A Father’s Legacy: George’s Story

Meet George, a CWEE father whose determination and fighting spirit have carried him over every challenge that has come his way. George is raising his seven children – six sons and one daughter – alongside his wife of 26 years. Family has always been at the center of George’s life, both now as he raises his own family, and in his early years as he made sacrifices to support his parents. 

When George was in high school, his life changed overnight. His father suffered a heart attack, and he had to leave school to help take care of him. A few years later, George would again lead his family through tragedy with deep love and tenacity. George and his brother were involved in a serious car accident when they hydroplaned during a storm. The accident left George’s brother paralyzed, and once again, George stepped up as a loving caregiver. For many years, he helped care for his brother while continuing to support his family.  

Growing up, George dreamed of becoming a superstar. His father always encouraged him to chase his dreams, but he also believed in having practical skills. George’s father told him, “If that doesn’t work, you’ve got to learn construction.” He taught George how to lay tile, remodel kitchens, and renovate bathrooms. Those lessons became the foundation of his career. George has worked in construction since he was 17 years old, building homes and providing for his family. 

At 21, George found another passion. He began studying boxing, mixed martial arts, and different forms of fitness. The discipline that training required felt natural to him. Over time, fitness became a way of life for George. 

George followed his father’s example of sharing skill sets with his son. When George’s son was three years old, he started training him. He spent years teaching him the techniques and mindset that sports require. Watching him grow into an exceptional athlete has been one of the greatest rewards of George’s life. Recently, his son won a major championship. George says “When I watch him compete, I see something special. The way he moves, the way he carries himself, and the way he performs stands out from everyone else. He looks like a future world champion.” 

While raising his family has been the joy of George’s life, times weren’t always easy. There was a period when George and his family experienced housing insecurity, living in several different hotels. Those years were difficult, but George never lost his resilient spirit. 

George and his wife had big dreams about what their family’s future would hold, so they searched for organizations that could provide support, and they found CWEE. When George first walked through our doors, he was a bit nervous. He shared that he was worried that people might judge him or think he didn’t belong. But George decided to give it a chance. He said, “So far, I love it. Everybody likes me, and I like the way that it feels here. I feel very welcome.” 

Today, one of George’s biggest goals is earning his high school diploma. He wants to continue his education by going to college to study personal training, nutrition, and human health. George wants to learn everything he can about the human body and use that knowledge to help others. 

Of studying for his GED, George said “It’s almost like when you’re lifting in the gym. In the beginning, it’s hard, you’re sore. And then after a while, you’re starting to pick up heavier weight and you’re lifting more. I figure the more I read the materials, the more I pay attention and the more I’m going to learn it.  And that’s what’s helping me. So I keep practicing and practicing and reading.” 

Much of George’s inspiration to pursue his education is due to seeing his own children’s success. Watching them graduate filled him with pride and reminded him that no matter the places his journey has brought him, he can still reach his goals.  

“My six boys and my little girl, they make me feel so proud to be a dad,” George said. “ They love me, and I see that I did really well with them.” 

George has shown incredible persistence in pursuing his dreams. When he has a goal in mind, he will not give up until he’s reached it. We cannot wait to watch him continue to achieve his dreams.