As most of us shifted to a workfrom-home style, much of what we knew had to change on a dime. So, too, the Staff Association had to rethink how we would connect with you. This change is reflected in our new logo and tagline that made their debuts in 2020 and 2021 respectively. As we move into 2022 with a renewed purpose, we are happy to share our 2020-2021 annual report. For the next three weeks, we will be highlighting our many successes achieved during these unprecedented times.
Thank you for putting your trust in us to find new ways to keep the Alberta Blue Cross family connected and enthusiastic. We hope you keep having fun with us on this journey.
Check back next week for more information. And because we like to keep things fun, you will get a chance to win one of 20 gift cards at the end of the installment!
In September 2020, the Staff Association committee participated in a brainstorming session that concluded:
“The Staff Association is even more relevant at keeping our community and culture alive and building connections between our teams.”
“Keep up the great work! I love this!”
“I
really like it. It makes me feel connected.”
Through all the twists and turns of the past two years we connected with our members 7,402 times through events, prizes and much more.
We gave away 2,000 gift cards. That’s over $47,000 put into the hands of our members.
Based on our 2021 engagement survey you thought so, too.
2020-2021 ANNUAL REPORT
Welcome to the second installment of our annual report. Were you surprised by any of the facts we shared last week? Eager to discover more fun facts? You’re in luck; the Staff Association has more for you in store.
“You are all doing a great job of keeping people connected.”
A
quote from our 2021 engagement survey.
More of you accessed our Gift of Compassion benefit when we increased the value to $35 per gift. We are glad to have helped you reach out to your coworkers during a time of need.
Casual for a Cause
You had more chances to win through randomized monthly draws when the number of monthly winners doubled to 50 at $25 per month.
385 members
Donations to this program:
• resumed in April 2021 after a 12-month pause.
• were made to ten charitable organizations.
• totaled over $15,000 over the past two years
• were matched corporately by the ABC Benefits Corporation Foundation.
2,633 people took advantage of discounted access to participated in our in-person events: The wait time to be re-entered into monthly draws was reduced to one year.
• get out and enjoy with a Parks Canada Discovery Pass.
• get your ski on all winter long at the Edmonton Ski Club.
• West Edmonton Mall’s Galaxyland
• Rabbit Hill Snow Resort
• Zoominescence
• Drive-in movie
• Twilight picnic experience
• Magic of Lights
Check back next week for more information. And because we like to keep things fun, you will get a chance to win one of 20 gift cards at the end of the installment!
2020-2021 ANNUAL REPORT
From virtual and in-person events to online engagement opportunities, 2020 and 2021 were full of changes and challenges. The Staff Association greatly appreciates all your kind comments about our efforts these last two years. They have sparked some new ideas that could be put into motion and, just as a reminder, we are always looking for people who can help us organize them. A special shout-out goes to our volunteers on the committee for all that they do to make fun happen. Special thanks to our executive sponsor, Brian Geislinger and our chairpersons Sue Sherman (2020) and Aly Angus (2021).
1,422
respondents to polls, brainstorming sessions and surveys
• 600 images submitted for theme days. Most popular: staycation, new co-worker, animals and favourite dish
“Keep doing what you are doing. I think you’ve done a great job thinking of things that remind us we are part of a larger group.”
A quote from our 2021 engagement survey.
2,395
contestants attempted to win tickets to:
• 3 football games
(averaging 142 contest entries per game)
• 8 hockey games
(averaging 231 contest entries per game)
• The ultimate winter reading list netted up fabulous reading suggestions
• 600 people or 56% of the membership answered the 2021 engagement survey
One smashing virtual event: 2020 Children’s Christmas Party
• 486 online guests (286 kids and 155 adults)
• Free Zoom party
• Surprise gift for guests under 12 years old: $20 Indigo gift cards
“Sunday’s party was filled with happy, busy children who were all on their best behaviour. It was a joy to watch.” A quote from a participant.
Want to win a gift card? Answer our short survey by March 21 at 4 p.m. and you could be one of 20 lucky winners! A random draw will take place after the survey closes and the winners will be announced next week. Thank you for playing along with your Staff Association. See you in 2022 for more fun!
