Impact Report FY20

Impact Report | Fiscal Year 2020

hope begins here.

CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME

hope begins here Dear Friends,
There is nothing “ordinary” about the staff who work at Cunningham Children’s Home. I’ve always known it,
but now, more than ever, I want to shout from the rooftops: HEROES WORK HERE!
Our team is passionate, motivated and so very unselfish as our staff work to make a difference in the lives of
others who have experienced unimaginable circumstances. They are unbelievably committed to giving youth,
adults and families the opportunity to heal, learn and grow.
Every day I witness how they
• encourage vulnerable youth to experience positive interactions with

trusted adults
• listen to kids as they work through past trauma and abuse
• help individuals experiencing difficult life situations get back

on their feet
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, our dedicated staff
offered unwavering care and compassion in many ways as they
continued to transform lives by providing a place to call home,
a good education and a safe community.

In the pages that follow, you will read how our first-class Special
Therapies team provided our residential youth opportunities to express
and better themselves through artistic and recreational activities. You will
learn how our art teacher, Ms. Evelyne, used projects to have important
conversations around social justice and how CIRCLE Academy’s Ms. Emily
creatively set up a classroom in her student’s front yard so they could
tackle math problems together. These stories and so many more
describe how hope
begins here. OUR IMPACT 777 CHILDREN, ADULTS
Throughout our 125-year AND FAMILIES SERVED

history, our programs and PROGRAM NAME CLIENTS SERVED - DAYS OF CARE OR ENROLLMENT
services have evolved to
address our top priority: Residential Treatment-Main Campus 45 - 11,729
the needs of kids—
especially those most Residential Treatment-Group Homes 21 - 4,763
vulnerable. Our vision is
straightforward. We want Independent and Transitional Living 44 - 9,674
to see every child thrive.
CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME And our mission builds on Gerber Residential Education Program 75 - 7,737
that idea that we nourish
hope through effective CIRCLE Academy Day Education Programs 1 52 - 21,508
solutions so children thrive
and families flourish. Empowering Connections through Hope and Opportunity (ECHO) 25 - 4,940

Families Stronger Together (FST) 9 - 542

HopeSprings Counseling Services 3 93 - ------

Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) 53 - 9,742

Project Parenthood 22 - 2,598

Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY) 26 - 3,749

Vocational Options 218 - ------

Note: 100% of Gerber students are also Residential Treatment Program clients; 48 youth received
services in two or more programs.

Our vision and mission statements align with the purpose that motivated hope begins here
Judge Joseph and Mary Cunningham to entrust their home to today’s
United Methodist Women.
A combination of the rapidly changing child welfare landscape and
significant growth the agency has experienced prompted us to review
our existing strategic plan and develop new priorities. In September of
2019, the management team and an ad hoc committee of our Board of
Directors began a journey to update the agency’s strategic plan.
Cunningham’s core values ground our work, bind us together, and define
our collective character. These new strategic priorities were developed in
the context of our current vision, mission and core values. As you can see
in the graphic below, Cunningham’s four strategic goals address how we
will grow to meet current and future needs of children and their families
as well as our communities.
This past year was a struggle for everyone. But throughout those
challenging months, we saw firsthand how heroes take many different
forms: staff, teachers, therapists, case workers, caregivers and you, our
loyal donors, friends and volunteers.
You will find the names of our many friends and donors from the 2020
fiscal year listed throughout this report because their love, support and
contributions showed us that even in the darkest of times, a simple light
can lead to a brighter place. We are so grateful for your part in helping
the 777 youth, adults and families we served this year experience the
light of hope.

With great appreciation,

Marlin Livingston, LCSW
President/CEO

hope begins here. Strategic Plan

WE WILL SET THE INDUSTRY STANDARD FOR THE WAY WE
TRAIN, SUPERVISE, AND SUPPORT OUR TEAM.

WE WILL IMPROVE OPERATING MARGINS AND CHART A CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
COURSE TOWARD LONG-TERM SUSTAINABILITY WHILE
PROVIDING SERVICES REPRESENTING THE CHANGING NEEDS
OF OUR CHILDREN, THEIR FAMILIES, AND OUR COMMUNITIES.

WE WILL DEVELOP ADVANCED COMPETENCIES IN TRAUMA-
INFORMED CARE AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT.

WE WILL REBRAND CUNNINGHAM TO INCLUDE OUR DIVERSE
SERVICE ARRAY AND CONVEY THE POSITIVE IMPACT WE HAVE
IN OUR COMMUNITIES.

1

hope begins here FY20 was an extremely difficult year. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COVID-19 presented many unique and July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020
extraordinary challenges for Cunningham FY20 FY19
clients and staff. We transitioned from
traditional in-person services, including OPERATING RESULTS
classroom education and counseling, to Residential......................................................($535,696).............. ($1,080,374)
mostly remote services. We instituted an
enhanced in-depth cleaning protocol Education........................................................1,426,078 ..................... 443,860
targeted to mitigate any spread of the
virus, and increased our purchasing of Community Services...........................................(47,993).................... (238,957)
cleaning supplies and personal protective
equipment. In addition, we promoted Investment Income & Other Services.................277,041...................... 637,179
a culture of mask wearing, social
distancing, and working from home Administration...............................................(2,359,088)................. (2,159,814)
for many of our staff. Yet through it all,
we finished FY20 with a net deficit of Advancement.....................................................994,962................... 1,291,107

T OTAL OPERATING RESULTS............... ($244,696) ............($1,106,999)
NON-OPERATING RESULTS
Realized Investments Gains/(Losses)..................658,649...................1,850,228
Unrealized Investments Gains/(Losses)...............(89,931).................(1,107,941)
C hange in Farmland Fair Market Value............(663,484) ........................41,291
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS.............. ($339,462)........... ($323,421)

approximately $340,000. Roughly, the STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES
same net deficit as in FY19.

No matter the challenge, our staff July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020 FY20 FY19
maintained their focus on our clients and
providing them with the best possible
SUPPORT & REVENUE
Residential.....................................................$6,630,001................. $6,392,104
care. The upbeat attitude, dedication Education........................................................8,029,345................... 6,440,647
and work ethic of our team was second Community Services........................................3,277,037................... 2,655,562
to none. Investment Income & Other Services.................202,445................... 1,430,980

Cunningham’s future is bright. We finished Advancement..................................................1,648,934................... 2,037,327
FY20 with $4.5 million of cash on hand
and an endowment of over $23 million TOTAL SUPPORT & REVENUE.......... $19,787,762............$18,956,620
of which about $10.5 million is farmland.
We look forward to continuing to serve OPERATING EXPENSES

Residential.....................................................$7,165,697................. $7,472,478
Education........................................................6,603,267................... 5,996,787
our existing clients while expanding our Community Services........................................3,325,030................... 2,894,519
service offerings. As always, we will be Other Services......................................................20,170 ....................... 10,223

steadfast in advancing our mission and TOTAL PROGRAM EXPENSES........... $17,114,164............$16,374,007
supporting one another. Administration.................................................2,359,088................... 2,159,814

Advancement.....................................................653,972...................... 746,220

Note: TOTAL EXPENSES............................. $20,127,224............$19,280,041
Fiscal year 2020 covers July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020. CHANGE IN NET ASSETS.............. ($339,462)............($323,421)
Administrative and Advancement expenses include
accounting, human resources, staff training, STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
computer technology, phone service, professional July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020
accreditation and memberships, clerical support,
and other costs associated with efficiently ASSETS FY20 FY19
supporting agency programs and services.

Cash.............................................................. $4,596,185 .................... $524,636

Other Current................................................. 2,549,592 ................... 2,461,820

CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS................... $7,145,777 ..............$2,986,456
Fixed Assets................................................. 20,794,860 ................. 21,099,952
Other Assets - Long Term.................................. 651,938 ...................... 736,815
Investments - Long-Term Portion................. 23,089,814 ................. 26,830,654

TOTAL ASSETS.................................. $51,682,389 ............$51,653,877

LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS

Current Liabilities.......................................... $2,005,378 ................. $2,693,962
Long-Term Liabilities/Debt........................... 10,127,454 ................... 9,070,896

TOTAL LIABILITIES............................ $12,132,832 ............$11,764,858
NET ASSETS...................................... $39,549,557 ............$39,889,019

2 TOTAL LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS.....$51,682,389 ............$51,653,877

OUR CLIENTS hope begins here

BY AGE

5-YEAR 20 YEARS AND OLDER
GROWTH 15-19 YEARS
10-14 YEARS
IN NUMBER OF
CLIENTS SERVED 5-9 YEARS
UNDER 5 YEARS

15.6% 24.6% 30.5% 16.6% 0.9%

Nadoutlets: Of the 777 children, youth and
we served in FY20, 56% are male
and 44% are female.

COUNTIES WE SERVE

THROUGH OUR COMMUNITY-BASED PROGRAMS

1 .0% NORTHERN

OUR CLIENTS BY RACE ILLINOIS 0.8% CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
COOK
OUR COUNTY
CLIENTS
95.6%
HOME
AREA CENTRAL

0.3% AMERICAN INDIAN 13.6%-----MULTI-RACIAL
OR ALASKAN NATIVE 0.8%-------OTHER
51.5%-----WHITE
0.3%-------ASIAN 0.4%-------UNKNOWN

29.6%-----BLACK

3.6%-------HISPANIC OR LATINO 2.6% SOUTHERN

3

a place to call home

Expressing herself

When Shawnae* arrived at her final Special Therapies class at Cunningham, she told Special Therapies music
specialist Kyle that she came to the session with something prepared.

“My staff called it an ‘interpretive dance,’” she said to Kyle. “They said it’s really good, but I don’t think it is, so
I wanted to show you.”

Residential programs at Cunningham are supported by special therapeutic activities that include recreation,
music, art and spiritual programming. Young people with severe emotional and behaviorial problems
respond to the social interaction and creative challenges involved in recreational therapy and engage
themselves as active participants. So it was really special that Shawnae wanted to share.

CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME Because it was Shawnae’s last day at Cunningham, Kyle decided to start the session 95%of residential youth
with her dance rather than wait to see if there was time at the end. So Kyle, a
special therapies intern and another Cunningham youth, sat in the chairs in the agree or strongly
chapel as Shawnae took her spot and nodded to Kyle to begin the music. agree that
As the music from the song, “Runnin’ (Lose It All)” filled the room, the group
watched as the lyrics—reaching out for help, shrinking down at the weight of the Cunningham does
world, begging and pleading not to be buried by memories that turned to dust— a good job of
took form in Shawnae’s movements. After the final words of the song played —if I supporting
lose myself, I lose it all—Shawnae stopped and faced Kyle, waiting for feedback. contact/visits
“I’ll be honest,” Kyle said to Shawnae, “I’m trying not to cry.” with parents,
Shawnae’s performance was a true illustration of how music and dance can express siblings and
deep pain and emotion, and how, when surrounded by people who love and care other resources
about you, letting that pain go can help you feel so free.
“From the moment the song started, I was overcome with emotion,” Kyle said. 11residential youth
“Here was a young woman who had been through so much and was so nervous and
anxious about where she would be going. All of that pain and anxiety was present in transitioned to less
her dancing. I was just so proud of her.” restrictive settings

The small group session continued and everyone shared songs of hope and love
with Shawnae. They encouraged her to stand tall and gain strength from the people who care about her as she
transitions to a new place where she will continue on her journey to heal, learn and grow.

4 *Our story is real but name was changed to protect the privacy of our youth.

His UNITED METHODIST a place to call home
JWulyO1,M20E19N- JDunOeN30O, 2R0S20

REAL Albion First UMW
rewards Aledo UMW
Altamont First UMW
Hope is the light inside us that Arcola UMW
can’t be extinguished. It rages on Arenzville UMW
to give us a glimmer of what we Argenta UMW
can do and of who we can become. Ashland UMW
Because hope fuels opportunity and Assumption UMW
opportunity gives us a chance to Athens UMW
get better. Atlanta UMW
And that’s just what Ivan* did. The Atwood United Methodist
13-year-old loves sports and Cunningham’s Special Therapies team Women’s Fellowship
provides him, and all of our residential youth, opportunities every season Barrington UMW
to work with skills groups and practice with teams. Belleville Signal Hill UMW
But Ivan has difficulty staying regulated during these group activities and Belleville Union UMW
frequently storms out of practices early. He often needs a lot of gentle, Bellflower UMW
yet firm, support to manage his emotions even for short periods of time. Bement UMW - L.I.T.E.’s
However, during the Illinois Interagency Athletic Association (IIAA) virtual Benld UMW
soccer challenge in the fall, Ivan did exceptionally well. Bethalto UMW
“Not once did he complain or react negatively,” Jill, Special Therapies Bethany Women’s Mission Fellowship
specialist, said. “Instead, he remained positive and encouraged the rest Billett UMW
of the youth. It really showed us how much he’s grown.” Bismarck UMW
During the pandemic, the IIAA was creative in providing virtual challenge Blandinsville UMW
opportunities for our kids. Opportunities that allowed them to compete Bloomington Park UMW
and be successful while helping them feel connected even while being Bloomington Wesley UMW
physically distanced from one another. Bloomington Wesley UMW Ladies
Ivan’s eyes lit up when he earned a sports medal for the soccer challenge. Outreach and Lunch
It was something he had been wanting for a very long time. But his growth, Blue Mound Bethel UMW
progression toward healing and HOPE are Ivan’s real rewards! Blue Mound UMW
Bonfield Evangelical UMW
*Our story is real but name was changed to protect the privacy of our youth. Bonfield First UMW
Bradford Boyd’s Grove UMW
Residential programs at Cunningham are supported by special therapy activities Bradley Wesley UMW
that include recreation, music, art and spiritual therapeutic programming. Bridgeport First UMW
Children with severe emotional and behaviorial problems respond to the social Broadlands UMW
interaction and creative challenges involved in recreational therapy and engage Brooke Road UMW
themselves as active participants. Brownstown UMW
Burnside UMW
Bushnell UMW
Cabery UMW
Cache River District UMW
Calhoun Ebenezer UMW
Camargo UMW
Cambridge UMW
Camp Point UMW
Canton Shield’s Chapel UMW
Cantrall UMW
Carbondale First UMW
Carbondale Grace UMW
Carlinville UMW CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
Carmi Emmanuel UMW
Carrier Mills UMW
Carrollton-White Hall UMW
Carterville UMW
Carthage UMW
Caseyville UMW Laurel Circle
Catlin UMW
Cedar Grove UMW
Centerville UMW
Centralia Cornerstone Faith UMW
Champaign Faith UMW
continued

