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What is HRAA?
We are a local affiliate chapter of the national Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM). Our region represents the Laurel Highlands/Southern Alleghenies region consisting of Cambria, Somerset and Bedford counties. 

We are the premier professional association for human resources professionals, reaching over 100 members for the past several years. Our membership represents over 50 employers within our community. HRAA members consist of the full spectrum within the Human Resources profession — practitioners at all levels in large corporations and small companies, small business owners, HR consultants, educators, and students.

Based off the content, topics and events we provide to our members annually, we are also an award-winning chapter. We were awarded the Platinum Excel Award for 2019 as well as a SHRM Foundation Champion in 2019.  These awards recognize outstanding achievements in chapter operations and a commitment to providing meaningful programs and services to our members. 

Can I join HRAA if I am not a member of SHRM National Organization?
Absolutely, if you are an individual who would benefit from a membership in HRAA, you can apply for a local membership. 

How much is a local membership?
Currently, a local membership is $40 a year.  Monthly meeting costs are paid upon registration for each meeting.  Luncheon meetings are $20 and breakfast meetings are $15 and virtual meetings are $10.

Is there a cost for a local membership if I am a member of SHRM National?
Membership dues are $20 per year for a national member who designates HRAA as their primary affiliate.

How often are local meetings held? 
Our chapter holds about ten monthly meetings a year, usually on the second Wednesday of the month.  During the months of our Annual Conference and networking event, we do not host a monthly meeting.  Please refer to the EVENTS tab for all meeting dates and times.  

Are your meetings approved for HRCI credit?
Our meeting topics are developed and submitted for HRCI credits.  Generally, meetings are approved for 1.5 credit hours.  The Calendar of Events on our website shows whether HRCI Credits are approved or pending.  

Are your meetings eligible for credit for the new SHRM-CP and SHRM- SCP?
HRAA has been approved as a 2020 Preferred Provider for SHRM Certification credits.

Can students be members of HRAA?
Students enrolled in an accredited institution of higher education in a field of study that would benefit from membership in HRAA are welcome to join our local chapter FREE as a student member. 

What is the cost of a student membership in HRAA?
There is no cost to a student who wishes to become a local member of HRAA. 

Is there a way a student can become a member of SHRM National?
SHRM National does offer student memberships to individuals enrolled in at least six credits at an institution of higher education in coursework that supports Human Resource Management. 

How much does a SHRM student membership cost?

In 2020, the cost for a National student membership is $49.  It includes limited access to some of the resources on the SHRM website, an online subscription to the HR Magazine, a student newsletter, and a discounted rate for the next 2 years of SHRM membership. 

Does your chapter hold a conference?
HRAA holds an annual conference in April for all HR and business professionals who wish to improve their knowledge of the ever-changing face of business and follow best business practices.  Each year, the conference has grown and has added newer and more innovative topics and nationally recognized speakers.  The conference is also approved for numerous HRCI credits. 

What is the annual networking event?
The networking event made its first appearance in 2013.  This informal event is held in conjunction with our membership drive, to invite guests to see what our organization has to offer and the opportunities we have available to our membership.  We do not hold a monthly meeting on the month of the networking event. 

Do I have to be a member to attend a meeting or one of the events?
Anyone is welcome to visit one of our meetings or one of our events for a slightly higher cost.  Please visit our website for dates, times and for more information. However, there are many benefits to joining as a local or national member.

Can I join your mailing list, but not become a member of HRAA?
Yes, you can join the HRAA mailing list for our non-members by emailing secretary@hralleghenies.org. However, you will only receive approximately two updates per year informing you of the annual conference details and during our annual membership drive.  There are many remarkable benefits to becoming a member, and we strongly encourage you to consider the possibility!

I am a current HRAA member and need to update my contact information.  What should I do?
Simply email the HRAA Membership Director with the change and your information will be updated in our Master List as well as the Membership List on our website.

Where can I get more information?
If you can not find the information you are looking for on our website, please feel free to contact one of our officers.  You may also submit an email inquiry through our website under “Contact Us”. We hope to see you at a meeting soon!

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