Full Circle: Former Student Returns as a CCBS Intern

Focusing on ‘Showing Up and Being Present’

George H, a 2018 graduate of Cherokee Creek Boys School (CCBS), recently returned to campus … this time as an intern.

Now a college student at Drexel University in Philadelphia, George spent seven weeks at CCBS supporting Executive Director, David LePere, on a special fundraising initiative … preparing for the upcoming annual bike ride to benefit the Firekeeper’s Scholarship Fund. (Stay tuned for an announcement coming soon about the CCBS /  BOTO’s Big Ride for 2025.) 

As a finance major, George helped manage scholarship-related budgets, tracked donations and built spreadsheets … bringing real-world academic skills to a place that still feels like home.

But his impact went far beyond numbers.

Each day, George also spent time connecting with students … hanging out, answering questions and sharing stories from his time at CCBS and beyond.

“The boys were curious about what it was like when I was here. It honestly hasn’t changed much in the best way. The program is still solid … just a few upgrades like the new basketball court and other great activities.”

Finding His Voice, Then and Now

“By the end of my time here, I became someone others looked up to … but that didn’t happen overnight. I had to earn their respect by being consistent, authentic and showing up for people. I played a lot of basketball, too … hours a day. That was part of how I connected.”

The biggest challenge during his student years?

“Learning to speak up. I had to find the courage to speak up in conversations with fellow students. If a student was not being kind to me or to a friend, I learned to speak up and stand up for myself or a friend. That was hard for me. But by the end, I’d found my voice. That confidence has stayed with me.

Adjusting to boarding school was also tough at first.

“I’d never been away from home like that. It was hard not seeing my parents daily. But in time, it helped me become more independent and learn to trust myself.”

A Message for Future Students

Favorite Memory?

“As a student, it was the Costa Rica trip. Being with other students, families and the CCBS team (especially my Primary Mentor, Steve) on that amazing trip, was an incredible bonding experience.

And as an intern, I loved being back on campus, especially for the family seminar last week. I talked to the parents about my journey after CCBS. I was nervous, overthinking it. And again I focused on showing up and being present. That helped me push through and share my story honestly.”

Coming Home to Himself

“After graduation, I had a rough year with a stomach illness and some old habits came back. I visited CCBS for a week, just to reset. That week reminded me of who I am and who I want to be.”

He adds,

“Any time I’m here, I feel like the best version of myself. This place helps me remember that I have something to say … and something to give and I will carry that with me throughout my life.”

Thanks, George!

David LePere, CCBS Executive Director, said,

“We were fortunate to have hosted George’s internship. He showed up everyday and lived our CCBS values especially ‘pay attention to what has heart and meaning.’

George helped us in many ways! He supported the CCBS office team with his budgeting and spreadsheet skills, he spent time with the students on campus (especially on the basketball court) and he shared his inspirational story with our team and the boys, which meant a lot.

Thank you, George, for the impact you had at CCBS as an intern and the work you did here years ago as a student. We will miss you, but remember you are always a part of the CCBS Family. Come back and visit soon!”