FIRST: For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology
FIRST's mission is "to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders, by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication and leadership."
Dean Kamen, the founder of FIRST, describes the vision of FIRST this way:
To transform our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated and where young people dream of becoming science and technology heroes.