5

a place to call home UNITED METHODIST Life is a JOURNEY
JWulyO1,M20E19N- JDunOeN30O, 2R0S20
The topic of the chapel exercise with Chaplain Gay King Crede and a
Champaign First UMW small group of boys from Cunningham’s residential program was
Champaign Mt. Vernon UMW “Life is a Journey.”
Chatham UMW Chaplain Gay shared pictures of people hiking and walking through
Chatham UMW-Ruth Circle national parks and talked about how some parts of the journey were fun
Chester UMW while others were scary. She then asked the boys, “What are three things
Chillicothe First UMW you have discovered on your life’s journey?”
Chillicothe First UMW-Leatha Group The youth said things like, people care about me, I am loved, I believe
Cisco UMW in myself, I am forgiven, I am valued by staff. As they continued to talk,
Clay City UMW Chaplain Gay was delighted with the many responses that included the
Clinton UMW theme of “light at the end of the tunnel.”
Coal City UMW The youth shared that even with the hardships and struggles they’ve
Coffeen UMW experienced, they knew they were going to be okay. They could see the
Colchester UMW light ahead and have hope for a brighter future.
Colona UMW “They began to open up and recognize how a light at the end of the
Crescent City UMW tunnel represented hope in a time of struggle,” Chaplain Gay said.
Cropsey UMW “While each of these boys are 14 or younger, they have all experienced
Crystal Lake UMW dark times and past trauma. I am so thankful they are at Cunningham
Danville St. James UMW where they are cared for and can heal.”
Decatur First UMW
CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME Decatur Garver Brick UMW
Decatur Grace UMW
Decatur Wesley UMW
Delavan UMW
Divernon UMW
Dix Union Chapel UMW
Donovan UMW
Downer’s Grove UMW
Dunlap Prospect UMW
DuQuoin First UMW
DuQuoin Sunfield UMW
Durbin-Franklin UMW
Dwight UMW
East Moline Christ Glory Circle
East Moline Christ UMW
East Peoria UMW
Edinburg UMW
Edwardsville Immanuel UMW
Edwardsville St. John’s UMW
Effingham Centenary UMW
Elgin District UMW
Elkhart UMW
Ellsworth UMW
Elmwood UMW
Embarras River District UMW
Enterprise West UMW
Fairbury First UMW
Fairfield Ellen Moore UMW
Fairview Center UMW
Fairview Heights Christ UMW
Faith Circle of Emmanuel Zion
Farina UMW
Farmer City UMW
Farmington UMW
Flora First UMW Odessa Murray Circle
Forrest Chatsworth UMW
Forsyth UMW
Galesburg Faith UMW
Galva Grace UMW
Geneseo First UMW
Geneseo Grace UMW
Gibson City Wesleyanna Circle

continued
6

For the health and safety of our youth and staff during the pandemic, large UNITED METHODIST a place to call home
gatherings, like weekly Chapel service in the Spiritual Life Center, were not JWulyO1,M20E19N- JDunOeN30O, 2R0S20
possible but that didn’t stop Chaplain Gay King Crede from offering
unique spiritual services and programming in small groups. Gillespie First UMW
Gladstone UMW
Faith, Fun and Coffee Glen Carbon New Bethel UMW
Glen Ellyn UMW
“Although it may look different, our spiritual programming can be Godfrey First UMW
activities which are a source of stability and consistency during uncertain Good Hope UMW
times,” she said. Grand Prairie Martha Circle
Throughout our history, spiritual nurturing for our youth and staff has been Granite City Nameoki UMW
an integral part of our provision of care. Chaplain Gay provides Grant Park UMW
support and leadership during times of celebration as well as during times Green Valley UMW
of crisis. Participation in spiritual services—like weekly chapel, Greenfield UMW
Vacation Bible School, Bible study and staff devotions—is optional Griggsville UMW
and tailored to the unique needs of our staff and kids. Hamilton UMW
For our youth ages 10 to 14 years, Chaplain Gay created “Faith and Fun” Hammond UMW
sessions which centered around faith Hanna City UMW
lessons incorporated into a physical Harrisburg First UMW
activity: Havana UMW
Herscher UMW
The Weight of our Sins Hills Grove UMW
Hillsdale UMW
Youth carried water bottles representing Hindsboro UMW
their feelings/sins about mean, hateful Hoopeston UMW
and hurtful things they said or did and Hudson UMW
feel bad or guilty about, while also trying Humboldt UMW
to make a basket in a mini-hoop. IGRC UMW
What they learned is when we carry our Illinois River District UMW
guilt around with us it weighs us down. Illiopolis UMW
Over time it gets in the way of us doing Indianola UMW
good things in life. Industry UMW
The good news is God loves us and wants Iroquois River District UMW
us to be free from sin and guilt so we can Island Grove UMW
live our lives with joy. Jacksonville Asbury UMW
Jacksonville Centenary UMW
God Pushes Evil Away Jacksonville Grace UMW
Jacksonville Wesley Chapel UMW
Our youth stuck a finger into pepper Jerseyville UMW
and water on a plate and the pepper Joy UMW
clung to their finger. Each youth then Kankakee Asbury UMW
dried their finger and Chaplain Gay put Kankakee Asbury UMW-Dorothy
a dab of dish soap on it. When they put Miner Circle
their finger back into the water and Kankakee St. Mark UMW
pepper, the pepper shot to the outside Kankakee Trinity UMW
edge of the plate. Karnak UMW
What they learned is that God is like soap. He helps us push the bad Kaskaskia River District UMW
thoughts and our bad behaviors out of our lives. The more time we spend Kempton UMW
with God, the less time bad thoughts and ideas stick to us. Kewanee First UMW
For our high schoolers living in the girls and boys group homes, Kewanee First UMW Ruth Circle
programming was simpler but just as effective. Our young people made Kirkwood Smithshire UMW
a trip to the chapel for Coffee & Conversation. They each chose a special Knoxville UMW
flavored decaffeinated coffee and watched a short faith-related video. Lacon United Methodist Doves CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
Together, they discussed their reactions to the message in the video, LaMoine River District UMW
shared fellowship with their peers and enjoyed a good cup of java! Lancaster Parish UMW
Lawrenceville Zion UMW Blessing Circle
LeRoy UMW
Lewistown United Methodist Ruth Circle
Lexington First UMW
Liberty Pleasant Grove UMW
Lincoln First UMW
Lincoln First UMW Ruth Circle
Litchfield St. Timothy UMW
Loda UMW
continued

7

a good education UNITED METHODIST
JWulyO1,M20E19N- JDunOeN30O, 2R0S20

Long Creek UMW
Long Point UMW
Mackinaw UMW
Macomb Wesley UMW
Macon UMW
Mahomet UMW
Manito Community UMW
Manteno UMW
Maquon UMW
Marion Aldersgate UMW
Marion First UMW
Marshall First Mary Martha Circle
Marshall First Susannah Wesley Circle Jordan* is proud of the relationships she has built with younger kids at
Marshall First UMW
Marshall Trinity West Union UMW Cunningham Children’s Home, especially with 10-year-old Gavin*.
Mattoon First UMW “I like feeling I’m helping my peers make positive choices,” Jordan said.
Mattoon First UMW Mary Circle “And I’m glad Gavin feels like he can talk to me. It feels like I am making
Mattoon First UMW Rebecca Circle a difference in his life.” She
McDowell UMW Jordan and Gavin attend the Gerber Education hhmealvepes
McHenry UMW Program in the Noel Education Center where
Metropolis First Susanna Circle they participate in the “Peacemakers” program.
Metropolis First UMW Sixteen-year-old Jordan is a mentor and Gavin is
Middlefork UMW a younger student she meets with regularly.
Milford UMW A mentoring program, Peacemakers connects
Minonk UMW older students with younger students. The
Minooka UMW program was started in 2010 by Ms. Melissa,
Mission u
Mississippi River District UMW
Moline Bethel Wesley UMW
Momence UMW
Monmouth First UMW a social worker at Gerber, who has seen a real
Monticello UMW impact on students over the years.

Morris UMW “When you trust someone and challenge them
Morris UMW Rebekah Circle to excel, it is amazing how some rise to the
Morton UMW occasion and take flight,” Ms. Melissa said.
Morton UMW Hannah Circle
Mossville UMW
Mount Hope UMW continued The goal of Peacemakers is two-fold. For the
Mount Olive UMW younger student, it offers peer support and
Mount Sterling UMW attention with school work as well as a personal
example of self-discipline and good behavior. Their Peacemaker
partner is someone they can look up to. For the Peacemaker, it is an opportunity to gain self-confidence and
leadership skills and to understand personal responsibility, integrity, compassion and respect. The act of
helping a younger student has a major impact on their own self-esteem.

Ms. Melissa said she looks for students with leadership qualities and positive traits they can share but also tries
to see how being a Peacemaker can help them therapeutically. In the younger students, Ms. Melissa looks for a
willingness to grow and learn both academically and personally.

CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME At Gerber, being a Peacemaker is a significant honor and the students wear their Peacemakers t-shirts with
great pride. It is a voluntary program, but has to be earned. Participants must have good relational abilities,
strong communication skills, good academic discipline and can serve as a role model and inspiration to
younger students. They also have to complete an application and be recommended by a teacher.

In addition to the classes Jordan takes at Gerber, she attends Urbana High School part-time but still finds time
for Gavin. Every Wednesday during lunch, and on some Fridays, she meets with him and talks, listens and
shares a little of her own experiences and wisdom. Gavin appreciates the time Jordan spends with him.

“Jordan reminds me of my older sister,” Gavin said. “She is someone I can look up to. She is happy, nice and
talks to me. Jordan helps me have peace.”

8 *Our story is real but names were changed to protect the privacy of our youth.

Creative expression a good education

The use of artistic methods as Gerber’s art department was awarded a
therapeutic tools is a technique grant from the Urbana Arts and Culture
rooted in the idea that creative Program for a project that was put on
expression can foster healing display at the Urbana Free Library.
and emotional well-being. In one “Hands of Hope” invited our students
therapeutic art activity with to create plaster sculptures of their
Ms. Evelyne, art and pschology hands and decorate them in a way that
teacher at Gerber, youth “poured” highlights their abilities and personalities.
a mix of acrylic paint, water and a
pouring medium onto a canvas.
They then tilted it in many directions
until they got the desired effect,
symbolizing that beautiful things can
happen when you pour out
your feelings. Another was creating
self-portraits with color schemes
that portrayed their moods
and emotions.
Ms. Evelyne also took the
opportunity to use art to have
important conversations.
“Inspired by the protests that
took place in our community
following the death of George
Floyd, we talked about racism
and then created a reaction piece,”
she said. “They were aware of the
social justice issues going on.
I felt it was extremely important
to talk with them about what was
happening, their thoughts and
feelings about it and their role in
society and I wanted to address
it with art. As we’re talking about
all different cultures and artists,
to have these discussions
is important.”

16 young people from HANDS OF HOPE CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
across our three
education programs 9
celebrated graduations

a good education Above Mrs. Overman’s desk at
CIRCLE Academy Urbana hangs a
picture of dandelions painted by
her mother.

“When my siblings and I were
younger, we would always bring
dandelions to my mother,” she
explained. “Dandelions are
actually weeds, but we saw them
as flowers.”

Seeing beauty, when others may
not, has stuck with Mrs. Overman
throughout her life and career. As
a teacher in public schools for
over 34 years, Mrs. Overman has
a strong commitment to educating
youth.

“I set the bar high,” she said,
“because I have worked at public

I see flowersschools and I want these kids to

be prepared for what will be
expected academically and behaviorally once they return to public school.”

In our CIRCLE Academy Education Programs in Urbana and Rossville, youth live with their families in
surrounding communities. They have unique behavioral and emotional challenges which have prevented
them from being successful in a public school environment. Our therapeutic education model identifies the
individual needs and strengths of each student and builds on those strengths, both academically and
behaviorally. The goal is to help students progress and successfully return to public school.

Mrs. Overman has a unique approach in how she runs her classroom or “school family” as she prefers to call it.
Her focus is on the entire classroom unit being successful, involved and accountable.

“We do family voting,” Meredith, a paraeducator who assists in Mrs. Overman’s class, said, “The teachers have
the final say but students get to have a vote on classroom decisions.”

An active role in decisions helps students feel respected and gives them a strong sense for making choices to
better their education and their day overall. For example, on Mondays, names are drawn which decides the
order students choose their “flexible seating” for that week. Options include an array of bean bags and yoga
balls. Traditional seats are still used at times, but this gives students input about their learning environment.

CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME Mrs. Overman’s approach to teaching is firm, direct and loving. Her
response to student behavior is not to correct the negative, but to
use positive statements that enforce the good. Comments like, “I like
how your hands are at your side when you walk,” “Way to get back on
track!” or “Touchdown, good job!” encourage positive behavior by
pointing out the responsible decisions they make in their day.

“I love it!” Mara* said enthusiastically when asked about Mrs.
Overman’s class. “It’s the best class I’ve ever been in.” Leo*, one of
Mara’s classmates, agreed and said, “She’s a good teacher.”

Within days of the state of Illinois’ Mrs. Overman also transformed the breakout room in her classroom
stay-at-home order, Mrs. Overman into a small library where students use a form to check out books. In
sent a message to her students and that library sits a picture of Mrs. Overman’s mom whose painting is a
others by displaying colorful hearts, reminder to always see the beauty even when others don’t.
smiley faces and encouraging notes “I tell my students, I see flowers when I look at you,” she said.
on the windows of her classroom.
*Our story is real but name was changed to protect the privacy of our youth.
10

Strides in educating UNITED METHODIST a good education
JWulyO1,M20E19N- JDunOeN30O, 2R0S20
Jonathon* and his mom watched from the front door as the car from
Cunningham’s CIRCLE Academy-Vermilion (CAV) pulled up in front of Mount Vernon First UMW
their house. He smiled and waved as one of his favorite staff members, Moweaqua UMW
Ms. Emily, CAV’s Lead Refocus Paraprofessional, unpacked a table, lawn Mt. Auburn UMW
chairs, the rewards choice board, a Chromebook and other school Mt. Vernon Epworth UMW
supplies and proceeded to set up the day’s classroom in his front yard. Mulberry Grove-Pleasant Mound UMW
After Jonathan’s temperature was taken, his mask was on and the Murrayville UMW
COVID-19 protocol questions were answered, she pulled up the internet Neoga Grace UMW
hot spot on her phone and they got to work. Jonathon needed a little Neponset New Hope UMW
more attention with math this week, so Ms. Emily worked with him on New Boston UMW
math worksheets along with his online assignments using the New Salem UMW
Chromebook. After completing his assignments, Jonathon excitedly Newton Grace UMW
made a selection from the rewards choice board to celebrate his Niantic UMW
accomplishments. Nokomis Fairview UMW
This is just one example of how CAV staff were dynamic and creative in Normal Calvary UMW
their development of the remote learning process over the first six months Normal First UMW
of the pandemic because, like all schools in the area, CAV began remote Oakland UMW
learning in March. Starting with the distribution of written packets and Okawville UMW
phone calls to students, to socially-distanced home visits, to expanding Oneida UMW
programming with Google Meet and Google Classrooms to start the new Paloma UMW
school year, CAV staff made great strides in their ability to provide learning Paris First UMW
opportunities and give students and families the chance to work directly Parkersburg and Little Wabash
with staff in an interactive and meaningful way. Charge UMW
“We got creative and made sure every kid was taken care of,” Ms. Emily Patoka UMW
said. “We understood it would be more effort on our part but we wanted Pawnee UMW
to do it. We wanted to give parents the tools to be teachers at home.” Paxton UMW
Pekin First UMW
*Our story is real but name was changed to protect the privacy of our youth. Pekin First UMW - God’s Gals
Pekin Grace UMW
Peoria Bethel UMW
Peoria Bradley Epworth UMW
Peoria First UMW
Peoria Forrest Hill UMW
Peoria University UMW
Percy Wesley UMW
Peter Cartwright UMW
Petersburg UMW
Pinckneyville UMW
Pinkstaff UMW
Pittsfield UMW
Plainville UMW
Port Byron First UMW
Powers UMW
Preemption UMW
Princeville UMW
Prophetstown Loraine UMW
Quincy Union UMW
Quincy Vermont Street UMW
Rankin UMW
Ransom UMW
Riverton First UMW CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
Roanoke UMW
Roberts-Thawville UMW
Robinson Otterbein UMW
Robinson Zion Oakridge UMW
Rochester UMW
continued

