Mission Statement: Founded in 2012, the FCBC CDC serves as a catalyst for transformation in Harlem and the Greater New York City area, challenging and empowering individuals to realize their infinite possibilities through:

Education and Arts; Economic Empowerment; Health Awareness; and Civic Engagement. 

Vision Preamble: At FCBC CDC, we believe transformation is not only possible — it’s necessary. In a world marked by inequity and fragmentation, we exist to disrupt cycles of disconnection by creating opportunities for people to hope again, dream differently, and act boldly. 

Vision Statement: We envision a world where individuals and communities are transformed by hope, fueled by dreams, and empowered to act. FCBC CDC exists to build that world—one courageous connection, creative expression, and collective act at a time. 

Mantra Hope. Dream. Act. Together, we build the world we envision—one courageous connection at a time. 

BOARD MEMBERS

Desiree Elder — Executive Director
FCBC CDC

Michael A. Walrond, Jr. — President
Senior Pastor
First Corinthian Baptist Church

Charles Powell — Treasurer
Retired Lawyer/ Director
Staff, Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce

Jamal Joseph — Secretary
Faculty at Columbia University
Founder of New Heritage Theatre Group

Douglas Adams — Board Member
Finance Industry Professional

Chris Bishop — Board Member
Chief of Staff to Chief Operating Officer
Cardinal Innovations Healthcare

Chris Crawford — Board Member
President
Elite Media

Linara Davidson Greenidge — Board Member
Senior Associate Dean for Communications, Strategy Development, and Alumni Affairs, Columbia University