NEW DEIB COMMITTEE: PROMOTING DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION AND BELONGING

ICFTN is excited to announce the formation of our new Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) committee. As a chapter, we recognize the importance of fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment for all members. The DEIB committee will work in partnership with the board, all committees, and members to promote diversity and inclusion within our chapter. We want all members of ICFTN to feel included and have a sense of belonging.

Why we're adding this focus:

For the past several years, ICFTN has increased its commitment to DEI initiatives focusing on increasing the diversity of our members, expanding our reach across the state of Tennessee, and now cultivating a sense of belonging. We recognize this is an ongoing commitment and opportunity to grow.

Last year we launched a community and belonging survey to learn more about the unique identities and backgrounds of our members so we could better understand the experiences of our membership. As ICFTN’s focus on DEIB initiatives have increased so has ICF Global’s focus. These are the first of many steps to creating greater inclusion and belonging in our chapter. Additionally, this committee will be aligned with ICF Global’s DEI initiatives and trainings which are rolling out to all ICF chapters this year.

• This new board position and committee will be crucial in ensuring that all members feel welcomed and valued within our chapter, regardless of their background or experiences.

• Additionally, the committee will work to provide education and resources for our members to better understand and navigate issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and as coaches.

• This focus will also help us be better coaches for our clients meeting the diverse needs and identities of our clients.

Meet the committee members:
We are excited to have volunteers who have a passion for DEIB work and extensive experience and background in the field. They will be working closely together to create a safe and inclusive environment for all members and ensure that all voices are heard. We are lucky to have them both on board. You can hear from our committee about the goals, mission, and upcoming events by watching their January LinkedIn Live session (available for replay)

• Joyce Kyles

• Anna Hernandez

• Jennifer Gamble, DEIB Director

Get involved:

We are currently seeking volunteers who are passionate about these issues and are interested in contributing to the committee and/or events. You don’t have to be an expert in this area. We only ask that you be curious, open-minded, and willing to learn. If you would like to get involved, please contact Jennifer Gamble via email at [email protected] We welcome members from all backgrounds and experiences to join the committee and help shape the direction of our chapter.

Upcoming Events and Opportunities:
Be on the lookout and join us at our upcoming events! We’ll be hosting LinkedIn Live discussions and sessions where members can engage in open dialogue about DEIB topics. There will be opportunities to gain skills and knowledge through workshops and training and coach development sessions that focus on incorporating DEIB into coaching practices.

Keep an eye out for updates and announcements on these events and be sure to participate in them.

• Introducing ICFTN’s DEIB Mission & Goals: Discussion on LinkedIn Live 1/31 (available for replay)

• Black History Month: Discussion hosted on LinkedIn Live (TBA)

• DEIB Special Interest Group (SIG)

• ICF Global Cultural Competency Training: Summer 2023

We believe that by focusing on DEIB, we can create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all members and ultimately provide better support and guidance to our coaching clients. Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to working together to make our chapter a more inclusive and equitable community.

For questions, concerns, or opportunities to serve on the DEIB committee, please contact Jennifer Gamble at [email protected] Thanks!