91% of parents agree or strongly agree 96% of parents agree or strongly agree 11
that they are satisfied with the
CIRCLE Academy education program. that that the class sizes at CIRCLE Academy
promote effective learning.

a safe community We continue to hold ourselves to the highest possible standards in
meeting the needs of the youth, adults and families in our community
who are experiencing difficult life situations.
Empowering Connections through
UNITED METHODIST ECHO provides comprehensive Hope and Opportunities
JWulyO1,M20E19N- JDunOeN30O, 2R0S20 housing, employment and life
skills development to E CHO
Rockbridge UMW Champaign County citizens
Rockford Brooke Road UMW who are homeless or at risk of HOUSING AND EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT
Roseville UMW homelessness. With the goal
Rosiclare UMW of providing support towards
Rossville UMW permanent housing and employment, staff work with adults or families
Rural UMW with the ability to live independently with or without on-going support.
Rushville First UMW • ECHO provides case management
Salem Grace UMW
San Jose UMW and care coordination to promote
Sangamon River District UMW skill development and connections
Saunemin UMW to permanent housing and
Savoy UMW employment.
Sheffield Fairview UMW • Case managers work with
Sheffield UMW participants to evaluate barriers,
Shelbyville First UMW assess needed resources and
Shelbyville Fourth Street UMW develop a plan to attain a stable
Sherman UMW future by taking a holistic approach
Sparta UMW to address all aspects of life
Spoon River District UMW including basic needs, child care,
Springfield First UMW transportation, education, healthy living and mental health.
Springfield Kumler UMW
Springfield Laurel UMW
Stewardson, Mode, Strasburg,
Washington UMW
Streator First UMW Intensive Placement A partnership with the Illinois
Stronghurst UMW Stabilization Department of Children and Family
Sullivan UMW Services (DCFS) allows Cunningham to
Sumner Beulah UMW I PS provide Intensive Placement Stabilization
Swan Creek UMW (IPS) services for children and youth in
Tonica UMW Champaign, Vermilion, Ford and Iroquois
Toulon UMW counties.
Tremont UMW
Trenton UMW The IPS program is designed to help promote DCFS goals of safety,
Troy UMW permanency and well-being for
Tuscola UMW the children and youth it serves.
Urbana Wesley UMW As an IPS provider, Cunningham
Varna UMW works with families, schools,
Vermilion River District UMW communities and others.
Verona UMW
Villa Grove UMW
Virden/Girard UMW
Warsaw Trinity UMW • IPS provides short-term
Washburn UMW services, interventions and
Washington Crossroads UMW
CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME Watseka UMW support to children and youth
Watson UMW with emotional and/or
Weldon UMW
West Frankfort Antioch UMW behavioral problems identified
Westfield UMW as being at risk of placement
White Chapel UMW disruption.
Williamsfield UMW • Staff coordinate services and
Williamsville UMW interventions for issues that
Willow Hill UMW Quilting Group
United Methodist Women, Inc. may put foster care placements
at risk and help youth and

Xenia UMW families achieve stable living

situations.

12

UNITED METHODIST a safe community
JCulHy 1U, 2R0C19H- JDunOeN30O, 2R02S0

Aledo UMC
Allerton UMC
Altamont First UMC
Arcola UMC
Arthur UMC
Athens-Cantrall UMM
Runaway and Homeless Youth Services Runaway and Homeless Avon UMC
(RHY) is a community and agency effort Youth Services Belleville Union UMC
to reach an underserved population of Bethany UMC
runaway and homeless individuals.
• Our Emergency Shelter services, for RHY Bloomington Wesley UMC
Bondville UMC Panera Group
ages 14 up to 21, provide stable Bonfield First UMC
Bourbonnais Quilting with
Grace-Grace UMC
and temporary housing with 24-hour professionally supervised shelter Bridgeport UMC
services in a home-like environment, life skills instruction, education
advocacy, recreational activities and case management services. Bushnell UMC
Canton Wesley UMC
• Our Street Outreach, for ages 14 up to 24 and including individuals Cantrall UMC
who are pregnant or parenting, strives to ensure a safe, stable living
Carbondale Grace UMC
Carmi Zion UMC
arrangement and services focus on urgent needs such as shelter, food, Carrollton UMC
education, benefits and support services.
• Our Intermediate Transitional Living services, for ages 18 up to 24, Casey UMC
Catlin UMC
focuses on development and lifelong skills that produce sustainable Cave in Rock UMC
housing, employment, relationships and community connections.
Centerville UMC WINGS
Champaign Faith UMC
Champaign Faith Discovery Fellowship
Families Stronger Together (FST) Sunday School Class
provides voluntary trauma-informed and Families Stronger Champaign First UMC
culturally responsive therapeutic services Together Champaign New Horizon UMC

for the entire family—caregivers and their F S T Charleston Wesley Friendship Class
youth, age 10 through age 17—who live Chatham UMC
in Champaign County and who have Chillicothe First UMC
Church of the Cross UMC
entered, or are at risk of entering the Cissna Park UMC
Coal City UMC
juvenile justice system. Services promote resiliency in these families and are Coal City UMC Evening Star Circle

provided according to the Attachment, Regulation and Competency (ARC) Collinsville UMC Priscilla Circle

treatment framework which includes Community United Church
of Broadlands
• individual therapy services for the youth Crescent City UMC
• family therapy services for the youth and their family Cropsey UMC
• psychoeducation services for the youth Cullom UMC
• psychoeducation services for the caregivers Dahinda UMC
• care coordination services for the youth Dalton City UMC
• intensive family engagement services Decatur First UMC
• coordination with similar or related providers for aftercare services Decatur First UMC CC Sunday School Class
Decatur Grace UMC
Delavan UMC
Dorchester UMC CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
84% of 100% of caregivers Downs UMC
DuQuoin First UMC
individuals we served whose loved ones received services Dwight UMC
through ECHO through the IPS program agreed or East Alton First UMC
Easton UMC
secured permanent strongly agreed that staff were Ebenezer UMC
housing during responsive to their questions and Ebenezer UMC Ladies Aid
concerns and were accessible when Effingham Centenary UMC
program enrollment. Effingham Centenary UMC Quilters
they needed assistance. Emmanuel UMC
Enterprise West UMC
continued

13

a safe community Somebody’s hero

CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME Staci has a lot on her plate. A provided tools for calming down “I cannot imagine what
single mother, she is the primary when he was feeling strong Jacob would be like if not
caregiver for her two children emotions. Over time, Jacob for Jennifer and HopeSprings,”
with special needs and her learned to use these tools to Staci said.
elderly parents who live with control himself and become more Even after Jacob completed
them. When Staci sought help independent. therapy, Staci continued to work
from HopeSprings Counseling Staci was so pleased with how on her complex trauma with
Services for her son, Jacob,* Jennifer was able to connect with Jennifer, whose therapeutic
little did she know how much her son, she sought help for services has led to a lot of hope
her own life would change. herself. Counseling was not new and healing for this family. Staci
Once skeptical for hope, she to Staci but sessions with Jennifer even gave Jennifer a red
now sees light in the darkness. were and she experienced progress Superman cape and told her
“I was on the precipice of she hadn’t had in her previous 20+ she was somebody’s hero.
explosion,” Staci said, “but years of treatment. Looks like Jennifer has a “super
Jennifer showed me the light “Never, not even once, were any of power” of her own.
switch and now I can turn it on.” my other therapists able to get me
When Jennifer, a HopeSprings to open up like Jennifer has,” 700+ times
therapist, began working with Staci said.
Jacob in late 2018, he was Jennifer helped Staci understand services were provided
suffering from severe depression how the trauma she experienced in community settings —
and social anxiety which caused in her youth and from past mostly in schools, including
him to have emotional outbursts relationships affected her stress
and shut down when he was levels and interaction with her Head Start and the
approached with certain issues. family. Jennifer connected Staci Community Service
Jacob has autism spectrum with a behavioral therapy group Center in Rantoul.
disorder (ASD)—a developmental and a Wellness Coach to help with
disability that can cause significant parenting skills and to understand 89% reported
social, communication and the connection between physical
behavioral challenges. and mental health. satisfaction with services
When Jennifer did her initial offered at HopeSprings
assessment of Jacob, she found (agreed or strongly agreed).
him to have what she calls the
“super power,” meaning very 91% reported that
intelligent with an incredibly HopeSprings staff are
advanced vocabulary for a 13-year- invested in their success
old. However, despite this “super (agreed or strongly agreed).
power” and his high functioning
ability, Jacob was having a 89% reported that
difficult time at school and in
his daily activities. their therapist provided
Jennifer began helping Jacob helpful guidance and
learn to better cope with his support when they had a
negative feelings and control his concern or problem
emotional outbursts during (agreed or strongly agreed).
counseling sessions and at home.
She worked with him on self care
and taught him techniques and

14

Adrian* took a bite of his pizza and then shouted across the table, “TJ, TJ, TJ, I love you TJ!” Reassuringly, TJ a safe community
responded, “I love you too.”

TJ is a case worker for Community Services at Cunningham Children’s Home. He and other members of the
Community Services team were gathered for 21-year-old Tamara’s* “Goodbye Party,” when Adrian continually
expressed his affection for TJ.

Tamara is Adrian’s mom and during her two years in Cunningham’s Pregnant and Parenting Teens Program, she
made great strides and showed significant growth with parenting skills, financial literacy, independent living
education and vocational training. The party was a way to celebrate Tamara’s progress and the progress of her
young sons, Adrian and
Jaylin,* as they formally I love you TJ!
transitioned out of the
program. Few were more
excited to celebrate than TJ, Tamara’s parenting program counselor.

TJ became connected to Tamara, who was pregnant with Jaylin at the
time, when he was an instructor in a parenting risk reduction course
James*, Jaylin’s father, was taking. The course provided instruction
on safe sleeping, reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome
(SIDS) and developing a birth plan.

The day after Jaylin’s birth, James left the hospital to get supplies
before he was set to return to take Tamara and the newborn home.
Tragically, he was shot and killed before making it back.

When TJ first began working with Tamara, Adrian could never
remember his name and would come into the office and say, “Hi case
worker!” Over time, however, a bond was formed between TJ and the
young family and this relationship was just what they needed to heal,
learn and grow.

“Adrian is high energy and really craved attention from a consistent
male role model in his life,” TJ said. “He learned to trust me and
became responsive and mindful to what I would ask of him.”

TJ’s own experience with overcoming childhood trauma helped
Tamara understand it was possible to overcome difficult life
situations and by working hard, she could provide a better dynamic
for her own children. He was also quick to provide positive
reinforcement of her successes and strengths, reminding her that
even when times are tough, the boys love her and need her not to
fail.

Although at times Tamara failed to see the dramatic impact her volatile relationships had on her boys, she
always worked hard to care and provide for them. TJ told Tamara, “It is okay to be vulnerable and frustrated
with family members who wouldn’t step up, but you can’t let it define you.”

TJ credits the resources and staff at Cunningham for his ability to develop a supporting relationship with CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
Tamara and her boys. Cunningham’s “team” approach allowed Tamara to work closely with TJ, but also with
Angie, Associate Director of Community Services, and case manager Chalaine on crisis management and
building healthy relationships.

“Beyond all of the work with Tamara and all the concerns and challenges they’ve endured, TJ has touched
these young boys lives by serving as a strong male role model that treats their mom with respect, while also
giving them positive attention,” Angie said.

Tamara’s experience with TJ and Cunningham reminds us of the African proverb, It takes a village to raise a
child. Cunningham’s “village” develops deep relationships rooted in trust and love and works together to
realize our mission to nourish hope through effective solutions so children thrive and families flourish.

*Our story is real but name was changed to protect the privacy of our youth. 15

a safe community UNITED METHODIST Signed, Sealed and Delivered
JCulHy 1U, 2R0C19H- JDunOeN30O, 2R02S0
CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME On June 30, 2020, five-year-old Emery’s adoption was finalized and like
Fairbury First UMC all parents do, Julie and Shawn made sure to capture the event with the
Farmer City UMC cutest of photos. Emery was so happy and not even the 1,566 days it
Fisher UMC took to get to this day could take that happiness away from her, her
Forrest UMC parents or, as it turned out, from Cunningham’s Marie and Paige from
Forrest UMC Children of God the Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) program.
Sunday School Class “We’ve been intimately involved all along so we are just full of joy at the
Franklin UMC completion of Emery’s adoption,” Marie, IPS Associate Director of Family
Galva First UMC Services, said. “These foster parents had to hang in there for a really long
Georgetown UMC time but they were committed very, very early on to becoming this child’s
Gibson City UMC parents for the rest of her life and weathered a lot of storms.”
Greenfield UMC When Julie and Shawn became foster parents to Emery, they intended to
Hamilton UMC be engaged and connected with her biological mother. When it became
Hanna City UMC clear that was not going to happen, the goals shifted from fostering to
Havana UMM adoption. The case went on for a very long time before parental rights
Hennepin UMC were terminated. Then there was an appeal process, a number of case
Herscher UMC worker changes and behavioral difficulties they had to address.
Hillsboro UMC “While there were so many ups and downs with the case, Julie and
Homer UMC Shawn were the absolute constant in this little girl’s life,” Marie said.
Homer UMC Kum Joy Nus “They’ve created stability for Emery and there’s just ease and warmth
Homer UMC Teens for Christ and total inclusion of her in their family. It has been really impressive to
Illiopolis UMC see their perseverance and dedication.”
Indianola UMC But there’s so much more to this story and Julie and Shawn’s all-in
Industry UMC commitment to their family.
Iroquois UMC Marie and Paige, IPS Family Support Specialist, first became involved with
Island Grove UMC the family two years prior when they began providing services for Emery’s
Jacksonville Asbury UMC older sister Renee*, whom Julie and Shawn were also fostering.
Jacksonville Centenary UMC Growing up, the girls were surrounded by mental illness, substance abuse
Jerseyville UMC Together SS Class issues and neglect. Renee, a classic case of a young child who didn’t get
Kankakee Asbury UMC the care and attention she needed for the first couple of years of her life,
Karnak UMC was struggling with daily challenges with her emotions and temper, which
Kewanee First UMC Guild Circle often caused behavioral problems. Julie and Shawn needed help.
Kirkwood UMC
Lakewood UMC “We were really at our wits end,” Julie
Loda UMC said. We had gone through so many
Long Creek UMC Belles case managers and ended up having our
Mahomet UMC case switched over to DCFS. That’s when
Manchester UMC things really started to happen for us.”
Mansfield UMC Cunningham’s IPS program is designed
Manteno UMC to help promote DCFS’s goals of safety,
Maquon UMC permanency and well being for the
Marion Aldersgate UMC children and youth it serves. To
Homebuilder’s Sunday School Class accomplish this, IPS provides short-term
Marshall First UMC services, interventions and support to
Marshall Trinity UMC children and youth with emotional
Mattoon First UMC Asbury Class and/or behavioral problems who are
Maxey Chapel UMC identified as being at risk of placement
Middlefork UMC disruption. Renee’s situation qualified
Monmouth First UMC for IPS services and Paige and Marie
Monticello UMC got to work.
Moweaqua First UMC Undercover Angels
Mt. Carmel Asbury Chapel UMC
Mt. Vernon Epworth UMC
Mt. Zion UMC
Neoga Grace UMC
Niantic UMC
Nokomis UMC
Normal First UMC
Oakland UMC
Oblong Central UMC
O’Fallon First UMC
Oquawka UMC

