March 2025 ♥ Thank you for reading and click here to support! | | World-Renowned Birder Christian Cooper Joins OFS Crew | | |
March 12 was an unforgettable day as Operation Fresh Start Legacy conservation crews welcomed Lizzie Condon, Director of Science and Climate Programs from the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts and Letters, and birder, author, and advocate Christian Cooper!
Christian is an Emmy Award winner for his National Geographic Series "Extraordinary Birder." While he lives in Manhattan, he travels the country advocating for birding and how it brings people of all backgrounds together.
Lizzie and Christian joined two of our Legacy Conservation crews as they worked alongside the City of Madison to restore the area surrounding a retention pond. Crews removed invasive species like honeysuckle and buckthorn and spread native seeds to help return the land to its natural habitat.
Beyond the hands-on work, Christian and Lizzie engaged with our crews, sharing knowledge about birding and conservation efforts.
Later that evening, participants and graduates from our Conservation Academy attended Christian’s private reception and talk at the Overture Center for the Arts, where OFS received a special shout-out for the community work we do!
Thank you to Lizzie and Christian for spending the day with us and making it so inspiring!
To learn more about Christian's visit to Wisconsin, read Madison365's article below!
| | Pictured (left-right) Dexter Patterson, (Co-Founder of BIPOC Birding), (Keenih, Don, and Marcus (OFS Conservation Academy alumni and participants), Freda King, Matt Reetz (Executive Director of Southern WI Bird Alliance), and Jake Norman (OFS Conservation Academy Supervisor) attending Christian Cooper's private event at the Overture Center. | | OFS at the State Capitol for AmeriCorps Day! | | |
Operation Fresh Start joined over 100 AmeriCorps members, AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers, and program staff at the Wisconsin State Capitol on March 19 to celebrate the impact of national service!
We were honored to stand alongside so many dedicated individuals who are making a difference in communities across Wisconsin.
A huge thank you to Assembly Rep. Darrin Madison, Rep. Supreme Moore Omokunde, and Rep. Amaad Rivera-Wagner for sharing their powerful words about the importance of service and for being incredible AmeriCorps leaders!
AmeriCorps members provide vital services statewide, from education and health care access to conservation and disaster relief. Last year, nearly 8,500 volunteers served at over 900 sites across Wisconsin—making a real, lasting impact in communities.
Thank you to Serve Wisconsin and everyone involved in organizing this event, and to all who continue to support AmeriCorps programs across the state. Together, we are building stronger communities!
| | OFS staff and Legacy participants at the Wisconsin State Capitol supporting Americorps on Wednesday, March 19! | |
Sophia's Journey to Capitol Internship | | |
Meet Sophia, a determined young woman who turned uncertainty into opportunity through Operation Fresh Start's CareerScape program. With hard work, support, and guidance, she secured an internship at the Wisconsin State Capitol with Assembly Rep. Ryan Clancy!
Her story is one of resilience, growth, and seizing every opportunity.
“Without the help that I got from Operation Fresh Start and Aram, I don’t know if I would feel equipped at all in any other kind of work environment,” she said. I had no idea what steps to take next, and Aram provided the guidance I really needed to move forward.”
Read more about her inspiring journey here!
| | Pictured (left-right): Rep. Clancy's Chief of Staff Amelia Berendt, Intern Sophia, and Rep. Ryan Clancy standing in front of the Wisconsin State Capitol. | | Madison Board of Education Candidate Forum | | Pictured (left-right): Bret Wagner, Martha Siravo, and Ali Muldrow. | | |
On Tuesday, March 18, Operation Fresh Start had the honor of hosting the MMSD Board of Education Candidate Forum!
A huge thank you to the candidates—Martha Siravo, Bret Wagner, and Ali Muldrow—for taking the time to share their perspectives and visions for the future of our schools. Siravo and Wagner are running to fill Seat 3, while Muldrow is running uncontested for Seat 4. Nichelle Nichols was not able to attend the forum, but is running uncontested for Seat 5.
OFS participants asked thoughtful and engaging questions, helping to drive an important conversation about education and student success. Your voices matter, and we’re so proud of the leadership you demonstrated!
Make a plan to vote on April 1st!
| | OFS Legacy participant Rico asks MMSD Board candidates how they plan to raise student awareness and access to food and mental health. | | 43 Businesses, Organizations participate in Women in Construction Career Fair! | | |
We are beyond grateful to everyone who joined us for the Women in Construction Career Fair at Operation Fresh Start! A special thank you to our partners WRTP / BIG STEP and the Urban League of Greater Madison for making this event possible!
