October Board Message – Kim Spikes

When I joined ICF-North Texas last year, I went to my very first event thinking I’d meet a few people and maybe learn a thing or two. Instead, I left as the entire Sponsorship Committee, party of one. Thankfully, Susan Daniels and Corinna Hagen soon joined me, saving me from talking to myself at meetings.

From that point on, I was all in, attending my first board meeting, engaging with amazing members, and feeling instantly part of a community that cheers you on and has your back.

One way to support and strengthen our community is through our Sponsorships program. It connects members with valuable products and services, often at a discount, while helping us keep event costs low. It also allows us to host free gatherings, like this year's International Coaching Week celebration at SMU.

Help Us Connect
We’re currently seeking individuals to help connect us with potential sponsors, including businesses, services, and products that would be an excellent fit for our coaching community. You don’t have to join the committee to help, though we’d happily welcome you if you want to! Even one introduction can have a significant impact, enabling us to forge new partnerships and reduce or eliminate event costs for you. 

Sponsorship Opportunities

• Chapter – A partnership with the highest brand visibility year-round
• Event – Targeted exposure to attendees at specific programs and gatherings
• Advertising – Ongoing promotion to our coaching community through emails, newsletters, and social platforms
• Celebrate Coaching – Premier annual event with amplified exposure and recognition

Learn more here.

I’m looking forward to the next event. Be sure to come over and say hi!

Best,
Kim

30 Years of Impact – The Evolving Power of Coaching

This year is a milestone for ICF-North Texas as we celebrate our 30th Anniversary. For three decades, our chapter has grown, thrived, and made a meaningful impact on the lives of clients, organizations, and communities. Together, we’ve built a strong, supportive network that reflects the true power of coaching.

One of the highlights of this year will be Celebrate Coaching 2025: 30 Years of Impact – The Evolving Power of Coaching. This special event will feature a panel of experts who will share their insights on the challenges and opportunities ahead for our clients, organizations, and the coaching profession. It’s a chance for us to reflect on our history, celebrate our progress, and look forward to the future of coaching. I encourage you to join us for what promises to be an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation.

At the same time, we are preparing for the future of our chapter with the call for nominations for the 2026 Board of Directors. Serving on the board is not only a way to give back, but also an opportunity to influence the direction of ICF-North Texas and deepen your connections within our community. If you have a passion for service and leadership, I invite you to consider stepping into this important role.

Both Celebrate Coaching and board nominations are ways for you to participate in shaping our chapter’s legacy and future. I look forward to seeing you at Celebrate Coaching and celebrating this milestone together!

Steve Hendon, PCC
Past President, ICF North Texas

Many Hands Make Light Work

 

One of my grandmother’s favorite sayings was, “Many hands make light work.” As a child, I thought she just wanted help with the dishes. But over time, I came to understand the deeper wisdom in those words.

 

In leadership, in community, and in coaching, it’s the coming together of diverse voices and shared efforts that allows us to make an impact and enjoy the journey along the way. Volunteering is one of the most meaningful ways to experience that.

 

Giving time and talent to a shared purpose has enriched my life. During the past eight months of being on the board, I’ve built new relationships, stretched in unexpected ways, and felt the joy of being part of something bigger than myself. And yes, there are always tasks to tackle, but when we do them together, they truly feel lighter.

 

ICF North Texas thrives because of our volunteers. Every event, committee, and initiative is powered by members like you who are generous with their time, ideas, and care for the coaching community.

 

If you’ve thought about getting involved but aren’t sure where to start, I invite you to raise your hand. No experience required. Whether you have an hour a month or an idea you’re excited to bring to life, there’s a place for you here.

 

What’s one way you’d like to grow this year? Who might you meet? How could volunteering expand your impact as a coach?

 

We’re stronger together. And when you join in, the work gets lighter—and the experience, more meaningful.

 

Your Chapter Investment: Growing Together as Coaches

As your ICF-North Texas treasurer, I want to share thoughts about the value we're creating together in our coaching community.

Over my year in this role, I've gained deep appreciation for how our chapter serves, in ICF's words, "as a home for professional coaches on their career journey." Your $60 annual membership and monthly event fees aren't just expenses—they're contributions to a community designed to support your growth.

Don't just take my word for it—talk to our members. Ask about their experiences at monthly programs, networking events and volunteer opportunities. You'll hear stories of meaningful connections, professional growth and community impact on their coaching practice.

Your board strives to ensure every dollar creates opportunities for connection, learning and development. We're building a supportive community where coaches help each other succeed.

The coaching journey can feel isolating, but it doesn't have to be. Your ICF-North Texas investment connects you to a community that understands your challenges and celebrates victories. We provide face-to-face connections and culturally relevant learning that make a real difference.

My encouragement: Sign up for programs. Show up consistently. Plug into volunteer opportunities. Your investment—financial and personal—grows exponentially when you fully engage.

You're not alone in this journey. We're in it together.

