“I love helping people progress,” said Carl Richards, Director of Security at Saratoga Family Residence. “I let my staff know—if I can do it, you can do it, too.”
Carl began his career in residential security in the Lower East Side, where he worked for 23 years before a coworker referred him to HFH. He joined Saratoga Family Residence in 2019.
Carl quickly found his footing, and his trajectory has reflected his strong work ethic and steady leadership. He started as a Safety Supervisor, was promoted to Safety Operations Manager, and became Director of Security this year.
As Director of Security, Carl oversees all security operations including supervising staff, ensuring the building remains secure, managing daily check-ins, and coordinating chaperones for visitors and vendors. He is known for his steady demeanor, even in difficult moments, and for setting the tone for his team.
“As a leader, you have to be that calm person,” he said. “If your staff sees you not being flustered, they will follow you, because they know that during a tough situation, you can handle yourself.”
David Morris, Administrator at Saratoga, promoted Carl to Director of Security and has seen firsthand how well he fits the role.
“Carl has taken on the role well,” said David. “He is dedicated. Anything you need him to do; he is willing to do. You couldn’t ask for a better director.”
David added that Carl is receptive to new ideas, adapts easily when processes change, and consistently goes above and beyond.
“He is always open to ideas that can make his department better,” said David.
Carl has become a go-to presence not only at Saratoga but across HFH Family Residences.
“If something has to be handled at Saratoga, the name that comes up is Carl Richards,” David said. “There are people at other sites who know who he is and have known him for years—even though they don’t work here. Carl is doing the work.”
His coworkers describe him as dedicated and attentive to both his staff and the families.
“He goes out of his way to make the department run smoothly, and he often comes up with new ideas,” said Gilda Coronado, Deputy Administrator at Saratoga. “He pays attention—he knows the clients and what’s going on with them. He is very reliable.”
Andrea Prasad, Administrative Assistant, who has worked with Carl for over two years, shared a similar sentiment.
“He is attentive and concerned about his staff and the residents,” she said. “If something happens, he rushes to make sure everyone is okay. He always focuses on being productive and delivers his best at his job.”
Milagros “Millie” Gonzalez-Dixon, Office Manager at Saratoga who has worked with Carl for three years, has watched him grow steadily in his role.
“He is very warm and very friendly,” she said. “He is a leader. He is still learning, but he makes sure his staff knows what they are supposed to do. He teaches as he grows.”
Carl says the people at Saratoga are a major reason he enjoys coming to work.
“We have such a mix of people here—different backgrounds, different experiences—but we work together as a team to get the job done,” he said. “I like working with the staff here. We have a lot of experienced people.”
For Carl, supporting families is at the heart of the job. He makes a point to talk with residents, encourage them through difficult moments, and remind them of their own strength.
“Sometimes it’s hard—you can’t give up,” he said. “You just have to move forward.”
Every day, he focuses on making sure both residents and staff feel safe and supported. Even on the busiest days, that commitment guides him.
“My mindset is, no matter how hectic the job gets, it has to be done,” he said. “The safety of the staff and the clients is the number one priority. What keeps me going is making sure everyone is happy and that the facility is safe and secure.”
Carl is proud of how far he has come, and he is hopeful about what lies ahead.
“I am looking to advance,” he said. “Not to sell myself short—anything is possible.”
Outside of work, Carl enjoys going out and exploring New York City. He loves movies, exercising, trying new restaurants—especially seafood and Italian—and taking walks in the park.
