How to Bring ADHD Coaching to the Underserved

Expanding access to ADHD and executive function coaching for underserved populations requires innovative, scalable models that transcend traditional professional services. Research confirms that coaching serves as a highly effective educational intervention, significantly improving student attendance, engagement, and grade point averages. To overcome scalability barriers, the EDGE Foundation trains existing school staff—including non-teaching personnel like security, maintenance, and office workers—to act as one-on-one coaches. This approach leverages the deep community ties and existing relationships these staff members have with students, ensuring consistent support at no additional cost to the institution. Beyond the academic benefits for students, this model provides adult volunteers with meaningful opportunities to develop new skills and contribute to their communities. Founder Neil Peterson emphasizes that this mission-driven work fosters a growth mindset, ultimately empowering both the students and the adults who support them.