When he started his business from his garage in 1997, Fortino hired people he knew cared about the quality of their work as much as he did. His enthusiastic cleaning crews helped make the business an overnight hit. Fortino risked a lot to get his business off the ground, but it paid off. Now Maids by Trade is not only thriving, but it has expanded throughout Oregon, Washington and Arizona. Maids by Trade is the first choice for customers who want a locally-owned maid service run by those who are passionate about cleaning.
Fortino’s Contribution
Fortino Barajas, a devoted family man, a caring pet owner, and environmentalist that understands the importance of choosing cleaning products that are safe to use around pets and humans alike. Fortino took the needs of his family and others into consideration when implementing new standards of green cleaning throughout the United States. In 2009, Fortino collaborated with the national nonprofit Green Seal to develop rigorous green cleaning standards for house cleaning companies, bringing Maids by Trade to the forefront in eco-responsible practices. The eco-responsible concept is now part of the new franchising business model by Purple Forté.
Personal & Family Time
Fortino enjoys gardening, hiking, and cooking. In his free time he likes gathering with family and friends, taking adventures and exploring the Northwest’s beauty, and attending cultural events in the city. He says “I feel very blessed that my life has been rich with dear friends, loving family, good health, and a career I really enjoy doing.” Beyond his family, he is most proud of how he was able to create a unique approach to house cleaning and build a business that is an integral part of the community.
Education & Training
Fortino attended Portland Community College where he studied Business Administration. He is a regular at Portland State University where he takes business courses to constantly improve his everyday work. Attending many eco-responsibility training courses has led him to stay up-to-date on healthy cleaning practices and the latest green technology and techniques. With this education he has created training programs for the company’s new recruits—safety, cleaning, sales, and quality control, among others—is done at the company’s headquarters.
Social Causes
- Kiva. Join forces with Fortino on Kiva with the Maids by Trade & Friends to empower those in need of an opportunity thought micro lending in the United States and worldwide. As of 4/28/2020 there’re 510 micro-loans accomplished.
- Fortino supports a wildlife sanctuary on 200 acres that serves as a home for several species listed as endangered. (Project under development). Details will be released soon.
Connect with Fortino on these platforms
Read this page in Spanish.