(l-r): Bud Summers, Executive Vice President of Operations and Training, Mark W. Davis, Chairman and CEO, Charles Omajuwa, Gabriel Lugo, Regional Director, Frank Torre, Vice Chairman, and Steve White, President and COO.

LOS ANGELES, CA — PuroClean business owner Charles Omajuwa, owner of PuroClean of Victor Heights, recently received the coveted Rookie of the Year Award at the Annual PuroClean International Convention for achieving the highest sales revenue amongst new locations within the first 12 months in operation. Having joined PuroClean in March of 2022 with the opening of PuroClean of Victor Heights, Omajuwa successfully expanded his operations by opening a second franchise location, PuroClean of West Los Angeles, in Santa Monica within the following 18 months.

“I am shocked and incredibly honored to receive the Rookie of the Year Award,” said Omajuwa. “I came to America from Nigeria with no plan for how I was going to succeed. I was always told it was tough to make it in LA, but I was lucky enough to have a strong network of people in the PuroClean family supporting me, and it pushed me to never give up and be able to reach this point.”

Born in Nigeria, West Africa, Omajuwa came from humble beginnings and worked his way through college, earning a bachelor’s in political science while doing stand-up comedy and running two businesses. Fluent in German and proficient in multiple other languages, he lived in Germany for a few years after college, playing soccer for Alemannia FC and baseball with Roosters Berlin before moving to America in 2016. In his spare time, Omajuwa mentors disadvantaged youth to show them that “anyone can make out of life what they choose to and work towards.” Omajuwa chose to serve the Los Angeles community by providing high-quality restoration services to one of the most populous counties in the U.S. With a strong commitment to excellent customer service and collaborative teamwork, he has quickly risen to success within the PuroClean network.

“Charles is exactly who we are looking for in a new business owner,” said PuroClean’s President and COO, Steve White. “His impressive early success in Los Angeles demonstrates his commitment to delivering Relentless Customer Service, and we are excited to present him with our Rookie of the Year award.”

PuroClean is one of the leading restoration franchise companies in the United States. Each year, the brand performs thousands of jobs throughout North America, providing restoration services for everything from common household mishaps to large-scale disasters.

As a leading franchise concept, the PuroClean model is ideal for business entrepreneurs passionate about contributing to their communities during times of need or natural disasters. PuroClean Franchise Owners receive extensive training on proper remediation and restoration techniques through the PuroClean Academy, which is both hands-on and classroom-based. The Academy also provides pre-opening training courses to help prepare new owners for the launch of their local PuroClean business. The company also offers marketing support to help franchise owners reach success.

For more information about PuroClean of Victor Heights, call (213) 328-3550, or visit https://www.puroclean.com/pvh-ca/.

(l-r): Mark W. Davis, Chairman and CEO, Chris Schatz, Frank Torre, Vice Chairman, and Steve White, President and COO. 

BROOMFIELD, CO – PuroClean, one of the country’s leading property restoration and remediation franchises, is thrilled to announce that local entrepreneur Chris Schatz, owner of PuroClean of Broomfield, received the coveted PuroClean On the Move Award at the International PuroClean Convention. With nearly 500 franchise locations across North America, Chris was awarded by the PuroClean Home Office for being someone who has gone above and beyond to achieve success within the network while also dedicating himself to the success of others and his community.

“I’m speechless for the first time in my entire life,” said Chris Schatz, Owner of PuroClean of Broomfield. “Some of you guys came to my shop the other night and experienced what I’ve built over the past four years. PuroClean is where my heart is at. PuroClean is where I want to be in the future, where I want to leave my legacy. I want to thank my brother, GM, operation manager, wife, and everyone who has helped me get to this point. There are too many people to thank but I appreciate everyone. Thank you.”

The On the Move Award celebrates exceptional Franchise Owners within the PuroClean network who embody the brand’s core pillars: servant leadership, active collaboration, and extreme ownership. Since acquiring his PuroClean business in April 2020, Schatz has exemplified the drive and commitment necessary to succeed with this World Class Brand.

