"I can’t get into the water, I can’t get into the water, I can’t get into the water," 14-year-old Jayson* said over and over again.

"Trust the process; it works." – 20-year-old Anthony

Anthony, a young adult in our Independent Living program, is proof that hard work pays off.

Everything about Kathryne Brown’s classroom appears inviting. A window display welcomes each student into “Paradise” and once inside, the large classroom, bright colors, clearly posted rules, and flexible seating offer a sense of comfort that’s particularly important for our kids.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” It’s a question then-17-year-old Arieana, from Cunningham’s Transitional Living (TL) program, was proud to answer in her essay as part of the Dr.

National Superhero Day–a day to honor superheroes, both real and fictional–is observed annually on April 28. Batman, Superman, Captain America, Wonder Woman, Iron Man, Hulk and Spiderman are just some of the superheroes whose names we recognize. Even though they are fictional, these superheroes are great role models for our children. They serve and protect while fighting evil.

This following story was first published in our Fiscal Year 2018 Annual Report, available now online.

It was collaboration at its finest.

In late December, amidst the holiday programs and parties, our kids gathered in the Spiritual Life Center chapel for a special ceremony: Bailey’s* high school graduation.

Johnco, Inc., Construction Supervisor Scott Saunders didn’t quite get the reaction he was expecting when he gave the Cunningham kitchen staff a tour of the space that will soon be the kitchen and cafeteria in the Education and Recreation Center (ERC).

“Some of them actually cried,” he said.

All those years of serving meals to Cunningham kids from an outdated and tired kitchen are coming to a close. But the tears weren’t about that; the tears were about having a facility where they can better help our kids grow and be healthy and live better lives.

It’s not every day you get to take your picture with the Governor.

“Oh my gosh,” said Erma excitedly. “It was so much fun and an amazing experience. Bruce Rauner was so friendly; I even got a really good selfie with him!”