The International Association of Facilitators (IAF) welcomes everyone with an interest in facilitation and its widespread use in helping people work together effectively.
IAF members vary in their facilitation practice. Some are new to the field, while others have years of experience. Our members work in government, corporate, non-profit, education, community, and international development sectors, to name but a few. Some work in-house, others operate as external consultants.
Some IAF members use facilitation as part of their broader work as coaches, project managers, trainers or mediators. Others work exclusively as facilitators, focusing solely on designing and delivering effective group processes, independent of content. Yet all IAF members affirm the IAF Statement of Values and Code of Ethics and promote the inherent value of an individual and the collective wisdom of a group.
Like you, IAF members work with groups, helping them to fulfil their potential to bring about positive change in the world. We understand the challenges you face as you introduce participatory processes designed to make groups more inclusive, collaborative and effective. Peer support, on-going learning and professional development are key to surviving and thriving as a facilitator and to advancing the profession.
As a membership association, we want to include as many voices as possible in the global conversation about the importance of facilitation to groups and organisations everywhere. The IAF celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2014 and is moving into a new phase of growth. Your membership helps us extend our reach and build a strong, international network.
At every level of society, groups are seeking ways to address complex issues, resolve internal conflicts and make good decisions together. Leaders increasingly recognize the importance of fostering interdependence and shared responsibility. Skilled facilitators fill an essential role in enabling positive changes.
IAF membership is open to all facilitators, anywhere in the world, who support the Association’s statement of ethics and values.
“Of my three most recent contracts, one came as a direct result from a contact made through my IAF membership; another was a result of being an IAF Certified™ Professional Facilitator. I would estimate the amount I have spent on membership, certification, and recertification has been earned back 35 to 40 times over, in the last decade.”Cameron F., IAF member, Ottawa, Canada