Leading with Compassion at Kendall Soccer Park

Genuine care and compassion are the values Carl Mesidor, a Park Service Aide at Kendall Soccer Park with the Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces (PROS) Department, lives by every day. Since joining the department as a Recreation Specialist in the summer of 2024, Carl has made an immediate impact – by forming lasting connections with park visitors and offering support when it’s needed most. 

“I often have the opportunity to meet and talk with a lot of our park visitors,” Carl shared. “Although, I don’t always remember their names, I can recall the conversations we’ve had and the connections we’ve shared.”  

One of those meaningful connections occurred early in his time at PROS. 

“I remember one of my first days working as a Recreation Specialist, I encountered a young child who was keeping to himself and not playing with the other kids,” Carl recalled. “When I approached him to make sure everything was okay, he reluctantly admitted that he was scared and didn’t want to go outside and play. After talking with him and reassuring him that everything was going to be okay, he finally mustered up the courage to go outside and join the others. Later that week, his mother approached me and thanked me. She said she had noticed a change in her son and how excited he was to attend camp after that day.”

This wasn’t the only time Carl demonstrated his ability to comfort and connect with guests. Recently, while on duty at Kendall Soccer Park, he noticed a car with a broken window. He waited nearby until a woman approached with her 3-year-old child and realized her car had been broken into.  

“I immediately noticed her expression change. She looked panicked,” Carl said. “I wanted to make sure she stayed calm, especially since she had a child with her.” Carl explained. Without hesitation, Carl contacted the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO), and a deputy was dispatched to file a report. He stayed with the guest and her child the entire time, offering reassurance and emotional support. 

 “I did my best to let her know that anything taken was material things and can be replaced. The important thing is that she and her child were safe, and this is just a minor inconvenience.” This guest later contacted Parks leadership to praise Carl’s kindness and professionalism. 

Carl credits his calm, compassionate demeanor to his strong faith. “As a Christian, every day is a gift. You have to focus on the good and make God proud.”

When not delivering excellent customer service with his signature smile, he enjoys going to the gym, playing soccer, reading, listening to his preacher, and continuing his studies in Computer Engineering. 

Keep THRIVING, Carl!