First CareerPoint Early Childhood Education Cohort Graduates at Overture Center!

Six CareerPoint Early Childhood Education Cohort graduates with their certifications in the Promenade Lounge at the Overture Center on Thursday, July 21. Pictured (left-right) Danasia, Sacora, Amanda, Shaun, Tye'Ja, and Layla.

This summer, Operation Fresh Start, in partnership with 4-C: Community Coordinated Child Care, Reach Dane, and Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin, launched a six-week Early Childhood Education cohort that transformed lives, not just careers.

Our first cohort graduated from a six-week professional development course, earning certifications like CPR/First Aid, SIDS, and mandated reporting to become assistant teachers.

Under the guidance of veteran early childhood specialist Briana Kurlinkus, participants learned not only the “what” of early learning but the “why”—leveraging lived experience, trauma-informed approaches, and compassionate practice.

In their work experience at Reach Dane, and their visits to The Playing Field, YMCA, and GiGi's Playhouse - Madison, they gained hands-on experience and built the confidence to thrive.

Powerful reflections from participants:

“I kind of just felt lost after high school… this has got to be the best resource I’ve ever come across.”

“Everyone here is welcoming and supportive… even if you’re going through something, they’ll uplift you.”

We’re deeply grateful to Reach Dane, 4‑C, the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin, and all our partners for helping build systems that empower the next generation of educators. 

OFS in the News!

A heartfelt thank you to Emily Hamer and the Wisconsin State Journal for sharing the powerful journeys of three young graduates at Operation Fresh Start—and for shining a light on the deep connection between mental health and success.

This article beautifully captures how trauma, addiction, and depression can stand in the way of opportunity—and how with the right support, young people can overcome those barriers and thrive.

At OFS, we believe success starts with stability—and that includes mental and emotional well-being. We’re proud to support young people on their path to healing and achievement.

Check out the full article below, and a video of Don, one of the graduates in the article, talking about how OFS helped him along his journey.

Thank You to Ian Duncan!

A big thank you also goes out to Ian Duncan! After Ian saw the article mentioned above in the Wisconsin State Journal, he wrote a letter to the editor expressing his endorsement of OFS.

When Ian and a neighbor took on a major buckthorn removal project, our Legacy participants stepped in—cutting trees, hauling brush, and later returning to plant native shrubs and reseed the area.

Ian described it best:

“It was a pleasure working with this well-led crew. They worked hard as a team. We shared some humor and got the job done… The transformation of the woods is wonderful and very gratifying.”

Thank you, Ian, for your kind words and for recognizing the dedication and teamwork of our young people. Together, we’re building stronger communities and brighter futures.

RSVP to 2025 OFS Gala

🌟 Mark Your Calendar! 🌟

Join us on Thursday, September 25, 2025 for the 5th Annual Operation Fresh Start Gala — an evening of transformation, resilience, and hope.

Be inspired by powerful stories from OFS participants who have overcome obstacles and stepped boldly into their futures. We'll also honor the incredible supporters who help make this life-changing work possible.

🎟️ Tickets: $100 — Reserve your seat today and be part of something truly special.

Community Collaboration Shines at 2nd Annual Block Party

Hundreds of families, neighbors, and friends joined us to celebrate community, connect with resources, and enjoy an afternoon of fun!

The day was packed with highlights:

• A Construction Career Fair where attendees connected with local employers and training opportunities.

• Open Houses at Operation Fresh Start and Reach Dane showcased the impact of our programs.

• The River Food Pantry’s Mobile Munch Truck served up free meals.

• La Familia Dental’s Mobile Dental Unit, sponsored by M3 Foundation, providing on-site dental care.

• Kid-friendly fun with a bounce house, face painting, and more!

• Dozens of amazing nonprofit partners offered resources and support.

Events like this show the true power of partnership. Together, we’re creating spaces where families feel supported, young people feel empowered, and the community grows stronger.

Thank you to everyone who came out, and to our dedicated partners who made this celebration possible. We can’t wait to see you again next year!

Conservation Crews join County Executive Agard for her "25 for 25" Challenge!

On August 14, OFS Legacy Conservation crews joined Dane County Executive Melissa Agard at Festge County Park for her “25 for 25” Dane County Parks Challenge!

Over the past decade, OFS crews have partnered with Dane County Parks and the Festge Friends Group to transform the park into one of the most beautiful natural areas in Southern Wisconsin. 

"Our OFS crew members have tackled vegetation management projects on some of the steepest, toughest terrain Dane County has to offer," Director of Legacy and Conservation, Cory Rich, said. "From removing brush and applying pesticides to carrying out prescribed burns, the work at Festge is never easy, but the results speak for themselves."

