Featured and From the Heart: Kaya’s Message to the Fiver Family

We’re honored to share that Fiver was recently featured in the Destiny Newsletter by the National Grid Foundation — the first release of their year. The article highlights the inspiring journey of our very own Camp Director, Kaya, a Fiver alumna who began her journey as a young camper and now leads the very program that helped shape her. Her story kicks off a year of celebration and purpose as we mark 25 years of Fiver’s impact.

In addition to the National Grid feature, Kaya has penned a heartfelt letter to Fiver families and campers, reflecting on what this moment means to her. She shares how her two-decade journey — from camper to counselor to leader — was made possible by the community that raised her, and how she hopes her story serves as a symbol of what’s possible for the next generation of Fivers.

You can read her full message below.

Check out this story highlighting Kaya’s evolution through Fiver in the Q! release of National Grid Foundation’s Destiny Newsletter here.

Dear Fiver Family,

I wanted to take a moment to share my deepest gratitude as I step into this new role as Camp Director. It’s truly an honor to be trusted with this responsibility, and I want to sincerely thank Fiver for believing in me. Being given the opportunity to lead a place that has meant so much to me for over two decades is nothing short of a dream come true.

My journey here has been a long and meaningful one — from camper, to counselor, to a member of the leadership team, and now as Camp Director. Every step along the way has shaped me into the woman I am today. I’ve grown up in this community, and I carry with me the lessons, memories, and love that have poured into me throughout the years.

I wouldn’t be here without the unwavering support and guidance of Mary Lee Dinski and Christie Ko. For the past twenty years, they’ve been my role models, my mentors, and my biggest cheerleaders. Their example has taught me what true leadership looks like — grounded in compassion, integrity, and joy. I’m beyond grateful to have walked this path with them by my side.

But perhaps the most incredible part of this journey is that the youth — our campers — have been there to witness it all. They’ve seen me grow, stumble, learn, and rise. And now, they get to see someone who once sat where they sit today step into leadership. That’s the beauty of this community — it doesn’t just build leaders; it builds legacies.

With all my heart, thank you for trusting me with this next chapter. I can’t wait to continue building something extraordinary with all of you.

With love and gratitude,

Kaya Henderson

Director, Camp Fiver