As has become festive tradition, the month of December has been one of mingles, jingles and glitter balls for HRMA members across the province—and even closer to the North Pole in the Yukon. In the continued spirit of giving that defines HR and the season alike, the varied events raised funds for local charities and educational bursaries.

“The spirit of the season is a perfect fit for HRMA’s thinking year round. Keeping people first in the minds of decision-makers is something to which we are all committed,” said Anthony Ariganello, president and CEO of HRMA. “Making the month that bit much merrier for our members while sharing that forward to those in need really defines the holiday season.”

Central Interior

The Central Interior’s Annual Jingle Mingle on December 4, 2014 in Kamloops took on a Dickensian theme this year at the Hilton Double-Tree Hotel. With the opportunity for attendees to have a special photo taken in period costume and a fun Dickens quiz, ’Christmas Carol’ feel in the air was quite distinct. Anchored by a full Christmas dinner and a celebration of 2014 CHRP graduates in with HRMA director Christian Codrington, the evening also featured a 50/50 draw in support of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and very special bell-ringing entertainment from Bells of Notes. Even Scrooge would have had a great time!

Coastal Vancouver

On December 2, 2014 HRMA members mingled in style at the Holiday Disco Ball while overlooking the city from The Roof in the Hotel Vancouver. Event sponsor TPD (formerly know as The Personnel Department) stepped into more than a spotlight with glitter balls adding to a distinctly disco-a-go-go feel for night. The atmosphere was fun and festive as dancing queens and super troupers kicked up their heels, inspired by the flashy outfits, groovy choreography and toe-tapping tunes of ABRA Cadabra.

Southern Interior

HRMA’s Classic Christmas Jingle Mingle at the Hotel Eldorado in Kelowna on December 3, 2014 combined its first ever live-auction in addition to the regular silent auction— to raise an impressive total of $2,880 for Muscular Dystrophy. Sponsored by Encompass Benefits, the event combined  a canapé reception and live entertainment from the Musical Actors and Singers of Kelowna ensemble. With its ‘classic Christmas attire’ theme, this very social evening saw 90 people networking in a variety of festive gear, from ugly sweaters to classy earrings and full customs.  As the best attended regional event of the year, it proved to be a merry and popular kick-off to the festive season.

Vancouver Island

HR professionals gathered December 11, 2014 at the Fairmont Empress’ Ivy Ballroom to build community, be entertained by the Stephanie Greaves Trio and raise $5500 for the Camosun College HRMA scholarship and bursary fund.  The many contributors to the Ho Ho Holiday Party and Silent Auction made the night an unequivocal success. The following week, the connections continued at lunches in Campbell River and Duncan, a dinner in Courtenay and a new initiative, the Christmas Book Exchange, in Nanaimo.  Huge thanks to all our volunteers who make these events happen.

Yukon

Our Brew-tiful Holiday Social at Yukon Brewing on November 27, 2014 promised to be an evening of fun and ‘hoppiness’—it delivered.  A tour of the brewery, followed by a few tips from Bob Baxter, owner of Yukon Brewing on how to keep employees motivated and happy. Followed by a beer tasting and great food, Baxter’s wisdoms and wares made for the warmest of starts to the holiday season.