FGCB History
First Generation College Bound (FGCB) is a grassroots, private non-profit celebrating over 35 years of success.
First Generation College Bound (FGCB) is a grassroots, private non-profit celebrating over 35 years of success. Based in Prince George County, Maryland, the organization has remained committed to investing in the development, growth, and wellness of children in relation to higher education. Since its inception in 1990, FGCB’s history has been richly grounded in creating relationships within the community with those who share and support the same vision as the founder, Joe Fisher
Joe Fisher, a retired teacher of 35 years and a retired women’s cross-country and track coach of 41 years, has a strong interest in helping youth and families achieve success with obtaining a college degree. This interest was a direct result of the mentoring, encouragement, and assistance he received as a youth growing up. Joe took his experiences to create FGCB and give students the opportunity to receive academic support, early identification of education and career goals, as well as sponsorship of individualized and personalized college access activities. In doing this, Joe spread the seeds of success throughout FGCB which has produced the fruits of a highly effective organization.
Our Impact in 2024 Due To Your Support:
Students have gone to college
Students are pursuing college degrees
Students have Higher Education Achievements
179 Associates, 783 Bachelor’s, 158 Master’s,
19 PhDs/Professional Doctorates
Students pursued Military Service
FGCB MILESTONES
2023
2023
2023
2022
2021
2020
FGCB celebrates 30 years of College Success.
2019
FGCB expands its newly renamed College Success Program to High Point High School.
2017
Through MSDE’s Next Generation Scholars Program, FGCB received funding to implement its newest program- Great Minds Great Futures.
2015
FGCB advocates and helps Bill 816 Higher Education-Low Income Student Outreach-College Access Act of 2015 get passed to provide funding to college access programs across the state.
2013
An official partnership is created with Prince George's County Public Schools.
2013
Entered into a partnership with the University System of Maryland's Way2GoMaryland Information Campaign.
2011
Entered into a partnership with the University System of Maryland's Way2GoMaryland Information Campaign.
2010
MSDE provided another GEAR UP grant allowing the organization to expand its College Access Program to Fairmont Heights High School and Central High School.
2007
The College Access Program is expanded into Parkdale High School.
2006
The first class of more than 100 college access students matriculate to college.
2005
Maryland State Department of Education awards a GEAR UP grant, which provides access to work in Potomac High School.
1994
The first student successfully graduates from college.
1993
The Homework Club is launched at the Kimberly Gardens Community.
1992
The Community Foundation of Prince George’s County provides the very first grant.