URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – Ten sisters who were removed from their home in the 1940s share fond memories of their time at Cunningham Children’s Home (CCH) in Urbana.  Today, we share the story of a few of the Waggoner sisters.

While they had lots of responsibilities, Irma Waggoner Allen fondly remembers some of the simpler necessities they were given. “It was the first time I had my own toothbrush and comb and brush and an indoor toilet,” she shared.

According to CCH’s Director of Advancement, Ginger Mills, since CCH was founded 130 years ago, there have been countless unique stories behind every child’s arrival. Mills says Allen told her that Christmastime held her favorite memories every year.  Allen remembers walking into the Great Hall at CCH and seeing the giant Christmas tree. There was a piece of jewelry on the tree with each girl’s name on it, and they loved looking for their very own precious present on the tree.

CCH doesn’t just hold special memories for the current and former residents, many who have joined the Cunningham Family to build a career have their own compelling tales. Elise Porter, a dedicated Teacher’s Assistant (TA) in their Gerber Education Program, shares a touching connection to the Waggoner sisters. “I heard about Cunningham back in 2004 when I married my husband,” Porter explained. “His five aunties lived at Cunningham in the early 1940s.”

Captivated by her family’s connection to Cunningham, Porter applied for a position and has been an invaluable team member for the past 20 years. In her role as a TA, Porter works on-on-one with the residential youth. She says she came to CCH thinking it was going to be a temporary job but calls it “home” now.

Although Porter’s mother-in-law, Doris, the youngest of the sisters, didn’t live at CCH (she was adopted by a Charleston family in July of 1942), she later chronicled their journey in Ten Sisters: A True Story. This book, co-authored with her nine sisters, provides a detailed account of their lives and challenges.

Throughout CCH’s rich history, stories like those of the Waggoner sisters and individuals like Elise Porter continue to embody the home’s enduring spirit of resilience, compassion, and dedication. These narratives not only shape the legacy of Cunningham but also underline the vital role the organization plays in transforming lives for the better.