History

Founded in 1974, the Gucker Campership Fund was originally called The Chief’s Memorial Campership Fund. It was established to honor the memory of Colba “Chief” Gucker and Gladys Gucker, who built Camp Lincoln for boys in 1920 and Camp Whippoorwill for girls in 1931.

Born in 1893, “Chief” grew up in Rochester, NY and served in World War I in the ambulance corps. His long career as a teacher of physical education began at the Lincoln School, the experimental school of Teachers College of Columbia University. His progressive philosophy continues to this day at the camps he started. Shortly after his death, a group of long-time camp staff members decided to raise money to make the Lincoln and Whippoorwill experience available to children who would otherwise be unable to afford a private summer camp experience.

Now 50 years later, dozens of young people spend summers at the North Country Camps thanks to financial assistance from the Fund. In summer 2023, 42 camp families received over $200,000 in support. The Fund draws all its resources from contributions from the camp community, including current and former staff, campers and their families. Virtually all of the funds raised go directly toward camperships.