Schatz, a multi-unit franchisee and two-time President Circle recipient, began his career as an EMT before transitioning to the oil and gas industry. His journey into the restoration industry ignited a passion for handling large losses and serving prominent vendors in the field. After refining his skills as an operations manager at another restoration company, Schatz spent three years at a major restoration firm. His path ultimately led him to PuroClean, where he became a part owner after initially owning one franchise and later acquiring three more. Schatz values creating a family atmosphere and collaborating with like-minded individuals, emphasizing respect for employees guided by the principle of treating others as you wish to be treated. Family-oriented, Schatz has involved his brother in his business to support its growth.

Schatz’s ambition extends beyond his personal success; he is deeply committed to assisting others, has generously offered his time to travel and aid other owners, and has mentored several struggling locations. As evident by his offices’ upward trajectory, Schatz has been recognized back-to-back as a 2022 and 2023 President’s Circle member.

“Nominated by the PuroClean Home Office and selected by the Executive Team, I am proud to present this award to Chris Schatz,” said PuroClean President and COO Steve White. “We do not present this award every year—it is reserved for those who truly exemplify the drive and commitment needed to get their office On the Move. Chris and his team are exemplary representatives of this dedication, and we are all very proud to see him succeed and earn our On the Move Award.”

For over 20 years, PuroClean has helped home and business owners with their restoration and remediation needs, serving communities across the United States and Canada with a network nearing 500 offices. The brand is additionally seeking the right individuals who may be in construction and looking to add a restoration component to their business.

For more information about PuroClean of Broomfield, call (720) 773-3400, or visit https://www.puroclean.com/pdr-co/. PuroClean of Broomfield proudly serves the northern front range of Colorado, including Boulder, Lakewood, Arvada, Brighton, Commerce City, Fort Lupton, Lochbuie, Broomfield, Westminster, Thornton, and Longmont.

TAMARAC, FL – PuroClean, a leading property restoration and remediation company, recently held its annual conference in Denver, Colorado, under the theme “Level Up!” The event attracted nearly 450 attendees, including franchise owners, employees, and strategic partners.

The conference featured an impressive lineup of speakers, headlined by keynote speaker Scott K. Edinger, a renowned business strategist and leadership expert. Guest speakers included Ed Cross, an expert in disaster recovery law; Debra Fine, a networking guru and author; and Steve LeFever, a financial and business management expert.

Event Highlights

Golf Tournament

The conference kicked off with a friendly and competitive golf tournament at the beautiful Green Valley Ranch Golf Club. Congratulations to the winning team: Aaron Beck, Jeff Brettell, Matthew Parkerson with CoreLogic, and Bud Summers, PuroClean EVP of Operations and Training.

Training and Continuing Education Sessions – PuroLogic

Participants engaged in various training sessions and continuing education opportunities through PuroLogic, enhancing their skills and knowledge in the property restoration industry.

PuroWomen’s Growth Group

The PuroWomen’s Growth Group hosted a session focused on empowering and advancing women within the PuroClean network with approximately 80 participants in attendance. Special thanks to the mother-daughter team of Becky Edgren and Britni Hurst from PuroClean in Moraine, OH, along with Sandra White from PuroClean in Middlesex and Princeton, NJ, and Debi Heileman from PuroClean in Scottsdale, AZ, for leading the group.

Strategic Partner Expo

The Strategic Partner Expo showcased the latest products and services from PuroClean’s valued partners, offering attendees insights into new technologies and solutions.

Cocktail Receptions

Evening cocktail receptions provided additional opportunities for networking and building relationships in a casual, enjoyable environment.

Awards Celebration

The Awards Celebration was a highlight of the Convention, recognizing outstanding achievements within the PuroClean network. The list of awardees included:

