For many young adults, the route from high school to college and career is strewn with financial obstacles and daunting choices. Now imagine making that transition as a first-generation, remedial-level student facing challenges like homelessness, trauma, and poverty. Each year, Future Link works with 300 Montgomery County young adults, helping them navigate the path to a promising career. The program begins with a 15-week college-level seminar that empowers students and equips them with essential workplace skills. Next comes a suite of services — mentorships, paid internships, career exploration, scholarships, and professional networks — to help students finish college or trade school and enter the workforce. Impressively, participants hold a 75% academic persistence rate — higher than the county average for similar students. Each year, dozens attain college degrees, professional certifications, and full-time employment. For youth fighting the odds, your support opens doors.

Headquarters: MD-Montgomery County

Where They Operate: MD-Montgomery County

Age Groups Served: Young adult (18-24)

Population(s) Served: Low- to Moderate-Income Community Members; Students


  • Number of bachelor's degrees or higher earned by Future Link students:   66
  • Number of associate degrees earned by Future Link students:   95
  • Number of internships over the last 3 years:   90
  • Number of scholarships granted over the last 3 years:   158
  • Number of mentors trained:   105

Awards & Recognition

Time Well Spent Award, Montgomery Collaboration Council 2011
Montgomery County Council Proclamation for Excellence in Serving the County's most at-risk population, 2013, 2018
Excellence Award for Contributions from MC Department of Corrections, 2014

Press

  • A Career Road Map for First-Generation Professionals
    Thu Oct 25 2018, U.S News & World Report  
    First-generation Future Link students highlight how the organization's support, networks, & mentors impact their career trajectory.
    connect here

Budget (FY2023)

  • $3 million or higher
  • $1 million to $3 million
  • The current budget for Future Link is: $500k to $1 million
  • Less than $500k

Catalogue charities range in size from $100,000 to $3 million. This graphic indicates the budget range of the organization featured here. If you see an organizational budget above the $3 million mark, that is because the featured charity has grown in size since it first appeared in the Catalogue. We proudly present on our website the work of these "growth" charities.

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