History

How HPCA began
Halton-Peel Communications Association (HPCA) was founded before “network” became a verb in the English language. While this group of professional communicators is still networking today, it has evolved into a professional association that delivers tremendous value to both members and clients. The group originally served businesses in the Halton-Peel region of Ontario, Canada, but has grown to serve clients around the globe.

HPCA was born of the notion that sharing ideas, skills and resources among freelance communications professionals made good business sense. Back in 1988, two forward-thinking freelancers, Gretchen Bingham and Maureen Pogue, were working together at the City of Mississauga. They talked about the idea of establishing a professional group for a long time, but it wasn’t until 1989, when MPP Margaret Marland graciously offered her boardroom as a meeting place, that the new concept took shape.

Maureen and Gretchen sent a news release to area media and called everyone they could think of who might be interested. Thirteen people from the “west end” showed up for the first meeting: writers, PR people, marketers, graphic designers and a photographer. They began to meet regularly, discussing freelancing opportunities and issues and sharing information and resources. Their goal was to support each other and explore the possibilities of collaborating on work.

Growth
HPCA has grown steadily ever since, and continues to follow this philosophy of collaboration and mutual support. The organization has multiplied in size and offers a wide range of services, including a web site with searchable database, an e-newsletter, monthly meetings and professional development workshops. Market demand has finally caught up with the HPCA vision, as the outsourcing of communications services is an increasingly popular way of doing business.

HPCA members regularly refer business to each other, pitch proposals together or form virtual teams to meet the needs of clients. Some HPCA members occasionally or even regularly work together, and frequently form strategic alliances to handle complex communications projects. The calibre of members’ work is evidenced by impressive client lists that are international in scope. Their businesses may be located primarily in the Halton and Peel regions, but HPCA members serve clients and audiences around the world. The synergy of this well-established, diverse group of professionals has created a powerful momentum that directly benefits both members and their clients.