Hey, you. Yes, you!
This is your friendly neighbourhood Staff Association committee speaking. We’d like to ask you a question. When you think of us, what words come to mind?
FUN!EVENTS! LAUGHTER!
Take a few seconds to think on that …
So, did you think of “fun,” “creative ideas,” “community-driven,” “innovation” and “events?”
If you said “yes,” then you’re on the right track. Not to toot our own horn, but we are a fun and cheerful bunch—and we want you to be a part of it. We are looking for people to join the committee in 2022 as event organizers or event support.
Do you have innovative ideas?
Want to share your hobby? Is there an event you’d like to see come to fruition next year? And—silly question, really—do you like to have a good time? Then we want you on our team. All that is required is an enthusiastic attitude and a willingness to have fun and laugh. A lot. Jokes are welcome, too.
Don’t let fear of commitment hold you back. If you can’t commit to a full year, you can be a flexible contributor where you lead or bring an idea forward or volunteer for a single event. If you want to join in on the excitement for the entire year, we welcome you as a committee member.
So, what are you waiting for?
Join us and let’s have some fun!
Visit Intrablue for more details about joining the Staff Association.
You can also contact Kelle Cloutier or Aly Angus.
GET TO KNOW THE STAFF ASSOCIATION COMMITTEE AND JOINda club
They’re the people behind all the events and giveaways you love—but do you know who they are? Over the next few weeks, you’ll learn about the colourful characters who make up this cool committee.
The Staff Association has also produced a music video showing off their skills and featuring some of the events they’ve put on in the past few years. Check out their version of In Da Club now!
Interested?
If you’re interested in joining da club, the Staff Association committee would be happy to have you. Reach out to sa@ab.bluecross.ca for more information.
Kelle Cloutier CHAIR
Why are you part of the Staff Association committee?
It’s been an amazing opportunity to meet, work and share ideas with so many people from different teams. We are always looking ahead as how we can be better and more relevant to all members. The Staff Association is a fun, social and always exciting part of the Alberta Blue Cross team member experience. I enjoy being part of the cheerleading team letting everyone know how awesome Alberta Blue Cross is!
What’s your favourite Staff Association event from the past three years?
The photos we get for Theme Days are always entertaining to look through. Every month, it’s so funny, enjoyable (and at times enviable) seeing what our fellow team members are doing. This includes everything from traveling to hobbies or just enjoying life with friends, family and pets—yes, pet Theme Day was my favourite!
What would you like to say to all Staff Association members?
Thank you, thank you, thank you! We want to continue to provide you with opportunities to participate in events, win great prizes and keep connecting with other team members. We are always open to hearing about any new ideas and initiatives you have!
What’s a fun fact about yourself?
• I have danced with Richard Simmons on stage at an event for Breast Cancer Awareness.
• I am an 80’s music maven.
• I graduated last month from the U of A Visual Arts program, doing painting and drawing, or more accurately, making messes.
If you were a hip hop artist, what would your stage name be?
Kella Kella Katlady
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da clubJOIN
(continued)
Sheldon Thiessen VICE CHAIR
Why are you part of the Staff Association committee?
To strive to continue to improve the experience and sense of belonging Alberta Blue Cross team members have with each other. I love hearing the stories of the great experiences people had at the events we organize or the organizations we partner with.
What’s your favourite Staff Association event from the past three years?
The employee Christmas party is always an annual favorite for me. I love catching up with coworkers and team members you have not had the chance to see or talk with in months. Plus, the meal and entertainment are always great.
What’s a favourite memory from your time on the Staff Association?
One of my favourite memories is when members of the Staff Association committee met for a winter walk around the legislature at the end of 2021. I’m a massive extrovert so meeting the great team members from the Staff Association committee after being a hermit due to COVID has been my most favourite recent memory.
What would you like to say to all Staff Association members?
The stories about your experiences with the events or organizations we partner with help shape future experiences and what we can do for future events.
What’s a fun fact about yourself?
I play the goalie position in hockey and have been told by my current teammates I am “the most normal goalie they have ever met.” I’m not sure if that’s a compliment or an insult.
If you were a hip hop artist, what would your stage name be?
