OFS Takes 2nd at 2025 Prairie Seed Challenge

OFS participants and staff pose with seeds they collected at on Thursday, October 5.

OFS had a fantastic time at this year’s Prairie Seed Challenge on Thursday, October 2!

Our crew came ready to compete and help restore Wisconsin’s native prairies, and we’re proud to share that OFS finished in second place again this year!

Hosted by Dane County Parks, this year’s friendly competition brought together teams from Operation Fresh Start, Dane County Parks, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Ducks Unlimited, and Pheasants Forever. Each group worked hard collecting prairie seed to help restore one of Wisconsin’s most threatened ecosystems, with less than 0.1% of native prairie remaining statewide.

Beyond the competition, the event celebrates the strong partnerships that make conservation work thrive across our region.

Huge thanks to Dane County Parks for hosting and everyone who participated — your dedication helps keep Wisconsin’s prairies growing strong!

Development Director Jody Weyers awarded 2025 AFP Greater Madison Outstanding Professional Fundraiser!

Congratulations to Operation Fresh Start’s Development Director, Jody Weyers!

We’re thrilled to share that Jody has been named the Association of Fundraising Professionals - AFP Greater Madison Outstanding Professional Fundraiser for its 2025 National Philanthropy Day Celebration on Thursday, November 13.

This well-deserved recognition celebrates Jody’s incredible leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to Operation Fresh Start’s mission and the young people we serve.

Our Development Specialist, Nina, shared this heartfelt nomination:

“I have seen firsthand her dedication, commitment to the mission of Operation Fresh Start, and true passion for serving her community. Not only is Jody great at what she does, but she leads with her heart… She is genuine, knowledgeable, and appreciative — a thoughtful, giving servant leader who is willing to do whatever she can to make the world around her a better place.”

Under Jody’s leadership, Operation Fresh Start has continued to grow its impact and fundraising success while always keeping young people at the center of it all.

In her six years at Operation Fresh Start, Jody has been so much more than a fundraiser — she’s been, as OFS Executive Director Brian McMahon and Board Chair Jeff Russell wrote in their nomination, “a passionate advocate, tireless relationship-builder, and visionary leader who brings people together to support transformative change for young people in Greater Madison.”

Noah Salata, Vice President of Philanthropy and Community Engagement at the Goodman Community Center, also shared:

“I, and others, have been able to leverage her wisdom and experience for the betterment of our own organizations and Madison as a community. Her thoughtful actions are further complimented by her genuine desire to support the entire ecosystem. She shows up to nonprofit events across Madison as a cheerleader, supporter, and donor. She recognizes the challenging work of fundraisers and honors that with her own time and energy.”

CareerPoint's Fall Financial Services Cohort in Full Gear

The CareerPoint Finance & Customer is already halfway through!

We’re thrilled to welcome three amazing participants— (left-right) Austin, Sunshine, and Michelle—who bring incredible talent and dedication to the program.

Over 6 weeks, they’re:

• Building professional skills
• Training with community partners
• Connecting with local employers
• Earning a stipend while preparing for career-track roles

Thank you to our employer partners, Lake Ridge Bank, UW Credit Union, American Family Insurance, The Parsley App, Anchored Agency, and Spherion, for supporting the next generation of young professionals.

This cohort is paving the way for careers in banking, credit unions, and insurance—and we can’t wait to see their success!

OFS Featured in The Corps Network Research Report

OFS is proud to be featured in the latest report from The Corps Network! Check out photos of our hardworking participants on the cover and on pages 7 and 12.

The Corps Network released this September report with Jobs for the Future – Strengthening Service-to-Career Pathways: Amplifying Successful Practices From The Corps Network. 

From The Corps Network: This resource offers actionable recommendations to strengthen career pathways and deepen employer engagement for young adults, helping Corpsmembers more effectively transition into fulfilling careers. JFF evaluated curricula, training materials, and program data from more than 40 Corps across the country and also surveyed Corps programs to better understand how service experiences translate into workforce development outcomes. 

Morgridge Center Mixer

On October 15, Operation Fresh Start was proud to host the Community and Campus Education Mixer, organized by the Morgridge Center for Public Service.

It was inspiring to see so many education leaders come together — sharing ideas, building connections, and collaborating to make education stronger across our community.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this meaningful and productive event! 

New CEO's of Tomorrow Office Opens

Thank you to De’Andre Martin and the entire team at CEOs of Tomorrow, Inc. for hosting Operation Fresh Start’s Build Academy crews and staff last Thursday at their beautiful new office in The Black Business Hub!

We were proud to celebrate the incredible work our young people completed and the partnership that made it possible. Collaborations like this strengthen our community — and model the power of teamwork and connection for the next generation.

Thank you to the 2nd Market Capital Economic Opportunity Foundation!

Thanks to your incredible generosity, we’re thrilled to share that we’ve officially met our $25,000 2nd Market Capital Economic Opportunity Foundation Matching Gift Challenge!

For the seventh consecutive year, our friends at 2nd Market Capital Economic Opportunity Foundation partnered with us to double every dollar donated through September — and you showed up in a big way.

Together, we raised $50,000 to support young people on their journey to education, employment, and self-sufficiency.

From all of us at Operation Fresh Start — and especially the young people whose lives are transformed through your support — thank you to our supporters and to 2nd Market Capital for being part of something truly powerful.

🎓 Legacy Graduations 🎓

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

Eli’s journey at Operation Fresh Start has been one of growth, resilience, and strength. His supervisor Nate shared how Eli “likes doing it the hard way” and how his pride and work ethic transformed into strengths that pushed him forward:

“You never gave up the whole time, even when we sent you away. You should be incredibly proud of all of the work that you did while you were here. You're an incredibly valuable asset to this community.”

