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Real Life Examples

When did HCI begin incorporating the training for nonprofit human resources?
HCI, which is organized by Planned Parenthood’s national office, offers a wide-range of tracks for various departments (i.e. Marketing, IT, HR, etc). The nonprofit HR track has been offered since 1997.

Why do you believe that this kind of training has been crucial to the communities you serve?
HR professionals are now being recognized as important players to have at the table. It is vital for HR staff to understand their role with the organization as a whole.

What has the response been to HCI? What kind of feedback has been received?
The feedback is generally positive; however it can vary depending on the topics and presenters.

What is the format of the training?
The HCI is a five day conference, Monday-Friday. The first two days is an orientation for all new staff. The next day is the affinity group day where different departments break off and have their own affinity-specific sessions. The next two days are general sessions. There are generally around five HR presentations spread over two days. The workshops are 1 ½ hr - 2 hrs, with 30-50 attendees in each workshop. In the past the affinity groups met on the last day, but now we meet earlier in the week so attendees can network at the beginning of the conference.

How many people attend the training?
About 600 people attend the entire conference, 100 of which are human resources professionals.

What geographical location or sub-sector does HCI serve?
Attendees come from all over the Unites States.

What resources does the training offer attendees?
The conference allows attendees to network, exchange ideas and learn. An extranet was created to share all the materials with the attendees. A CD rom is also distributed, which includes presentations and handouts.

Is the training open to the public or for members only?
No, it is only intended for Planned Parenthood staff members.

How often is the training?
It is an annual Spring conference.

How do you determine the topics and who can present? 
There is a steering committee for each track offered; 10 people are on the HR committee. One person from each steering committee is part of a general planning committee. For the general sessions, the planning committee lists topics of interest and then combines the topics to make them cross-functional, which is then voted by head of each committee. Presentations are given by staff members and outside colleagues and experts. There is a budget for presenters, but we also try to get sponsorships to help cover costs.

What advice would you give others that are seeking to start a similar event?
Get input from everyone involved and plan ahead. Give yourself enough time to book the space and presenters.

Are you available by e-mail for any follow-up questions from Idealist readers or local organizations?
Yes!
Contact: Jenny Estrada
E-mail: Jenny.Estrada (at) ppcw.org