Our Journey: 25 Years of Empowerment
The Vision
Fiver was founded in 1998 by Tom Tucker (Colgate ’67, Chairperson Emeritus), inspired by the transformative impact of summer camp. After retiring from a nearly 20-year career at Lehman Brothers, Tom set out to create a space that would empower children.
In 1996, he discovered the Keefe Family Farm, a 129-acre property near his alma mater, Colgate University. The Keefe brothers, determined to preserve their land for a meaningful purpose, sold it to Tom, who envisioned a camp where young people could grow and thrive.
Tom & Heather Tucker on the land in 1998.
Laying the Groundwork
In 1998, alongside construction of the camp, Tom brought together a founding board of directors comprised of colleagues and experts in youth development and camping. At their first meeting in the farmhouse, the board established Fiver’s guiding principles: a ten-year program serving youth ages 8 to 18, focusing on character-building, teamwork, and decision-making—skills critical for success in school, careers, and life. These principles remain at the heart of Fiver’s mission today.
Fiver's founding board members gathered by the lake at Camp Fiver.
Buildings under construction amid the undeveloped camp grounds.
The Naming of Fiver
Inspired by Richard Adams’ Watership Down, Fiver was named after a rabbit who, despite not being the strongest, courageously led his community to safety. Similarly, Fiver participants come from challenging environments and are guided to opportunities where they can flourish and define their own paths to success.
Tom Tucker alongside author Richard Adams at Camp Fiver.
From Opening Day to 25 Years of Impact
By 2000, over $3 million was raised to transform the Keefe Family Farm into Camp Fiver, develop the program, and cover operating costs for the first summer. That year, the camp opened its doors to 254 children, offering a two-week summer experience free of charge. This marked the beginning of Fiver’s commitment to empowering youth and their families.
Campers from 2000 enjoying their summer at Camp Fiver, filled with smiles and excitement.
25 years later, campers carry on the Camp Fiver spirit, filled with joy and smiles.
Over the past 25 years, more than 1,700 youth have completed Fiver’s 10+ year commitment, becoming confident leaders and active contributors to their communities. Now an award-winning youth development organization, Fiver serves nearly 500 youth (ages 8–18) and their families annually through a 12-month program model. Fiver’s holistic approach continues to create lasting change for children and families, ensuring they are equipped to thrive.