ABOUT US
Who We Are
First Generation College Bound (FGCB) is a community-based nonprofit committed to helping first-generation and low-income students get to and through college.Â
For more than 35 years, FGCB has walked alongside students and families in Prince George’s County — transforming potential into degrees and degrees into economic mobility.Â
Why We ExistÂ
Talent is universal. Opportunity is not.Â
Nationally:Â
First-generation students graduate from college at significantly lower rates than their peers.Â
Many low-income students who are accepted to college never enroll.Â
In communities where over half of students qualify for free or reduced-price meals, college enrollment rates often lag behind more affluent districts.Â
FGCB exists to change that trajectory.Â
Support First-Gen Students
Your donation changes lives
How We Make a DifferenceÂ
FGCB makes a long-term commitment that begins early and continues through college graduation. We focus on:Â
- Academic readiness and confidence-buildingÂ
- Personalized college advising and financial aid navigationÂ
- Matriculation support to prevent summer meltÂ
- Ongoing college retention and persistence guidanceÂ
We are not a one-time intervention.
We are a long-term partner in student success.Â
Our ImpactÂ
Since 1990:Â
- 3,400+ students have gone to collegeÂ
- 1,200+ alumni have earned degreesÂ
- Over 20% of graduates have pursued advanced degreesÂ
FGCB students attend colleges and universities across the country — including some of the nation’s most prestigious institutions.Â
But more importantly, they graduate.Â
Rooted in CommunityÂ
FGCB was founded in 1990 when Joseph Fisher began walking door-to-door through a public housing community in Laurel, Maryland, offering academic support and college guidance to local youth.Â
That belief — that every student deserves opportunity — remains at the core of our work today.Â
We collaborate with school systems, state agencies, faith-based institutions, and community organizations to expand access and strengthen educational pathways across Maryland.Â
Looking AheadÂ
Our vision is clear: one day every Marylander will have access to an affordable college education.Â
Until that day, we will continue building pathways, breaking barriers, and supporting students all the way to graduation.Â
Support FGCB
Your investment helps transform lives and strengthen communities.