Back to School Shoutout: Celebrating OFS Graduates!

As the school year kicks off, we’re excited to highlight some of our recent Operation Fresh Start (OFS) graduates who are taking the next step in their educational journey. These young individuals have shown tremendous resilience and determination, and we couldn’t be prouder of their success.

Legacy Academy Graduates

Ousainou is attending Madison College, studying Wildlife and Conservation.

Ousainou photographed in a tree while out on site with his crew.

"I initially did not want to come to OFS, but after witnessing how encouraging everyone is and the passion that shines in their eyes, I wanted to see how far I could go," Ousainou said. "Everyone there was incredibly cheerful, full of hope, and passionate about what they were doing and what they believed in."

Chase is pursuing Information Technology at Madison College.

Chase with his crew supervisor, Nate, at his graduation.

"OFS helped me in every way possible," Chase reflected. "I would probably be sitting at home playing video games, dropped out of high school if it wasn’t for OFS. Nate, my supervisor at OFS, is one of the greatest people I ever met. He talks to me about everything, he understands me almost better than I do."

Alex is attending Blackhawk Technical College for Information Technology.

Alex with his crew supervisor, Nate, at his graduation.

"OFS provided me with the support needed to understand my learning style and gave me the confidence to know I can do school," Alex said. "Traditional school failed me and made me feel like I would never be able to achieve higher education, but OFS changed that." Alex added, "I honestly miss my crew and my crew lead, Nate. I built close relationships and meaningful connections at OFS that I know I can always draw on when things are difficult. OFS set me up to succeed on all fronts."

Conservation Academy Graduate

Taylor is studying biology at Madison College and working for Madison Parks.

Taylor (right) with his crew supervisor, Jake.

“Taylor put in a lot of work over his time with OFS, both personally and as a professional,” said Jake, his crew supervisor, “He naturally took to the chainsaw and became a really solid sawyer. Taylor also showed a natural leadership and took time to think about who he could be as a leader and what that meant to him. I have all confidence that he has the ability to overcome and be successful in any position he finds himself in the future.”

These stories remind us of the powerful impact of a supportive community and the endless potential of our participants. We are incredibly proud of all our graduates and look forward to seeing what they accomplish next!