The Small School with a Big Heart
Every May, Cherokee Creek Boys School celebrates something truly special … Founders Day … a time to honor our roots and reflect on another year of living our mission. This May marks 22 incredible years, and we couldn’t be more proud of the journey.
Founded in 2003 by Beth and Ron Black, Cherokee Creek was created with a bold and loving vision … to be more than just a school … to be a true healing community. From day one, we’ve embraced the nickname “The Small School with a Big Heart”.
Since opening our doors, we’ve supported more than 600 families, walking with them through some of life’s most meaningful … and challenging … chapters.
At the Core of Everything We Do is Our Mission
“We are a learning community that challenges boys and their families to discover what is real and true about themselves and the world around them.”
That mission isn’t just a statement … it’s a compass that guides our daily decisions, interactions and growth. Our work is grounded in four key operational values: Safety, Quality, Creativity and Fun … LINK
Co-founder, Beth Black, recalls that when she first imagined starting a school, one of the biggest questions was … WHERE? Through a series of unexpected signs and discoveries, she found a hidden gem … a 77-acre wooded campus in Westminster, South Carolina, surrounded by national forests, rivers, lakes and waterfalls.
“Nature became not just our setting but a core part of the curriculum,” Beth explains. “A place where boys can step away from the pressures of daily life and rediscover themselves. Whether they’re hiking a trail, paddling a kayak or just rocking on the porch of the lodge, our students find peace, healing and purpose in the natural world.”
Beth also reflected on the school’s ability to persevere, even through tough times: “Many excellent programs didn’t make it through COVID and other recent challenges. I’m so proud that we’ve stayed true to our mission and values … and that our team has guided us through challenging seasons with courage and care.”
That commitment has earned recognition. Cherokee Creek is accredited by The Joint Commission, a global driver of quality improvement and patient safety in medical and behavioral health care. This accreditation is a form of recognition for excellence in programming, unwavering dedication to safety and quality and executing a continual improvement process.
And while awards are appreciated, the real measure of our success is the impact on the lives we touch. Beth shared: “It’s amazing to think that many of our early students are now young men … many even raising families of their own. None of this would be possible without our passionate, dedicated team. Over the years, it’s taken a village of staff, teachers, therapists and guides to keep this mission alive … and thriving.”
Perhaps the most powerful proof of our purpose comes from the families themselves … LINK
“Cherokee Creek was a life-changing experience for my son and our family. I will be forever grateful for the nurturing, the new skills, and the wise support my son received there.”
– CCBS Alumni Parent
That kind of gratitude is the heartbeat of this community. As we look back, we’re filled with pride. And as we look forward, we’re energized for what’s still to come.
We’re proud to celebrate 22 years of growth, learning and transformation. And we’re just getting started.
What a joy it is to celebrate the impact of a school built on love, learning and the belief that every boy has something real and true to discover … about himself and the world around him.
Alumni Perspectives
20th Anniversary