To the 43 organizations who showed up to support and inspire, thank you for providing invaluable connections and opportunities to those exploring careers in the trades. Your commitment to building a strong workforce is truly making an impact!
To the more than 100 attendees that showed up—whether you're taking your first step into the industry or looking for new opportunities—we appreciate your enthusiasm and dedication to shaping the future of construction. We hope you walked away with new insights, connections, and the confidence to pursue a fulfilling career in the trades!
Testimonials from participating businesses:
"It was a great event, and you can tell you and your fellow colleagues put a lot of effort into it."
"It was a pleasure connecting with those who are passionate about the construction industry, and we enjoyed sharing insights about the electrical trade. We look forward to staying in touch and potentially collaborating again in the future."
"We had a great time speaking with the young people at the career fair last week. OFS were wonderful hosts! I just signed up for the mock interviews on 3/27. Such a great way to stay connected with OFS, love it!"
"Thank you for hosting the career fair, it was a great forum for us to connect with several young candidates. We hope to turn to OFS as a recruiting resource as positions open up in the future."
| | Pictured (left-right) Don, Laila, and Manizha with their temporary licenses! | |
Congratulations to our recent Drive program participants who earned their driver's licenses!
These young adults have all taken the responsibility and initiative to achieve this big milestone as they progress toward their personal and professional goals!
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, OFS brinsg 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.
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We are incredibly grateful to the QBE Foundation for their generous $12,500 donation to Operation Fresh Start!
This support helps us continue providing young adults with education, job training, and mentorship as they pursue their future careers. Together, we’re building a stronger future for emerging professionals in our community!
Thank you, QBE Foundation, for believing in our mission and investing in the next generation's success!
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Congratulations to Brandon on graduating from Legacy and receiving his high school diploma!
On March 4, we celebrated Brandon's incredible journey and achievements at OFS as he received his diploma from the Madison Metropolitan School District!
Brandon’s journey has been defined by consistency, dedication, and leadership. His attendance was so strong that he finished the program before there was even time to teach him everything, his conservation supervisor Nate said.
"Brandon’s consistency showed in a lot of different areas while he was here," Nate said. "Not just in attendance, but in his work ethic and the way he treated others."
Whether it was parks cleanup, pulling weeds, or collecting seeds, Brandon always led by example.
"Brandon was not always the most vocal leader, but the consistency he had in showing up and working hard set a huge example for my crew and was incredibly important to our culture," Construction Training Manager Mike said.
From conservation work to now building houses in OFS Build Academy, Brandon took on every challenge, even in 95-degree heat, hauling barbed wire through cow pastures. His dedication was clear from day one.
"After that first week, I told my team, ‘We’re good,'" Nate said. "Don’t worry about him. Brandon showed up, worked hard, and never complained.’"
Brandon, your quiet leadership and determination have left a lasting impact on OFS.
As Mike said, "Your presence is noticed in this building constantly. You get the basics right—show up, work hard, and be where you're supposed to be—and that will take you far."
We’re so proud of you, and excited that you are continuing your journey in Build Academy!
| | Celebrating Beverly Hutcherson’s Service! | | |
On March 20, we recognized Beverly Hutcherson for her seven years of dedicated service on the OFS Board of Directors!
From serving as Board Secretary to strengthening our partnerships—especially with UW Health to create pathways in the healthcare industries for participants—Beverly has played a crucial role in expanding opportunities for young people in our community. Her leadership has made a lasting impact, ensuring OFS remains a place where all young adults can thrive.
We are deeply grateful for Beverly’s unwavering commitment, wisdom, and passion. While she will be greatly missed on the Board, we know her influence will continue to shape our mission for years to come.
Thank you, Beverly, for everything you’ve done!
| | Spring Into Giving with Our Amazon Wish List | | |
As the season of renewal begins, you can help young adults at Operation Fresh Start bloom! Our Amazon Spring Wish List is filled with essential items that support education, job training, and personal growth for our participants.
Every donation—big or small—makes a direct impact! From work gear to classroom supplies, your generosity helps pave the way for their success.
Shop & Give Today!
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Thank you for helping OFS empower emerging adults on their path to self-sufficiency! | | ✉️ Did a friend forward this to you? Sign up for monthly newsletters! | | | | |
