- Marianna Henry, PCC
- Oct 31, 2025
- 5 min read
President’s Message
November is often framed as a month of gratitude. A pause before the year closes. A time to gather, give thanks, and reflect on what we have and who we hold dear. This year, however, gratitude feels more complex.
Across the country, many individuals and families are facing real hardship, including hundreds of thousands of people within the ICF High Country region. Ongoing furloughs, rising food insecurity, and deep uncertainty are touching many lives. The contrast between a season of abundance and the lived reality for so many can feel stark. How do we hold gratitude alongside such raw awareness?
As coaches, we often hold this tension both personally and professionally. Some of us may be experiencing its ripple effects directly—clients pausing sessions, new contracts slowing, or our own energy feeling stretched thin. Many of us are holding space for heavier conversations while navigating our own uncertainty. It is okay to name that this moment is difficult, and that presence may take more effort right now.
This month, may we extend compassion in every direction:
To clients navigating instability or stress, with extra patience and care
To our communities, through small acts of service, donation, or volunteerism
To one another, as peers in a profession rooted in curiosity, humanity, and equity
To ourselves, with recognition of our own needs and limits
Gratitude does not have to deny struggle. It can simply mean noticing what still connects and sustains us, even when the path feels unsteady. It reminds us that we are not alone and helps rekindle hope.
I am deeply grateful for this community of coaches and for the kindness, integrity, and generosity you bring to your work and to one another. Please reach out if you need connection or support, and continue showing up for our gatherings and conversations.
Your presence matters, and your story strengthens our collective resilience.
With gratitude and hope,
Marianna Henry, PCC
President, ICF High Country Chapter
ICF High Country News & Updates
Step Up for Your Chapter
2026 ICF High Country Board Nominations Are Open
Our chapter’s strength depends on our members. As we move into a new year of growth, community, and visibility, we invite passionate leaders to step forward and help shape our future together.
With our chapter year now aligned to January through December, we are filling board roles that begin in January 2026, with member voting taking place this November. Whether you have volunteered before or are just beginning to get involved, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
Open Positions(Full descriptions available in the Interest Form)
President-Elect
Programs Chair
How to Apply
Deadline: November 14
Submit your Interest Form (link provided in newsletter)
A Nominations Committee member will follow up after submission
Let’s build the future of ICF High Country together. Step up, lean in, and help us continue creating a chapter that inspires connection, growth, and professional excellence across our six-state region.
ICF Global News, Resources, & Opportunities
ICF Converge 2025 Recap
Connection, Curiosity, and Courage in Action
ICF Converge 2025 brought together thousands of coaches from around the world for three days of learning, inspiration, and connection. From powerful keynotes on neuroscience and language to hands-on sessions exploring AI, ethics, and the future of coaching, the event reinforced the shared purpose that unites our profession.
For Kerri and Marianna, the highlight was reconnecting with fellow coaches, mentors, and educators—the people who remind us why community matters. We returned energized, carrying fresh insights and renewed courage into our coaching and chapter leadership.
As we move forward, let’s keep the spirit of Converge alive: stay curious, lead with empathy, and continue creating spaces where meaningful transformation can happen.
AI in Coaching: What’s Your Take?
Is AI a tool, a disruptor, or something in between? Add your voice and join the conversation on ICF Engage.
Membership Matters
Welcome, New Members
We are so glad you are here.
Each new member brings unique experience and energy to our growing ICF High Country community. Whether you joined to deepen your coaching skills, connect with peers, or get involved in chapter activities, welcome. We look forward to learning with you, supporting your growth, and celebrating the impact you are making through coaching.
Upcoming Chapter Events
How to Coach a Human with AI
November 14, 2025 | 12:00 PM MT
Explore how AI can enhance—rather than replace—the human power of coaching.
Coaches Connect
December 3, 2025 | 12:00 PM MT
Build relationships, deepen coaching skills, explore partnerships, and give and receive support in a welcoming peer space.
End-of-Year Celebration & Annual Chapter Meeting
December 12, 2025 | 12:00 PM MT
Connect, reflect, and celebrate the year together at our annual membership meeting.
Help Us Grow Our Social Media Presence
Please follow us on our platforms and engage with our posts. Likes, comments, and reviews help more coaches find our community.
DEIB Spotlight
Gratitude for Our Shared Humanity
November invites us to pause and reflect—not only on what we have, but on who we share this space with. As coaches, we know that authentic connection begins with curiosity, empathy, and respect for lived experience.
This month, consider reflecting on these questions in your practice:
How do I express appreciation for the perspectives my clients bring?
Whose voices have I not yet invited into my community or conversations?
What assumptions can I release to better honor our shared humanity?
Gratitude can be a quiet but powerful act of inclusion. When we notice and honor difference, we strengthen belonging—for ourselves, our clients, and our broader coaching community.
✨ Join the conversation: Share one way coaching has helped you feel gratitude or belonging this year on LinkedIn or Facebook using #ICFHighCountry.
Volunteer & Get Connected
ICF High Country thrives because of our members. Whether you have a few hours a month or want to be more deeply involved, your contribution matters.
One easy way to get involved:
☕ Host a Local Meetup - We will support you in organizing a casual coffee or lunch gathering for coaches in your area.
Interested or have ideas to share? Contact us at admin@icfhighcountry.org.
Stay Connected
Follow us on social media and reach out anytime at admin@icfhighcountry.org.
States Served Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming
Our Foundation
Vision
Coaching is an integral part of a thriving society, and every ICF High Country member represents the highest quality of professional coaching.
Mission
ICF High Country provides programs, opportunities, and community to cultivate the growth of coaching and coaching professionals across our region.
Values Community
Sharing knowledge and experience to grow together.
Inclusiveness – A safe, collaborative space that welcomes diverse perspectives.
Professionalism – Upholding the highest ethical and professional standards of ICF.
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