CleanStart Collaborative is a blended transitional program designed to produce measurable long-term solutions for houseless individuals & those faced with "housing challenges" in an effort to promote & accelerate community transformation by providing purpose-driven services.
At CleanStart Collaborative, we believe that everyone deserves a clean, safe, and dignified place to live, work, and heal.
Our professional cleaning crews provide high-quality janitorial and building maintenance services to Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) communities, nonprofit housing providers, and social service organizations across Portland.
Each service we deliver also creates real employment opportunities for individuals rebuilding their lives after homelessness, incarceration, domestic violence, or other life challenges.
Our Mission
To create cleaner, safer, and more compassionate living environments by connecting purpose-driven commercial cleaning & building maintenance services with employment opportunities for individuals rebuilding their lives.
We combine professional facility care with a commitment to equity, dignity, and opportunity -- transforming both the spaces we clean and the lives of those who clean them.
Who We Empower & Support
CleanStart Collaborative is proud to employ and empower people who have faced significant barriers to stable employment, including:
- Individuals who are currently or formerly homeless
- Re-entry community members returning from incarceration
- Survivors of Domestic Violence (DV)
- People living with or recovering from mental health or substance use challenges
Through training, mentorship, and trauma-informed supervision, we help participants gain skills, confidence, and a steady income-- while providing exceptional cleaning and maintenance services that strengthen entire communities.
Participant Program Details
At CleanStart Collaborative, Employment is just the beginning.
Our program is designed to support long-term stability and financial independence for every participant through wraparound services and financial empowerment.
Each team member participates in a structured program that includes:
Paid Job Training & Workforce Skills
Participants receive hands-on custodial, facilities, and maintenance training, learning industry-standard cleaning, safety, and equipment use.
They gain practical skills and certifications that strengthen long-term employability.
Case Management, Wraparound Support & Culturally Specific Services
Each team member has access to one-on-one case management, ensuring individualized support in areas such as housing, employment goals, wellness, and family stability.
Recognizing the diverse backgrounds of our participants, we partner with culturally specific providers to offer support that honors identity, community, and lived experience.
Financial Empowerment
Financial Literacy Course
Every participant completes an 8-week Financial Literacy course with Financial Beginnings, participants learn essential money management skills -- budgeting, saving, responsible credit use, and planning for the future.
Checking Account Opening
Every participant is supported in opening a checking account, creating access to financial tools that promote stability and independence.
Matched Savings Through IDA Program
Participants are encouraged to save through an Individual Development Account (IDA), where every dollar saved is matched up to 3:1, helping them build assets and reach major financial goals.
Housing Stability & Long-Term Planning
Participants are enrolled in a long-term housing program that includes credit-building support, rental readiness education, and access to down payment assistance for those who qualify -- helping transform employment into lasting housing security.
Long-Term Sustainable Self-Sufficiency Solutions
Through these combined supports, CleanStart Collaborative's holistic approach helps individuals rebuild their confidence, gain stability, and create sustainable futures for themselves and their families.
About Our Team
CleanStart Collaborative is led by a dedicated team of professionals from Wilson Community Services who believe in the power of second chances, dignity in work, and trauma-informed care.
Our staff bring years of experience in:
- Supportive housing and case management
- Workforce development and employment training
- Behavioral health and trauma-informed engagement
- Community partnerships and program coordination
Together, we create a workplace culture centered on respect, consistency, empowerment, and opportunity.
Every supervisor is trained in trauma-informed practices, ensuring that participants feel safe, supported, and valued as they build new skills and stability.
We also collaborate closely with community partners -- including housing agencies, financial institutions, and social service providers -- to connect participants with additional supports that promote long-term success.
Paid Job Training & Workforce Skills
CleanStart Collaborative provides a full range of professional cleaning and property care services hands-on job training and workforce skills tailored to Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) communities, nonprofit housing providers, and commercial partners.
Our trauma-informed crews deliver consistent, high-quality results with care, respect, and attention to detail.
Our Core Service Offerings: Custodial & Janitorial Services
Routine and deep cleaning for residential common areas, offices, and PSH facilities, including floor care, restrooms, kitchens, and shared spaces.
Turnover & Move-Out Cleaning
Detailed cleaning and preparation of vacated units to support smooth move-ins for new residents.
Exterior Building Maintenance
Power washing, litter removal, exterior window cleaning, and upkeep of walkways and entry areas to maintain curb appeal and safety.
Junk Removal & Hauling
Responsible removal and disposal of debris, furniture, and other bulk materials from units, storage areas, and exterior spaces.
Special Projects
Customized cleaning or maintenance projects, including event preparation, deep sanitation, or emergency response cleanup.
All services are provided under the supervision of trained professionals and supported by the mission-driven values of Wilson Community Services.
When companies hire CleanStart Collaborative, they receive professional, reliable service -- while helping create employment and stability for community members who are working hard to rebuild their lives.
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