About ELLA

Confidentiality

What you share with ELLA stays with ELLA — with a few important exceptions explained here.

Our Commitment to You

At ELLA, we understand that trust is the foundation of every helping relationship. When you share personal information with our staff, volunteers, or peer support specialists, we take that trust seriously.

Information shared with ELLA — including your name, contact details, health information, housing situation, and personal history — is kept strictly confidential. We do not share your information with outside agencies, employers, family members, or other individuals without your written consent.

You have the right to ask what information we hold about you and to request corrections at any time.

Mandated Reporter Disclosure

Important — Please Read

ELLA staff and volunteers are mandated reporters under California law (Penal Code § 11164 et seq.). This means we are legally required to report suspected abuse or neglect of children, dependent adults, and elders to the appropriate authorities — even if you have not given us permission to do so.

We will always strive to talk with you before making a mandated report, whenever it is safe to do so. Our goal is never to harm your trust — but our first obligation is to the safety of vulnerable individuals.

When Confidentiality May Be Limited

While confidentiality is our strong default, there are specific circumstances under which we may be required — or permitted — to share information without your consent:

Imminent Risk of Harm:If you express a credible intent to harm yourself or another person, we may contact emergency services or other necessary parties to ensure safety.
Child, Elder, or Dependent Adult Abuse:As mandated reporters, we are required by California law to report known or reasonably suspected abuse or neglect to Child Protective Services or Adult Protective Services.
Valid Court Order:If a court of competent jurisdiction orders the release of records or testimony, we are legally required to comply.
Your Written Consent:With your explicit written consent, we may share information with other service providers, family members, or agencies to coordinate your care.

Questions About Confidentiality?

We believe informed consent begins with understanding your rights. If you have any questions about how your information is stored, used, or protected — or if you would like to review or update your records — please reach out. We are happy to talk it through.

Note: ELLA is a community-based organization (CBO). This confidentiality policy is designed to reflect best practices for nonprofits. ELLA is not a HIPAA-covered entity unless and until it begins billing for healthcare services through a covered health plan. Last updated June 2026.