continued
16

UNITED METHODIST a safe community
JCulHy 1U, 2R0C19H- JDunOeN30O, 2R02S0
Paige went to Renee’s daycare a couple of days a week where she lent
one-on-one support and provided training opportunities to the staff, Pana UMC
giving them ideas of how to approach situations with her. She also Paris First UMC
provided in-home support. Marie was involved in supporting Paige but Paris Otterbein UMC
also supporting Julie and Shawn. Pekin First UMC
“Any question I had, if Marie didn’t know the answer, she would research Pekin First UM Men’s Club
and come up with it,” Julie said. “If I was having any issues with DCFS not Ransom UMC
calling me back, Marie would immediately jump on the phone and start Rantoul UMC
tracking people down. She helped research schools, counseling and Reddick UMC
residential care for Renee. She just helped get everything arranged.” Roanoke UMC
In the midst of all of this, Emery started having trouble. Getting older and Roseville UMC
seeing what Renee was doing, she started to mimic it. Her behavior put Sangamon River District
her at risk of being kicked out of her daycare. In March 2019, Emery also Savoy UMC
became an IPS client and Paige and Marie’s first assignment was to talk to Shelbyville Fourth Street UMC
the daycare staff and try to convince them to keep her. Shelbyville Wesley Chapel UMC
“When we went there to try and intervene, we explained to the daycare Sidell UMC
staff that Emery’s behavior stemmed from her trauma and if they could South Wilmington UMC
look at her behavior from a trauma informed approach, maybe they’d be Sparta UMC Sunday School Class
more willing to hang in there,” Marie said. St. Francisville UMC
Trauma-Informed Care is the knowledge and understanding of trauma and Stonington UMC
the far-reaching impact it has on behavior and the development of the Streator First UMC
brain. It promotes an environment of safety, healing and recovery. Sugar Grove UMC
Swan Creek UMC
Taylorville First UMC
Taylorville First UMC Youth
Tolono UMC
United Methodist Foundation of Northern
Illinois Conference
Urbana Countryside UMC
Urbana Wesley UMC
Vandalia First UMC
Villa Grove UMC
Virginia UMC
Walnut Grove UMC
Walnut Grove UMC Evening Stars
Warrensburg UMC
Washington Crossroads UMC
Washington UMC
Weedman Bag Ladies
Weedman UMC
Weedman Methodist Men’s Club
West Frankfort Antioch UMC
West Frankfort Central UMC
Westfield UMC
White Chapel UMC
Winchester UMC
Winchester UM Men

Paige started going to the daycare as a therapeutic mentor. Despite her efforts, however, Emery had another
meltdown and when she threw items in the direction of another child, she was asked to leave.

Paige worked with Emery on peer and emotional interactions and helped her to develop coping skills so she CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
could better control her emotions. Paige provided support at Emery’s new daycare with the one-on-one
attention she needed. And Emery began doing really well by using the coping mechanisms Paige taught her.

“Paige and Marie are very much involved and nothing is too much for them,” Julie said. “It’s just amazing. They
take that extra step and are all about the family unit.
“Marie is always the voice of reason,” Julie continued. “She and Paige are always willing to help and if they
don’t yet have a plan, they always have an idea. They at least have hope.”
And, as we see so often at Cunningham, hope goes a long way.

*Our story is real but name was changed to protect the privacy of our youth. 17

hope begins here SAVDEATTEHE 17th Annual

Festival of Quilts
[hybrid, in-person & online]
June 4-5, 2021

Cunningham’s signature fundraiser, the annual Projects in Deb
Festival of Quilts, honors the tradition of United Heater’s Social
Methodist Women and the quilts they and quilters Skills class at
from across Illinois have made and donated to our Gerber, our
kids since 1895. residential
We went online in 2020 and many joined the virtual education
five-day FUNdraising event from the comfort of their program, help
own home! equip our youth
“We had to be creative and adapt this year’s Festival with the tools
for the health and safety of everyone during the they need to
pandemic,” Ginger Mills, Director of Advancement, be flexible and
said. “It was amazing to see the support of our adjust their
donors and friends in the virtual format. We had behavior to
the opportunity to share our mission with attendees fit particular
throughout the country and most importantly, the situations. They
proceeds helped us continue to provide complete also teach life
care to the youth, adults and families we serve.” skills or as Deb says, “teach the kids they can do
• 1,519 individuals logged in and browsed the online things to help themselves.”
store from June 1-5. After winter break, Deb decided to incorporate
• Over $11,000 in quilts and gift shop items were the upcoming Festival of Quilts into her lesson plan.
purchased in the online store on the virtual Festival. The six boys in her class all love sports, especially
• Our live video segments on Facebook had more the Fighting Illini, so naturally, they wanted to make
than 1,100 views in the first day alone. an orange and blue Illini-themed quilt. Beginning
• 167 people purchased quilts and gift shop items, the first week of January, they worked on the quilt
including 53 new supporters. twice a week and finished it just before the start of
• Orders were shipped to shoppers in Arizona, spring break and COVID-19.
California, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, The youngsters already knew about Cunningham’s
Texas and Wisconsin. quilt tradition with the United Methodist Women,
but the project gave Deb an opportunity to talk
$12,000 $21,844 $17,050 about how the Festival helps raise money for their
care and supports programs at Cunningham.
from Arby’s from online sponfsroomrships “When I first explain that the quilt is going to be
GIVE HOPE store sales sold, the kids always think they are going to get the
promotion money personally and are confused when they learn
2020 that is not the case,” Deb said. “It becomes a very
CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME teachable moment when they begin to understand
$61,747$2,116 110 the money raised at the Festival of Quilts allows
from them to have birthday parties, go on field trips, get
unbake in net proceeds amazing new clothes and enjoy the extra, fun things they like
quilts sold doing. Showing them they can get involved and be
part of the efforts to raise the support and funding
sale $11,437 for our programs helps them recognize the impact
$2,700 from they themselves can have.”
monetary Yet another way our amazing staff teach life lessons
in donations to our youth as they heal, learn and grow.
expenses

18

SAVDEATTEHE 32nd ORGANIZATIONS hope begins here
Annual & BUSINESSES
Kendall Gill DONORS

July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020

Golf Benefit 4xFools
AFSCME Subchapter 88 Retirees
Altrusa International
July 12, 2021 Amazon Smile Foundation
American Endowment Foundation
Since 1989, former Illini basketball great and professional player, Kendall American Legion Auxiliary Department
Gill, has gone above and beyond to support Cunningham youth. In of Missouri
addition to making a significant gift to our Boys Group Home named in his American Legion Auxiliary Unit 119
honor, he hosts the Kendall Gill Golf Benefit each summer. Each year at American Lutheran Church Quilting Group
the event, Kendall is joined by his wife Wendy, and sons Phoenix and Kota. Applied Pavement Technology
Arby’s - FMS Group, Inc.
Assurance Agency
Over the years, the Benefit has raised more than $600,000 for Cunningham Bank Champaign, N.A.
youth and programs. We are grateful for the support of friends and Barber & DeAtley, Inc.
community members who have generously donated their time and BarTech Group Inc
resources in order to improve the lives of our kids. Benevity Community Impact Fund
Beta Alpha Psi - UIUC
Despite the challenges and restrictions of COVID-19, unwavering support Blue Top Construction Inc.
allowed Cunningham to host 35 foursomes for the 2020 Kendall Gill Golf Blyler Trust Distribution
Benefit. And while the pandemic and recent loss of Coach Lou Henson Broeren Russo Construction
gave the outing a different look and feel than what we’re used to, it didn’t Busey Bank
stop everyone from enjoying a day of golf and good works. John P. Cadle Foundation
Carle Foundation Hospital
CDC Paper & Janitor Supply
Champaign Church of the Living God
Champaign County Farm Bureau
Prime Timers
Champaign West Rotary
Champaign-Urbana Junior Woman’s Club
Charles Ockerman Trust
Chatham Prairie Quilters
Chesser Financial
Chris Booth Insurance Agency
Christie Clinic Illinois Marathon
Cim-Tek Filtration
City of Urbana
Comcast SportsNet Chicago
Commerce Bank
Community Foundation of Central Illinois
Community Foundation of
East Central Illinois
Community Foundation of Macon County
Countryside School
C-U Jaycees
CUVRLUV, Black Diamond Equipment
UIUC Climbing Club
Dave & Harry Locksmiths, Inc. CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
Delta Kappa Delta Sorority, Inc.
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority
Denny’s Champaign
Kendall says continuing to support Cunningham’s Boys Group Home Diverse Curlz
through this Benefit means a chance at saving lives. Each time Kendall Domino’s Savoy
is in town, he makes sure to spend time with the youth who live there, E.F. Wildermuth Foundation
shooting hoops and talking about their goals. In recognition of Kendall’s Eastern Illinois Chapter A.B.A.T.E.
commitment to our kids and to the campaign to build the Noel Elsie Eberhardt Trust
Education Center, Cunningham leadership named the court in Elks Lodge 2497
Henson Gymnasium after him in 2019. Everyday Quilting
Exelon Foundation
continued

19

hope begins here ORGANIZATIONS
& BUSINESSES
We honor Judge Joseph and Mary Cunningham, our lights of hope,
July 1,D20O19N- JOunRe 3S0, 2020 and their giving hearts and desire to provide a safe and nurturing
environment for children in need with a new holiday drive-through event
Fabricare Super Laundromat on our campus: Luminaries of Hope and Live Nativity.
Facebook
Family Dollar “It was a challenging year for everyone,” Ginger Mills, Director of
FedEx Ground Advancement, said. “There were many events canceled or changed to
Fertilizer Dealer Supply, Inc. virtual and we wanted to create something special that would bring the
Fibers of Love light of hope this Christmas season to the youth, adults and families we
Fifth Generation, Inc. serve and to our community.”
First Federal Bank
First State Bank Monticello Along with a
For C.O.R.E. live nativity,
Frontstream Cunningham’s
GE Foundation campus was
General Mills Box Tops lit up with
GFI Digital hundreds of
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Luminaries
Grand Lodge of Illinois of Hope,
Guardian West representing
Hartsburg Wednesday Meal the youth,
Heartland Bank & Trust Co. adults and SAVDEATTEHE 2nd Annual
Herff Jones Cap & Gown Arcola families the
Hickory River Smokehouse agency serves Luminaries of Hope
Homewood Suites through its
Hopscotch Bakery and Market residential,
Hudson Pharmacy educational
CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME Human Kinetics
I Hotel and Conference Center and Live Nativityand community-
IGW Architecture based services December 11 & 18, 2021
Illini Collector Car Club The public also
Illini Collegians for Life purchased luminaries, in honor or memory of special people in their lives,
Illini Radio Group adding to the glorious display.
Illini Union Office of Volunteer Programs
Image Graphics Our illuminated campus was breathtaking and was enjoyed by many as
Inspire Brands Foundation Inc. we welcomed nearly 300 visitors over three December Saturdays. We are
InsureChampaign so thankful for a community that supports our events and our vision to
International Women’s Group see every child thrive.
Iroquois Federal Foundation, Inc.
Jimmy Johns
Johnco Construction
JP Morgan Securities LLC
Jumpstart Weight Loss- Matzner Clinic
Junior League of Champaign-Urbana
Kathy’s Hats for Hope
Kelley Ironworks
Kona Ice of Champaign LLC
Krannert Center For Performing Arts
Lodgic Everyday Community
Lularoe
M.J. Electric LLC
Mamas Mending
Martin Hood LLC
McGuire & Associates, Inc.
MetriTech, Inc.
Midland Wealth Management
Monticello High School Rotary Interact
Monticello Red Hat Ladies
MSA Professional Services
My Sister’s Keeper
Neighborhood Social Club

continued
20

Friend of Children Award hope begins here

Office of Student Financial Aid, University of Illinois CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME

We know Christmas time is special for our youth
particularly because of the staff at the Office of Student
Financial Aid (OSFA) at the University of Illinois. During a
time when family togetherness and creating traditions is
so important, they help our kids, many who believe they
are overlooked and not important, feel special.

Every year since 2005, the OSFA has provided 60 Savoy
16 movie tickets to be used on Christmas Day—enough
tickets so all of our youth and their direct care staff can
celebrate this special tradition. From picking out the
movie, which is no small task, to eating popcorn and
other goodies, to watching the trailer of upcoming
movies to finally, the feature film, we know this kindness
from the OSFA puts a smile on the faces of our kids.

The OSFA team is very creative in the ways they raise
funds for this annual gift and they sure have a lot of fun doing so. Over the years, they have held silent
auctions featuring unique gift baskets they have put together, chili cook-offs, dessert contests, 50/50 raffles,
candygrams for Valentine’s day and Christmas as well as candy jar guessing contests at Halloween. At
Thanksgiving, they auction off desserts, like homemade cookie cakes and pies. These activities bring them joy
and, at the same time, allow them to give back to the community. The staff is incredibly invested in this
journey of extending kindness in what has become a rewarding experience.

We are so thankful for the Office of Student Financial Aid for creating a Christmas tradition our youth can look
forward to each year.

outstanding alumni award

Danielle Sheppard

Danielle Sheppard endured emotional and physical abuse the majority
of her early life. Between the ages of 8 and 16, she lived in several foster
homes and group homes. In the fall of 2003 when she was about to turn 18,
she arrived at Cunningham Children’s Home and started receiving services
through our Independent Living Options (ILO) program.

