Legacy
Employment, Mentoring, and High School Completion
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Layla, 2022 Legacy graduate
About Legacy
If you are between 16 and 24 years old, the Operation Fresh Start Legacy program is a great way for you to finish high school and take real-world steps toward whatever career calls to you. In this personal growth and development program, you’ll learn through paid, hands-on employment training on an actual job site – and through one-on-one, independent, and small-group academic work in a classroom setting.
In Legacy, you'll be working on more than just finishing high school. You'll be working to prepare for the future you want. You'll be gaining the skills, habits, experiences, and connections to find success long after you earn your diploma.
On the job site, you’ll work out in the community on a construction crew (building affordable housing) or conservation crew (restoring native habitats, planting trees, and implementing flood-prevention and water quality projects).
In the classroom, you’ll complete a personalized plan to earn your high school diploma or equivalent. You’ll also receive ongoing career development support and career coaching from our Transition Coordinators, who work with you to build the foundation for whatever career you aspire to.
Finally, you’ll have access to free driver’s education and behind-the-wheel lessons with support to reinstate or earn your driver’s license!
Yawan, 2022 Legacy program graduate
We have a saying at Operation Fresh Start: “Once OFS, always OFS.” Our mentoring doesn't end once you earn your diploma! OFS staff will continue mentoring you in your job search and college enrollment process for the year following Legacy program completion.
OFS staff will continue assisting your career development and address any challenges you may be facing in college or work.
Grace's crew at Zach's Graduation, 2022
Eligibility
Ages 16–24 in the Dane County area
If you are a Senior or Junior in high school, you will need a referral from your home school
Applicants from MMSD must be entering the 4th Quarter of their 3rd (Junior) year before applying
Legacy can help you to:
Finish High School
Work towards earning your high school diploma.
Earn a Driver’s License
Receive support earning your driver’s license with free driver’s education and behind-the-wheel lessons.
Find a Mentor
OFS mentors help you build self-confidence, explore career options, and build a clear pathway to achieve your goals. Make community connections that will support your future.
Receive Paid Job Training
Earn a bi-weekly stipend for participating. Make a difference in your community through construction / conservation work. Earn credentials and certifications to build a competitive resume.
Earn Money for College
Upon graduation, earn an AmeriCorps Education Award of about $2,400 to use for college tuition.
Video produced by Everything Productions
Conservation
Construction
Meet the Legacy Program Staff
We look forward to helping you achieve your goals!
Learn more about Legacy
The Legacy program is affiliated with AmeriCorps, a national organization that encourages people to do service projects in their community. Throughout a minimum of 1,000 program hours, you will earn a bi-weekly stipend while completing construction or conservation projects. Along with working towards earning your diploma and driver's license, you'll identify your goals for personal growth and explore career interests. OFS staff members are mentors who will support you every step of the way!