Drive to Succeed
Overcome justice system barriers
Prince, 2022 Drive to Succeed Graduate
About Drive to Succeed
Drive to Succeed is a collaborative mentorship program between Operation Fresh Start and our partner organization, JustDane, designed for emerging adults aged 17 ½ to 24 with past or present justice involvement. Over the course of a six-week cohort, participants receive personalized mentorship that focuses on overcoming barriers faced by justice-involved individuals. The program emphasizes life skills development, critical thinking, and personal growth. Additionally, Drive to Succeed supports participants on their journey to completing high school and obtaining their driver’s licenses, paving the way for a brighter future.
Eligibility
Young adults 17 ½ to 24 in Dane County with past or current justice involvement, who would like to complete high school, attain a driver’s license, or would benefit from mentorship.
Program Outcomes
In Drive to Succeed you will:
Find Mentorship
Build a relationship with caring adults in the community to help you define and achieve your goals
Complete High School
Get support exploring and applying to programs to earn your high school diploma, GED, or HSED
Earn a Driver's License
Get access to the OFS Drive Program to receive support in obtaining your driver's license with free driver's education and behind-the-wheel lessons
Find a Job and Start Your Career
Get help finding work and preparing for your career!
Meet the Drive to Succeed Staff
We look forward to you calling us to start your Drive to Succeed experience.
Hi, my name is Trevor Strickler and I’m thrilled to be the Options and Drive to Succeed Program Coordinator. My journey with Operation Fresh Start began with volunteering as a mentor in the Drive to Succeed program, and I’m proud to now be at the head of it. Whether you’d like help finding ways to finish high school or you’d like to get involved with our mentoring program, I’m happy to help!
Learn More About OFS Drive to Succeed
Through the Drive to Succeed program, you’ll gain a team of supportive mentors who are invested in your success! Your mentor can help you overcome common barriers that previously incarcerated individuals face, including finding a job, housing, transportation and overcoming stigma. You’ll receive one-on-one counseling to address physical, mental and emotional challenges.
Operation Fresh Start (OFS) staff can help you find a high school completion program to earn your diploma, GED or HSED. OFS can also support you in earning your driver’s license – for free! We offer free driver’s education and behind the wheel lessons. OFS will also pay for your DMV permit and license fees. A high school diploma and driver’s license are the top two most-required qualifications that employers are looking for.
Along with helping you complete high school and earn your driver’s license, staff are focused on finding what drives you. What are your career interests? What are your goals for personal development? Operation Fresh Start staff will help you plan out small, achievable goals that will lead to long-term success.
Partners & Grant Support
The Drive to Succeed Program is a partnership between Operation Fresh Start and JustDane, with support from the United Way of Dane County.
Funded in part by a grant from the Green Bay Packers Foundation.