During the visit, OFS participant Daishelle led a nature hike to a scenic overlook, sharing how our crews’ efforts have restored native prairies, improved wildlife habitat, and enhanced the trails.

We were also joined by OFS Board Member Chris Kilgour from Color In The Outdoors, who reminded us that nature is for all and highlighted the importance of creating inclusive outdoor spaces.

Thank you, County Executive Agard, for recognizing the impact of our young people as they gain hands-on conservation skills while building brighter futures!

Three Emerging Adults Graduate from Summer Trades Academy

Operation Fresh Start and WRTP | BIG STEP hosted the Summer Trades Academy to help prepare participants for a Registered Apprenticeship. This six-week, intensive hands-on training was designed to develop entry-level skills and provided participants with tangible credentials to take with them into their careers as Registered Apprentices.

This program is an MC3-accredited apprenticeship. Young adults had the chance to tour the Electricians, Plumbers, Insulators, Bricklayers, Operator Engineers, Roofers, Painters & Allied Trades, Cement Masons, Sheet Metal, Laborers, and Iron Workers.

The graduates completed OSHA 10, First Aid/CPR, Flagger Certification, and Building Science Principles, resulting in tangible certificates. In addition, they studied construction math, industry history, and diversity in the trades. These participants spent time in the classroom and our training lab, gaining exposure to as much as we could provide!

Our graduates, Alvin and Clark, submitted applications to unions and companies, but plan to enroll in Build Academy if not hired. Devon intends to explore CDL or cement work.

Third Drive Cohort of 2025 Begins

Our third Drive Program Cohort of the year launched Monday, August 4!

This cohort consists of 10 participants committed to obtaining their learner's permits and driver's licenses.

The OFS Drive program, in partnership with 4 Lakes Driving School, follows a structured curriculum that covers the five stages of Driver's Education.

This includes:

• Eight two-hour class meetings
• Studying and passing the learner’s permit test
• Five behind-the-wheel lessons
• Taking the road test until participants pass and receive their driver's licenses

Beyond driving skills, we also bring in local collaborators to teach participants essential life skills related to driving and car ownership. Experts from the Madison Police Department, UW Credit Union, and American Family Insurance share valuable insights on insurance, car loans, and what to do if pulled over.

The Drive Program is available at no cost to young adults aged 18-24 in Dane County, combining free driver's education with career exploration opportunities.

Thank you 2nd Market Capital Economic Opportunity Foundation!

We’re deeply honored to announce that for the seventh consecutive year, the 2nd Market Capital Economic Opportunity Foundation is generously supporting OFS with a $25,000 matching gift challenge!

From now through September 30, every dollar you give will be doubled to $25,000 to support young people on their journey to education, employment, and self-sufficiency.

That means your gift has twice the impact. Twice the opportunity. Twice the transformation. Make your gift today and be part of something powerful.

Milio's Sandwiches selects OFS as their Q3 Local Matters Partner!

Thank you to Milio's Sandwiches for selecting Operation Fresh Start as their Q3 Local Matters Partner!

Now through September, every bite makes a difference, because a portion of your Milio’s purchase at any Dane County location goes directly to supporting OFS programs that build brighter futures for local young adults.

Thank you, Milio’s, for supporting young adults, education, and opportunity in our community. Baking a Difference never tasted so good!

CareerPoint Finance Cohort Applications are Open!

Are you 18–24 and ready to launch your career? Operation Fresh Start’s next CareerPoint cohort is your bridge to a future in Finance & Customer Service!

Cohort starts: Sept. 29

Here’s what you’ll get:

• Six weeks of paid professional training.
• Career readiness skills to thrive in the workforce.
• Hands-on job training with top local business partners.
• Opportunities to interview with credit unions, banks, and insurance companies.
• Support from start to finish by the CareerPoint team.

Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable skills, earn while you learn, and open the door to high-demand career opportunities!

August is National Make-A-Will Month!

Have you thought about preparing for your future?

Creating or updating your will is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your loved ones are cared for and your wishes are honored. Whether you're just getting started or it's time for a review, August is the perfect reminder to make it a priority.

A will provides peace of mind—knowing your assets will be distributed according to your preferences and that your legacy will live on just as you intend.

As you reflect on the values and causes that have shaped your life, we hope you’ll consider including Operation Fresh Start in your will or estate plans. A legacy gift—no matter the size—can have a lasting impact on the lives of the young people we serve for generations to come.

Don’t wait for a life event to get started. Use this month as your motivation to take action.

To learn more about the Jack Osteraas Heritage Society, click below!

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