  • 2023 Franchise Of The Year: Nelson & Sujey Rivera – PuroClean in Parsippany, NJ
  • 2023 Hot Shot: Sam Springer, Justin Lo Iacono & Aaron Shumaker – PuroClean in Marietta, GA
  • 2023 Rookie Of The Year (US): Charles Omajuwa – PuroClean in Los Angeles, CA
  • 2023 Continuing Education – CE Connect: Thomas Maguire – PuroClean in Spartanburg and Columbia, SC
  • 2023 Strategic Partner Of The Year: Livi Dalmau – American Business Solutions, FL
  • 2023 Rainmakers: Dawn Erickson – PuroClean in Charleston, SC; Darrel Depot – PuroClean in Williston, VT; Ricardo Herdan – PuroClean in North Miami Beach, FL; John Villon – PuroClean in Houston, TX; Tomas Mejia – PuroClean in Denver, CO; Jeff Jensen – PuroClean in Plant City, FL; Brenden Williams – PuroClean in Bradenton, FL; Tim Lohse – PuroClean in Chicago, IL
  • 2023 Brand Promise: Alejandro & Jennifer Restrepo – PuroClean in Wilton, CT
  • 2023 Technician Of The Year: Gabriel Rubio – PuroClean in North Miami Beach, FL
  • 2023 – 2024 Brand Ambassadors: Alejandro Restrepo – PuroClean in Wilton, CT; Brian Towne – PuroClean in Normal, IL; Sadiq Isu – PuroClean in Hilliard, OH; Ricardo Herdan – PuroClean in North Miami Beach, FL; Diego Barros – PuroClean in Longwood, FL; Nelson Rivera – PuroClean in Parsippany, NJ; Jerral Ingle – PuroClean in Fort Payne, AL; U.L. Armstrong – PuroClean in Boerne, TX; Mark Erickson – PuroClean in Charleston, SC; Ryan Back – PuroClean in St. Bonifacius, MN
  • 2022 – 2024 Network Leadership Council: Tim Lohse – PuroClean in Wood Dale, Northbrook, Chicago & Orland Park, IL; Plymouth & Waterford, MI; Waukesha & Green Bay, WI; Dallas, TX; Debi Heileman – PuroClean in Scottsdale, AZ; James Scalf – PuroClean in Murfreesboro & Nashville, TN; Jonathan Beever – PuroClean in Kingston & Poughkeepsie, NY; Christian Pedersen – PuroClean in Amherstburg, Canada; Darrel Depot – PuroClean in Williston, VT; Jeff Jensen – PuroClean in Plant City, FL; Ismail El Kehal – PuroClean in Houston, TX; Tomas Mejia – PuroClean in Denver, CO
  • 2023 Mentors: Becky Edgren – PuroClean in Moraine, OH; Bob Jordan – PuroClean in Lynnwood, WA; Craig & Jenny Hawkins – PuroClean in Woodinville, WA; Keegan Trudgen – PuroClean in Chicago, IL; Ricardo Herdan – PuroClean in North Miami Beach, FL; Chris Tucker – PuroClean in Fort Worth, TX
  • 2023 On The Move: Chris Schatz – PuroClean in Denver, Broomfield, Tod Creek & Westminster, CO
  • 2023 PuroClean Cares Award: Charles Atkins – PuroClean in Cleveland, TN
  • 2023 Public Relations Excellence Award (New Recognition): Jessie & Jennifer Wine – PuroClean in Burlington, WI

Commercial Large Loss Training

Focused training on managing large-scale commercial losses equipped attendees with advanced skills to handle significant restoration projects.

“This year’s conference in Denver has been our most successful yet,” said Mark W. Davis, PuroClean Chairman and CEO. “The level of engagement and the quality of our sessions reflect the dedication and passion of our entire PuroClean family. We remain committed to continued improvement and innovation in everything we do, and we’re so pleased to have such a dedicated franchise family.”

“We couldn’t be more thrilled with the success of our 2024 Convention,” said Steve White, President & COO of PuroClean. “The general sessions, awards banquet, and networking events were phenomenal, creating an energetic and positive environment for all. The opportunity to share knowledge, engage with peers, and support one another has truly made this event memorable, and we sincerely thank everyone who participated and contributed to this year’s success.”

(l-r): Mark W. Davis, Chairman and CEO, Sharon Atkins, Charles Atkins, Frank Torre, Vice Chairman, and Steve White, President and COO.

CLEVELAND, TN — Charles Atkins, owner of PuroClean in Cleveland, TN, was recently honored with the PuroClean Cares Award at the company’s Annual International Convention. Of nearly 500 franchise locations across North America, Atkins received the PuroClean Cares Award for his commitment to giving back to his community through not only his work in water, fire, mold, and biohazard restoration and remediation but also for his charitable participation within his community.

