Training and Networking
Give to Give Coaching
By: Diane Watson, PCC, ICFTN Director of Partnerships

Nonprofit leaders have always faced tough challenges, but today’s environment has made their roles even more demanding. It’s no longer just about fundraising—leaders must now diversify revenue streams, retain talented staff during uncertain times, and have the capacity to effectively manage volunteers. As coaches, we know the value of supporting others through change and growth. Over the years, ICFTN has teamed up with Day 7 to provide nonprofit leaders with pro-bono coaching that truly makes a difference.
Personally, I’ve had the privilege of participating in several ICFTN pro bono coaching programs. For me, volunteering is about giving back and being part of something bigger than myself. It’s deeply rewarding to watch leaders—my former coachees—grow in their roles, advance in their careers, and become the confident, visionary leaders they aspire to be. As a coach, every conversation and session is an opportunity to make a real impact, not just for the individual, but for their organization and the communities they serve.
If you value growth, service, and the chance to support meaningful causes, I encourage you to consider volunteering. Please complete the application attached to join this important work.
Coach volunteers must meet the following qualifications:
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ICF-Tennessee Member
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Graduate of an ICF accredited or recognized program with a minimum of 60 training hours
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Agree to (and sign) the ICF Code of Ethics
If you are interested, please apply and learn more here.
We hope you will join us and others in making a difference for our Nonprofit leaders.
I’m available if you have questions and may be reached at [email protected].
Serve Those Who Served Us
The transition from a military career to the private sector is a major shift for most military veterans. It can be especially challenging for those who served in the US Special Operations Forces. The Honor Foundation supports that transition. ICFTN is partnering with the Honor Program to provide pro-bono coaching for those in the upcoming cohort of The Honor Foundation. I hope you will join me in volunteering to serve as a coach. The next cohort starts in August, and they are currently accepting applications for coaches.
About The Honor Foundation
The Honor Foundation (THF) is a career transition program for U.S. Special Operations Forces that effectively translates their elite military service to the private sector and helps create the next generation of corporate and community leaders. THF provides a clear process for professional development and a diverse ecosystem of world class support and technology. Every step is dedicated to preparing these outstanding men and women to continue to realize their maximum potential during and after their service career. For more information go to https://www.honor.org/
Pro-Bono Coaching
Each THF Fellow receives their own Executive Coach to guide them through the THF experience and transition journey. This is a three-month commitment to walk one Fellow through the cohort. To apply please contact Shane Minnick, Director of Programs [email protected].
DAY 7
Day 7 provides curated and affordable self-care resources to help nonprofit and ministry organizations and staff thrive. They offer a range of programs to support physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. When you invest in your self-care, you will not only become a healthier person, you will find more satisfaction in your career and your life. Learn more here>>
HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT DISPLACED FEDERAL WORKERS
Executive Coach and ICFTN member Diane Watson shares, “When I learned that thousands of federal employees were being summarily laid off or fired, I wondered what I could do to help.”
A fellow ICFTN member told Diane about The Grounded Idealist. Launched by former federal employees, the Ground Idealist serves displaced federal workers and offers:
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1:1 and group coaching to support individuals through personal and professional transitions
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Skill development programs tailored to displaced workers and evolving sectors
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Communities of practice for peer learning, connection, and collaboration
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Workshops and events co-created with leading experts
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Regenerative social ecosystems that build collective resilience while incubating emergent futures
“I coached a former USAID leader,” Diane adds, “and it was one of the most gratifying coaching experiences of my career.”
If you are interested in learning more go to: https://www.groundedidealist.co.
To learn more about their coaching collaborative go to: https://www.groundedidealist.co/coaching-collaborative
The organization’s leaders understand that coaches need to receive compensation for their work. With that in mind, they recently started a fundraising campaign. Donations can be made here: https://www.groundedidealist.co/support-our-work
SUPPORT VETERANS WITH PRO-BONO COACHING
Stand Beside Them is a non-profit agency dedicated to supporting veterans since 2013. They would like to partner with ICFTN to advance their mission to coach and empower America’s veterans, their spouses and caregivers to achieve success at home, at work, and in the community. If you are a credentialed coach through ICF who desires to support veterans by offering pro bono coaching, learn more here.
Offerings by our members and associates can be found on the Training and Networking page (under the Resources tab on the website). You can find opportunities for continuing education here.
Note: Events are archived in the Training and Networking Archive upon publication of the next month's newsletter.

