Carnadi Ford

Carnadi, known as “Nadi” to friends and family, discovered his passion for service early when he joined the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps at just 13 years old. Born and raised in Southern California, Nadi left home just seven days after high school graduation to attend Navy boot camp. He went on to complete A-School in Pensacola, Florida, where he trained as a Cryptologic Technician Maintenance (CTM).

During his 10 years of active-duty service, Nadi supported critical missions as part of the Naval Security Group, providing fleet support for both surface ships and submarines. His military career included multiple deployments to the Middle East in support of the Global War on Terrorism.

After transitioning out of the Navy, Nadi faced personal and family challenges that led to a deep, hidden depression. For years, he masked his pain and never sought help—until he learned about Boulder Crest during their annual gala. That moment sparked a life-changing realization: he was struggling, and it was affecting every area of his life. In May 2022, he attended the Warrior PATHH program through Permission to Start Dreaming in Washington State. That experience gave him the practices and insight to confront what had long been buried. Today, Nadi is not just going through life — he’s growing through it. He is no longer simply surviving, but truly striving.

Nadi has been married to his wife, Elizabeth, for 10 years. Their bond was built on a shared love for God and the San Francisco 49ers. Together, they have a beautifully blended family of seven children — four boys and three girls. As a family, they enjoy sports, both as fans and participants, and Nadi has had the privilege of coaching all four of his sons in football. He and the boys also share a passion for weightlifting.

Nadi and Elizabeth share a deep calling to serve others. For the past 15 years, Nadi has volunteered with Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), as well as served as a strength coach and assistant football coach at Heritage and Independence High Schools. Elizabeth left her job to launch BetterALife, a nonprofit that provides food, educational support, and life-skills services to those in need.

Now, as he begins this new chapter, Nadi is honored to shift his focus from mentoring young athletes to pouring into the lives of veterans and first responders — offering them the tools and support needed to Struggle Well.