“I get many opportunities to be able to go and help, and I don’t get to do all of them, but this Appalachian Christians Project that we do – it’s our 25th anniversary this year. For the week of Thanksgiving, we all go. There’s usually about 25 of us, at our own expense, and we pay for everything; it’s all new clothes, new blankets, food,” Atkins said. “These communities that we go to in the Appalachian Mountains – they’re in desperate need of it, and we’re the ones that end up being blessed. I do a lot of missions, but I’m always the one that ends up blessed. Thank you.”

Having spent over a decade in the construction sector, Atkins has extensive restoration and housing experience. In 2004, he ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing his own mold remediation and restoration company. After a decade, he seized the opportunity to broaden his scope by joining PuroClean, enabling him to undertake projects nationwide, serving both residential and commercial clients. Beyond his professional endeavors, Atkins’ dedication to disaster relief and ministry reflects his profoundly caring and honest nature, setting him apart as a genuinely compassionate individual.

Over the past five years, Atkins has been recognized with numerous distinguished accolades for his outstanding contributions. He has been a member of the President’s Circle four times, a testament to his exceptional leadership and performance within the PuroClean franchise network. In 2020, Atkins also received the prestigious Rainmaker Award, further emphasizing his dedication and success in the industry. His commitment to excellence and service has not only elevated his own achievements but has also positively impacted the communities of Cleveland and surrounding areas through his philanthropic endeavors.

“The PuroClean Cares Award acknowledges Franchise Owners who exhibit a servant’s heart, surpassing expectations not only in their local community but also through charitable acts and service,” said Steve White, the PuroClean President and COO. “Charles and his team exemplify true servant leadership, volunteering for missions and supporting various community initiatives throughout the Cleveland area, showcasing exceptional dedication and impact.”

For more than 20 years, PuroClean has helped home and business owners with their restoration and remediation needs. With a network of more than 500 offices, PuroClean serves communities across the United States and Canada.

As a leading franchise concept, the PuroClean model is ideal for business entrepreneurs passionate about contributing to their communities during times of need or natural disasters. PuroClean Franchise Owners receive extensive training on proper remediation and restoration techniques through the PuroClean Academy, both hands-on and classroom-based, and are provided with pre-opening training courses to help prepare for the launch of their local PuroClean business. The company also offers marketing support to help its Franchise Owners reach success.

For more information about PuroClean in Cleveland, TN, call (423) 790-3500, or visit https://www.puroclean.com/ppde-tn/.

(l-r): George Hernandez, Senior Vice President of Operations, Commercial Large Loss, Mark W. Davis, Chairman and COO, Gabriel Lugo, Frank Torre, Vice Chairman, and Steve White, President and COO.

TAMARAC, FL — PuroClean, one of the country’s leading property restoration and remediation franchises, is proud to honor Gabriel Rubio, a Project Manager at PuroClean of Aventura, as the 2024 Technician of the Year. This award highlights his exceptional perseverance, diligence, and professionalism. Rubio, a Venezuelan native, has found purpose in the challenging but rewarding work of emergency restoration. A recipient of the Regional Director Choice Award, Rubio was selected from hundreds of technicians at nearly 500 PuroClean locations across North America.

“I am honored and delighted to stand as the winner of [this] incredible prize,” Gabriel Rubio said. “I would like to thank my family, my team, and my bosses, Ricardo [Herdan] and David [Shiffman], who have encouraged me and believed in me… to give my best. I look forward to continuing this journey and contributing positively to our shared goals. I’m grateful for this recognition and thank you for this great honor.”

Rubio’s professionalism and organization exemplify PuroClean’s commitment to helping local communities in their times of crisis. As a project manager, Rubio stood out for this award because of his unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction and his desire to go above and beyond to ensure PuroClean’s clients receive top-notch service. With over three years of experience with PuroClean, Rubio’s certifications include Water Damage Restoration, Applied Microbial Remediation (Biohazard), and Commercial Drying. Rubio takes pride in supporting the Aventura, Davie, and Downtown Miami franchise locations, ensuring that the work is done right every time. Rubio’s expertise and efficiency are reassuring to clients facing property damage.

“Our technicians are some of the most important people in our system as they are working with clients day in and day out,” said Steve White, the President and COO of PuroClean. “Gabriel has worked tirelessly to provide quality care, even in high-stress situations and while under pressure. He has vast technical knowledge, whether in water, storm, mold, or fire damage. Rubio exemplifies what it means to be a true Paramedic of Property Damage — stepping up no matter how difficult the job.”

