Founded in 2018 by Riordan alumnus Steve Mayer ’72, the 5 Buckets Foundation strives to educate the world on life long finances and to empower individuals and communities with knowledge.
The foundation works with all types of communities such as schools, non profits, and community organizations with people of all ages.
“I started the 5 Buckets Foundation after seeing firsthand how both adults and especially young people lacked basic personal finance knowledge — skills like budgeting and managing credit that are not taught in schools but critical for a successful life,” said Mayer.
He added, “Inspired by my education at Riordan and a belief in giving back to the community, I’m proud that the Foundation is now on the path to educating our 5,000th learner.”
Through a connection with David Lin, the Boarding Director, the 5 Buckets Foundation has been coming monthly to educate the St. Francis Scholars on financial wellness through a six-part workshop series led by instructors Leah Kennedy and Pei’Ling Lee.
Dominic Thompson ’26, a St. Francis Scholar, said, “I would say the name of the program itself, 5 Buckets, really tells us about where to put our money and save our money in our lives.”
“Also, how to make a budget which could be helpful when we leave high school and go to college and live by ourselves,” added Thompson.
Their goal with the program is to eventually expand to other parts of Riordan, including staff and more students.
Kennedy said, “I hope they feel more confident entering adulthood and dealing with finances alone. I hope they feel more confidently about finances in general.”
