Cunningham staff members work tirelessly to provide a nurturing, therapeutic, and educational environment for our youth. The Circle of Courage Award recognizes our most exemplary employees.

The 2010 recipients embody our therapeutic approach, The Circle of Courage, which nurtures wholeness through experiences of Belonging, Independence, Mastery and Generosity:

Goodman Milieu Coordinator Amy Fellers

Author Susan Liberman says, “By building relations we create a source of love, personal pride and belonging that makes living in a chaotic world easier.” Amy Fellers, Goodman Cottage Milieu Coordinator, radiates a sense of compassion and caring as she helps create a safe atmosphere of belonging for the youth of Cunningham Children’s Home.

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Transitional Living Site Educator John Skillings

Albert Einstein said, “Only one who devotes himself to a cause with his whole strength and soul can be a true master....” As a site educator in the Transitional Living Program, John Skillings exemplifies this definition of mastery. John’s gift is not just about being competent in what he does – which he is, very competent. John’s gift is his ability to be himself and give of himself in all that he does.

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CIRCLE Academy Teacher/Assistant Michael Shannon

Mike Shannon has been a part of Cunningham Children’s Home for over 15 years. When he left the residential program to move to Circle Academy, Mike went as an “educator at heart.” Whether he is serving as a sub, a classroom teacher’s assistant, or a long term substitute teacher, Mike has one intrinsic philosophy; “We are a school and we have a responsibility to educate these kids.”

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Therapeutic Interventionist Hannah Penny Chillis

“I will help you.” “That’s no problem.” “Let me know when you are ready” These are just a few examples of the words that Circle Academy students and staff can count on hearing from Ms. Chillis. So often, a student’s behavior has changed dramatically as they have observed the generous spirit demonstrated by Ms. Chillis. Hannah has that affect on her students as they tune in to her kindness and start to model her actions.

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Click here for a list of past recipients of this special award.