Since its inception, PuroClean has been dedicated to delivering unparalleled restoration solutions and excellent customer service to communities in need. With a focus on professionalism, compassion and expertise, PuroClean Franchise Owners and technicians have become trusted partners for homeowners, businesses and insurance professionals. For more than 20 years, PuroClean has helped home and business owners with their restoration and remediation needs, serving communities across the United States, including Puerto Rico, and Canada with a network of nearly 500 offices. 

For more information about PuroClean of Aventura, Davie, and Downtown Miami, call 305-907-7373, email [email protected], or visit www.PuroClean.com/pa-fl, www.puroclean.com/pdm-fl, or www.puroclean.com/pd-fl.

FLORIDA — An organization and two companies are working together to create “Partnership for a Resilient America” amidst hurricane season. Resilience ForcePuroClean and Signal Restoration are collaborating “to train 1,000 resilience workers” to prepare for the hurricane season.


What You Need To Know

The “Partnership for a Resilient America” was announced Tuesday
It will train 1,000 resilience workers for the hurricane season
Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su traveled to Florida for the announcement

Acting U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Julie Su traveled to South Florida this week for the announcement of the new program. Su is visiting various states as part of the department’s “Good Jobs Summer Tour.” 

“As our country deals with more and more extreme weather caused by climate change, we’ll rely even more on workers who are well-trained to rebuild communities impacted by disaster. And the essential jobs they do must be good jobs. The Department of Labor is putting our resources, our expertise, and our vision into this work,” Su said.

Those who take part in the program will train at PuroClean’s facility in Tamarac, Fla., where the announcement was made. They will receive “climate resilience technician” certifications upon completion of the program. It will also work to help the graduates find jobs. 

While in Florida, Su also advocated for a national heat standard for workers. 

PUBLISHED BY CORINA CAPPABIANCA | NATIONWIDE – Spectrum News 13.

2024 PuroClean Cares®: Adopt A Classroom teacher in front of muscular arms and an apple.

We’ve recently concluded our 2024 PuroClean Cares®: Adopt A Classroom campaign, an initiative to support teachers by providing essential classroom supplies. Launched during National Teacher Appreciation Week and running through the start of the school year, our nationwide campaign helped alleviate financial burdens for educators who often pay out of pocket for materials. PuroClean Franchise Owners across the U.S. united to recognize and assist hardworking teachers in their communities.

“Our teachers need help. Supporting educators isn’t just a one-time act of gratitude; it’s a direct investment in our children and the future leaders of our communities,” said Steve White, President and COO.

Franchise Owners took action nationwide to make a lasting impact, with some standout efforts including:

  • Kimberly and Greg Arianoff, PuroClean of The Big Island (Hilo, Hawaii): These Hawaii-based Franchise Owners partnered with St. Joseph School to adopt two sports teams for a year-long support campaign. PuroClean of The Big Island supported an air riflery team in the fall and is supporting a canoe paddling team this the winter.
  • Charles and Sharon Atkins, PuroClean of Cleveland, Tennessee: PuroClean has partnered with Mrs. Renee Platero, a dedicated second-grade teacher at Charleston Elementary STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Academy. This campaign will run throughout the school year to ensure that these young minds practicing STEAM have the tools they need to learn and succeed.
  • U.L. and Audra Armstrong, PuroClean of Boerne, Texas: The Armstrongs are running a year-long campaign for educators and students in Boerne. The collected school supplies will be delivered to Canyon High School, Long Creek High School, and Boerne ISD regularly, directly impacting the lives of countless students.
  • Rick Van Dyke, Dennis O’Brien, and Brett Dalrymple, PuroClean of Springfield, Virginia: The team in Springfield selected five deserving teachers who were awarded prizes of $2,500 at Warrenton’s First Friday Festival in August. The winning local educators were Cathleen Beachboard, Krista Poole, Melissa Budd, Ashley Corvin, and Stephanie Staats.
  • Ben Doebler, PuroClean of Hillsboro, Oregon: PuroClean of Hillsboro teamed up with LOCAL Plumbing Co. and IREM Oregon-Columbia River Chapter for an incredible book drive fundraiser benefiting the SMART Reading program in Portland. They also partnered with Youth Villages for the Backpack Heroes Drive, donating backpacks filled with school supplies.
  • Catherine and Phil Peters, PuroClean of Chardon, Ohio: These Franchise Owners fulfilled a school supply list for Ms. Sarah McComas’ second-grade class at Ledgeview Elementary in Macedonia.
  • Ivan Oliver, PuroClean of San Antonio, Texas: Partnered with the Christian Assistance Ministry for their school drive. Oliver “adopted” 10 students and bought them backpacks and school supplies to start the school year strong.
  • Andrew Rankel, Jonathan Beever, and Shawn McDermott, New York: The PuroClean team in Kingston, New York, partnered with the Ulster County Board of Realtors and other local businesses to participate in Operation Backpack, which helps children experiencing homelessness, poverty, or other underprivileged circumstances.
  • PuroClean Home Office, Tamarac, FL: Partnered with the Tamarac North Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce and local businesses, including Bright Pink Agency and Allegra/Image 360 Pompano Beach, to provide classroom supplies for Ms. Kay Thomas at Millennium 6–12 Collegiate Academy. PuroClean Franchise Owners Carlos & Maria Niemes (PuroClean of Fort Lauderdale) and Joaquin Seminario (PuroClean of Deerfield Beach) played a key role in this initiative. To further support STEAM education, the Home Office also hosted Ms. Thomas’s class for a hands-on, STEAM-focused field trip, giving students real-world experience in the restoration industry at our flood house.

