Meet Our Social Services Team: Kim Cunningham, Texas

Did you know that America World is licensed in 23 states, including our corporate office?  We provide home study and post-adoption services to families adopting domestically and internationally, through America World or through another licensed agency.  Each state is directed by one of our trained adoption professionals who share our vision for placing children in loving, Christian homes.  Our Directors are a vital part of our organization, and on the first Monday of each month, we would like to honor them by spotlighting one of them on our blog.

This month we highlight Kim Cunningham, Director of Social Services of our Texas office.  Kim has over 20 years of adoption experience with child protective services, domestic adoption, foster care, and international adoption.  She has been trained in Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) and enjoys sharing her insight and the experiences gained by working with adoptive families and children.  We are so grateful to have her on staff and we are proud of her service to our clients in Texas!

Where were you born?  Where do you consider home?

I was born in Manchester, Connecticut.  I would consider Texas my home although I grew up most of my childhood and teen years in Wyoming.

How did you get started with America World?

Interesting story—I had a previous co-worker/friend apply and interview for the Director position. She actually got the job but declined the position and suggested that I apply because she thought it sounded more like me. It was exactly what I had been praying for. God works in amazing ways!

What is your favorite sports team?

I really don’t follow sports.  I know I should say Dallas Cowboys!

What is your favorite movie?

This is a hard one because I have so many.  It kind of depends on my mood. I had the privilege of working with Hugh Jackman in the past and pretty much love anything he is in. 

At an ice cream shop, you are mostly likely to order:

Anything with Reese’s Peanut Butter cups.

Any pets?  

We have had our first family pet dog that we adopted from a rescue shelter 3 years ago.  She is a mixed breed and resembles a medium sized chiweenie. 

Advice for new adoptive parents?

First, trust the professionals.  We have experience and really do know what we are doing. We always have you and your child’s best interest at heart.

Second, as new adoptive parents you can focus your attention on so many things and it can become overwhelming. Your mind can take control as you become anxious and ask, “are they developmentally delays, do they have other medical issues, are they bonding with us, are we bonding with them, how long do we cocoon, or what else can we do?”  Relax, take some of the pressure off and focus on these few things from The Connected Child: 1. How can we help them feel safe? 2. How can we meet their immediate needs?  3. Be consistent 

How do you relax and refresh?

I enjoy having some time to myself to go for a walk or watch a good show.  I also do enjoy a good massage or pedicure.  Now getting a pedicure while I am enjoying a good show is really perfect!

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

Night Owl!  I enjoy my alone time after everyone goes to bed to get caught up on some Netflix or read a good book.

What is your dream vacation spot?

Since I live in Texas we have hot weather but don’t have much snow.  I miss the snow as I was raised in Wyoming.  I like the mountains and skiing or sledding. My kids haven’t seen the ocean so I think we are planning a beach vacation this summer but I really like the cold instead!