In last year’s message, the Past Communications Director Lisa Yarbough shared how the Communications Team plays a vital role in helping you stay connected to the heart of our ICF-North Texas chapter through timely updates, program invitations, and opportunities that nurture belonging and professional growth. This year, as your new Communications Director, I want to take that a step further.

Communication goes beyond sharing information—it's about creating momentum, building relationships, and inviting others into the impactful work we’re doing as coaches. Whether you attend a chapter meeting, bring a guest to an event, or simply like and share our social media content, you’re helping to extend that sense of belonging outward.

You can continue to support our chapter by staying engaged across our digital channels and encouraging fellow coaches to discover what makes ICF-North Texas so special. Every share, invite, or comment enhances our visibility and helps others find their place in this vibrant community.

We have increased our social media presence across all platforms by an average of 9% since January 2025! Are you following us on all social media platforms? If not, click below:

LinkedIn: International Coach Federation - North Texas Chapter
Facebook: International Coach Federation - North Texas Chapter
Facebook Group (Private): ICF North Texas Members
Instagram: ICF North Texas Instagram

Our Communications Team remains hard at work behind the scenes—crafting messages, managing platforms, and ensuring you have access to all the chapter has to offer. I’m deeply grateful for their efforts and proud of what we’ve accomplished together.

Interested in joining the team? We always welcome more voices. Whether you have a knack for writing, strategy, design, or just want to contribute, we’d love to hear from you. Contact me at communications@icf-nt.com.

Let’s keep communicating, connecting, and growing—together.

The ICF-North Texas DEIB Committee is excited to embark on a year of deepening our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) within our membership and coaching community. This year, we are focused on amplifying the voices that enrich our collective experience, building a more inclusive space where every coach and client can thrive.

In the coming months, we are thrilled to launch the Lunch and Learn DEIB Webinar Series from May to August 2025. This series will feature thought-provoking discussions, practical strategies, and inspiring guest speakers who will help you integrate DEIB principles into your coaching practice, empowering you to create more equitable and inclusive environments for your clients.

As we continue to work toward advancing DEIB initiatives, we also welcome volunteers to support the ongoing efforts of the DEIB Committee. If you are passionate about fostering inclusion and making a meaningful impact within our community, we would love to have you join us in this important work.

Stay tuned for more details about upcoming events and get ready to be part of a year filled with valuable insights, connections, and progress. The ICF-North Texas DEIB Committee is honored to support you on your journey to becoming a more inclusive, empowered coach. Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, understanding, and transformation!

We’re charging full speed ahead at Alliances, and I couldn’t be more excited about what’s unfolding. Opportunities are blooming, momentum is building, and at the heart of it all is you, our incredible A-team. I’m beyond grateful for the time, heart, and energy you continue to pour into our mission.

I want to express how much I value working alongside each of you. Our collective commitment to building meaningful partnerships is not only enriching our chapter, and it’s expanding the reach and impact of coaching throughout our community and beyond.
 
Together, we’re shaping collaborations that bring real value to our members, partners, and the coaching profession. And we’re creating pathways for growth, both professionally and personally, for everyone involved in this important work.

International Coaching Week - May 12 – 18, 2025:
We’re honored to partner with SMU for International Coaching Week 2025! On May 15 from 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM, ICF-North Texas and SMU will host a special hybrid event focused on emotional intelligence and educator wellbeing. From Burnout to Breakthrough: EQ and Wellbeing for Educational Leaders will bring together a panel of education leaders and coaches to explore the power of coaching in supporting educators—and the ripple effect it creates in schools and communities. 

ICF Pro Bono Coast-to-Coast: We are also collaborating with ICF LA to provide pro-bono coaching coast to coast. This challenge invites coaches to offer at least three hours of pro bono coaching between April 1 – May 18, 2025. You can learn more here and register to participate. Once you complete the registration, you can download an ICF-North Texas graphic to promote your participation on social media.

Please take a moment to complete this registration form and sign up for this year’s pro bono opportunities. Your continued support means the world! 

Unlock the Full Value of Your ICF-North Texas Membership

As Membership Director of ICF-North Texas, I have the privilege of welcoming new members, fostering connections, and ensuring that every coach finds a place to thrive. Whether you're just beginning your coaching journey or you're a seasoned professional, our chapter is designed to support you at every stage of your development.

But here’s the key: the true value of your membership comes from engagement. The more you connect, the more you benefit. If you’re wondering how to get the most out of your membership, here are three dynamic ways to plug in:

1. Attend Chapter Meetings. Our monthly chapter meetings—held on the second Friday of each month—offer invaluable opportunities for learning, networking, and community-building. With both in-person and virtual options, these meetings are designed to fit your schedule and preferences. Many members describe these gatherings as a form of professional self-care, a time to recharge and gain fresh perspectives from fellow coaches. If you haven’t joined us recently, consider making it a recurring event on your calendar!