“By supporting educators like Ms. Thomas, we’re not just helping her; we’re uplifting the young minds of tomorrow,” said Alex Pericchi, VP of Marketing and Online Learning, “for the students in our communities to succeed, we need to ensure our educators have the tools they need to get the job done. This initiative is PuroClean’s way of saying that we see our teachers, appreciate them, and want to help them continue making a difference.”

PuroClean remains committed to strengthening communities by investing in education. To learn more about our 2024 PuroClean Cares®: Adopt A Classroom campaign, visit our campaign page. The full press release provides more details on how our Franchise Owners supported educators nationwide.

In celebration of National Superhero Day, PuroClean recognized outstanding individuals across the U.S. for their extraordinary service and dedication to their communities through our PuroClean Cares®: National Superhero campaign.

Among the honorees was Tamarac, FL, firefighter James Murad, who received the national award for his courageous efforts to save lives and protect property. Murad, along with other local heroes, was honored with awards, including an engraved crystal trophy, a medallion, and symbolic superhero attire.

“I am deeply humbled and grateful to receive this award from PuroClean on National Superhero Day,” said Murad. “It is truly an honor to serve alongside such dedicated individuals in the fire department, and I share this recognition with my fellow firefighters who work tirelessly to keep our community safe every day.”

Our nationwide campaign also highlighted heroes like Brandon Turner, who founded West Side Recovery in San Diego, CA, to help others overcome addiction, and Sandra and Mark LaFlamme of Canines for Heroes, who train service dogs for veterans in Sarasota, FL. Other honorees included educators, law enforcement officers, and community leaders who have demonstrated exceptional selflessness and dedication.

“In every community, there are unsung heroes, who wholeheartedly commit themselves to the betterment of others,” said Steve White, President and COO of PuroClean. “It is our duty to take the lead in recognizing and championing these extraordinary individuals.”

PuroClean Cares® reflects our ongoing commitment to making a positive impact by supporting local heroes and strengthening the communities we serve. Through initiatives like the PuroClean Cares®: National Superhero campaign, we aim to shine a light on individuals who inspire others and embody resilience, courage, and selflessness. These efforts underscore our mission of not just providing restoration services but also fostering a culture of giving back.

For more information about PuroClean’s efforts to honor local heroes, you can read the full press release. To explore all 2024 PuroClean Cares®: National Superhero campaign hero nominations, see the complete list.

To get involved in the PuroClean Cares® initiatives and make a difference in your community, visit PuroClean Cares® for more details.

