ANIMAL-ASSISTED LITERACY PROGRAMS
SitStayRead is a non-profit organization that uses an engaging, evidence-based curriculum, skilled staff, trained volunteers, and Certified Reading Assistance Dogs to advance the literacy skills of kindergarten through third-grade students in the city of Chicago.
We serve Chicago schools and community-based organizations where 90% of students live in low-income households or are housing insecure and 60% of third graders score below the national reading average.
Through our partner schools, and with the support of generous institutional and individual funders, SitStayRead motivates young Chicago students to become enthusiastic, proficient readers at a critical period in their learning journey and inspires them to create success in their lives.
Join SitStayRead for an evening of comedy gold with the star-studded cast of Best In Show! Meet us at the iconic Music Box Theatre on Thursday, August 28, 2025 from 7:00 - 9:00 pm in Chicago's vibrant Lakeview neighborhood.
All proceeds go to SitStayRead. Sales help underwrite classroom residencies, one-time family literacy events, and get new books into kids' hands and home libraries!
Programs
SitStayRead provides year-round programming for K-3 students in the city of Chicago. We serve schools in neighborhoods where the student population is typically 90% from low-income households and 60% of third graders score below the national reading average.
Certified Reading Assistance Dogs Teams
SitStayRead Certified Reading Assistance Dogs create a positive social environment where young readers are less likely to worry about making mistakes, helping them to become confident readers. All of our programs are delivered with a focus on social-emotional learning.
Volunteer Book Buddies
Don’t have a dog? Our individual Book Buddy volunteers are just as important in helping SitStayRead deliver our programs. Book Buddies work with a small group of students in the classroom during one-hour visit where you’ll help with reading and writing activities.
Ways to Support
SitStayRead is supported entirely by the generous donations of individuals like you. Your donation can do everything from helping us to buy books for classrooms, deliver our programs, support our dog certifications, and more. All in pursuit of our vision of a 100% literate Chicago.
Merchandise
Support us by purchasing items on Bonfire. A percentage of every purchase goes directly to our programs.
Our Books
Our own line of books created in partnership with local children’s author J.B. Blankenship, based on stories written by SitStayRead students.
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