The ILO program teaches young adults self-sufficiency and independence
while they live on their own in the community. ILO gave Danielle the
freedom to explore her identities and interests and she was free to be
vulnerable and work on her trauma, free to feel that she was loveable
and worthy as person. A recent high school graduate, Danielle enrolled
at Parkland College, received her associate’s degree and ventured down
to Southern Illinois University in Carbondale to continue her education.

After graduating from SIU in 2008, right in the middle of the great
recession, Danielle took the first job she could find as a receptionist at a
nurse staffing agency. In 2011, she enrolled in the school counseling
program at Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago. After graduating in 2014, she returned to Cunningham
and worked at CIRCLE Academy for two years. In 2016, she became a part time counselor in Chicago and
moved into a full-time role by the fall of 2017.

Today, Danielle is a school social worker in Chicago and still works part time as a counselor. She is in the midst
of creating her own counseling/therapy business in which she hopes to primarily counsel youth. We’re proud of
Danielle for her strength and determination and her desire to help others heal, learn and grow.

21

hope begins here ORGANIZATIJOulyN1S, 20&19 B- JUunSe I3N0, E20S20SES DONORS

Network For Good Regency Multifamily Three Hierarchs Greek University of Illinois Office of
Old Chicago Pizza & Tap Room REMAX Realty Association Orthodox Church Student Financial Aid
Olive Garden Robert Freeman Ministries Thrivent Financial Bloomington UpClose Marketing & Printing
Orange Krush Foundation Robeson Family Benefit Fund TLC Pest Control, Inc. Urbana American Legion
OSF Healthcare System Ruggieri Team, Inc. Tolono Red Hat Auxiliary Post 71
OSF Heart of Mercy Savoy Garden Friends Topflight Grain Cooperative Urbana Country Club
Surgical Staff Sew Sassy, Inc. Trinity Lutheran Church Urbana School District #116
Papa John’s Pizza Sigma Delta Tau United Way of Bartholomew USI Insurance
Pattonsburg Christian Church Silicon Valley Community County, Inc. Vesuvius USA
Personal Performance Training Foundation United Way of Bergen County Vineyard Church
and Rehabilitation, Inc. Social Science Club of C-U United Way of Champaign County WCIA - Channel 3
Pfizer St. Patrick Catholic Church United Way of Greater Philadelphia WeDignify
Phi Theta Kappa-Alpha Psi Divine Mercy Prayer Group and Southern New Jersey Weiskamp Screen Printing
Eta Chapter State Farm - Steve Tarrant United Way of Quad Cities Wells Fargo
Piato Catering State Farm Companies Foundation Unity East Elementary Western North Carolina
Pour Bros Co. State Farm Research & University of Illinois WGRC, Inc.
Prairie Quilters Development Center University of Illinois Agricultural Widows Sons Inner Guard Chapter
Provident Financial Group, LLC Stocks Business Furniture Education Club Windsor of Savoy Tuesday Group
Random Acts Stone Creek Church University of Illinois Athletics Wirth Trust Distribution
Raymond James Global Account Sustainable Grant Making University of Illinois Community Women of Color
RE/MAX Realty Associates Partners Fund Credit Union Women4given
Reaching Across Classes Synergy University of Illinois Department of Women’s Business Council
Red Bicycle Ice Cream Target Computer Science Yoder Booth Apartments, Inc.
Red’s Muffler Shop LLC Thorton Gas Station

Honoring Those Leaving a Legacy to Cunningham Children’s Home

THE CEDARS SOCIETY

A Legacy Gift is a pre-planned gift When you make plans for a The Cedars Society:
A special honor
designated to support the youth, Legacy Gift to Cunningham
• Member receives a Certificate of
adults and families served by Children’s Home, you become Gratitude and special recognition.

Cunningham Children’s Home part of the The Cedars Society. • Member receives invitation to
annual appreciation event.
after you are gone. • Your gift is established through a will
Steps when considering making
• The most common Legacy Gift is a or other written estate plan. a Legacy Gift:
bequest in a Last Will and Testament. • There is no minimum gift size.
• Other Legacy Gifts include 1. Contact Tim Manard for more
- naming Cunningham as the • Donor should consult with attorney or information about your options.
beneficiary of a life insurance financial advisor for guidance.
policy or remaining IRA and 2. Consult your attorney and financial
retirement plan account. • Share your plan with Cunningham by advisor. They can assist you in
- donations of securities or real completing a bequest intention form. determining what type of gift best
estate at the time of death. suits your personal and financial
• All information provided is kept circumstances.
strictly confidential.
3. Talk to your family about your plans
- any provision that provides For questions or to acquire forms, and personal wishes regarding
contact Tim Manard, Development your estate plan and Legacy Gift.
CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME for Cunningham through an Officer, at (217) 337-9071 or
estate plan.
[email protected]

In the late 1800’s, Judge Joseph and Mary Cunningham began to ponder their legacy
to their community. The Cunninghams were living in their large rural estate just
outside of Urbana called “The Cedars” because of the double row of beautiful cedar
trees that lined the long driveway from the road to the house. After much thought,
the Cunninghams decided their legacy would be to make “The Cedars” a safe place
of hope, comfort and love for orphaned and homeless children. The “Cedars Society”
honors that first Legacy Gift of the home that has touched and changed so many lives.

22

d hope begins here
P lanned Marge Stout,
Giving: My love for Cunningham

Marge Stout and Cunningham Children’s Home are almost synonymous.
An active United Methodist Woman, Marge is a co-Chair and longtime
member of the Festival of Quilts committee and always volunteers
her time to help Cunningham. As a former member of
Cunningham’s Board of Directors, including a term as Board
President, she understands the impact Legacy Gifts have on the
agency’s programs and services.

“Being able to see the financial end of things by being on the Board,
I realized how much the farms, that had been given over the years, and
the estate gifts and cash bequests made an impact and were needed,”
she said. “In most cases I suspect that the bequest in their wills were
much bigger gifts than the donors could give during their lifetime.”

When it came time for Marge to update her own Last Will and
Testament, it was important for her that Cunningham continued to
be supported.

“My husband Jerry and I made our will in 1981,” Marge explained.
“Jerry passed away 10 years ago, and last summer, I decided it was
time for me to update my will. Things are a little different than when
we did our will together and my financial position is better. My love for
Cunningham and the staff and all that goes on here made me want to
remember them in my will. I just appreciate everything that’s
done here.”

After meeting with her attorney With a planned gift, you can CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
and making the changes she
wanted, Marge sat down with • make a larger charitable gift than you thought possible
her family and shared her wishes • take care of the financial needs of your family first
with them. • provide inheritances for your heirs at a lower tax cost
“My kids and my grandkids know • reduce your income tax and even avoid capital gains taxes
how much I care for Cunningham • increase income and effective rate of return
Children’s Home,” she said. • leave a legacy without giving up assets
“In fact, over the years, I’ve told
them, ‘Instead of a birthday or With a planned gift to Cunningham, you will
Christmas gift, please send a
donation to Cunningham.’” • support our residential education, recreation, and therapeutic programs
Marge often gives memorial • support our Rosann Gelvin Noel Education Center and help provide the
gifts in the name of Cunningham best educational experience for our kids
because she wants the money to • help bridge the gap between referring agency reimbursements and the
go toward helping our kids. Her actual costs of caring for our kids.
family also knows as a Guardian • provide funding assistance for our community-based programs
Parent, she gives a regular
monthly contribution to help It’s easy to designate Cunningham Children’s Home as a recipient
with the daily needs of of your planned gift. Call Tim Manard, Development Officer, at
Cunningham youth. 217.337.9071 or email him at [email protected].

“So, it was no surprise to them that I wanted to include a bequest to Cunningham in my will,” Marge said.

Marge said making the bequest in her will was easy to do and gave her a deep sense of peace knowing the
youth at Cunningham would continue to be well cared for after she is gone.
23

hope begins here DONORS

Cunningham received gifts from the following donors between July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020

CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME Dean and Fran Abbott Linda Arvin Veda Barrett Denis Blandford
Douglas and Susan Abbott Jan Ashbrook Lois Bastien Dicksie R. Blankenship
Paula Abdullah Tom and Linda Ashby Latisha Bates Gail and Don Block
Carolyn and Brian Abshire Larry Ashley Roger and Annette Bates Ruth Bloxam
Sharon Ackerman Roberta Ashley Susan and Ronald Bates Mary Bobor
Prudence Adams Jeff Asmus Jessica Batey Linda Bode
Stephanie and Michael Adams Andrew Atchie Mary and Tom Batterham Candy Boehm
Dan Adcock Gena Atteberry Doug and Mary Bauling Amy Boen
Tom and Kara Ade Linda Atteberry Chris and John Baumann Thomas and Gena Boger
Gary and Ellen Ahrens Anthony Audrieth Karop and Marilyn Bavougian Marie Bohl
Jean Aldag Priscilla Ault Shelby Baybordi Paula and Jeff Bohleber
Irma Allen Bea and Elmer Aupperle Bill and Marla Bayler Sandy Bollinger
Jan Allen Linda and Dean Austin Dr. Richard and Judy Baylor Kenda and Carl Bond
Lela and Terry Allen Cortney Auter Laura Baylor Marcia and Edward Bondurant
Linda Allen Kris and Barry Aves Edith and Paul Beach Jan and Scott Booraem
Lloyd and Ruby Allen Elizabeth Aydt Sue Beach Julie Yoder-Booth and Larry Booth
Mark and Linda Allen Judy and Wayne Aydt Phil and Dee Beachy Debby Borg
Nancy Allison James and Linda Ayers Beverly Beaird Rose Born
Connie Almy Robert and June Ayers Peter and Sandra Beak Tom and Kelly Borton
Anita Althaus Linda Babcock Elaine Beam John and Sharon Bostic
Sayee Anakk Collette Bachi-Baranowski Norma H. Bean Tom Bottom and Joyce Bishop
Phillip and Carlyn Anders Leverne Backstrom Rachel and Ryan Beaupre Tamara Bouseman
Brenda Anderson Gary Bacon Brent Beazly David and Vicki Bowers
Elnathan Anderson David and Dena Bagger Velma Beck Pam Bowsher
Joan Anderson Ruth Bair Cary Beckwith Rebecca and David Boyd
Joanne and Wells Anderson Deborah Baker Donna and Gerald Bedell Brian and Gretchen Boyer
Joye Anderson Gianina and Ron Baker Joan Behle Andrew Bozzelli
Karen Anderson Michael Baker Karen Beilstein Jane Bradley
Kathy Anderson Thomas and Carolyn Baker Marjorie and Steven Beilstein Ronald and Helen Bradley
Michael and Diane Anderson Reverend Jessica Baldyga and Audra Bell Barbara and Richard Brake
Nancy Anderson Eric Baldyga Cynthia and Maurice Bell Bruce E. Branham
Pam Anderson Lois Bale Nancy and Jim Bell Peter Braunfeld
Casey Andrew Crystal Banks Rebecca and Robert Bell Clark and Cindy Breeze
D. Andrews Lena Banks Suzanne Bell Christine Brewer
Mary E. Anglin Sam and Maureen Banks Nancy and Bruce Bellmore Reverend Dennis P. Brooks
Kendra Appleberry Vera and William Barber Mark and Debbie Belzer William and Marcia Brooks
Adam Aquino and Jewella Smith Marjorie Bargmann Roberta Benschneider Jeanette and Eldon Broster
Kristen Arden-Rowell John Barham Casey Benson Adam Brown
Erwin and Linda Arends Barbara and Dick Barker Terry Benson Beverly Brown
Jill Arends Xavier Barlow Andrew Bequette Bill and Paula Brown
Mary Arner Mary Jo and John Barnard Barbara Berardi Dean and Shirley Brown
Fred and Nancy Arnold Dr. and Mrs. Vernie Barnett Sue Bergan Jacqueline Brown
Mary Arnold Alice Barnhart Penny Berger Joan Mary Brown
Reverends Mary and Paul Arnold Leanne and Brian Barnhart Cathy Bergfeld Patricia Brown
Jennifer Arsenault Richard and Carol Barnhart Bonnie and David Berner Penny and Jeffrey Brown
Taj Y Artis Becky Barnhill Samantha and Mike Berner Reverend Karol Brown
24 Bob Berns Judy and David Brubaker
Field trips are a Mary Berrier Colin and Martha Bruce
big part of the Miriam Berry-Seagle Steven Brunk
education process Jim and Jacque Bethmann Phyllis Bruno
for our youth. Nancy Beveridge Patricia and Charles Bruns
Some of our kids Andrea Beyke Liz and Jeffrey Brunson
went to EAgCo Reverend George Biby and Martha Jean Brunson
farms and learned Darby Biby Mary and David Bruun
how corn and Sally and Jack Bicknell Janet Bryan
soybeans grow Michael Biehl Audrey Bryant
and about Franklin and Deborah Bielser Terrica K. Buchholz
making farming Leann Bill Reverend Daniel and Dorothea Buck
a career. Kathy Billman Dudley and Tracy Buck
Jim and Judy Bilyeu Bill A. Bulfer
Pat Birlingmair Peggy Bullard
Brenda and Mark Blager Carol and Fred Bunting
Frank and Judy Blahofski

Reverend Steve and Mildred Davis hope begins here
Sandra Burgener Nancy K. Davis
Marilyn and Larry Burke Pat and Bob Davis
Terry and Deb Burke Ruth Davison
Kyle and Kimberly Burkwald Mary Jo and Jeff Day
Steven Burns Phyllis Day
Carolyn Burrell Cheri Dayton
Eileen Burrell Deal Family
Marcy Burrus Kristen Dean-Grossmann
Roger and Sara Burrus Paul Debevec and
Jim Burtch Elizabeth Cardman
Shirley Burton Marvin and Linda Debolt
Marcia and Endsely Busboom Steve and Jayne DeBruyn
Matt and Susan Busby Tina Dechausay
Carol Bush Jeff Decker
Joyce Bush Rick Decker
Mike Bush COVID-19 did not allow for our usual graduation ceremony Sue Dehart
Cissy A. Buskirk so our Gerber teachers and staff celebrated our 2020 Robert DeJong
Jeff and Mary Butler graduates with a spirited car parade throughout campus! Jayne Deluce

