"One minute I was talking to Dr. Fowler, Executive Director of The Herbert Hoover Boys and Girls Club, about a way to help students prepare for college. Five months later I was standing on a bus with 36 students and a full time college counselor heading to Mizzou for a leadership program.”
-- Lisa Orden Zarin
CEO/Founder
Our Story
In January 2006, a small group of people gave up their jobs and salaries, implored policy makers and devoted human and financial resources to create a program that would change the lives of young people through the power of higher education. Within four months, two school districts approved the program, a 501(c)3 status was awarded and 36 students placed their hopes for a better future in College Bound.
Since then, many other
partners,
businesses and
universities recognized the impact and promise of College Bound and contributed ideas, time, gifts and resources to bolster College Bound’s success.
As of September 2011, College Bound operates at six sites (4 high schools & 2 community-based locations) and serves nearly 500 students and their families in a 7-year wrap-around program. Additionally, through local high schools and community partner sites, College Bound provides 1,100 9th grade students and families with the information to plan, prepare, pay for and pursue postsecondary education.