The National Ability Center, a Park City-based nonprofit that provides adaptive recreation and outdoor adventures for disabled persons, has named Willie Ford as CEO.
Ford is the co-founder of Givego, a platform that connects everyday athletes with professionals for on-demand coaching and mentorship. He also held senior roles at Cake, an electric motorcycle and scooter company, and POC, a company designed to protect the lives and reduce the consequences of accidents for athletes.
“For the past eight months, we have worked diligently to identify a leader who can help us achieve an elevated level of success. After reviewing over 100 applications, we found a leader who truly stood out through his connection to our team, mission and values, and who shares our vision for the future,” said David O’Brien, board chair at the National Ability Center. “Not only is Ford’s leadership experience exceptional, but his time within the outdoor industry will be invaluable to our organization.”
Ford also served as vice chair of The High Fives Foundation, an adaptive sports foundation, and served on the boards of UNH Friends of Skiing and The Shane McConkey Foundation. Ford is a University of New Hampshire graduate and was a two-time NCAA All-American on the school’s ski team.
“My personal love for outdoor recreation combined with my previous nonprofit experience, led me to my purpose — working with and empowering people of all abilities,” said Ford. “The impact I have seen firsthand is what drove me to this opportunity where I can contribute to making a positive impact on people of all abilities. The National Ability Center has immense potential ahead, supported by an incredible team and excellent facilities.”