Source: Alex Conrad
Over the past 2012 summer, Georgetown Prep’s rising seniors spent one week going to Ivanhoe, Virginia for service work. In the months before, all rising seniors had the choice of three different sites and about 15 of them were chosen for the Ivanhoe site. Their experience seemed to be the most unique of the three options. Like the regular residents of this quaint Ivanhoe community, the boys stayed in a humble residence, all sleeping in the same room; helping to immerse the boys in the culture and bond with their fellow classmates. In addition, they were able to cross paths with people that they might have never gotten the chance to meet. The boys were able to grow a stronger bond between their own relationships, reflect on it, and discover a new kind of community. Whether it was connecting with the Ivanhoe residents, sharing a piece of their life with new friends, or restoring old houses and facilities, the chosen Georgetown Prep students discovered a world outside of their own on a much deeper and unique level.
After the one-week trip, the students returned with a new perspective of the world, stronger relationships, and unforgettable memories. One volunteer even quoted, ”Service at Prep goes beyond helping someone in need. It allows us to know the true feeling of being a man for others. I will definitely pursue service in college because it helped me grow so much throughout high school.” The citizens of the community were extremely pleased and the boys left with a feeling of accomplishment, proving that this service trip will be one for the books.
