May 2025 ♥ Thank you for reading and click here to support! | | OFS Honors Earth Day Through Hands-On Learning | | David, a Legacy participant, showed off his tree climbing skills at Token Creek County Park. | |
This Earth Day, Operation Fresh Start teamed up with Dane County Parks, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for a full day of hands-on conservation learning at Token Creek County Park — and it was nothing short of inspiring.
From tree climbing and stream monitoring to prescribed burns and pollinator education, young people explored careers in conservation while building confidence, overcoming fears, and connecting with nature.
Former OFS participants Marcus, Alec, and Nick led stations, showcasing what they do as Dane County Park employees — a powerful full-circle moment that shows just how far hard work and opportunity can go.
As one participant said, “It opened my eyes to things I’ve never seen before. It definitely makes me think about what I want to do in conservation.”
We believe young people belong in the outdoors — and in the future of conservation. This Earth Day proved it.
| | Two Degrees of Separation: A.C. Brooks | Two Degrees of Separation is a new column we started in 2024, dedicated to showcasing the incredible journeys of OFS alumni who are making a difference in the community. Through Two Degrees of Separation, we aim to celebrate these connections and illustrate the lasting impact OFS has on individuals and the communities they serve, as well as highlight that people in Dane County are within two degrees (versus six) away from an OFS connection. | From Hard Times to Hard Hats: A.C.’s Journey from OFS Graduate to Business Owner | | A.C. poses after working on a porch remodeling project. | |
Meet A.C.—a Madison native who turned his life around with the help of Operation Fresh Start. After facing school struggles and personal setbacks, A.C. found purpose, confidence, and skills through OFS's Legacy program.
Today, he's the proud owner of Saved By The Bell Construction, building homes, opportunity, and a future for others like him.
“OFS saved my life. Now I want to give back to the community," A.C. said.
From swinging hammers to running a business, A.C.'s story is proof of what’s possible when young people are given a second chance—and the support to succeed.
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Spectrum News 1 Wisconsin Reporter Megan Marshall joined Nate's Legacy Conservation Crew on Thursday, May 15, at Lake View Hill Park in Madison! Thank you to Megan and Spectrum News 1 for compiling this wonderful news package on Adriel Romero (Rico) and our Legacy program!
Their recent story highlights how young adults in Dane County are building brighter futures through education, mentorship, and hands-on job training while making a difference in the community.
Conservation crews have been busy this month pulling invasive species across Dane County!
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We’re thrilled to celebrate Violet, who officially earned their driver’s license on May 15 through the OFS Drive Program!
A Madison native and dedicated participant, Violet had perfect attendance during the program—showing up with focus, commitment, and an open mind every step of the way.
“Driving was very overwhelming for me,” Violet shared. “But the step-by-step learning in the Drive Program helped me build confidence.”
Violet has been an artist since the age of 5 and plans to pursue a career in the arts, and now, they have the independence and mobility to follow their creative dreams wherever they lead.
Way to go, Violet! Your growth and perseverance are an inspiration.
Thank you to 4 Lakes Driving School for the continued partnership in helping us provide a free pathway for young adults to earn their driver's license!
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Thank You, Altrusa!
Operation Fresh Start is honored to receive a $2,000 grant from Altrusa Fund of Madison Community Foundation, a service organization dedicated to promoting literacy and helping individuals reach their full educational potential.
These funds will support the purchase of three new physics kits for our Legacy program participants, bringing hands-on science learning to life!
“These funds will allow OFS to purchase three physics kits," Legacy Teacher Justin said. "Two of these kits will explore structures, pulleys, and electromagnetism. The other allows young people to affix components to a circuit board to create a keyboard or a colorful lamp.”
Thank you to Justin and our volunteer mentor Ben, who attended the May 21 awards reception and discussed this project's future impact. Thank you again to Altrusa for investing in our young people’s education and curiosity!
| | Options and Drive to Succeed Coordinator Awarded Sheriff's Citizens Award | | |
We’re proud to share that Trevor, OFS Options and Drive to Succeed Coordinator, has been honored with the Sheriff's Citizens Award by Dane County Sheriff Kalvin Barrett!