PuroClean Cares Logo

The Paramedics of Property Damage Honor Local Heroes with National Superhero Day Awards

TAMARAC, FL – In a demonstration of its commitment to community service, PuroClean – one of the country’s leading property restoration and remediation franchises – marked National Superhero Day by recognizing heroes nationwide for their exceptional service and dedication. Among these heroes, Tamarac, FL, firefighter James Murad was honored with a national award for his outstanding contributions to his South Florida community. Murad’s unwavering dedication and selfless service have been nothing short of courageous acts and tireless efforts, which have saved countless lives and properties. As part of the award presentation, PuroClean presented firefighter Murad with an engraved crystal trophy as the national awardee, and a medallion, superhero cape and mask as the local winner.

“I am deeply humbled and grateful to receive this award from PuroClean on National Superhero Day,” said Murad. “It is truly an honor to serve alongside such dedicated individuals in the fire department, and I share this recognition with my fellow firefighters who work tirelessly to keep our community safe every day.”

PuroClean spotlighted other heroes across the nation, notably:

  • Brandon Turner is a professional skateboarder and local hero nominated by Tyrone Thomas, Jr. of PuroClean in San Diego and Spring Valley, CA. After overcoming addiction and alcoholism, he founded the organization West Side Recovery, which helps other young adults conquer their struggles.
  • As the Executive Director of The Caring PlaceCorinne Freeman, a seasoned Licensed Advanced Practice Social Worker, doesn’t cut corners when helping those who are less privileged. Her organization has helped homeless people get back on their feet and achieve success. Charles Atkins, a PuroClean franchise owner in Cleveland, TN, nominated her.
  • Michelle Martin is a middle school principal for children with disabilities, whom PuroClean franchise owner Sadiq Isu of Hilliard, Reynoldsburg, Westerville, OH, and Eugene, OR, nominated. She has stood by her husband’s side as he fought cancer and is a devoted mother of two children while completing her doctorate. 
  • Julia Jones of PuroClean in Bradenton and Sarasota, FL, nominated Sandra and Mark LaFlamme of Canines for Heroes. Their organization trains dogs to assist veterans and first responders in coping with the challenges of combat and community service.
  • A true hero at heart, Matthew Van Hagen of Merced City Fire was nominated by Noel Cornejo, Owner of PuroClean of Merced, CA. Matt is committed to his community in his professional and personal endeavors. He always seems to find a way to bring people closer together and bring out the best in everyone.
  • Greg Arianoff of PuroClean in Hilo, HI, nominated law officer and dedicated community member Michael Sailer for this year’s Superhero Day campaign. Michael has been serving in the police department for six years and has taken part on the force in several high-profile arrests.
  • Robert Lee, retired Coast Guard and current gym owner of Cross Collar Jiu Jitsu, was nominated by Izzy el Kehal of PuroClean in Houston, TX. In addition to teaching others self-defense, Robert is highly involved in local community efforts.
  • Kathy Li, owner of The Goddard School of Sugar Land was nominated by Nilo Quiroz, owner of PuroClean in Southwest Houston, Sugar Land, and Province, TX, for organizing community educational events, such as hurricane safety speeches. 
  • Roger Gauert of PuroClean in Lancaster, PA, nominated dedicated veteran and policeman Paul (PJ) Price. PJ’ track record includes serving in the Civil Air Patrol, Army National Guard, and as a PA State Trooper assigned to the Lancaster Patrol Division. He’s also served overseas as part of the 110 Infantry Division in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
  • A philanthropist, volunteer, and advocate for marginalized communities, Vice President of the Ulster County Regional Chamber of CommerceJess Davis works tirelessly daily to foster unity and support local businesses and organizations. The PuroClean team in Kingston, NY, nominated this exceptional woman for going above and beyond her traditional leadership duties.

The PuroClean Cares National Superhero Day campaign is a powerful testament to the extraordinary acts of kindness, courage, and selflessness exhibited by these individuals nationwide. Born out of a collective desire to honor those who go above and beyond, this celebration shines a light on the profound impact of everyday heroes across the U.S.

“In every community, there are unsung heroes, who wholeheartedly commit themselves to the betterment of others,” stated Steve White, President and COO of PuroClean. “As significant pillars in the fabric of their communities, it is our duty to take the lead in recognizing and championing these extraordinary individuals alike. We hope these awards serve as a reminder that their acts of kindness never go unnoticed.”

For more information about PuroClean and their commitment to supporting local heroes, visit https://www.puroclean.com/blog.

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