Operation Fresh Start and Spectrum Partner to Empower Madison Emerging Adults

Spectrum employee volunteers pose with OFS staff, OFS board members, and elected officials before beginning to remodel parts of OFS on Saturday, July 12.

On Saturday, July 12, Operation Fresh Start (OFS) proudly partnered with Spectrum through the Spectrum Community Center Assist initiative, bringing hands-on renovations, upgraded technology, and a transformational $50,000 investment to OFS’s workforce development programs. 

As part of Spectrum’s nationwide $30 million initiative to revitalize 100 community centers across its 41-state footprint, this event marked not just a facility refresh but a deepened commitment to building a community where opportunity is within reach for all.  

“We believe in second chances—and more importantly, we believe in fresh starts,” OFS Executive Director Brian McMahon said. “This partnership with Spectrum helps us deliver on that promise.” 

A dozen Spectrum employee volunteers worked side-by-side with OFS staff, board members, and community members to update a training space with new furniture, paint, and technology. 

Through this partnership, Spectrum donated:  

• Five new laptops
• 15 new Chromebooks  
• A S1 55” Vibe Board 
• Flexible classroom furniture and storage cabinets  
• A remodeled multipurpose training room
• 1 gigabit-per-second internet service  

Build Academy/Legacy Build Two New Homes in Sun Prairie

On Thursday, July 17, OFS hosted an open house event to celebrate the completion of both a market-rate and an affordable single-family home, constructed almost entirely by participants ages 16 to 24 under the supervision of construction trainers and program staff.

“This is far more than wood, nails, and paint,” OFS Executive Director Brian McMahon said during the event. “These homes are here because of the grit, determination, and teamwork of our young people and supervisors.”

One house, 1088 Kamperschroer Way, was built by Build Academy participants, part of OFS’s pre-apprenticeship training program. This market-rate house is a two-story, 1,866 sq. ft 3 bed/2.5 bath home.

The other house at 1096 Kamperschroer Way is a Community Development Block Grant house built by OFS Legacy participants through their YouthBuild Global AmeriCorps service. This affordable home is a 1,319 sq. ft 3 bed/2 bath ranch built by young adults working toward earning their high school diploma.

Nia speaks about building 1088 Kamperschroer Way as a part of her Build Academy Experience. She is now employed with Sergenian's Floor Coverings.

Open House Media Coverage

OFS Hosts Full Circle Celebration at Atwood Music Hall

On a warm summer evening, laughter, memories, and hope echoed through the walls of a once-familiar space. Operation Fresh Start’s Full Circle Celebration, held at the beautifully renovated Atwood Music Hall, brought together decades of staff, alumni, board members, and community supporters to honor the organization's deep roots and ever-growing impact.

The building at 1925 Winnebago St. served as OFS’s headquarters for roughly 40 years. Now reimagined as a music venue, the space still holds the heartbeat of the thousands of young people whose lives were transformed inside its walls.  

"This is a full-circle moment," said Brian McMahon, OFS Executive Director, who began his career in that building 26 years ago. “We truly love this building. In many ways, I grew up here as a young professional, and OFS grew up here as an organization.”  

OFS Executive Director Brian McMahon recalled his first day stepping into the old OFS building as a construction supervisor, full of ambition to build affordable housing.

“But very quickly, I learned that this organization was about building young people and building futures,” he said.  

The evening wasn’t just about memories—it was also a celebration of the building’s transformation and the young people who helped make it possible.  

A Fresh Start Leads to a Life of Service

Adriel Romero Cadena, known by many as “Rico,” always knew he wanted more for his life—but like so many young adults, he didn’t always know where to find it. 

Before Operation Fresh Start (OFS), Adriel was attending Madison East High School while juggling the responsibility of helping to support his family.  

“I had to work and make money so I could take care of my family,” he said. “I wasn’t getting the right help from my school. My counselor was trying her best, but it just wasn’t enough for me.” 

That’s when Adriel turned to family. His cousin Eric had gone through OFS's Legacy program a few years earlier, and his uncle Ricky had participated as well—back when Brian McMahon, now the organization’s Executive Director, was still a crew supervisor. 