Julie Butler Linda and Melvin Clauser Margaret Corso Margaret DeMent
Kathryn and Richard Butler Lorna Clauss Ruth Cortright David and Sheila Denby
Keith Butler Kenneth and Nancy Claypool Reverend Thomas Corum and Kelly Dennemann
Patrick Button Stephanie Corum Linda Denton
Brooke Buzard Steven Claypool Kari and David Couch Rosemary Denton
Letha Byrne Don Clements Tod and Belinda Courtney Gary and Cindy Denzer
Cindy Clennon Michael and Jennifer Covello
Beverly and Eduardo Caballero Marcella Cler Therese Coverstone Carol Desch
James Cagle and Cindy Gones Kay Clifton Walter C. Crackel Reverend George and
Jack and Amy Calvin Carol and C. Thomas Climer Lois J. Craigmiles Kimberly Desmond
Carol Camp Herschel and Harriet Cline Janet Crandall Betty DeVore
Harold Camp Martha Clipp Charles and Nancy Crane Bob and Dar Devore
Barbara E. Campbell Linda and Doug Clough Patty Cravens Brenda Dexter
Shirley and Franklin Campbell Mary Angela Crawford Jim and Carol Dexter
Bill and Peggy Campo Deborah Clow Maxine Crawford Brooke DiBello
Joyce Canaday Laura Clower Nancy Creason Theresa Dickelman
Theresa Cochrane Reverend Henry and Beverly Crede
Patricia A. Cardenas Betty and Jon Cockrel Reverends Gay and Dan King Crede Adeline Dickey
Terry Carley Helen Coddington Judy Cresap Mary and Richard Dickinson
Cheri and John Carlson Gail and Jim Coffman Lorene Cress Noel and Iris Dicks
Craig Carmer Thomas Colburn Henry and Susan Cronister Bonnie Dickson
Lori and Steve Carmichael Roger and Gail Cole Kim Crouch Frances and Ben Dillard
Sheryle Carpenter Bernard Coleman Kim and Joseph Crump Michele Dillavou
Carolyn and Bernard Carr Copenhaver Cumpston Paloma and Harlan Dillon
Janice and John Carr Fred and Helen Coleman Reverend Mary Alice Cunningham Cynthia and Dan Ditchfield
Lisa Carr Ed and Sue Collins Bill and Carol Cupples Lily and Gerald Ditman
Richard and Diane Collins Kathleen Curl
Starla Carr Karen Colmer Mark and Kathy Cushing Ellen Dixon
Evan Carroll Linda Colwell Sally and George Czapar Jonathan Dixon
Jane Casey Colleen Combes Sally Dahman Arlone Doan
Heather Chalk Michael and Panagiota Comet Whitson and Cathy Daily Marilyn Dobbin
Bernie and Neal Chamberlain Susan and Merll Connor Kathy Dallinger Cindy and Terry Dodd
Glenda Chancellor Bonnie Conroy Becky Dalton Newt and Lisa Dodds
Erick and Shandi Chapman Gary and Rae Dalton Ronald and Gale Dodge
Mary Chapman Cynthia Cook Robert and Mary Dalton Luella Dollar
Elizabeth Chato Dave Cook Patrick and Terry Daly Shannon Donaldson
David Cook Dorothy Damewood
Mary Kennedy and Ed Chevalier Joshua Cook Pat Damron Jennie Donley
Reverend John Chrisler and Kathleen Cook David Daniel Ota Dossett
Tammy Chrisler Sara Cook Linda and Michael Danz Cale and Tracy Doubet CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
Anna Marie Chrisman Viola Cook Julie Darling Geraldine Douglas
Wilma R. Christiansen Karen Cooley Dolores Das Steven Douglas
Amanda Ciafone Sue and Ronnie Coons Jean and Norma Davis Ron and Janice Dowell
Geo Claiborne Linda and Jay Davis Julie Dowler
Mary Clancy Dale and Deb Copher Loyal Davis Lynn and David Doy
Betty Clark Joyce Copp Marcia and Dennis Davis Geraldine and Warren Drake
Jonathan Coppess
David and Joyce Clark Bruce and Julie Cordell Stephanie Drake
Dorlene and OJ Clark Danna and Joe Corley Delores and Dale Dudas
Jane and Greg Clark Roger Corray Karleen Dude
Julie Clark Jan Corsaro Nicholas and Abbey Dudley
Jo Lynne Clauson and Steve Mertens Marie Duffin
25

hope begins here Celebrating Helen DuFour Frank and Connie Fegan Jane and John Garrett
YOUR SPECIAL Amie and David Dulakis Victor and Bobbi Fein Lori K. Garrett
CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME SOMEONE Ray and Sally Duncan Nicole Feltz Mary Gaskill
Sally Duncan Glen and Linda Ferguson Jean Gates
Cunningham children and Sondra Duncan Peg Fernandes Kathy Gee
youth benefit from the Kay and James Dunn Jeff Ferry and Joy Simpkins-Ferry Darlene Gehant
generosity of our many Sandy Dunn Robert Jordan Ficklin Jill Gengler
friends and supporters. Deb Durbin Jonathan File Wilma Gepford
These individuals often Buster and Marge Dyer Kim and Allan File Kay and Ron Gerald
choose to memorialize or Roger and Pam Eagle Brian Finet Phyllis Geschwind
honor a special person Marilyn Eagles Marty Finney Colleen Getz
by making a gift in their Anthony and Georgine Early Diane and Keith Fish Grant Ghighi
name to Cunningham Stefany Early Cara and Matthew Fitton Fred and Donna Giertz
Children’s Home. These Dr. Robert and Cheryl Easter Carol Fitzpatrick Mickey Gilbert
gifts have a great affect David and Marilyn Eck Carolyn Fleming Inga W. Giles
on our vision to see every Betty Eckols Karen and Dan Fleming Ivy Gill
child thrive by providing Judy Eddy Kyle Fleming Ilona Gillan
a safe place to heal, learn Laurel-Maile Edmonson Pamela Fleming Jean Gillespie
and grow. Marilyn and Thomas Edwards Rhonda Fleming Erin Gilligan
Wayne and Janis Edwards Toni Flexter Charlene Gilmore
Honor Gifts Jim and Marlene Eeten Sue and Jerry Flier Greg and Jeanne Girard
Dean and Sharon Ege Tammy and Brad Floreth Mary Giuffre
Sometimes a gift that Pat Ege Curt and Roberta Floyd Jeff and Julia Gladu
touches the recipient Reverend Janet Eggleston Nancy and John Fluss John and Becky Glazier
but makes a difference in David and Julie Ehler Shawn and Carol Foley Laverda and Robert Gleckler
the lives of others is the Cris Ehrhardt Michael and Karen Folk Charlotte and Robert Glidewell
perfect choice. Honor Anne Ehrlich Linda and Leon Follmer Lynn Goers
gifts are a charitable Lila Jeanne Eichelberger Andy Follweiler Chris Golden
contribution to Janet Eisenhauer Charles Foran Marcey Goldstein
Cunningham Children’s David and Tabitha Elder Claire Ford and Reverend Gary Ford Matthew Goldstein
Home and can be Diana and James Elder Margaret J. Ford Ted and Claudette Gonsiorowski
made at any occasion: Oliver Elder Roberta Ford Stephanie Gonzales
birthdays, anniversaries, Nic Eldridge Wayne and Gin Ford Vicki and Alan Good
weddings, and holidays. Carol and Tremont Ellegood Joyce and Ronald Formhals Terry Goode
Dale and Margery Elliott Bernice Forney Jim Goodell
Memorial Gifts Kelly Elliott Gus and Liz Fortney Joyce and Terry Goodwin
Mike Elliott Jerry and Mary Foster Ruth Gordon
Families often encourage Stacey Elliott Lucile and Robert Foster Shirley and Tom Gordon
memorial gifts - a Beth Ellis Marlin and Penny Fourman Kathy and Stephen Gossard
charitable contribution to Glen Ellis Susan Fowler Deborah Graeber
Cunningham Children’s Roger and Kathy Ellis Mary Joan Fox Mr and Mrs Lynn Graf
Home in the name of a Diana Embry French and Judy Fraker Helen Grandone
lost friend or loved one. Sue Emery William and Rita Francis Jeff and Peggy Grau
Norma Emkes Karen and Steven Frank Robyn and Douglas Graves
LEARN MORE ABOUT Dorothy Emory Gladys Freed Amy and Jon Gray
MAKING HONOR AND Lisa and Brian Engelke Rusty and Jill Freeland Bianca and James Green
MEMORIAL GIFTS AT Mary Engelke Wendy and Jim French Marva Green
cunninghamhome.org Eileen Enlow Kerry Frerichs Richard Green
Ann Enstrom Bev and Tom Frey Dr. and Mrs. Eugene Greenberg
26 Evelyn L. Epperson Elene and Robert Frey Sid and Susan Greenwald
Rebecca and Donald Erickson Beverly Friese Joan Gregg
Victor and Sharol Escobar Gail Fritzsche Dr. Jean Grever
Robert and Mary Ann Espeseth Anita Frizzell Judith Griffith
Ronald Estabrook Linda D. Frye Ralph Grob
Stephen and Susan Estoye Wendy and Taylor Fulk Patty Gropp
Ruth Etherton John and Carla Fulton Robert Gross
Bob and Sue Ewbank David and Susan Fultz Thomas and Judy Gross
Michael and Rona Eyer Melba and Jim Funk Kitty Grubb
Pat Eyre Reverend David Gaffron and Ron and Megan Guenther
Ron and Dorothy Fahs Barbara Gaffron Bruce and Joan Guest
Tom and Sandy Fairchild Karla Gaines Kimberly Guest
Karen Fairley Barb Gallivan Billie Gulledge
Marilyn Faulkner Susan and Donald Gallois Barbara and Homer Gurtler
David and Mary Fauser Sonya and John Gans Ron Gustafson
Helen Fecske Betty Jean Gantz Jan A. Guthrie
Phyllis Feeney Melissa Garlock Nancy Gwinn

Ralph and Phyllis Haas Tom and Joyce Hein David and Patti Hood Laurie and David Johnston hope begins here
Linda Haberkorn Bill and Karen Heintzelman Joan and Peter Hood Ruth Johnston
Judy Hackley Donna Heinz Don and Doris Hopwood Jacqueline Joines CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
Nicole Haegele David Held Winifred Horney Sharla Jolly and Rocky Franklin
Judith Hafenrichter Richard and Gloria Helfrich Madeline Hornsey Bev Jones
Tracy Hageman Jean Hembrough Pat Hosier Caroline Jones
Jennifer Hagland Jeff Henderson Gerry and Julia Hough Darci Jones
Elouise J. Hahs Kim and Mark Henderson John Lee Houghtaling Jason and Sadie Jones
Richard Haines Pete and Jean Henderson Ed and Sharon Hoveln Judy and Rusty Jones
Tom and Sherry Hainline Alice Heneberry Mary Howard Ken and Lucille Jones
Paulette and Thomas Hale Leslie Henry Pat and Denzil Howard Linda and Owen Jones
Gordon and Helen Hamann Cathy Henschen and Carolyn Leach Yvonne and Raymond Howland Lois E. Jones
Dan and Connie Hamelberg Lou and Mary Henson Ron and Pam Hoyne Lyn and Mike Jones
Hamilton Family Donna Henson Roger and Ranelle Hubele Russ Jones
Reverend John P. Hamilton and Marcia Henson Reverend Nancy Hubert Shirley Judy
Ruth Ann Hamilton Amy and Christopher Herman Janet and Carl Hudson Jenette Jurczyk
Linda and Nick Hamm Dee Hermanson Linda Hudson Karen Kabbes
Dana and Dennis Hampton Chuck and Kay Herr Teedra and Rick Hudson Ruth and Richard Kaelin
Marilyn and John Hancock Joyce Herriott Rita Huffman Harry Kaminski
Russell Hanegan Sue Herriott-Hinshaw Mary V. Hufnagel Karen Kammeier
Barbara J. Hanks Sylvia Herzog Maureen Hughes Judy Kanaga
Patrick Hanlon Teresa Herzog Pete and Carol Hughes Aimee Kandrac and Brett Yockey
Dee Hanner Janet Hester Jones Dick and Shirley Hull Sharon Karch
Wesley and Andrea Hanner Julia Hettinger Nancy and Albert Hulting Kathy Keith
Lorie and David Hansen Dot Heuman Theresa Hunt Valerie Keith
Grace Hansen Joe and Joan Heyen Mona Hunter Patricia Kemme
Sophie Happ Mary Sue Hickenbottom Susan Huntley Howard Kemper
Jerome Hardesty Charlotte Hicks Heidi Hurd and Michael Moore Helen Kenney
Janice Harding Carolyn Higgs Sue Hurd Joanna and Brett Kepley
Dianne Barghouti Hardwick Janice Hiland Emmet and Joyce Hussar Marvin and Darlene Kerber
Edith Harlow Babette Hiles John Huston Jackie Kern
Chad and Esther Harmon Barbara and Duane Hill Ingrid and Bruce Hutchings
Joe Harmon Elaine Hill Marion and Phyllis Hutson YOUR GIFT
Alan and Judy Harnack Joan Papesh Hill Alan Hutton OF GRAIN
Becca Harp Marie and Ed Hill Frieda Hyde
Stephanie Harpst Sheri Hill Loretta Hyslop OFFERS
Andrea Harrington William Hill Reverend Dr. Phillip and HEALING AND
Wendy Harris Bruce and Jan Hinely Judith Icenogle
James Harrison Leon and Jean Hinton Jeanette Iles Hope.
John and Lora Harrison Kurt and Holly Hirchert Linda Ingram
Lynn Hart William Hire Linda Irle For donors who actively
Teri Hart Bud and Deb Hobbs Monica and Rick Iverson engage in farming on
Vickie and Bryan Hart Donnis Hobson Veva and Calvin Jackson a cash basis, significant
Joanne Hartenbower Loren and Mary Hodgson Helen and Jerry Jahn tax savings can be found
Tom and Janis Hartwig Kay E. Hodson Jim and Jane Jenkins through donating grain
Mary Ann Harvey Donna Hoeflinger Michelle Jennings directly to Cunningham
Amy Hasfjord Lisa Hoekstra Nancy and Dennis Jennings Children’s Home.
Dave Hastings Janice Hoelscher Patricia Jensen Proceeds help fill a gap
Katherine and Greg Hatch Lana Hoey Sara Zimmerman Jerome in funding for the care of
Nancy and Dennis Hatcher Carolyn and Ron Hofbauer Jim and Ruth Jesso Cunningham youth.
Ronald and Rita Hatfield Cheryl Hoffman Larry and Margie Jobe LEARN MORE ABOUT
Barbara Hathway Allen and Jane Hoffman April Johnson
Reverend John Hauck and Gary and Patty Hofmann Cindy Johnson WAYS TO MAKE A
Judith Hauck Nancy and A.B. Hoffman Elizabeth G. Johnson GIFT OF GRAIN AT
Bethany Hausch Shelly and Kevin Hoffman Larry Johnson cunninghamhome.org
Susan Hawbecker Jeanne Hogg Leslie Johnson
Don Haworth Charles and Crystal Hogue Linda and James Johnson 27
Alice Headley Virginia Holder Marcia Johnson
John and Ann Healey Howard Holiday Mitch and Annette Johnson
Betsy Hearne Geri Holland Sam and Pat Johnson
Deborah Heater Sharon and Carl Holland Sandra and David Johnson
Patsy and Larry Hebron Bill and Brigit Hollis Sharon L. Johnson
Bruce and Mary Ann Hecht Elloise and Don Holsapple Thomas Johnson
John and Barbara Hecker Walter Holstine Carolyn Johnston
Marsha Heffner Connie and Stanley Holt Elizabeth Johnston
Barbara Hein Stephen Holt Jean Johnston

