Human resources professionals have discovered a resource of their own in the Tri-Valley Human Resources Association.

The group is "a non-profit professional organization that provides opportunities for personal and professional development in all areas of human resources management," according to Sandy Yamaoda, the public relations chair. In other words, it's a place for people who have a significant responsibility for recruiting, hiring, training or managing people. Monthly meetings and lunches with speakers are held on the third Tuesday of each month beginning at 11:30 a.m. at the Four Points Hotel, 5115 Hopyard Rd.

The 325 members come from many business areas and include HR professionals, managers, consultants, recruiters, compensation and benefits consultants, payroll services providers, business owners and educators. Hacienda companies represented by membership include Creative Computer Solutions, Golden Grain, Intira, OOCL, Positive Communications, ProBusiness, Providian Financial, Robert Half International, SBC Technology Resources, SCJ Insurance Services, Shaklee, Signature Properties, Unisource, Valley Care Health Systems, Visioneer, and Wollborg Michelson. New members are always welcome.

TVHRA president-elect Jeff Glickman notes that the organization has grown significantly since he served as founding president of the organization in the mid-80s. Although most of the members are from the Tri-Valley, including San Ramon and Danville, others come from the East and South Bay areas.

Whether the business is one person or tens of thousands, Glickman says that the TVHRA provides benefits of many kinds.

"We offer challenging programs, individual member involvement, personal development and networking opportunities with other HR professionals."

Glickman likes the benefits.

"I like the organization because it keeps me updated on trends and developments in HR management, provides me the opportunity to interact professionally with my peers and gives me the opportunity to continually develop myself further as an HR professional."

He says that the best thing is networking - especially for those who become involved in committees, on the board or assisting with programs. The TVHRA offers resources for a study group for those seeking PHR certification.

Guest speakers cover many important topics including employee recruitment and retention, surveying employee satisfaction and conflict resolution. This year, the January luncheon topic is HR-related legal updates with case laws and legislative action and will be given by Ron Garrity, attorney and outgoing TVHRA president.

The next workshop will be held on February 14 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Sheraton Four Points on "Retaining Your Best Employees." The speaker will be Alan Vengel, principal with Vengel, Lash Associates, consultants. Registration begins at 8 a.m. For information, call (925) 484-4167.

For information about TVHRA membership or to attend a meeting, call (925) 244-5425.

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