This award recognizes Trevor’s sincere commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our community. Through his volunteer work at the Paul Rusk Resource Desk in the Public Safety Building lobby, Trevor provides vital resources and support to individuals released from jail and others in need who walk through the doors.
Trevor’s compassion, dedication, and belief in second chances reflect the very heart of our mission at Operation Fresh Start. Thank you, Trevor, for being a true example of service and impact!
The OFS Options Program is an alternative way to finish high school and reach your goals. Whether you want to earn your high school diploma, GED or HSED – there are several options you can pursue with support from Operation Fresh Start.
Drive to Succeed is a collaborative mentorship program between Operation Fresh Start and our partner organization, JustDane, designed for emerging adults aged 17 ½ to 24 with past or present justice involvement. Over the course of a six-week cohort, participants receive personalized mentorship that focuses on overcoming barriers faced by justice-involved individuals.
| | Welcome New Board Member! | | |
Tom Ward (he/him)
Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer at Quartz
Tom has been with Quartz since 2014 and leads the organization’s Human Resources, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging, Internal Communications, and Organizational Learning strategies.
With over 20 years of experience in HR leadership across financial services and manufacturing industries, Tom brings a strong focus on talent development and transformational change.
He holds a degree in adult learning from the UW–Madison School of Human Ecology and multiple professional certifications, including Certified Compensation Professional (CCP), PROSCI Change Practitioner, and LEAN Six Sigma Yellow Belt.
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Congratulations to Jacob on graduating from Legacy and receiving his high school diploma from the Sun Prairie Area School District!
Jacob is a young person who shows up daily, brings unmatched positivity, and leads with integrity and heart.
“Jacob has been my right-hand man from day one,” said his supervisor, Ian. “He had perfect attendance and made every job easier and more fun. Whether it was learning new skills, helping the team, or hunting for deer antlers on lunch break, he brought curiosity and kindness to everything he did.”
Jacob leaves OFS with:
- His high school diploma from Sun Prairie Schools
- A pre-apprenticeship certificate in Conservation & Urban Forestry
- Over $2,600 in AmeriCorps education funds
- A bright future, with an interview lined up at Toyota!
From Jacob:
“Before OFS, I was at one of my lowest points. But here, I found support, structure, and a team that believed in me. If a day gets hard—or 100 days—just keep going. You’ll get there.”
We couldn’t be prouder of you, Jacob. Your leadership, humor, and heart left a lasting impact—and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
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Congratulations to Josh on graduating from Legacy and receiving his high school diploma from the Madison Metropolitan School District!
Josh's journey has been marked by outstanding attendance, a positive attitude, and a strong aptitude for learning.
"Josh showed up and he was ready to work from day one," his supervisor, Miles, said. "He used this as an opportunity to do exactly what the name of our program is— having a fresh start and reinventing yourself."
Josh personally thanked Miles for "teaching me to push myself harder."
Even when faced with challenges, Josh stayed focused, honest, and determined, earning the respect of his peers and supervisors.
Now, equipped with his:
- High School Diploma from MMSD
- Pre-Apprenticeship Readiness Certificate in Carpentry
- $2,600 AmeriCorps Education Award
Josh is ready to keep building his future in Build Academy! We’re proud of you, Josh, and we can’t wait to see the great things you accomplish next.
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Congratulations to Logan on graduating from Legacy and receiving his high school diploma from the Madison Metropolitan School District!
We celebrated Logan’s graduation from the Operation Fresh Start Legacy program—a young leader whose impact has left a lasting impression on everyone around him.
"At just 17, Logan showed a level of work ethic, maturity, and leadership that would be impressive at any age," said Ian, his site supervisor. "He didn’t just do the work—he lifted the team up."
From managing a second job as a store lead to mentoring his peers on the job site, Logan brought consistency, positivity, and heart to everything he did.
“Two years ago, I was skipping 90% of school. I didn’t have a plan—except for OFS,” Logan shared. “This program helped me become passionate about conservation, gain skills I didn’t know I needed, and become better—mentally, professionally, and personally.”
