Carl Barrett is a born and raised Californian- living in the Sacramento Valley until moving to Idaho in 1993. The Idaho lifestyle was just what Carl needed- the beautiful mountains provided the adventure that he craved in life while still being close to the city life of Boise. While there, he began his career journey in the Tech/Manufacturing industry. His leadership training and skills then lead him into the automotive world, which would eventually move him back to his home state in 2013.

The move back to California provided an exciting, fresh start for him and his then partner, Chad Hendrix.  After settling into their new SoCal life for less than a year, Carl lost Chad to suicide. Devastated by his loss, he was led to Soaring Spirits International, and attended his first Camp Widow in 2014- where his journey to rebuild began.  Three years into this new life, Carl was looking for a change, a new beginning. An opportunity with UCLA Health developed, and he excitedly took it, and moved to Los Angeles. Another two years later, he met the man of his dreams, who, as luck would have it, is also named Chad.

As recent newlyweds, both Carl and Chad have become regular volunteers with Soaring Spirits International- being panelists and presenters at Camp Widow, working on the first annual “Hope Takes Flight” gala in 2023, and now co-chairing the event next year.  They enjoy a very diverse and full life in Los Angeles and love spending time there with their little doggie, Martini, and their many friends and family.

Carl is honored and thrilled to be the board’s newest member, and looks forward to continuing the amazing work of Soaring Spirits.