not interfere with or disrupt website functionality or temple operations.
• Respect the spiritual, cultural, and community nature of SGGM Houston.

SGGM Houston reserves the right to restrict or terminate access for behavior that violates these principles.

3. Donations and Contributions

Donations made to SGGM Houston are voluntary contributions that support religious, educational, charitable, and community service activities. Donations are generally non-refundable unless required by applicable law. Donors are responsible for verifying donation details before submission. SGGM Houston may issue donation receipts and annual tax statements. Donation processing may involve secure third-party payment providers.

4. Programs, Events, and Services

SGGM Houston offers programs including Sunday Program, Vedic School, classes, outreach, festivals, ceremonies, and community events. Programs may be modified, rescheduled, or canceled as needed. Participation may be subject to registration, availability, or guidelines. Participants are expected to follow temple conduct and instructions.

5. Volunteer Participation

Volunteers play an important role in seva and community service. Volunteers agree to act respectfully and follow assigned responsibilities. SGGM Houston may assign, modify, or limit volunteer roles. Participation may be restricted if conduct does not align with community standards.

6. User Conduct

When interacting with SGGM Houston (online or in person), you agree not to:

• Engage in harmful, abusive, or disruptive behavior.
• Misrepresent your identity or provide false information.
• Use temple platforms for unauthorized solicitation or promotion.
• Violate any applicable laws or regulations.

7. Intellectual Property

All content on this website—including text, images, videos, logos, and materials—is owned by or used with permission by SGGM Houston. Content may not be copied, reproduced, or distributed without permission. Use of content must align with the mission and integrity of the organization.

8. Photography and Media

SGGM Houston may capture photographs or videos during events, programs, and outreach activities. By attending public events, you consent to photography and recording. Media may be used for website, social media, outreach, and community communication. You may request exclusion by contacting privacy@sggm.org | privacy@igvs.org.

9. Third-Party Services

The website may include links or integrations with third-party services (e.g., payment platforms, maps, social media). SGGM Houston is not responsible for third-party content or practices. Use of third-party services is subject to their respective terms.

10. Disclaimer of Warranties

The website and services are provided on an "as is" and "as available" basis without warranties of any kind. SGGM Houston does not guarantee uninterrupted access, error-free operation, or accuracy of all content.

11. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, SGGM Houston shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from: use of the website, participation in events or programs, or reliance on website information.

12. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless SGGM Houston, its volunteers, and representatives from any claims, damages, or expenses arising from your use of the website or participation in activities, or from your violation of these Terms.

13. Safety and Participation

Participation in temple activities is voluntary. Individuals are responsible for their own safety and well-being while attending events or engaging in activities.

14. Nonprofit Status

SGGM Houston operates under IGVS, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Activities, donations, and communications support charitable, religious, and educational purposes.

15. Changes to Terms

SGGM Houston may update these Terms at any time. Updates will be posted on this page. Continued use of services indicates acceptance of the updated Terms.

16. Governing Law

These Terms shall be governed by the laws of the State of Texas, United States.

17. Contact

Shri Govindaji Gaudiya Math (SGGM Houston), 16628 Kieth Harrow Blvd, Houston, TX 77084. Email: info@sggm.org | Phone: (832) 464-4686.

18. Accessibility

SGGM Houston strives to make its website and programs accessible to all community members. If you encounter accessibility barriers, please contact us and we will make reasonable efforts to assist.

19. Force Majeure

SGGM Houston shall not be liable for delays or failures in performance resulting from events beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to natural disasters, public health emergencies, governmental actions, or utility failures.

20. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions will remain in full force and effect.

21. Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with the Privacy Policy, constitute the entire agreement between you and SGGM Houston regarding use of the website and services. By using this website or engaging with SGGM Houston, you agree to these Terms of Use.