As the owner of M&D CleanStart, Melissa Shaw has not only transformed a modest cleaning service into a powerful force for positive change, but she’s also created a platform for empowering women and giving second chances to those who need them most.

Celebrating exceptional local women making significant impacts in our community.

Our 2024 Women of Influence Award Winners were nominated by peers and selected by the Family Focus Media team based on their achievements and dedication to creating positive change, as revealed through comprehensive questionnaires. Their profiles showcase their inspiring journeys and accomplishments.

Beyond the awards, our Women of Influence Luncheons and Speed Networking Night attendees form our growing “Women of Influence Network,” a community fostering connections, collaboration, and mutual support. We invite you to explore our Award Winners’ stories and leverage our Network Directory in the Women of Influence Guide. Reach out to fellow members to harness the power of our network through shared growth and support. For further engagement, we welcome business and nonprofit leaders to join our Family Focus Media Community Builders Group on Facebook and our NEW Women of Influence LinkedIn Group.

Nominated by Sandy Kauffman, Friend and Colleague

Melissa’s journey is one of remarkable growth and vision. “Melissa Shaw & her daughter Devon have taken a true mom & daughter tiny business to new heights,” Sandy shares. “From cleaning homes on their own to expanding to a 25+ person business, they look to lift women up who are struggling.”

Melissa’s inspiration to start her cleaning business came from a deeply personal place. “When I started cleaning by myself, it was for the sole purpose to help my family and have flexibility to make my own hours when my family needed me,” Melissa explains. This initial motivation has evolved into a broader mission: “Now what motivates me is making sure our employees have steady work.”

Driving Change

One of Melissa’s proudest achievements showcases her commitment to removing barriers for her employees. “In 2020 I had a goal to buy 5 vehicles for women to travel back and forth to work in. I achieved that goal. Now we have 12 vehicles and plan to buy 2 more in 2024,” she proudly states. This initiative goes beyond mere transportation; it includes unlimited gas and insurance coverage, easing a significant burden for her employees.

Second Chances and New Beginnings

M&D CleanStart stands out as a second chance employer, a policy that has led to remarkable transformations. “Seeing some of the employees’ growth has been simply amazing,” Melissa reflects. The company has even helped re-home five people, demonstrating a commitment that transcends the bounds of workplace.

Mentorship and Empowerment

Melissa’s impact casts a wide net. She has mentored two other women who have started their own cleaning businesses, both of which are now thriving in shore communities. This commitment to lifting others up is a cornerstone of Melissa’s approach to business and community involvement.

Looking ahead, Melissa envisions even greater support for her employees and their families. “One thing I would love to do to improve gender equality and empower women would be to create high quality affordable child care,” she shares. “In fact, my daughter and I often dream of opening a space in our office so our families know their children are safe and cared for and they have employment they can count on.”

Community Engagement and Giving Back

Melissa’s commitment to her community is evident in various ways. From donating cleaning services to families in need to participating in local events and volunteering for Haverford activities, she ensures that M&D CleanStart is a positive force in the area.

Balancing Act

Like many working mothers, Melissa acknowledges the challenge of balancing various roles and responsibilities. “This is a really hard one I think, especially for women!” she admits. Her approach involves setting priorities, creating a schedule, and recognizing that balance is an ongoing effort. “Family always comes first though,” she emphasizes.

Future Aspirations

Melissa’s goals for the future reflect her commitment to her employees’ growth and well-being. “Future goals professionally would be to get a few of our employees their licenses and buy them a car,” she says. She also hopes to continue the company’s role as a second chance employer, providing more opportunities for those who need them.

Melissa Shaw’s story is one of entrepreneurial success intertwined with a deep commitment to community upliftment. Through M&D CleanStart, she has created more than just a cleaning service; she has built a platform for empowerment and second chances. As Sandy Kauffman puts it, these are “cleaning ladies on a mission to better their neighborhood.” Melissa’s journey serves as an inspiring example of how business success and social responsibility can go hand in hand, creating a ripple effect of positive change throughout a community.