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History

FGLA started in 2012 on the campus of University of Cincinnati with the original focus of addressing the collegiate dropout rates. However, our founder quickly recognized the need for a positive mentor influence prior to the college experience and steered his efforts toward impacting collegiate bound high schoolers and elementary students.

We have been testing and tracking several formats for mentoring and tutoring programs across grades 3-12 in classrooms and after-school youth centers. Vision and passion don’t often combine, but in the case of FGLA, we find an organization that is driven by both.

Explore our programs

FGLA is a whole-person centered mentoring and academic support program that delivers life-skills and motivation in a proven, engaging format.Our programs are millennial driven to academically support our school aged youth.We take pride in our authentic ability to relate to the youth and encourage them in a language they understand.

Testimonials:

Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio

"I have found Mr. Sherman to be very professional and passionate about the work in which he and FGLA engages. Through FGLA, he has worked with diverse groups of individuals on many occasions. FGLA is a blossoming community asset that will continue to grow in expertise".

Hakim K. Evans
Director of Annual Giving and Liaison to the Young Professionals

Winton Place Youth Center

“Working with (FGLA) First Generation Leaders of America has been a great experience. I have to say I admire their professionalism, punctuality, and engaging demeanor.It’s not often that the students of WPYC easily warm up to an outside facilitator, however, not only do they adore FGLA, but they also continuously ask me when they’re coming back.”

Jamieson Williams, Executive Director

PHOENIX International School

“The mentors engaged our students in exercises that forced introspection to develop their ability to see their own strengths as individuals. It was a tremendous experience for them, and it inspired me to inquire about the possibility of continued work with our students.”

Jessica Rone, M. ED Principal

Roll Hill Academy

First Generation Leaders of America showcases and builds upon students’ character strengths through an innovative mentorship approach. Near-peer role models provide guidance and growth through an evidence-based curriculum that yields high results in participating student self-esteem and a growing self-cognizance of the power of behavior, actions, and words. First Generation Leaders of America looks to build upon their success by providing their valuable services to some of our most at-risk students of all. With this in mind, First Generation Leaders of America is looking to expand to other schools. Any support that can be offered to this program will lift students up to new heights and provide for meaningful mentorship paving a road towards student empowerment.

Kyle Reiser