Encouraged by their success and recommendations, Adriel applied and was hired for the OFS Legacy program.  

“At first, I just wanted to show up and work as hard as I could,” he said. “I wanted to be productive, and I was willing to push myself academically because I knew I had to learn the things I missed out on.” 

It didn’t take long for the OFS staff to notice his drive.  

“Rico showed up every single day with purpose,” said his supervisor Nate. “No matter the weather, no matter how hard the work, he was right there by our side—always learning, always leading.” 

Adriel’s hunger for knowledge set him apart.  

“I’m obsessed with learning,” he said. “Even if it’s something small, I want to know all of it. Because for the future I want—the life I want—I need to know as much as I can. I want to be ready.” 

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!

Thank you First Baptist Church of Madison!

A heartfelt thank you goes out to First Baptist Church of Madison!

We are honored to have been chosen as the benefiting charity for this year’s Easter Offering, and incredibly grateful to receive nearly $10,000 in support of our mission.

Thank you to the generous congregation members for believing in the work we do with young people across Dane County. Our Development Specialist, Nina, had a wonderful time meeting members of the church’s committee and sharing more about the impact of their gifts.

Your support helps us continue building brighter futures—together.

🎓 Legacy Graduations 🎓

Congratulations to Lamar on graduating from Legacy and receiving his high school diploma from the Madison Metropolitan School District!

Lamar joined Operation Fresh Start’s Legacy crew with big goals for personal and professional growth. Over the past year, he made major strides in time management, accountability, confidence, and carpentry skills—even helping frame and finish a new home in Sun Prairie.

His supervisor, Miles, shared:

"Lamar came in with a lot of skills, but what stood out was his ability to grow through every challenge. He took responsibility for his future, showed up every day—even when it meant catching multiple buses—and became someone the entire crew could rely on."

Now, he’s walking away with:

• A high school diploma
• A pre-apprenticeship certificate in carpentry
• An AmeriCorps education award
• And a solid career path towards HVAC work at Madison College

Lamar, your hard work, calm presence, and determination have left a lasting impression. We're proud of your journey—and we know this is just the beginning!

Congratulations to Khalayah on graduating from Legacy and receiving her high school diploma from the Madison Metropolitan School District!

From day one, Khalayah brought her full self to the program, balancing school, a job, and top-tier attendance while lifting up her crew with humor, confidence, and genuine connection.

Her supervisor Danny shared:

“She was the glue of our crew—someone who could talk to anyone and make them laugh. She showed up, took accountability, and brought serious morale to tough days."

Khalayah reflected at her graduation:

“I felt every emotion but still held my respectful, accountable work ethic. Being on the crew helped me learn about people, their backgrounds, and myself. My advice: show up for your future. Every skill matters later in life.”

Now she’s moving forward with:

• A high school diploma
• A pre-apprenticeship certificate in conservation
• An AmeriCorps education award
• And a creative future in photography at Madison College

We’re so proud of your growth, grit, and individuality, Khalayah. Keep being unapologetically you, and capturing the world through your lens! 

🎓 Academy Signings 🎓

Congratulations to Berto on signing with JH Findorff as a mason!

Berto always brought unmatched energy, work ethic, and a contagious smile to the job site. As Build Academy Program Coordinator, Faith said:

“He wasn't just here to participate. He was here to work—and work he did.”

Berto had perfect attendance at Build Academy, in addition to being a father of two and taking night classes. He always went above and beyond in his work and personal life.

Tier One Supervisor Joe shared:

“Berto followed his own path… he just kept showing up, and all of a sudden, the path appeared. You’re going to be a great mason—Findorff made the right choice.”

Even his peers were inspired. One Build Academy participant said:

“He was the glue to our group… always lighting up the mood. One of the few people I really connected with—he’s more than a coworker, he’s family.”

After graduating, Berto didn’t skip a beat—immediately jumping into a six-week masonry boot camp, then landing the job at Findorff where he continues to shine.

As Berto said at graduation:

“I just want to thank everyone for pushing me and believing in me. This isn’t just a program—it’s a family.”

We couldn’t be prouder Berto, your future is as strong as the foundations you lay! 

2025 OFS Gala: Save the Date!

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