Logan hopes to continue his OFS journey in Build Academy, where he’ll continue building his skills and leadership in the trades. We couldn’t be more proud!
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Congratulations to Kenyan on graduating from Legacy and receiving his high school diploma from the Madison Metropolitan School District!
Kenyan’s journey at OFS has been defined by resilience, leadership, and growth. From starting in construction to transitioning into conservation with a new supervisor mid-program, Kenyan embraced new environments, new crews, and new challenges—all with determination and a powerful presence.
“Kenyan is someone whose presence is felt no matter where he is," his Legacy supervisor, Nate, said. "He’s a young man with a strong work ethic and the kind of leadership potential that will make a real impact in his field and community.”
Known for his curiosity, bold opinions, and contagious energy, Kenyan brought heart and humor to every worksite—and left a lasting impact on his peers and crew leaders.
“The main takeaway I got from OFS is to work hard and keep going," Kenyan said. "It’s always nice to have a good support system around you.”
Now that he has entered Build Academy, Kenyan is ready to sharpen his skills even further and continue building a strong, purpose-driven future. We’re proud of you, Kenyan, and we can’t wait to see what you accomplish next!
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On May 1, we celebrated not just a graduation, but a groundbreaking achievement. Ja'Myia has completed Operation Fresh Start's Build Academy and has started her new role at Lake City Glass — becoming the only female glazier in Dane County!
Ja’Myia balanced parenting, multiple jobs, and our rigorous pre-apprenticeship program with unwavering determination. She showed up early, worked hard, stayed positive, and led by example. Her grit and work ethic impressed everyone she met, from OFS supervisors to construction site foremen to her new employer.
“She carried with her an intrinsic drive and a strong work ethic,” said her Tier 1 supervisor, Jason.
“All three commercial supervisors pulled me aside to say how impressed they were with her skill, initiative, and commitment.”
During her time with us, Ja'Myia earned her:
- OSHA-10
- First Aid/CPR Certification
- Driver’s License
- Pre-Apprenticeship in Carpentry
Ja'Myia is now building frames and small windows as she grows in her new role with Lake City Glass—and she’s just getting started.
“I never thought I’d be in this field as a woman,” Ja’Myia said. “Operation Fresh Start gave me opportunities I never imagined—and I loved every moment of it.”
We're incredibly proud of your journey, Ja'Myia. You're not just building a career—you’re breaking barriers and inspiring the next generation of tradeswomen.
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We celebrated Raúl on April 29, who has officially completed Build Academy and started working with McGann Construction, Inc.!
From day one, Raul showed up with a strong work ethic, a great attitude, and the drive that sets a foundation for long-term success.
During his time at Operation Fresh Start, Raul earned:
- OSHA-10 Certification
- First Aid Certification
- Pre-Apprenticeship Readiness Certificate in Carpentry
His supervisors shared that Raul took initiative, stayed focused, and made every opportunity count. He didn’t just build carpentry skills—he built confidence, leadership, and a powerful future.
"From day one, Raul brought a willingness to learn, a strong work ethic, and a positive attitude that lifted those around him," Build Academy Coordinator Faith said.
Raul, we are so proud of you and can’t wait to see all you accomplish in your career. Keep building big!
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Norman Fuentes (he/him)
Legacy Construction Supervisor
Norman is originally from Chiapas, Mexico—home to some of history's most legendary construction workers. (They built pyramids, after all.)
He attended Sennett Middle School and La Follette High School in Madison, but from an early age, it was clear he was destined for a world of hammers and hard hats.
Norman began building alongside his family at just 15 and went on to explore a variety of jobs—including a memorable stint as a photographer for Santa at East Towne Mall. However, construction was always his true calling.
He's worked across commercial, residential, and remodeling projects and takes pride in creating things with his hands. When he's not on the job site, Norman enjoys grilling, playing soccer, and watching boxing matches—a true modern Renaissance man.
| | 2025 OFS Gala: Save the Date! | | |
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