URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) — On October 25, 1895, Cunningham Children’s Home opened its doors as an orphanage, providing a sanctuary for children in need. Over 130 years later, the organization continues to live out its mission with unwavering dedication, offering shelter, therapeutic services, and education to more than 1,000 children, youth, and families each year.

As Cunningham celebrates this milestone, it also reflects on the constants that have shaped its work: serving vulnerable children and families, faithful stewardship by the United Women in Faith (formerly United Methodist Women), and a relentless drive to adapt to the changing needs of the community.

“Our story is rooted in love and service,” said Marlin Livingston, President and CEO of Cunningham Children’s Home. “From our beginnings as an orphanage to today’s comprehensive programs in education, therapy, and community outreach, our mission has remained clear—to nourish hope and provide effective solutions so that children thrive and families flourish.”

Cunningham’s vision, “To see every child thrive,” is brought to life daily through its residential services, which provide a safe and therapeutic environment for youth with emotional and behavioral challenges, autism spectrum disorders, or those who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. These services are delivered by skilled professionals who work tirelessly to restore hope and offer a path toward healing.

Education has always been a cornerstone of Cunningham’s approach. Through three Special Education programs, children receive the academic, emotional, and coping skills they need to succeed, both in school and beyond. These initiatives are made possible through the generosity of supporters who believe in the potential of every young person.

Today, Cunningham’s impact stretches far beyond its Urbana campus. Through community-based services, including HopeSprings Counseling, case management, housing support for the homeless, and resources for runaway youth, the organization helps children and families heal and rebuild. One of the key programs, Champaign County Redeploy (CCRI), provides at-risk youth ages 13–17 with evidence-based interventions that focus on prevention, positive choices, and family stability to avoid juvenile detention.

Cunningham’s ambitious Strategic Plan for 2030 lays out a bold vision for the future, focusing on workforce excellence, clinical competency, financial sustainability, family engagement, and continuous improvement in service delivery.

“As we honor 130 years of transforming lives, we remain grounded in our faith and values—spirituality, teamwork, integrity, and respect,” Livingston said. “Our roots run deep, and our branches continue to stretch toward a future where every child and family has the opportunity to heal, learn, and grow.”

Ginger Mills, Director of Community Outreach, reflected on the evolution of the organization and the challenges faced by today’s youth. “Today, we face challenges that go far beyond what we encountered when we first opened 130 years ago. Trauma, mental health struggles and unstable home environments can derail a person’s ability to thrive. At Cunningham, our mission is more critical than ever—we provide safe, therapeutic care and evidence-based support that helps the individuals we serve to reach their full potential.,”

She also emphasized how Cunningham’s focus has expanded over the years. “When Cunningham opened 130 years ago, we primarily served children who had lost their parents. Today, we support children, youth, families, and individuals facing trauma, mental health challenges and unstable home environments. While the need for safety remains, our focus is on healing, growth, and empowerment to help those who are experiencing difficult life situations.”

For more information about Cunningham Children’s Home and ways to support its mission, visit www.cunningham.org.