LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A local business that's focused on second chances recently received an international award. The company has managed to use cleaning to make an impact in the community for 20 years.
Name just about any building in Kentuckiana. "We did the Omni Hotel. We do a lot. It's just a lot of people are asleep while we're working," says George Bussey of FMS.
These men and women are likely getting the buildings in tip-top shape. "It's the people and the people I work with and the people that work for me," says Wallace Wales, supervisor for FMS.
Around 850 people work for Facilities Management Services, or FMS, a local commercial cleaning company. "Sleeping giant, you might not know a whole lot because of what we do, but you'll know eventually."
Employees like Bussey and Timothy Wilkins said FMS' reach goes far beyond the reach of any rag.
"The warehouse is like the heartbeat. We deliver to every account," Wilkins said. "IÂ was open about my past. They didn't judge me and I started the next week."
Wilkins struggled with alcohol and drug abuse for many years, when he was referred to FMS directly after recovery. "It was a lot of fear, fear of the unknown. I've never paid bills or took care of my children and it was a lot of fear, but I had a lot of courage stepping in, a lot of support from the people in FMS. They support my recovery and me," Wilkins said.
FMS is considered a "B Corporation," which is a for-profit company that helps people in the community. The companies give those who've struggled to find jobs in the past a second chance at employment.
"What drew me there was our social mission. It's unique. It's special. It's different than an average for-profit company," says Jennifer Kaufman, Director of Community and Customer Relations for FMS.
Earlier this year, FMS received international recognition from "B Lab," a non-profit organization that oversees B Corporations. The company was honored in two categories: "Best in the World for Governance and for "Community." "To be around like-minded people that are all working toward that mission is an opportunity for people to really thrive and do work a little bit differently than the norm and that's why I came," Kaufman said.
Wilkins has been with the company for more than a year, has housing and has regained custody of his two children. "I'm trying to grow and they're giving me the opportunity to," Wilkins said.
Wiping part of the past away with a fresh new start, one delivery, one building, one squeaky clean surface at a time.
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