2. Join a LINC Group. LINC (Learn, Interact, Network, Contribute) groups are the heart of deeper connection within our chapter. These small communities bring together coaches with shared interests, providing a space to learn, grow, and collaborate. Whether you're an early-career coach looking for guidance or a master coach exploring advanced topics, there’s a LINC group for you. And if you don’t see one that aligns with your interests, let’s create it together!

If you’d like to explore existing LINC groups you can check them out here.

3. Volunteer and Get Involved. One of the most fulfilling ways to connect is by joining a team that supports our chapter’s initiatives. Our board members work alongside associate directors and volunteer teams in areas such as Membership, Finance, DEIB, Programs, Alliances, Sponsorships, Special Events, Online Platforms, and Communications. Serving on a team allows you to build meaningful relationships, collaborate with other coaches, and contribute to our thriving professional community.

Beyond these structured opportunities, we also host social gatherings, holiday celebrations, and happy hours—because fostering connections should be fun! Keep an eye out for upcoming events where you can meet fellow members in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

Find Your Place at ICF-North Texas
Our chapter is committed to creating a sense of belonging for every member. Whether you’re looking for professional development, peer support, or leadership opportunities, there’s a place for you here. If you’re unsure where to start or would like guidance on getting involved, email me at membership@icf-nt.com. I’d love to help you find your ideal way to engage and connect.

I am grateful to serve as your Membership Director alongside an incredible Membership Team, including our Associate Director, Lara Burnside and team members, Natalie Mendez, Rory Brannum, Ginnie Plauche, Norma Martinez, M.K. Boehme, and Lakisha Davis Flagg. Together, we are here to support you in making the most of your ICF-North Texas experience.

We can’t wait to see you at an upcoming event, in a LINC group, or as part of a volunteer team. Let’s make this year one of meaningful connection and growth!

Looking Ahead: A Transformative Year with ICF North Texas Programs

As we step into 2025, the ICF-North Texas Program Committee is energized by the promise of a year filled with opportunities to elevate your coaching journey. During our January kickoff meeting, we celebrated the successes of the past year and set our sights on building even greater momentum.

This year, our mission is to deepen connections and strengthen the dynamic coaching community that makes ICF-North Texas so special. The Program Committee is curating a diverse lineup of events designed to enrich your professional and business development while fostering meaningful networking opportunities.

We are committed to delivering high-quality programs that support your journey to achieving and maintaining ICF credentials. Expect innovative tools, insightful resources, and inspiring presenters who will empower you to grow and thrive as a coach.

Stay tuned for the unveiling of our program schedule, and get ready for a year of learning, connection, and transformation. The ICF-North Texas Program Committee is honored to be part of your coaching journey. Together, let’s make 2025 a year of incredible growth and success!

Thanks,
Susan Daniel

Strengthening Connections and Expanding Communities in 2025

The need for connection and community is primal, as fundamental as the need for air, water, and food.  - Dean Ornish

As we head into 2025, I am honored to serve as your President and excited to share my theme for the year – Strengthening Connections and Expanding Communities. This theme reflects our chapter’s focus on deepening relationships while broadening the community's reach. It emphasizes the importance of reinforcing existing ties and creating new opportunities for growth and collaboration within and beyond.

Your voice is crucial as we look for ways to create more connections and expand our communities. Along with the data garnered from the DEIB listening circles, we extend an invitation to our upcoming ICF-North Texas January 10 Annual Meeting, where your additional input will play an essential role in shaping the direction as we look at our Strategic Plan for the next three years. Please register so we can reserve your spot; we can’t do this work without you!

I look forward to my new role and working with our new board, including the new members of the board that will be bringing their fresh perspective and expertise. Join me in welcoming Natalie Mendez, PCC (President-Elect), Tara Hesson, ACC (Secretary), Reeshemah Davis, ACC (Communications), Nick Dillon (DEIB), and Susan Daniel, PCC (Programs). We are blessed to have experienced returning board members Rory Brannum, ACC (Treasurer), Mayme Doumbia, PCC (Alliances), and Cheryl Close, MCC (Membership). We are here to serve the chapter and make this an outstanding year.

In addition to your input, your involvement is key to strengthening our organization. There are so many ways to share your experience and gifts:

• Attend monthly meetings, programs and webinars
  
• Host a coach meetup for coffee, lunch, or dinner at your favorite spot
  
• Join workshops
  
• Collaborate on a committee
  
• Get involved with a LINC Group (or two, or three!)
  
• Serve as a pro bono coach (several impactful projects each year)
  
• Give a talk on behalf of the ICF-North Texas Speaker’s Bureau to promote coaching
  
• Contribute by serving on the Board of Directors

If you haven’t found your place yet, let me help you. Let’s connect and get to know each other. Reach out to me at 817-320-2750 or dara@workplace-joy.com. Let’s set up a phone call, zoom call, or even lunch. I can answer your questions and together, we can find the best way for you to get involved in in our chapter.