1. Introduction

Welcome to Knoxville Gay Social! We are a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering community and friendship through a variety of recreational activities in Knoxville and the East Tennessee area. By participating in our events or using our services, you agree to comply with and be bound by the following Terms of Service.

 

2. Organization Information

Name: Knoxville Gay Social
Legal Status: 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization

EIN: 99-2743854

 

3. Purpose and Activities

Our mission is to create a welcoming environment where members of the LGBTQIA+ community can make new friends and enjoy the many attractions and activities in the Knoxville/East TN area. Our events include but are not limited to:

• Walks, hikes, and cycling

• Dog walks and group tours

• Bowling and theater outings

• Picnics, canoeing, and board games

• Restaurant visits and karaoke

• Discussion events and mixers

We welcome suggestions for new events and locations. Our socials are held every two weeks, and details are posted on our event page along with notifications through our social media and app.

 

4. Membership and Participation

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1. Eligibility: Membership is generally open to anyone aged 21 and over living in Knoxville or the surrounding areas. Eligibility is determined by the Knoxville Gay Social admins.

2. Application: Interested individuals must complete an application to join.

3. Cost: There is no cost to become a member.

 

5. Event Policies

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1. Respect for All Members: We expect all members to treat each other with respect and kindness, regardless of differences in opinion, background, or identity. Discrimination, harassment, or bullying of any kind will not be tolerated.

2. Inclusive Language: We encourage the use of inclusive language that respects all members of our community. This includes using appropriate pronouns and avoiding derogatory language or slurs.

3. Confidentiality: We respect the privacy of our members and expect all discussions and interactions within the group to be kept confidential. Sharing personal information without consent is not allowed.

4. Safety and Well-being: We prioritize the safety and well-being of our members. If anyone feels unsafe or uncomfortable at an event, an admin should be notified immediately.

5. Compliance with Laws: We expect all members to comply with local, state, and federal laws at all times. This includes laws related to alcohol consumption, drug use, and public behavior.

6. Disengagement from Confrontation: If there are protestors, groups, or individuals who try to engage our group in a confrontational manner, we will disengage and not retaliate or escalate these interactions. Members should discuss these situations with an admin immediately for appropriate resolution.

7. Reporting Violations: If any member witnesses a violation of this policy, that member should report it to an admin as soon as possible. Admins will investigate the issue and take appropriate action.

8. Consequences of Violations: Violations of this policy may result in warnings, temporary suspension, or permanent removal from the group, depending on the severity of the violation.

9. Continuous Improvement: We are committed to continuously improving our community and welcome feedback from our members. If you have any suggestions or concerns, please reach out to an admin.

10. Final Authority: The admins of Knoxville Gay Social have the final authority in interpreting and enforcing this policy. They reserve the right to make exceptions in exceptional circumstances.

 

By joining our group, you agree to abide by this Respectful Interactions Policy. Thank you for helping us create a welcoming and inclusive community for all members.

 

6. Dating Policy

Our group aims to provide a safe and emotionally supportive environment for all members. We believe that this is essential for preserving the integrity, unity, and longevity of our community. As such, we have established a dating policy to ensure that members can engage in positive platonic experiences without concerns of rejection or solicitation for dating.

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1. Platonic Environment: Our group is a place where individuals of our community can come together to form strong bonds and connections that are meaningful and authentic. We encourage friendships among members to be fostered and treated with the same care as one would treat members at events.

2. Romantic Interests: We understand that friendships within our group may organically lead to romantic interests. While we want to be supportive of these opportunities, we also recognize that they have the potential to come with backlash for the entire group if strained dynamics or loss occur.

3. Encouragement of Platonic Expectations: We highly encourage members to see their friendships within the group as platonic and to keep their expectations in line with this. This will help to preserve the positive and supportive atmosphere that we have worked hard to create.

4. Admin Support: If any member has concerns about dating dynamics within the group, we encourage that member to reach out to an admin for support and guidance. We are committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all members, and we appreciate your cooperation in maintaining the integrity of our community.

 

7. Informed Consent

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1. Risks of Being "Outed": Participating in group activities may inadvertently reveal your sexual orientation to others. While we strive to create a safe and confidential environment, there is always a risk of exposure outside the group.

2. Potential Targeting by Anti-LGBTQIA+ Activists: Our group's visibility may attract unwanted attention from individuals or groups opposed to LGBTQIA+ communities. We take various precautions to ensure safety, but there is a risk of encountering confrontational situations.

3. Group Dynamics and Difficult Interactions: Interactions within the group, including events and discussions, can sometimes lead to challenging or upsetting situations. We encourage open communication and support from admins to help navigate these dynamics effectively.

4. Acknowledgment of Risks: By participating in our community, you acknowledge and accept these potential risks. We prioritize creating a supportive and inclusive environment but cannot guarantee absolute protection from external or internal challenges.

5. Seeking Support: If you have any concerns or encounter difficult situations, please do not hesitate to reach out to our admins for assistance. We are here to support you and help address any issues that may arise.