hope begins here Jill Kerofsky Emma Ladage Judy and Larry Linman Pat Martin
Bethany Kershaw Tom and Sandy Lagomarcino Janet and Richard Lippold Velva June Martinie
Sam and Helen Kershaw Michelle Lamendola William and Carolyn Lishka Searoba Mascher
Rosalyn and Jay Kesan Janet Lammey Georgia Litchfield Oleta and Donald Massie
Marline Kesler Melody Lampert Marilyn and John Litchfield Stanley Matheny
Mark and Tammy Kesler Judy and Kenneth Landeck Donna Little Pam and Roger Mathews
Carol Kessler Sue Landells Glenna and J. Barry Little Mary Ann Matthews
Patricia Ketchmark Jean Landers Brenda and Drew Livingston Helen and Joel Maurer
Roger and Carol Kiddoo Marianne M. Landry Marlin and Denise Livingston Barb Maxstadt
Sue and Ron Kiddoo Randy and Kimberly Lane Terry and Cherie Lock Dick and Janis Maxwell
Becky Kiefer Mr. and Mrs. Martin T. Lang Johnnie and Ronald Locker Don Maxwell
Edward and Edith Killen Phyllis Lappin Mary Logullo-Moran Douglas and Sheryl Maxwell
Brooke Kimball Cloydia Hill Larimore Maxine and Richard Lolling Wanda Mays
Donald and Margaret Kimmel Debbie Larson Linda Long Michelle Mazzotti
Murl and Rhonda Kimmel Gene Larson Carolyn Looker M. Carol McAllister
Terry and Mary Kimmel Karen Larson Cynthia and Michael Loui Shannon McAuley
Ann and Bob King Ardis and Larry Larvick Karen Lowe Cathy McCall
Mary Carroll King Rhonda Lash Bea Lowery David McCall
Brett Kingery Barbara Laughlin Debbie and Jerry Lueck Jackie McCall
Reverends Kathy and Billie and Emmett Laumbattus Iris Lundin Linda McCall
Kent King-Nobles Bill and Laurel Law Jon Lundin Marlys and Thomas McCartney
Robert and Hester Kingston Janet Laws Debra and Robert Lundquist Camille McCaskill
Teresa Kinney Charles and Brenda Learned Kent and Vicki Luth Suzanne McClelland
Todd Kinney and Peggy Patten Eric and Tina Leasure Ron and Shellee Luttrell Judy McConchie
Dorothy and Kent Kipling Joe and Diane Lecher Eunice Lutz Mary McConkey
Justin and Bobbie Jo Kirby Doris Lee Stephen and Mary Luzzi Carmen McCoy
Frances Kirchhofer Joan Lee Greg and Margo Lykins Kay and Gene McCoy
Janet and Danny Kirk Kihwal Lee Stephanie Lynge Michael and Jane McCulley
Cyndee Kirwan Timothy Lee Steve Lyons Thelma McCulley
LiAnne Kitchen Herman Lehr Vera and Donald Maase Michael P. McCuskey
Sandra Lou and Larry Kizer Sandra and Bud Leister Jean Macesich Randall McDaniels
Jennifer Kleckner Mary and George Leming Karen and Barry Maddox Pam Hammond McDavid
Bill and Deb Klein Dale and Patsy Lenear Ronnie Maddox Robyn McDonald
Lila Klendworth Jean E. Leonard Karolyn Magelli Carolyn McFadden
Gary and Joan Kling Jeff and Marlene Leonard Sue Maggio Patricia McGarvey
Betty and Edward Kmoch Linda and Stephen Lerette Vonda Joy Mahurin Gerald and Joy McGee
Edward Kmoch Lori LeVar Agnes Maier Jerry and Bev McGee
Kevin and Bitsy Knepler Deborah Lewellyn Robin and Mike Maier Rick and Becky McGinnis
Karen Knight Kay Lewey Amanda Malmendier Kirk and Kalah McGraw
Lisa Knight Cheryl and Bob Lewis Rosemary Malone Yvette McGraw
Frank and Patricia Knowles Lois Lewis Tim Manard Aimee McGuire
Marilea Koch William and Janet Lewis Karen Manczko David and Suzie McGuire
Cynthia Kocher Donna Libbey Tondra Mann-Niswander Dick and Kay McGuire
Linda and Bruce Koe Carol Lichtensteiger Augusta Mansfield James and Maggie McGuire
Nancy K. Koehler James and Heidi Lilley Tom and Deborah Maranville Judith McGuire
Lisa Koerkenmeier Mary Limp Marilyn Markus James and Karen McKechnie
Rick and Barb Koertge Jackie and Gene Lindley David J. Marshall Doris McKinley
Peter Kogen Sue Lindsey Marilyn Marshall Barbara McLain
Keith Kohanzo Todd Lindsey Carol Martin Jennifer McLennand
Janet Kolves Roberta Lindstrand Denise and Kim Martin Jan and Stan McMorris
Geraldine and Franklin Kovarik Dave and Cindy Line Kay Martin Virginia and Thomas McQuistion
Celia Kraatz Angie Linkey Mary Martin Marjorie Mead
Sharron Kreider Doris Medhurst
CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME Marcia and Pete Kreiser Much of the Scot Medlin
Desiree Krowlek spirit and Lois Meerdink
Reverend Dalene Kuebler and energy of the Paul Meginnis
Ronald Kuebler Festival of Edward and Brenda Mehnert
Barb and Dave Kuhl Quilts carried Brandon Melbye
Sandy Detamore Kuhne and over to the Ellen Melton
Chris Kuhne virtual format Dean and Patricia Messinger
Craig and Karen Kummerow in 2020. Many Linda Lou Messinger
Paul Kunkel watched our Dale and Anne Messmore
Sharon and Wayne Kurth Facebook live Sharon Messmore
Diane and Kent Kurtz video events Joyce Metz
Rosemary Kurtz where we showcased items from the virtual store-QVC style Ruth Anne Metz
Denise Labus and provided a little bit of mid-day entertainment! Mary J. Metzger-Harris
28

Steve Mey Lois Mulvany Cunningham is a hope begins here
Barbara Meyer Dennis Muncy member of the
Joan L. Michael Reverend Anita Munden and Illinois Interagency
Marilyn Mieher Frank Munden Athletic Association
Pamela and Rich Mihm Kathleen and Mike Murphy (IIAA), which
Roy and Phyllis Milkereit Michael and Candi Murphy encourages and
Brenda Miller Michael and Diane Murphy rewards good
Debbie Miller Phyllis and Art Murray sportsmanship
Donna Miller Laura Murrie over winning in
Greg and Julie Miller Dr. Smita Murty and athletic competition
Eugene and Becky Miller Abel Nazareth and participates in
Gay and Wally Miller Warren Musch soccer, swimming,
Jan Miller Dina and Arlyn Musselman softball, volleyball,
Joan Miller Diane Musumeci basketball, and
Joanne Miller Andrea Myers track and field
Leland and Alice Miller Jane and Walter Myers competitions.
Mary and Glenn Miller Charles and Kate Nadolski
Michael and Karyn Miller Kathleen Nail JoAnn Overholt Janet Peters CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
Robert and Jo Miller Glenn and Marilyn Napier Shelley Overman Jean Peters
Sallie and Norman Miller Dr. Abel Nazareth Bruce and Kathryn Oye Linda Lee and Ron Peters
Steven and Stacy Miller Antwuan Neely Julie A. Ozog Peggy Peters
Ginger and Marc Mills Leslie Neitzel Cynthia and Scott Paceley Gay Peterson
Julia Mills Daniel and Elizabeth Nelson Brenda and Steve Pacey Lori and George Peterson
Ruth Mills Deborah Nelson Nancy and Vaughn Page Paul and Peggy Peterson
Steven and Betsy Mills John and Donna Nelson Rheta and David Paisley Rusty and Shawn Peterson
Karen Milton Kimberly Nelson Bonnie Pakenham Gregory Petry
Nancy Mings Michelle Nelson Edward and Cheryl Palen Brett Peugh
Jon Mitchell Sara Nelson Kathy Palm Tisha and Brian Pfeiffer
Marlene Mitchell Sarah Nemeth Dennis and Vicki Palmer Cindy Pflug
Martha and Bruce Mitchell Fred Neumann Miley and Janet Palmer Caroline Phelps
Reverend Ted Mitchell and Dee Neuschwander Reverend Sheryl Palmer and Eva Phillips
Cathy Mitchell Tom and Tamara Newby Michael Heaton Sybil Phillips
Ronald and Nancy Mitchell Karin and Adam Newhall Paul and Paula Palmgren John and Jan Phipps
Nidhi Mittal Carol Lee Newlin Jing Pan Marvin Piersall
Joan Mochel Frances Newman Donna Pangle Jenny and Brad Pierson
Ellen Moe John and Mimi Newman Anne Parker Nila Pike
Harold and Carol Moe Karilyn Newnam Barbara and Danny Parker Amy Pilcher
Marilyn Mohr Sandy Lu and Fred Newport Pam Parker Kim and Keith Pillischafske
Dennis and Cindy Mohrman Helen L. Niccum Marianne Parkhill Carol Pinkerton
Gerald and Norma Monk Myla and A.E. Nichols Marilyn Parkhill Jane Piper
Jean Monroe Robert and Kathleen Nichols Ann Parkinson Norma Pittman
Melvyn Monson Judith Nicolette Kathryn Parks and Julie Ann Litzinger John Place
Timothy Montague Deborah Nielsen Douglas and Susan Parrett Mary Pleck
Linda and Herbert Moon Barbara Niepert Kevan and Laura Parrett Carol Plumb
Carl Moore Sharon and Jim Niksch Carol Parrish Carol and Raymond Poe
Debra Moore Ruth Ann Noble Carl and Cynthia Parsons Tootie Poe
Jack Moore Richard Noel El and Linda Partenheimer Reverend Leah R. Pogemiller
James and Michelle Moore John Nolan Jerry and Rebecca Patrick Gwen and John Pollard
Pamela J. Moore Carol Nornholm Marie Patterson Harold Ponder
Judith Morano Mary Beth Norris Norma Patterson Kenneth and Judy Ponton
Martha and Marvin Morgan Gary and Elaine Novak Alan and Barb Patton Bill and Joan Pool
Vanessa and Kevin Morris Katie Nowicki Evelyn Patton Kathryn Poorman
Sara and Robert Morris Bill and Sharon Nunn Delores Paul Mary Pope
Lavonne Morrow Naomi Nuss Carolyn Paullin Belinda Porter and Greg Walburg
Rudi Mortimer Donna Oakes-Novak Chris and Thomas Payne Ellen and Kent Poulter
Mary Mortland Kathleen O’Brien Phil and Maria Peak Judy Poultney
Frankie Mosborg Robert O’Daniell Patricia and Paul Pearson Jean Powers
Nancy and Steve Moser Barbara Ohlsen Jean and Michael Pennell Kimberly and John Powers
Donna B. Motley Martha Olsen Karen Pennington Sharon Price
Carol Moyes Barbara and Jack Olson Rebecca Pentecost Kenneth and Christine Price
Franca Mozzone Max and Marilyn Olson Berenice Perez Dorothea Priddy
Linda Mudd and John Mudd Judy Onken Kathy Perisho Armand and Nancy Primeaux
Donna Mueller Stephen Orenic and Sherri Kenner Carolee Perring Cinda and Stephen Pringle
Sylvia Mueth Anne Ostrenga Linda and William Perry Delores Provance
Patricia Ann Mullins Elizabeth and Milton Otto Roscoe and Ann Pershing C. Ray Prussner
Richard Mulvaney Carolyn and Robert Ottum Barbara and Marie Peterek Beverly Pryor

29

hope begins here Jeanne Schachtlie Donna and Lyle Shoraga
Barbara Schaede Donald and Alicia Short
In January and in June each year, Gerber hosts an awards Shirley Schaefer Connie and Mark Shugart
ceremony to recognize our students and athletes for their Roger and Marcia Scherr Kathryn and William Shumate
hard work. It’s always a exciting time filled with many Sheryl Scherschligt Linda Sichlau
smiles and celebrations. Natalie Schieferdecker Norma Sievers
Richard Schimmel Shirley Sievers
CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME Amber and Chris Pyle Joe and Geni Roark Reverend Joy Schlesselman Martha and Matt Sigler
Lauri and David Quick Kim Robbins Les and Rita Schlute Walter Silver
Lindsay Quick Kim Robeson and Dean Schwenk Donald Schmidgall Ralph Simmons
Robert Quinlan and Karen Lavazza Phyllis and Kyle Robeson Joan and Eugene Schmidt Simpson Family
Linda Raby Gwenn and Bill Rodemoyer Linda Schneider Jeanne Sims
Maureen Radi Arnetta Rodgers Richard and Susan Schnuer Kim Smith and David Skadden
Kendall Rafter and John Abelson F. Leon Rodgers Gary and Carolyn Schoof Suzann and Bob Slade
Minta and Charles Rainey Sally Rodgers Lale and Michael Schram Janet and James Slaviero
Deborah and Greg Ramsay Jessica and Michael Roedelbronn Matt and Carol Schramer Bessie Slifer
Howard Ramsey Jack and Samantha Rogers Alice and Joe Schroeder E. Doyle and Shannon Slifer
Frederick Randall Linda and William Rogers Doug and Stacy Schroeder Jim Slusser
Sue Randle Charlie and Janice Rohn Earlene and Greg Schroeder Michael and Kathy Smeltzer
Jill Rannebarger Jo and Andy Rohn Eileen Schroeder Dee Smith
Barbara and Dale Rascher David Rosenbery Harold and Bev Schroeder Gerry Smith
Judy Rathgeber Dick and Sharon Ross Robert and Alva Schroeder Jane Smith
Meg and Bob Rauschenberger Jeanette Ross Elizabeth A. Schultetus Janet Smith
Angela Ravens Glenn and Shirley Rothermel Angie and Keith Schultz Lee Smith
Rosella Ray John Rothermel John and Mary Schultz Marilyn Smith
Gloria and Richard Rayburn Sharon Rothermel Karen Schulz Robert and Mary Smith
Rayhel Family Susan Roush Karen and Ed Schultz Schaffe Smith
Steven and Robin Read Stacey Roux Kim and Kyle Schultz Tami Smith
Jon and Cathy Rector Janice Roy Robert Schuster Tom and Shelba Smith
Julie Rector Jeanine and William Royer Cindy Schutz Tom and Sue Smith
Sandra Reed Janet and Michael Ruckman JoAnn and Mark Schwark Mary Smitley
Diane and Phil Reeds Andrea and John Ruedi Beneta Schweighart Kelsey Smoot and Seth Castle
Marion Reeds Vicky and Peter Ruklic Christine Schwenk Donna Snider
Susan and Tim Reeser Michelle Rumple Grant Scofield Reverends Miriam and Justin Snider
Joyce Reeves Rund Family Robin Borton Scott and John Scott Gayle Snivley
Reverends Fred and Darlene Reiner Curtis and Pam Rush Carolyn and James Scott Pam Socie
Fred and Jean Reiter Lee and Marilyn Ryan Ian Scott Sherry Sollers
Myrna Rennison Theresa and Mike Ryan Helen Scranton Ruth Sommers
Sue Rentsch David and Rebecca Ryherd Miriam and Stan Seevers Jessica Sorensen
Clarence Retter Alice Saathoff Jim and Susan Seiber Penelope Soskin
Rev. Cindy Rettig Richard and Karen Sackett Jerry Seibert and Sue Sammons Oviya Sougoumarane
Jean and Don Reynolds Dr. Bruce Sammons Mallory Seidlitz Earl Spain
Chuck and Marilyn Rhoads Dennis and Virginia Samuelson Jane Seiler Nancy Sperry
Don and Margo Rich Schuyler Sanborn Jim and Patty Semonin John and Beverly Spets
Lucy Rich Jo and Michael Sanders Kenneth and Joan Sensenbrenner Kyle and Alice Spitzer
Nena Richards Mark and Ann Sapoznik Carol Setser Nancy Sprague
Irwin and Judy Richardson Joan and Michael Sargent Michael and Sandy Shannon Linda Sprau
Judy Richmond Snehal Sarode Marsha and Jon Shapland Jolece Sprout
Dale and Janice Ridgway Monir Saska John Shapland John and Ann Spurgeon
Yvonne L. Rieder Carl Sather Robin Shaw Nick and Brandy Stabler
Dorothy Riegel Mary-Jean Sattazahn Sandy Shay Donald Stagen
Virginia Riggins Helen Satterthwaite Sally Sheahan Helen G. Stahl
Jeanette Riggs Deonna Sauer John Sheahan Melissa Stahl
Susan Riggs Ralph Sawyer Nancy Shear Alice Staley
Marvin and Anne Rightnowar Marlys Scarbrough Joyce Shellabarger Sherry Staley
30 Sandra Shelton David and Pat Stangl
Danielle Sheppard Jim and Dianne Stanley
Bill Sherfey Marilyn and Louis Steenwyk
Mary Sherman Christa Steeves
Patsy W. Sherrard Dennis and Carol Steger
Kim Shinew Janet and John Stein
Carole Shirely Shirley Stelbrink
Todd and Stephanie Shively Jeannette and Barry Stelford
Stephen and Brenda Shoaff Jamillah Stennis
Mary Shobe Denise and Michael Step
Sonya and Mike Sholem Carolyn Stephens

