The ICHF was established in response to the growing need and demand for a "different" kind of Martial Arts Organization. While most of the existing associations provide only financial gain, ego gratification to their founders and are rife with politics, the ICHF is strongly committed to the professional enhancement of its members and to absolute service excellence.  

    The ICHF was founded in 1992 by Grandmaster John Pellegrini who is the President of the Organization. Unlike many associations that are nothing more than a P.O. Box or mail order diploma mill, the ICHF has a full time administrative staff, a Review Board to approve promotions, and an Advisory Board composed of distinguished high ranking Masters.

    In 1995 the ICHF was nominated "Martial Arts Organization of the Year" by the Independent Funding Company, one of the largest Martial Arts tuition billing and consulting company in the USA.

    In 1998 the ICHF was inducted as "Most Outstanding Martial Arts Organization of the Year" by the World Karate Union Hall of Fame.

      In 1998 and 2000 the ICHF received the Leadership Award as "Martial Arts Organization of the Year" by the World Heads of Family/Sokeship Council’s International Martial Arts Hall of Fame.