Eli also reflected on his transformation:

“When I was first thinking of coming to Operation Fresh Start, I was in the darkest and lowest time in my life, where I had no motivation, no hope. And now, because of OFS, I have hope.”

He credits his supervisor, teachers, and the supportive OFS community for helping him find motivation and purpose again:

“They genuinely cared about me as a person and helped me get through dark times in my life.”

Before receiving his diploma, Eli shared one last piece of advice:

“As time goes faster here, use your time wisely. You'll be done within the blink of an eye.”

Please join us in celebrating Eli’s graduation and all the hard work he put into his journey. We are so proud of you, Eli—congratulations!

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

This month, we celebrated Tati’s incredible journey and graduation from Operation Fresh Start!

Tati’s supervisor, Danny, shared:

“Tati was my very first participant at OFS, and from day one, I knew she was hardworking, strong, and passionate. She went through one of the hardest things a person can go through — and instead of giving up, she pushed even harder. Her resilience and determination inspired all of us.”

During her term, Tati completed her conservation training, earned her high school diploma and a Pre-Apprenticeship Readiness Training Certificate in Conservation & Urban Forestry, and she received her AmeriCorps Education Award — more than $2,800 to support her continued education.

Tati shared heartfelt thanks with the people who supported her:

“I want to thank my mom — even though she’s not here, she’s the reason I keep going every day. Thank you to my family, my friends, and the OFS staff, especially Laura — one of the greatest teachers I’ve had through all my school years.”

Her aunt proudly added:

“She did it without her mom, but she did it for her mom. She’s always been strong-willed, just like her.”

Thank you to partners like AmeriCorps and the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin for helping provide a pathway for Tati and many others!

Tati, your strength, courage, and heart embody what OFS is all about. We’re so proud of you — and can’t wait to see all you’ll accomplish next!

Academy Signings

On October 9, we celebrated Kenyan joining the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers, and Allied Workers Local 11 and starting his new job with Sterling Roofing!

Kenyan’s journey through Operation Fresh Start has been one of perseverance, growth, and purpose. He first came to OFS full of curiosity and energy, which, over time, transformed into leadership, accountability, and drive.

“When Kenyan first joined us, he brought energy, curiosity, and a great sense of humor,” shared Build Academy Coordinator Faith Newman. “Over time, we watched that same energy turn into leadership, responsibility, and maturity… He’s grown into the young man we see today.”

From earning his driver’s license, to becoming a father, to completing Build Academy and now starting his roofing apprenticeship — Kenyan has accomplished so much since May!

Construction Training Manager Mike Price added:

“He’s got challenges, but he never gave up. There were times he could have, and he didn’t. He’s got drive, he’s got the work ethic, and he always came through — always with a smile on his face.”

When it came time for Kenyan to speak, he turned the spotlight back to the community that supported him every step of the way:

“It’s a celebration for me, but it should really be a celebration for OFS in general. I’m proud to say I’m a product of OFS… I didn’t always have purpose when I started, but now I do. I’m a father, I’m pursuing a career in roofing, and I have a path.”

Kenyan — we’re so proud of the man you’ve become and the future you’re building. Your dedication, curiosity, and perseverance inspire all of us at OFS!

New Staff

Jade Cunningham (she/her)

Legacy Conservation Supervisor

We’re thrilled to welcome Jade to the OFS team!

Originally from Iowa, Jade’s lifelong love of the outdoors inspired her to pursue a career in environmental science.

Her journey has taken her from Yellowstone National Park, where she worked as a naturalist and wildlife tour guide, to Denver, where she earned her Master’s in Environmental Science with an emphasis in education at the University of Colorado!

Now back in the Midwest and calling Madison home, Jade is eager to connect with our participants and make an impact in the City of Madison Parks and Dane County Parks.

Welcome to the OFS team, Jade — we’re so glad to have you! 

Kim Lacy (she/her)

HR Generalist

We’re thrilled to welcome Kim to the OFS team!

Kim joins the Operation Fresh Start team with more than 25 years of experience in HR, payroll, and benefits. She has worked across both nonprofit and for-profit sectors, bringing a wealth of knowledge from a diverse range of industries.

Kim holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, an Associate's degree in Office Administration, and numerous continuing education credits in the HR field.

Outside of work, Kim loves spending time with her three grandchildren—ages 3, 4, and 5—who keep their “Nanna” busy with swimming lessons, trips to the park, and plenty of fun activities. When she gets a moment to herself, you can find her at the local bowling alley, still chasing that semi-pro status (and having a great time trying!).

Welcome to the OFS team, Kim — we’re so glad to have you! 

Amazon Winter Wishlist

As fall and winter approach and temperatures drop, our dedicated participants at Operation Fresh Start are braving the cold to pursue their career goals outdoors. However, to keep their spirits high and their bodies warm, we urgently need your support! By checking out our Amazon Winter Wishlist, you can help us provide essential gear that ensures comfort and empowers these young adults to keep pushing forward and improving our community. 

Support OFS with Qualified Charitable Distributions!

As you look ahead to your year-end donations, keep in mind that you can make a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) to Operation Fresh Start from your IRA and get a tax benefit if you're over age 70.

If you're age 73 or older, QCDs can count toward your Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and reduce your taxable income in the process. Even if you don’t itemize deductions, a QCD still offers a valuable tax benefit. October is a great time to act, before year-end RMDs are automatically distributed.

(Please consult your financial advisor or IRA administrator for guidance specific to your situation.)

EIN: 23-7108090

✉️ Did a friend forward this to you? Sign up for monthly newsletters!