#USA #Lexington #Special Olympics #Coaching Excellence #ICF Foundation

ICF Foundation Wins Prestigious Gold Award

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) Foundation has recently been awarded the prestigious Gold Power of Association Award by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE). This accolade celebrates programs that yield measurable results, tackle significant societal issues, and provide unique value to communities. The recognition is not just a milestone for the foundation but also a signal of its unwavering commitment to enhancing the coaching profession and making a positive societal impact.

Celebrating 30 Years of Coaching Potential

As the ICF commemorates its 30th anniversary, the acknowledgment from ASAE highlights the foundation’s persistent efforts to elevate the coaching industry. According to ICF CEO, Magdalena Nowicka Mook, the award reflects a global dedication to coaching excellence, illustrating the transformative power of coaching in fostering individual growth and driving positive change in communities worldwide.

Impact on Special Olympics

The ICF Foundation's award-winning initiative involved providing personalized coaching to support the Leadership Academy curriculum of Special Olympics. Since the program began in 2019, the foundation has been instrumental in promoting a culture of inclusion, empathy, and resilience among educators working with students with intellectual disabilities. This collaboration aims at nurturing a supportive environment where educators can thrive, ultimately benefiting their students.

Measurable Outcomes

The collaboration with Special Olympics has led to significant achievements. A total of 180 educators and coaches have been mentored by 70 ICF-credentialed coaches, who supported them in formulating action plans grounded in SMART goals—an effective framework for setting objectives. The results have been striking: 67% of the participants reported marked improvements in their leadership abilities, enhanced communication skills, and a deeper sense of empathy and authenticity. Furthermore, in a remarkable demonstration of commitment, ICF-credentialed coaches dedicated 389 low-bono coaching hours valued at over $91,000 to assist Special Olympics over five years.

Acknowledgment by the ASAE

Michelle Mason, President and CEO of ASAE, lauded the ICF Foundation for exemplifying the impact associations have on their industries and society as a whole. She expressed pride in highlighting the foundation’s outstanding initiatives, as they go beyond standard operations to effect meaningful changes on a global scale.

The Future Ahead

As it moves forward, the ICF Foundation continues to believe in the transformative power of coaching and the invaluable role of associations in fostering positive change. Their joint efforts with Special Olympics are a testament to how focused leadership and commitment can help cultivate more inclusive and empathetic communities. With ongoing support from dedicated volunteer coaches and partners, the ICF Foundation remains driven by the mission to make a lasting impact.

In addition to this award, the foundation’s initiatives are recognized as part of ASAE's broader acknowledgment of the contributions of associations both locally and globally, slated for celebration at the annual Summit Awards Dinner on September 25, 2025, in Washington, D.C. The ICF Foundation’s narrative is a powerful reminder of how intentional coaching can stimulate societal growth and create culturally competent educators capable of nurturing the next generation.