History

Not so many years ago, there was a small group called the Markham Human Resources Association.  The members met regularly, to discuss HR and the issues their companies were facing. In early 1997, Tony Kerekes (first president of HRPYR) began discussions with HRPAO about creating a NEW CHAPTER, built from the local HRPAO and MHRA memberships, to represent HR professionals in York Region.

And so, on June 17, 1997, members of MHRA and HRPAO members who lived in York Region met with representatives from HRPAO staff to discuss, vote on and ratify the creation of the 28^th Chapter of HRPAO ~ the Human Resources Professionals of York Region, and to elect the first group of Chapter Executive.  By the end of the day, we had a new Chapter, with 40 (yes forty – four zero) signed up members. Now what?

Well, we got busy!  We got organized and worked hard. Each and every member of HRPAO who lived and or worked within the boundaries of the York Region Chapter was invited to join the new Chapter and to come out to Local meetings.

By the end of our first year, we had grown to over 200 members. Celebration!  We continue to hit membership milestones quickly, and today, we have over 900 members, making us the third largest Chapter in the Province. How great is that!?

Even though HRPYR is the youngest Chapter of HRPAO, we very quickly earned a reputation for excellence, energy and participation. We also quickly earned standing as leaders among the other Chapters of HRPAO – we share ideas and best practices with other Chapters (for example – our mentorship program) and we are in the forefront when it comes to discussions of issues affecting all HRPAO members.

Our past success is due in large part to the vision and leadership of our first four presidents and to the many, many volunteers who have helped us over the years. We thank them all.

Of course, our future and continued success lies with you! It is the members who make the Chapter a vibrant and exciting ‘place’ to be. Thank you!

Our Mission

Our Vision