 

Your participation in our community indicates your understanding and acceptance of these potential risks. Thank you for being a part of Knoxville Gay Social and for helping us create a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone.

 

8. Photo and Video Policy

Photos and videos may be taken at Knoxville Gay Social events to document and share our activities. These media will be compiled into an album accessible via a private link and will remain private at all times.

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1. Privacy Respect: Members who do not wish to have their photos or videos taken or used for public purposes can indicate their preference on the membership form.

2. Consent: We will make every effort to honor requests for privacy and will not share or publish photos or videos of members who have opted out without their explicit consent. In addition, members who take photos and videos at events or download photos from the shared album are not allowed to share those photos or videos with anyone outside of Knoxville Gay Social.

3. Access: The photo and video albums will be accessible only through a private link shared with members. We ask that members do not share this link outside of the group to maintain privacy.

 

9. Privacy and Data Usage

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1. Data Collected: We collect personal data from members and event participants, including but not limited to names, contact information, and event preferences.

2. Data Storage: Personal data is stored securely using Wix and Google platforms, accessible only to our administrative team members and protected by passwords.

3. Membership Application: Data collected from your membership application will be compiled and reviewed by the administrative team. This data will be reviewed for authenticity through publicly available databases and websites, with results being stored using the above protocols. Knowingly using false information will result in the application being rejected and membership blocked.

 

10. Funds and Donations

Knoxville Gay Social relies on donations to support our activities and maintain our services. Donations can be made through our website or in person at events.

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1. Use of Funds: All funds received will be used for event supplies, website hosting, and other operational costs essential to the functioning of our group.

2. Transparency: We are committed to transparency in our financial dealings and will provide periodic updates on how donations are being used.

3. Legal Statements: Knoxville Gay Social is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Donors will receive a receipt for their contributions.

4. Return Policy: Some events require the attendee(s) to purchase tickets. These ticket sales are final and are not eligible for refunds. Ticket costs are not tax-deductible unless the purchase price is above fair market value, in which the excess amount may be tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Fair market value for each event will be determined by the total event cost and the number of tickets sold.

5. Donation Policy: Donations are not required for membership, and no goods or services are provided in exchange for donations. Donations are accepted either through the website via credit or debit card or in person via check. All donations are final and non-refundable. A portion of the donation is withheld for payment processing costs if paid through the website.

6. Termination: In the event the Knoxville Gay Social disbands, the remaining funds will be donated to a local nonprofit supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.

 

11. Liability and Disclaimers

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1. Event Safety: While we strive to ensure all events are safe and enjoyable, participants attend at their own risk. Knoxville Gay Social is not liable for any injuries, accidents, or incidents that may occur during events.

2. Disclaimers: We do not guarantee the suitability or safety of any event venues or activities. Participants are encouraged to use their discretion and exercise caution.

 

12. Termination of Services

Knoxville Gay Social reserves the right to ban or remove any member or participant who violates our policies or engages in behavior that is deemed harmful to the community.

 

13. Amendments to the Terms of Service

Knoxville Gay Social reserves the right to update or amend these Terms of Service at any time. Members and participants will be notified of any significant changes. These changes will also be reflected in the Philosophy page on the website.

 

14. Contact Information

For any inquiries or issues related to these Terms of Service, please contact us at:
Email: higay@knoxgaysocial.org
Chat: Spaces by Wix app, website.

Website: https://www.knoxgaysocial.org/

 

15. Acceptance of Terms

By participating in our events or using our services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service.

 

16. Dispute Resolution and Limitation of Liability

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1. Arbitration Agreement: Any disputes arising from or related to your participation in Knoxville Gay Social activities, or the interpretation, enforcement, or validity of these Terms of Service, will be resolved exclusively through final and binding arbitration. Arbitration will be conducted by a single arbitrator in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association (AAA). The arbitration will be held in Knoxville, Tennessee, unless both parties agree to a different location. The arbitrator's decision will be final and binding, and judgment on the award rendered by the arbitrator may be entered in any court of competent jurisdiction.

2. Waiver of Class Actions: You agree that any arbitration or legal proceedings will be conducted on an individual basis only, and not in a class, consolidated, or representative action. You waive your right to participate in class actions or other representative proceedings.

3. Limitation of Liability: Knoxville Gay Social, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, agents, and volunteers will not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, including but not limited to personal injury, emotional distress, loss of data, loss of revenue, or loss of business opportunities, arising from or related to your participation in our events or use of our services. This limitation applies even if we have been advised of the possibility of such damages.

4. Governing Law: These Terms of Service and any disputes arising out of or relating to them will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Tennessee, without regard to its conflict of law provisions.

5. Severability: If any provision of these Terms of Service is found to be invalid or unenforceable by an arbitrator or court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining provisions will remain in full force and effect.

6. Entire Agreement: These Terms of Service constitute the entire agreement between you and Knoxville Gay Social regarding your participation in our activities and services and supersede any prior or contemporaneous agreements, communications, and proposals.