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 nonprofit rooted in community and built on belief.
Founded in 1990 and based in Prince George’s County, Maryland, FGCB has spent more than 35 years investing in the academic growth, development, and well-being of young people — with a clear focus on expanding access to higher education.
From the beginning, FGCB’s work has been grounded in relationships — with students, families, schools, and community partners who share a commitment to educational opportunity.
Where It Began
FGCB was founded by Joe Fisher, a retired teacher of 35 years and women’s cross-country and track coach of 41 years.
Joe’s commitment to college access was deeply personal. As a young person growing up in public housing, he benefited from mentors who provided encouragement, guidance, and support. Those experiences shaped his belief that every student deserves someone in their corner.
He began by walking door-to-door through a public housing community in Laurel, Maryland, offering academic support and college guidance to youth and their families. That simple act — meeting families where they were — became the foundation of FGCB’s enduring belief:
Talent is everywhere. Opportunity is not.
What began as one educator’s commitment and personal outreach grew into a sustained commitment to helping first-generation and low-income youth navigate the path to college. Over the decades, FGCB has expanded its reach to serve thousands of students, while remaining grounded in its founding values.
Our Impact in 2025 Due To the Support of our community:
Students have gone to college
Students are currently pursuing college degrees
Students have Higher Education Credentials
186 Associates, 838 Bachelor’s, 162 Master’s,
21 PhDs/Professional Doctorates
Students pursued Military Service
FGCB MILESTONES
2025
2025
2024
2024
2023
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.