Dennis and Diane Sterchi Maggie Thompson Grant and Shawn Waaler James and Francis Welch hope begins here
Michael Thompson Virginia and Jack Waaler Cynthia and Bruce Wellman
Lois Stevens Reverend Carol Thompson Peggy Wade Dianne Wells
Brenda and Larry Stewart John Waelde Jennifer Wellwer
Jonathon and Kendra Stewart Suzanne and Herbert Thompson Kim Waguespack Linda Welty
Jason Thoron Roger Wainwright Brian Wenzel
Sharon Stickman Don Thorsen Alisha Waite Ken and Tabatha Wenzel
Carolyn and Robert Stine Jana Waite Daphne Wepprecht
Sandy Stirewalt Cathy Thurston Reverend Donald E. Walden Doug and Miki Wesley
Tristen Ting Linda and Richard Walden Mary Jane West
Carol Stockdale Ellen Tingley Michelle Walden Deborah Westjohn
Ann Stoecklin Tina M. Walke Jada Wetzel
Betty Stoltz Dianne Toalson Bobby and Charles Walker Shelly Wheeler
Troy Todd Dennis and Darlene Walker Rhonda and James Whitaker
Carrie Stone Patrick and Julie Tomlinson Mary Z. Walker Beverly and Richard White
Marian Stone Jack L. Wallace Chuck and Glenna White
Steven and Kathy Stopher Rita and William Trankina Kimberly Wallace Elinor White
Lt. Col. Mary L. Storm, USAF Retired Reverend Chet Travis and Lynn Travis Reverend Paula Wallace Linda White
Beth and Jeff Stout Guy Treadway Dorothy P. Walsten Linda and Christopher White
Bobbi Tremper Laura Walsten Sandra White
Marge Stout Sue and Mike Trippiedi Betty Walter William White
Virginia Stout Kimberly Walter Glen Whitmer
Robert Strachan Celina Trujillo Cheryl Walters Diana Whitt
Judith and L. Deane Trumble Donna Wampler Janet Whittington
Thomas Strader Mary Frances Tunison Janet and Don Ward Sarah and Joel Whittington
Reverend Floyd Stradley and Jeanne and Tom Ward Jack and Sally Widholm
Donna Stradley Taylor Tureskis Wayne and Joann Ward Karen Widman
Kim and Brad Turner Marsha and Jeffrey Warmoth Alice Wiedrich
Cheryl Street Charles and Virginia Turner JoAnn Warnes Cara Wiemeyer
Nancy Strunk Lori Warnes Carole Wilder
Joyce Stuckey Jerry Turner Larry and Eileen Waters Nancy and Douglas Wildman
Sue Turner Sarah Waters Pamela Wilken
Karen and Richard Sturgeon Michele Turrell Stephen Waterworth Julie and Doug Wilkey
Bill and Terri Sturtevant Harriett Weatherford and William and Karen Wilkinson
Nancy Suchomski Joann and George Tuttle Thomas Schaefges Scott Willenbrock and
Diane and Tom Twork Lura and Danny Weatherford Aida El-Khadra
Lucy Sudol Jan and Richard Uddin John Weaver Beverly Ann Williams
Dr. Lila E. Sullivan Richard and Debbie Weaver Eugene and Nancy Williams
James Sullivan Ebony Umoja Linda Webb Judith Williams
Kim Underwood Mary Webb Kevin and Katherine Williams
Norma Jean Sulzberger Richard and Carol Underwood Carol Webber Marilyn Williams
Sue Summerville Thelma Webber Patricia Williams
Mary Kay Suttle Bill and Joni Utnage Jim and Sue Weber Reverend Steven Williams and
Sophia Van Arsdell Lynn and Bev Weddle Ava Williams
Reverend Richard Swain and Roy Van Buskirk Mary Beth Weeks Garry Williamson
Jean Swain Sheryl and Manuel Wei Don and Jan Wills
Liz Swango Cheryl and Phil Van Ness Jeanette Weider Barbara J. Wilson
Barbara and Gary Vance Wayne Weidner Dorothy Wilson
Richard and Carol Swearingen Janet and Martin Vance Terry Weiss Justin and Casey Wilson
Tara Swearingen Christine Depaul Weisser Patricia Wilson
Tom and Renee Sweatman Ronald and Jeanne Vance Ramonda Wilson
Mark and Debra Vandermyde Throughout the Gary and Edna Winans
Mary Jo and Edward Swedeen Isaac Vanier pandemic, instruction Mariam Winans
Kathleen Bueker Sweet and for our residential youth Maxine Windsor
Craig Sweet Judy Vansickle included weekly themes Bruce and Alicia Winter
Kenneth and Rosalie Vass with educational, Claire Winter
Teresa Szabo Alice and David Vaughan recreational and Dorothy Winter
Maria and Dominic Tabrizi creative programming Patricia Winter
Charlotte Talkington Helen Vedder to support them. Some Rebecca and Robert Withers
Joao Vega of the themes included: Shirley Witte
Janice Tay Lurinda and Larry Venezia Olympics Week, Carolyn Witter
Andrea and Paul Taylor Tropical Island Week, Ellen Wolcott
Joyce Taylor Mary Ann Venters Heroes & Inspiration Rose Mary Wolfe
Dawn Victor Week and Intergalactic Larry Woller
Judith Taylor Judith Voorhees & Outer Space Week. Joyce Woltzen
Mary Taylor Joe and Ashley Womble
Mary and Darvin Taylor
Mike and Dianna Taylor
Joseph and Linda Taylor
Paul and Janel Telhorst
Kay Tennill CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
Cheryl Terhark
Barb Terry
Leona R. Thacker
Joan Theobald
Allan and Meredith Thomann
Frank Thomas
Jill and James Thomas
Mary Louise Thomason
Brenda Thompson
Janet and Dennis Thompson
Kay Thompson

31

hope begins here YOUOUR KIDS NEED TO Reverend Nancy Wood
Marsha Woodbury
BE A GUARDIAN PARENT Denzil Woods
Helen Woods
aRegular Meals aClean Clothes Rosemary Woods
aSafe Bed aSupportive Family Joe and Joann Woolums
Barb Workman
Are these some of the things you expect a Bud Workman
parent to provide? Like the well-known Food Doris and Nolan Worms
Pyramid, this list represents the basics we Ruth Worner
know all children need. Guardian Parents Joanna Wozniak
provide these things for kids who haven’t Barbara and Nelson Wright
been so fortunate. In addition, Guardian Dave and Marilee Wright
Parents offer much more like going to a Glen and Judy Wright
movie, a trip to the zoo, a special birthday Haley Wright
party or a Christmas to remember. Guardian Clarice Wunderlich
Parents step in where real parents have not Debra Wurl
wanted or been able to provide these Barbara Wysocki
necessities and special moments. Jocelyn Xamis and Mark Wolters
Donna Yagow
YOU CAN BE A Ehud and Janie Yairi
Marilyn Yakel
GUARDIAN PARENT Sandi Yarnell
Caron and Greg Yates
aYOU provide an easy monthly contribution. Betty Yaw
aWE add state funding for supervision and Jon and Lori Yelenick
extensive therapeutic care. Pat Yepsen
aCUNNINGHAM KIDS heal, learn and grow in a loving and supporting Carolyn Yockey
environment. Duane Yockey
Phyllis Yokem
OVERWHELMING COST OF CARE Harold and Elaine Yoon
Gary and Lois Young
Cunningham is an exemplary child welfare and educational services agency that James and Jesse Young
provides caring support and therapeutic intervention to more than 777 youth, John and Virgie Young
adults and families each year. Cunningham offers Ray and Jane Young
Rosella Young
aresidential services that include 24-hour supervision and counseling by Sue Young
trained professionals to approximately 50 youth in our care. Suzanne and Charlie Younger
aspecial education through three education programs. Sophie and Jeremy Youse
acommunity-based services that includes counseling expertise directly to Bruce Yurdin
individuals and families in the community experiencing difficult life situations. Jerry and Monica Zachary
Diane Zell
While we receive state funding to support all of our services, that support Suzanne Zellers-Wetzel
annually leaves us short $1.2 million, equating to $37 daily per child. Ed Zimmer
Janet and Bill Zimmer
Reverend J. Keith Zimmerman and
Reverend Janice Griffith
Heather Zorn

YOUWHAT CAN DO TODAY
aMake a consistent payment for reliable care. An automatic withdrawal
from your checking or savings account is convenient. Any amount you
choose will help. Just $37 per month would offset a day’s shortfall for one
CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME child. Please consider helping one or more of our kids.
aSee the Guardian Parent commitment form at cunninghamhome.org for
more details on setting up automatic withdrawal or other payment
options. You will reap the rewards of helping a child!

Questions? Contact Tim Manard
at 217.337.9071 or

[email protected].

32

2021 Board of Directors hope begins here

OFFICERS UMC IGRC IROQUOIS RIVER DISTRICT
SUPERINTENDENT
Cheryl Van Ness, President
Marcellos Gray, Treasurer Reverend Angie Lee
Cindy Clennon, Secretary
Claire Ford, President-elect UMW DISTRICT PRESIDENTS
Gary Denzer, Treasurer-elect
Debbie Miller, Cache River
COMMITTEE CHAIRS Carol Martin, Embarras River

Leanne Barnhart, Advancement Sally Smith, Illinois River
Carl Hudson, Asset Management Pat Davis, Iroquois River
Patsy Hebron, Kaskaskia River
Gary Denzer, Audit Martha Vache, LaMoine River
Carol Desch, District Representatives Gail Fritzsche, Mississippi River
Carol Drayton, Sangamon River
Cheryl Van Ness, Executive Kay Clifton, Spoon River
Marcellos Gray, Finance and Human Resources Joyce Goodwin, Vermilion River

Doug Abbott, Nominations MEMBERS AT LARGE
Margie Jobe, Performance Quality Improvement
Michael Biehl, Ellen Dixon, Sybil Phillips
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH (UMC)
ILLINOIS GREAT RIVERS CONFERENCE (IGRC) EX OFFICIO

UNITED METHODIST WOMEN (UMW) Bishop Frank J. Beard,
OFFICERS UMC Illinois Great Rivers Conference

Susan Connor, President Marlin Livingston, President/CEO,
Christina Krost, Vice President Cunningham Children’s Home
Louella Christensen, Treasurer
Carol Rankin, UMC Illinois Great Rivers
Ginny Riggins, Secretary Conference Committee on Health and Welfare
Barb Smith, Education and Interpretation

Caroline Jones, Social Action

MEMBERSHIPS AND AFFILIATIONS ACCREDITATIONS, CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME
LICENSURE, APPROVAL
Association of Children’s Residential Centers
Association of Fundraising Professionals, Cognia
East Central Illinois Chapter Council on Accreditation of Services
Building Bridges Initiative
Central Illinois Human Resources Group for Family and Children, Inc.
Champaign County Community Coalition Illinois Department of Human Services

Champaign County Human Services Council Illinois Department of Children
Champaign County Mental Health Board and Family Services
Child Welfare Advisory Board
Illinois Department of Healthcare
Community Behavioral Healthcare Association of IL and Family Services
Illinois Association of Private Special Education Centers
Illinois State Board of Education
Illinois Collaboration on Youth Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics
Illinois Great Rivers Alliance
Training Certification
Illinois Inter-Agency Athletic Association EAGLE Accreditation United Methodist Association
Society for Human Resource Management
AGENCY LEADERSHIP
United Methodist Association
United Way of Champaign County Marlin Livingston, President/CEO
Pat Ege, Vice President of Program Services
CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME Ann Pearcy, Director of Community-Based Services
Marissa Stewart, Director of Human Resources
1301 N. Cunningham Avenue , Urbana, IL 61802
P.O. Box 878, Urbana, IL 61803-0878 Linda Fox, Director of Education
Kim Guest, Director of Residential and Clinical Services
WEB: cunninghamhome.org
EMAIL: [email protected] Ginger Mills, Director of Advancement
PHONE: 217.367.3728 FAX: 217.367.2896 Shawn Peterson, Director of Quality Improvement

1301 N. Cunningham Avenue NONPROFIT
Urbana, Illinois 61802 ORGANIZATION
cunninghamhome.org U.S. POSTAGE PAID
CHAMPAIGN, IL
PERMIT NO. 746

the light of hope

It’s true that even in the darkest of times, a simple light can lead to a brighter
place. With the challenging year we’ve all had, thank you for helping the
777 youth, adults and families we served experience the light of hope.

CUNNINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOME Follow us to learn about how

hope begins here.