Operation Fresh Start (OFS) and Reach Dane’s Community Resource Block Party on Thursday, August 29, was a tremendous success, with about 300 people in attendance.
The event brought together neighbors, families, and local organizations to celebrate community, enjoy great food, and access valuable resources in the parking lots of OFS and Reach Dane. From delicious meals by Melly Mell’s Soul Food and fresh vegetables and smoothies from Rooted, to a bike giveaway from Bikes for Kids, and a bounce house slide, the block party truly had something for everyone. We had 32 kids sign up for a free bike!
“We are so proud to co-host this event with our friends at Operation Fresh Start,” Reach Dane Executive Director Jen Bailey said at the block party. “We are looking forward to making this an annual event.”
The resource fair was a huge hit, with residents connecting with community organizations like Urban Triage, YWCA, and Lawyers for Learners, who provided essential services ranging from housing and legal aid to childcare and wellness services. The Mobile Dental Unit from La Familia Dental , which was sponsored by M3 Insurance, also offered free dental exams, ensuring families had access to important health services. There were 15 people who utilized the dental clinic, with nine of them being OFS participants.
"The block party was a true testament to the power of community collaboration,” OFS Resource Specialist Grace Coleman said. “We saw firsthand how coming together with a shared purpose can create a lasting impact. The overwhelming support and participation made it an undeniable success, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed to making it happen."
The event had 19 partnering resource vendors in addition to OFS and Reach Dane, offering networking opportunities to learn how we can better serve our community. The following is a list of everyone that attended:
Collective Voices
FoodWIse
Hawthorne Library
Just Dane
Lawyers for Learners
Madison Area Community Land Trust
Madison Community Policing Advisory Board
Madison Fire Department
Madison Metropolitan School District
Madison Police Department
Madison Reading Project
Melly Mell's
Mentoring Positives
Planned Parenthood
River Food Pantry
Rooted
Sunshine Place
UW Health
YWCA
Open house tours at both OFS and Reach Dane were well-received, allowing visitors to explore each organization’s facilities and learn more about the life-changing programs offered, from job training and education to early childhood support.
This event was a wonderful opportunity to build community connections and ensure families in the area have the tools and support needed to thrive. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who attended and supported this special day to uplift our community! Stay tuned for next year’s block party on Thursday, August 28, 2025!
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